Japan: 17 Best eSIMs Compared + Discounts (2023)

Japan is a beautiful travel destination.

However, it is not known for being a cheap place to be.

What you should not do, in many cases, is roam internationally in Japan.

International roaming can be expensive, which is why using local and travel eSIMs is recommended to save money.

And if you get a travel eSIM, you do not have to deal with the SIM card registration bureaucracy and skip the queues in Japan.

How much will a (travel) eSIM for Japan cost you?

You can get an eSIM for Japan for as low as 4.50 USD up to 99 USD from Airalo, Holafly, Nomad & Ubigi offering between 1 GB and unlimited data to be used locally, in Asia, or globally.

Those are some generous data allowances, right?

And you can even get unlimited data if you want.

See how much it would cost you to use 10 GB while roaming – much more than what Holafly would charge you for unlimited data for 90 days!

In this guide, I will go over the eSIM options offered by the Japanese mobile operators (if available), Airalo, Holafly, Nomad & Ubigi. Let's do this.

Original publication: 27th of February 2023. Last updated: 3rd of June 2023.

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Table of Contents

In a Hurry? A Quick Introduction

I will write about 17 eSIM options in Japan (and explain why they are included).

But if you want to want to quickly check out what the best eSIMs are for Japan without my analysis and explanations, here is an overview of the eSIMs covered in this guide:

• Japanese mobile operators (three offer eSIMs to prepaid customers – read more in my Japan SIM card buying guide)
• Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money)
• Holafly Japan eSIM with unlimited data for 5 to 90 days (generous data eSIMs)
• Nomad Japan eSIM with fifteen choices between 1 GB and unlimited data (best value for money)
• Ubigi Japan Plan with 5G NR access (most generous data allowance at relatively low prices)
• Airalo Asialink eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 100 GB (best value for money for 14 East- and Southeast Asian countries)
• AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM through SimOptions with 5G NR access in Japan with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported Asian countries (12/32) at a reasonable price but with a short validity – SimOptions does sell other Asian eSIMs, but they are not as good as AIS)
• Holafly Asia eSIM with two choices between 6 GB and 10 GB (reasonably prices eSIMs for 11 East- and Southeast Asian countries, but Phone Travel Wiz readers like the eSIM somehow)
• Nomad APAC eSIM with seven choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (the best of both worlds in terms of pricing and performance for up to 16 Asian and Oceanian countries)
• Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 30 GB (the best of both worlds in terms of pricing and performance again but for up to eight Asian and Oceanian countries (can be cheaper than Nomad's APAC eSIM)
• Ubigi Asia Plans with 5G NR access in Japan (extensive Asia coverage (24 countries))
• Airalo Discover Global eSIM with five choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (reasonable global coverage (85+ countries) at attractive prices) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover Global eSIM review too!
• AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with 5G NR access in Japan with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (50/123) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
• Nomad Global eSIM with three choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (extensive global coverage (110 countries) at high(er) prices)
• Ubigi World Plan with 5G NR access in Japan (most extensive global coverage (175+ countries) at the highest prices)

The eSIM providers are in alphabetical order per grouping (Japan-only, regional & global) – not in order of preference (you would have to read the complete guide to find out which eSIMs I love the most for Japan 😜).

Let's truly get started, shall we?

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eSIMs offered by Japanese Mobile Operators

To get the best service available, in terms of reception and speeds, you want to go with the local mobile operators directly instead of with a travel eSIM.

That is because you will have a higher priority on the network in case of network congestion.

However, that does not mean travel eSIMs will always be slow.

In fact, some mobile operators throttle (prepaid) on select plans or all plans for “optimization” reasons (read: we cannot be bothered to invest in our network).

Anyway, which Japanese mobile operators offer eSIMs to prepaid customers?

Currently, AU Japan by KDDI, Bmobile Japan & Nippon SIM (for Japan) offer eSIMs to prepaid customers.

But you have to deal with Japanese's SIM card registration scheme, which is mandatory depending on the Japanese SIM and eSIMs you are using – it can be a time-consuming affair.

(Why does this matter? Because hackers can steal your (critical) personal data if the mobile operator does not secure your data properly, like what happened in Australia (10 million Optus customers were affected, where info, like passport numbers, were stolen (including mine – luckily not my passport number but my boyfriend was not as lucky) or Indonesia (1.3 billion SIM card-related data was hacked)).

