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Japan: 10 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

Japan – known for anime, cherry blossom trees & the crazy number of (reasonably priced) vending machines.

The country is also known for sumo wrestling, the shinkansen train & technological advancements.

Whenever I watch some anime or manga, which is rare, I always feel like going to Japan, get some groceries & certainly buy leek for the authentic anime grocery shopping experience.

But you are probably not going to Japan just to get some leek (at least, I hope not).

If you can, you certainly want to go to Mount Fuji (do not call it Mount Fiji 🤪).

And the many stunning castles or temples across the country, such as Kinkaku-Ji, Kiyomizu-Dera & Osaka Castle.

And anime and manga lovers want to go to Akihabara – even those who are not into those things, like myself, will still be in awe by all the stores nearby.

As you can see, there is no reason to be bored in Japan – and I only mentioned a handful of things to do!

What you should not do, in many cases, is roam internationally in Japan – International roaming can be expensive.

That is why I always recommend local prepaid SIM cards, eSIMs & even travel eSIMs so that you can enjoy low rates for data, minutes & SMS.

Most Japanese mobile operators do not offer prepaid SIM cards to tourists because of a low prohibiting travelers from getting voice-enabled SIM cards.

Yes… if you get a SIM card in Japan, it will always be data-only… with one exception.

So, how much do SIM cards cost in Japan?

You can get a Japanese (tourist) SIM card for 4500 JPY (32.90 USD) from SoftBank in their stores. MVNOs sell SIM cards for between 1780 JPY (13.80 USD) to 26 400 JPY (201.40 USD). SIM cards are also sold at various airports, including (Tokyo) Haneda Airport (HND).

With almost all of the options mentioned above, you can pre-order your SIM card so that they are waiting for you at the airport or a post office close to your accommodation (or it can be delivered there too for a slightly higher fee).

Unlike some other countries in East– and Southeast Asia, (prepaid) SIM cards are not as accessible as in other countries, but it is still doable.

In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Japan. Let's go.

Buying a SIM Card in Japan Guide (logos of SoftBank, Mobal, COMST, B-Mobile, Wireless Gate, Wi-Ho!, Nippon SIM for Japan, GTN Mobile, Sakura Mobile & IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM)

Original publication: 13th of December 2019. Last updated: 15th of March 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

Can You Buy a SIM Card in Japan?

Anyone 18 years or older living in or visiting Japan can buy a Japanese SIM card from SoftBank and various Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs – Bmobile, COMST, GTN Mobile, IIJMio (Japan Travel SIM) & Modal, Nippon SIM (for Japan – that is part of the name), Sakura Mobile, Wi-Ho! & Wireless Gate) with some restrictions.

The main restriction is that short-term visitors cannot buy voice-enabled Japanese SIM cards.

This means that SIM cards mentioned in this guide are data-only and targeted at tourists (except for Mobal).

While regular prepaid SIM cards are available, although barely after the pandemic, you cannot get them without a Japanese Residence Certificate (Jūminhyō – 住民票).

Besides that restriction, you are free to use (select) Japanese SIM cards.

You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Japan).

Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Japan?

You can get a Japanese SIM card in (select) Softbank stores. Resellers, like convenience stores and electronic shops, also sell SIM cards. It is also possible to get SIM cards at select airports, including (Tokyo) Haneda Airport (HND) and (Tokyo) Narita International Airport (NRT), or get them delivered to post offices or your accommodation.

Normally, I do not include online-only mobile operators or SIM card providers in my guides because they can be inconvenient.

However, as Japan is a special case where most mobile operators do not offer prepaid services (to travelers), online-based mobile operators are included.

Mostly because most can ship your SIM card to your accommodation (private or hotel), nearby post offices & airports (with some options, you have to pre-order your SIM card before going to Japan. Else, your SIM card will not be available).

You can buy a Japanese SIM card delivered to/in the following airports:

  • Chitose – New Chitose Airport (CTS)
  • Chubu/Tokoname (Aichi) – Nagoya/Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
  • Fukuoka – Fukuoka Airport (FUK 🗿)
  • Kagoshima – Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
  • Osaka – Kansai International Airport (KIX)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT)

You can expect to pay the following for Japanese (travel) SIM cards:

  • SoftBank Japan: 4500 JPY
  • Bmobile Japan: 1980 JPY & 2970 JPY
  • COMST Japan: 2420 JPY – 8800 JPY
  • GTN Mobile: 5000 JPY & 10 000 JPY
  • IIJmio Japan Travel SIM: 1990 JPY & 3020 JPY
  • Mobal Japan: 3990 JPY – 16 500 JPY
  • Nippon SIM (for Japan): 1780 JPY – 1980 JPY
  • Sakura Mobile: 4950 JPY – 26 400 JPY
  • Wi-Ho! Japan: 4980 JPY, 5980 JPY & 6980 JPY
  • Wireless Gate Japan: 2420 JPY – 8800 JPY

Note: most SIM cards have open pricing