While mobile data is already affordable in Japan, getting any of the travel eSIMs mentioned in this guide will not break the bank – not at all.

Travel eSIM providers Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, SimOptions & Ubigi offer attractive eSIMs for Japan – some allow their eSIMs to be set up before arriving in Japan and activating them as soon as you land.

Very convenient, right? And I have used eSIMs from Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, SimOptions & Ubigi before, and I can assure you they work well!

So let's see what these travel eSIM providers have to offer in Japan, right?

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Airalo eSIMs for Japan (Moshi Moshi)

If I could only get one travel eSIM during my trip because I do not have the time or opportunity to buy a local SIM card or eSIM, I would always get an eSIM from Airalo, like its Moshi Moshi eSIM for Japan.

Not only does Airalo have eSIMs for more than 200 countries and territories, which is an insane number on its own, I almost always have the best network performance with its eSIMs.

Additionally, its eSIMs are frequently one of the cheapest compared to its competition, including the ones mentioned in this guide, which is remarkable on its own.

If you have no idea who or what Airalo is and are confused right now, worry not – I have an in-depth review explaining how Airalo works and all its options based on four years of using Airalo eSIMs – you can read it now or later (I will briefly introduce Airalo anyway in this guide).

Basically, what Airalo does is partner up with local mobile operators to sell plans through its eSIMs in a convenient way on its platform.

In many Asian countries, Airalo works with Singtel from Singapore, the country's best mobile operator, which can then be used in various Asian countries.

That way, you do not have to fly to Singapore, get its SIM card, buy a roaming plan, and then go to Japan with your new package.

Not only would this be expensive, but it would also be a waste of time (unless you already planned on visiting Singapore anyway, like a transit).

So, I already told you that Airalo's Japan eSIM is called Moshi Moshi.

The Moshi Moshi eSIM uses the AU Japan by KDDI and SoftBank Japan networks on 4G/LTE (no 5G NR access yet, but some Airalo eSIMs already do, so it is only a matter of time).

That way, you can use the AU Japan by KDDI and SoftBank Japan 4G/LTE network without going through Japan's SIM card registration requirements (legally, of course)!

Anyway, you have six (previously four) Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM options:

1. Japan/Moshi Moshi 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 4.50 USD
2. Japan/Moshi Moshi 2 GB eSIM for 15 days, costing 6.50 USD (new)
3. Japan/Moshi Moshi 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 8.50 USD
4. Japan/Moshi Moshi 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 11.50 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Japan/Moshi Moshi 10 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 18 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
6. Japan/Moshi Moshi 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (new), costing 26 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17^th of May (2023 data only).

Overall, the Moshi Moshi eSIM gives you fantastic value for your money.

Honestly, the Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM is fantastic and loved by many Phone Travel Wiz readers, especially considering its options and prices.

Let me highlight some strengths and weaknesses of the Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM before you make your purchase decision (but we still have plenty of Japanese travel eSIMs to cover, so do not be too quick!).

Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM Pros

What are the main perks of Airalo's Moshi Moshi eSIMs?

• You can avoid expensive international roaming fees
• You can purchase and set up your Moshi Moshi eSIM before arriving in Japan (and activate it upon landing)
  • The eSIM will start once you have it enabled and are in Japan – not earlier (so you can pre-purchase your eSIM months in advance in peace – I do this often)
• You get full (up to 4G/LTE) access to the AU Japan by KDDI and SoftBank Japan networks
• The eSIMs are affordable and have generous data allowances
• You can manage your eSIM easily on the Airalo website or its apps (Android and iOS)
  • If you need more data, top-ups are available (at the same prices as listed earlier – not at a markup)

Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM Cons

What are the main cons of Airalo's Moshi Moshi eSIMs?

• You cannot call or text with the Moshi Moshi eSIM – it is a data-only eSIM (so you do not get a (Japanese) phone number either)
• While you get access to AU Japan by KDDI and SoftBank Japan's network, your speeds will not be as fast as going with AU Japan by KDDI and SoftBank Japan itself because you will be roaming on their networks (and not be a native customer)
• The Japanese mobile operators have much more generous data allowances (while Moshi Moshi's is capped at 20 GB, but top-ups are available)
• There are no unlimited data plans (unlike some other options mentioned in this guide)
• There is no 5G NR access with the Moshi Moshi eSIM

Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM Overall Thoughts

I have been a big fan of Airalo and its eSIMs in years, as mentioned in my Airalo review, including the Moshi Moshi eSIM.

It offers reasonable data plans for low prices, especially compared to international roaming.

You get fast (up to 4G/LTE) speeds and access in Japan without standing in queues or dealing with SIM card registration bureaucracy.

Unfortunately, you cannot call or text with the Moshi Moshi eSIM, as it is a data-only eSIM.

But if you wish to make actual calls, not through VoIP apps like WhatsApp, consider buying a Japanese SIM card instead (an in-depth guide).

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Holafly eSIMs for Japan

Another eSIM provider I recommend is Holafly.

In June 2022, Holafly introduced something that no other travel eSIM provider had done by that time.

You can now get unlimited data plans for Japan, several other Asian countries, all European Union member states & a handful of other countries.

Wait… there is an eSIM provider offering unlimited data plans, and I (you reading this) have never heard of it? Who is Holafly? 🤔

I have an in-depth review explaining how Airalo works and all its options, based on two years of using Holafly eSIMs – you can read it now or later (I will briefly introduce Holafly anyway in this guide).

Okay, back to unlimited data eSIMs – is it truly unlimited?

Yes… at least that was what I was told initially.

A few weeks later, though, this paragraph was added to its “Can my connection speed be reduced?” FAQ:

[…] if the mobile operator estimates the usage of more than 90 GB of data in a month, it may temporarily reduce the speed to 256 Kbps – 1 Mbps to avoid affecting other users. This limitation is intended to prevent network saturation and will be removed within 24 hours.

One of Holafly's competitors (an eSIM reseller) tried to hit a daily fair-use limit.

It realized that speeds get throttled after using more than 2.5 GB to 3 GB daily.

Interesting, is it not? 🤔.

Anyway, Holafly's unlimited data plans for Japan are the most expensive ones mentioned in this guide.

But they are not prohibitively expensive (luckily) – that is the price you pay for unlimited data for up to 90 days.

The Holafly Japan eSIM uses the NTT Docomo AU by KDDI network (this changed somewhere in 2023).

You have the following eight Holafly Japan eSIM options:

1. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 5 days, costing 19 USD/19 EUR/19 GBP/27 AUD/24 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 7 days (new), costing 27 USD/27 EUR/24 GBP/44 AUD/34 CAD
3. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 10 days, costing 34 USD/34 EUR/29 GBP/49 AUD/44 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 15 days, costing 47 USD/47 EUR/44 GBP/67 AUD/55 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 20 days, costing 54 USD/57 EUR/49 GBP/84 AUD/74 CAD
6. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 30 days, costing 64 USD/69 EUR/59 GBP/99 AUD/89 CAD
7. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 60 days, costing 84 USD/87 EUR/77 GBP/127 AUD/114 CAD
8. Japan unlimited data eSIM for 90 days, costing 99 USD/99 EUR/87 GBP/144 AUD/129 CAD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17^th of May (2023 data only).

Holafly Japan eSIM Pros

What are the main perks of Holafly's Japan eSIMs?

• You can avoid expensive international roaming fees
• You get full (up to 4G/LTE) access to the NTT Docomo network
• You do not have to deal with hard data caps because you get unlimited data (72 GB – here I come!)
• If you, somehow, experience any problems, Holafly's support team responds surprisingly quickly (even on weekends)

Holafly Japan eSIM Cons

What are the main cons of Holafly's Japan eSIMs?

• You cannot call or text with the Holafly Japan eSIM – it is a data-only eSIM (so you do not get a (Japanese) phone number either)
• While you get access to the NTT Docomo network, your speeds will not be as fast as going with them themselves because you will be roaming on their network (and not be a native customer)
• The eSIM's validity, supposedly, starts as soon as you scan the QR code, not upon using it in Japan
  • I say supposedly because I have installed eSIMs literally months in advance and had no issues using them later, but I do not want you to experience this issue with your hard-earned money
• While you get “unlimited” data, the soft cap seems to be 2.5-3 GB/day and 90 GB per month (if you get the 30-, 60-, or 90-day eSIM)
  • I have not experienced this soft cap myself
• You cannot use your phone as a hotspot (tether) with any Holafly unlimited data eSIM
• There is no 5G NR access with the Holafly eSIM
• You cannot top-up your eSIM – you have to buy a new one (in case you stay in Japan for a bit longer than initially planned)
• Holafly is the most expensive eSIM provider in this guide for Japan-only eSIMs

Holafly Japan eSIM Overall Thoughts

I love that Holafly decided to innovate and offer unlimited data plans (although unlimited should be written as “unlimited” instead).

I was not a fan of Holafly when it had travel SIM cards (discontinued) because they were crazy expensive (I am talking about 20 USD for 1 GB of data in some Caribbean nation expensive).

Luckily that is not the case with its eSIMs, so I have used Holafly eSIMs in many countries and counting.

Be sure to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase (yes, you can use it multiple times)!

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Nomad eSIMs for Japan

Nomad, not to be confused with the (Digital) Nomad lifestyle, has been an eSIM provider I have seen grow significantly over the years.

It has added eSIMs for way more countries than before (improving availability), added more data options (up to 100 GB of data) & DROPPED its prices for many countries.

Incredible, I have to say 🥹 – which is why I have used its eSIMs in more than 25 countries in the past two years.

Remember when I said that 100 GB eSIMs are available? Japan is one of those countries.

Recently, Nomad started working with JoyTelecom for most APAC (Asia-Pacific) destinations, including Japan).

This allowed Nomad to offer more and cheaper plans than those on the Truphone network.

Not that its Truphone plans are bad… but they can be pricey in some countries (even in Asia – luckily not for Japan anymore).

And unlike Truphone, JoyTelecom is transparant with what local partner it works with.

That is Truphone in the case of Japan.

You have the following 14 Nomad Japan eSIM options:

1. Japan 1 GB eSIM for 7 days (SoftBank), costing 5 USD/5 EUR/4.50 GBP/7 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Japan 3 GB eSIM for 15 days (SoftBank), costing 9 USD/8.50 EUR/7.50 GBP/12.50 CAD
3. Japan 5 GB eSIM for 15 days (SoftBank), costing 13 USD/12.50 EUR/11 GBP/18 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Japan 10 GB eSIM for 30 days (SoftBank), costing 22 USD/21 EUR/18 GBP/30 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Japan 15 GB eSIM for 30 days (SoftBank – new), costing 28 USD/26.50 EUR/23 GBP/38.50 CAD
6. Japan 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (SoftBank), costing 34 USD/32 EUR/28 GBP/46.50 CAD
7. Japan 30 GB eSIM for 30 days (SoftBank – new), costing 80 USD/75 EUR/65 GBP/109 CAD
8. Japan 40 GB eSIM for 30 days (SoftBank – new), costing 110 USD/103 EUR/89.50 GBP/150 CAD
9. Japan 50 GB eSIM for 30 days (SoftBank – new), costing 125 USD/117 EUR/101.50 GBP/170 CAD
10. Japan unlimited eSIM for 1 day (SoftBank – new), costing 12.50 USD/8.50 EUR/7.50 GBP/12.50 CAD
11. Japan unlimited eSIM for 3 days (SoftBank – new), costing 24.50 USD/17 EUR/15 GBP/24.50 CAD
12. Japan unlimited eSIM for 5 days (SoftBank – new), costing 33 USD/22.50 EUR/19.50 GBP/33 CAD
13. Japan unlimited eSIM for 7 days (SoftBank – new), costing 38.50 USD/26 EUR/23 GBP/38.50 CAD
14. Japan unlimited eSIM for 10 days (SoftBank – new), costing 49 USD/33.50 EUR/29.50 GBP/49 CAD

And you know that I have a lovely deal waiting for you: use code ADU123 and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

Promo: until the 30th of June, you can get 10% off plans with 10 GB of data or more by using code NOMADSUMMER23. If you do not need that much data, you can still use code ADU123 for the struck through discounted rates mentioned above – you are welcome 😜.

Nomad Japan eSIM Pros

What are the main perks of Nomad's Japan eSIMs?

• You can avoid expensive international roaming fees
• You get full (up to 4G/LTE) access to the NTT Docomo network
• The eSIMs are affordable and have generous data allowances
• You can manage your eSIM easily on the Nomad website or its apps (Android and iOS)
  • If you need more data, top-ups are available (at the same prices as listed earlier – not at a markup)
• If you, somehow, experience any problems, Nomad's support team responds surprisingly quickly (even on weekends)

But it is not all good news with Nomad though – there are some disadvantages.

Nomad Japan eSIM Cons

What are the main cons of Nomad's Japan eSIMs?

• You cannot call or text with the Nomad Japan eSIM – it is a data-only eSIM (so you do not get a (Japanese) phone number either)
• While you get access to the NTT Docomo network, your speeds will not be as fast as going with NTT Docomo itself because you will be roaming on its network (and not be a native customer)
• The eSIM's validity starts after 30 days of purchase, not upon using it in Japan
  • During select promotions, this gets extended (up to six months I have seen), but do not buy your eSIM too early, else it will self-activate after 30 days and simply expire
• There are no unlimited data plans (although this may or may be coming soon… I know of nothing 🤫)
• There is no 5G NR access with the Nomad Japan eSIM

Nomad Japan eSIM Overall Thoughts

Generally, I am happy to have seen Nomad grow and become much better over the years.

Especially for its offering in many Asian countries.

This resulted in me using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries so far (and I share my experience in my Nomad review).

From becoming a mediocre option to one of the leading eSIM providers (especially for many Asian eSIMs) within a year is quite an achievement.

And to celebrate, use code ADU123 to get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad eSIM purchase… like the Japanese one!

Promo: until the 30th of June, you can get 10% off plans with 10 GB of data or more by using code NOMADSUMMER23. If you do not need that much data, you can still use code ADU123 for the struck through discounted rates mentioned above – you are welcome 😜.

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Best eSIMs for Asia & the World (including Japan)

So what if you plan to visit a neighboring Asian country?

Unfortunately, you cannot use your Airalo, Holafly or, Nomad, or Ubigi eSIMs in any country than Japan.

Luckily, some of the eSIM providers mentioned so far do have eSIMs that can be used throughout most or all of Asia.

And there are also some global eSIMs with attractive prices that can be useful if you visit Asia and another continent or region.

I highly recommend these Asia or global eSIMs if you plan to visit multiple Asian countries to save money!

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Airalo Asialink eSIM

Following Airalo's popular Eurolink eSIM, which can be used in 39 European countries, Airalo introduced the Asialink eSIM, which can be used in 13 East- and Southeast Asian countries ¹.

¹ currently, newly bought Asialink eSIMs cannot be used in Singapore. Airalo is working on re-including Singapore in its Asialink offering

Previously, you got unlimited data with the Asia Unicom eSIM (which was actually only 4 GB of high-speed data and unlimited @ snail speeds).

So I am happy that the old Asia eSIM is gone 🗿.

Anyway, this Asialink eSIM has become very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers – mostly because these eSIMs give you up to 100 GB of data for 180 days.

Currently, the most data you can get with the majority of Airalo eSIMs for Asian countries is up to 20 GB of data, so it is a significant upgrade.

This is amazing for travelers like me who do use a lot of data (you would be surprised how much data I use in some countries, lmao).

The Airalo Asialink eSIM can be used in the following 13 countries:

¹ currently, newly bought Asialink eSIMs cannot be used in Singapore. Airalo is working on re-including Singapore in its Asialink offering

Below is an overview of how much each Airalo Asialink eSIM costs:

1. Asia/Asialink 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 5 USD
2. Asia/Asialink 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 13 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
3. Asia/Asialink 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 20 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Asia/Asialink 10 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 37 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Asia/Asialink 50 GB eSIM for 90 days, costing 100 USD
6. Asia/Asialink 100 GB eSIM for 180 days, costing 185 USD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17^th of May (2023 data only).

I aim to use the Asialink eSIM in all supported countries in 2023 (and probably 2024 too), giving you insights into how the eSIM performs in each nation.

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AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM (5G NR Access in Japan)

There is a new kid on the block with 5G NR access in several Asian countries (including Japan) with its Asia eSIM: AIS eSIM2FLY Asia.

Okay, AIS (Thailand) is not new at all – it is the largest mobile operator in the country.

What is relatively new, however, is its updated AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM.

You still get 6 GB of data for 15 days in 32 Asian countries.

But you also get FREE 5G NR access in about a dozen supported countries – and more will be added shortly.

And I can tell you that not many eSIM providers have this benefit for Asia (including the ones in this guide)… so this is a unique selling point for the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM.

Now, many resellers are selling this eSIM – but I recommend getting it from SimOptions.

Mainly because SimOptions was probably the first travel SIM card company I started working with in 2019.

But also because its price is competitive (19.90 USD) – even while offering STELLAR after-sales support (which not all AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM resellers do… they just tell you to contact AIS directly, smh).

Alright, the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM can be used in the following 32 countries:

¹ with 5G NR access

It is nice to see when an eSIM provider does not consider only some East- and Southeast Asian countries as Asia 🗿.

What is more: you get a Thai phone number (+66) that can be used for incoming calls and SMS.

If you go to the SimOptions website and look at its Asia eSIMs, you will see the following six eSIMs:

I will talk about the AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM in the global section (it also allows for 5G NR access in quite a number of countries).

But why do I only mention and recommend the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM from SimOptions?

Mostly because the eSIM is vastly superior to any other Asia eSIM SimOptions sells.

The AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM covers an equal number of countries as the Smart Traveler eSIM and more than the China Unicom Hong Kong Smart Data eSIM and the 3 Hong Kong 30-Day APAC Pass eSIMs.

Moreover, the performance with the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM will be (significantly) better because it often works on the network of the best local mobile operator.

Furthermore, it costs roughly the same as the other eSIMs.

The only main drawback with the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM is that it has the shortest validity – eight days.

Unless you plan in staying all 32 supported countries for maybe an hour before flying again, it will be impossible to use the eSIM in all of them.

Let alone two or three countries within eight days.

So yes, it is a regional eSIM, but you will most likely use it in one or two only.

But unlike the other eSIMs, you will get 5G NR access with the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM.

But if you want to explore your options, check out the SimOptions site.

Although I believe you will have a better experience with the AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM or the other Asia eSIMs mentioned in this guide.

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Holafly Asia eSIM

Holafly also has an eSIM for Asia.

Well… a very narrow definition of Asia because it only covers 11 East- and Southeast Asian countries.

But there is another problem with this eSIM: you can use up to 500 MB per day with the Holafly Asia eSIM, even though your total data allowance is 6 GB or 10 GB.

Yeah, you do not get unlimited data with the eSIM, even though the European variant does 🥲.

As you can tell, I am not a huge fan of such limits because I know I use much more data on a daily basis, but Holafly may change this for the better in the (near) future.

For example, you used to have only one variant – now, you have two.

100% choice increase 🥳🗿.

The Holafly Asia eSIM can be used in the fllowing 11 countries:

And, of course, you can get 5% off by using code PHONETRAVELWIZ!

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Nomad APAC eSIM

Another affordable eSIM for Asia is Nomad's APAC (Asia-Pacific) eSIM.

One thing to be aware of is that the APAC eSIM is split into three plans: 7 Countries Plan, 12 Countries Plan & 15 Countries Plan.

All plans can be used in Japan.

Previously, Nomad's APAC plans covered only eight countries, including the ones above, at not the lowest prices.

But this has, fortunately, changed as of late 2022.

The Nomad APAC eSIM can be used in the following 7, 12, or 15 countries:

¹ 7 Countries Plan
² 12 Countries Plan
³ 15 Countries Plan

Below is an overview of how much each Nomad APAC eSIM costs:

1. APAC (15 Countries Plan) 1 GB eSIM for 3 days, costing 8 USD/8 EUR/7 GBP/11 CAD
2. APAC (15 Countries Plan) 3 GB eSIM for 5 days, costing 13 USD/12.50 EUR/11 GBP/18 CAD
3. APAC (7 Countries Plan) 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 13 USD/12.50 EUR/11 GBP/18 CAD
4. APAC (12 Countries Plan) 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 13 USD/12.50 EUR/11 GBP/18 CAD
5. APAC (15 Countries Plan) 5 GB eSIM for 10 days, costing 19 USD/18 EUR/16 GBP/26 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
6. APAC (7 Countries Plan) 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 15 USD/14.50 EUR/12.50 GBP/20.50 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
7. APAC (12 Countries Plan) 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 15 USD/14.50 EUR/12.50 GBP/20.50 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
8. APAC (15 Countries Plan) 10 GB eSIM for 15 days, costing 29 USD/27.50 EUR/24.50 GBP/39.50 CAD
9. APAC (15 Countries Plan) 20 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 45 USD/42.50 EUR/37.50 GBP/61.50 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Remember to use code ADU123 and for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

Promo: until the 30th of June, you can get 10% off plans with 10 GB of data or more by using code NOMADSUMMER23. If you do not need that much data, you can still use code ADU123 for the struck through discounted rates mentioned above – you are welcome 😜.

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Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM

Nomad has another eSIM that can be used in Asia (SEA – Southeast Asia) and Oceania.

This is Nomad's newest regional eSIM and the one with the most generous data allowances.

Previously, the countries covered by this eSIM were the same as Nomad's old APAC eSIM (the one that was semi-expensive and got updated).

Well, Nomad brought the eSIM back, changed its name, dropped the prices & added way more data options.

Honestly, I would love for Nomad to add these data options to all of its eSIMs for roughly the same prices.

It would become one of the, if not the, best eSIM provider in terms of price:data ratios.

The SEA-Oceania eSIM can be used in the following eight Southeast Asian and Oceanian countries:

• Australia
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam

Remember to use code ADU123 and for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

Promo: until the 30th of June, you can get 10% off plans with 10 GB of data or more by using code NOMADSUMMER23. If you do not need that much data, you can still use code ADU123 for the struck through discounted rates mentioned above – you are welcome 😜.

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Ubigi Asia Plan (5G NR Access in Japan)

Ubigi is a relatively new player for me, but it has been selling eSIM plans for years.

And what I say new player, it means I did not start using its plans since I started Phone Travel Wiz – just later.

Unlike any eSIM provider mentioned in this guide, you only have to download a free Ubigi eSIM profile once, and can add plans to it (on its app – its webshop is coming soon).

Most eSIM providers require you to buy a new eSIM per country or region, which is somewhat unique to Ubigi.

The provider is backed by NTT DoCoMo from Japan, the largest mobile operator in the country.

As a result, Ubigi can leverage NTT DoComo's extensive roaming agreement library without going through a middleman (like most eSIM providers in this guide).

In return, you get free 5G NR access in many Asian countries, including Japan.

For Asia, Ubigi has two plans:

• Best Asia Plan (12 countries)
• Asia Plan (24 countries)

Both plans listed above can be used in Japan.

So it really depends on your travel plans to determine which Ubigi Asia Plan will be useful for you.

The Ubigi Asian plans can be used in the following 12 or 24 countries:

¹ Best Asia Plan (12 countries)
² Asia Plan (24 countries)
³ on 3G only
⁴ with 5G NR access (in Vietnam, select the Viettel network instead of the Vinaphone (VNPT) network for 5G NR access)

Because Ubigi plans cannot be purchase on its website (yet) and only on its apps (Android and iOS), download your Ubigi profile here, create an account (preferably on mobile from the start) & use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 10% off.

You are welcome 😜.

• Check out my Ubigi eSIM reviews

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Airalo Discover Global eSIM

Airalo was probably the first eSIM provider to introduce a global eSIM, called Discover Global.

This eSIM can be used in 85+ countries, including Japan, often offering up to 4G/LTE reception and speeds (also in Japan).

The Airalo Discover Global eSIM can be used in the following 85+ countries:

You have these five Airalo Discover Global eSIMs:

1. Discover Global 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 9 USD
2. Discover Global 3 GB eSIM for 15 days, costing 24 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
3. Discover Global 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 35 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Discover Global 10 GB eSIM for 60 days, costing 59 USD
5. Discover Global 20 GB eSIM for 180 days, costing 89 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz reader

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17^th of May (2023 data only).

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AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM (5G NR Access in Japan)

In the Asia eSIM section, I mentioned that AIS also has a global eSIM: AIS eSIM2FLY Global.

Like the Asian variant, you get 6 GB of data, although it can be used for 15 days instead.

And it can be used in a total of 123 countries – 50 of them with 5G NR access, including Japan.

The AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM can be used in the following countries:

¹ with 5G NR access

If you get this eSIM from SimOptions, which I recommend, you will pay 39.90 USD for it.

The same issue as with the Asian variant still applies: AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM has a short validity.

Making it hard to call it an actual global eSIM… unless you can somehow visit 123 countries within 15 days 🧐.

Still, it is a relatively affordable global eSIM covering 120+ countries… with 5G NR access!

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Nomad Global eSIM

Besides Nomad's eSIM for Japan, it also has a global eSIM that can be used in Japan and a total of 110 countries (including many Asian ones).

Nomad's Global eSIM covers more countries than Airalo's Discover Global eSIM (110 vs. 85).

But it is also significantly more expensive than Airalo (but not the most costly global eSIM in this guide).

Even so, Phone Travel Wiz readers have shown interest in this eSIM and have had positive experiences with it.

Anyway, you have these three Nomad Global eSIMs:

1. Global 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 25 USD/23.50 EUR/20.50 GBP/34 CAD
2. Global 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 40 USD/37.5 EUR/32.50 GBP/54.50 CAD
3. Global 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 45 USD/42.50 EUR/36.50 GBP/61.50 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in April based on data up to the 20^th of April .

The Nomad Global eSIM can be used in the following 110 countries:

Remember to use code ADU123 and for 3 USD/2.75 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

Promo: until the 30th of June, you can get 10% off plans with 10 GB of data or more by using code NOMADSUMMER23. If you do not need that much data, you can still use code ADU123 for the struck through discounted rates mentioned above – you are welcome 😜.

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Ubigi World Plan (5G NR Access in Japan)

Just as Ubigi has its Japan plans, it has a plan for the world too, covering 175+ countries – including Japan.

Yes, Ubigi has the most extensive global plan out there.

However, it also has the most expensive global plans 🗿.

You have these three Ubigi World plans:

1. World 500 MB plan for 1 days, costing 12 USD/12 EUR/10 GBP
2. World 500 MB plan for 30 days, costing 29 USD/29 EUR/25 GBP
3. World 5 GB plan for 30 days (auto-renews) ¹, costing 68 USD/68 EUR/59 GBP/month

¹ this plan requires a commitment of at least three months. After the first three months, the plan can be stopped at any time

The Ubigi World Plan can be used in the following 175+ countries:

¹ on 3G only
² with 5G NR access

Remember, because Ubigi plans cannot be purchase on its website (yet) and only on its apps (Android and iOS), download your Ubigi profile here, create an account (preferably on mobile from the start) & use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 10% off.

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Overview of the Best eSIMs for Japan

So, we reviewed some eSIMs that can be used in Japan.

I will give you a quick recap of each and link to their product pages in case you need more info or want to purchase an eSIM already (just remember the activation policies of Holafly, Nomad & SimOptions – do not buy their eSIMs too early):

• Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM (best value for money)
• Holafly Japan eSIM (generous data eSIMs)
• Nomad Japan eSIM (best value for money)
• Ubigi Japan Plan with 5G NR access (most generous data allowance at relatively low prices)
• Airalo Asialink eSIM (best value for money for 13 East- and Southeast Asian countries)
• AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM through SimOptions with 5G NR access in Japan (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported Asian countries (12/32) at a reasonable price but with a short validity – SimOptions does sell other Asian eSIMs, but they are not as good as AIS)
• Holafly Asia eSIM (reasonably prices eSIMs for 11 East- and Southeast Asian countries, but Phone Travel Wiz readers like the eSIM somehow)
• Nomad APAC eSIM (the best of both worlds in terms of pricing and performance for up to 16 Asian and Oceanian countries)
• Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM (the best of both worlds in terms of pricing and performance again but for up to eight Asian and Oceanian countries (can be cheaper than Nomad's APAC eSIM)
• Ubigi Asia Plans with 5G NR access in Japan (extensive Asia coverage (24 countries))
• Airalo Discover Global eSIM (reasonable global coverage (85+ countries) at attractive prices)
• AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with 5G NR access in Japan (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (50/123) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
• Nomad Global eSIM (extensive global coverage (110 countries) at high(er) prices)
• Ubigi World Plan with 5G NR access in Japan (most extensive global coverage (175+ countries) at the highest prices)

Remember to use code the relevant discount codes for (ADU123 (Nomad) or PHONETRAVELWIZ (others)).

Promo: until the 30th of June, you can get 10% off plans with 10 GB of data or more by using code NOMADSUMMER23. If you do not need that much data, you can still use code ADU123 for the struck through discounted rates mentioned above – you are welcome 😜.

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Buying a SIM Card in Japan

Want to just use a SIM card but not your current one because roaming will be criminally expensive?

Consider getting a Japanese SIM card instead – local SIM cards are the cheapest way to stay connected abroad.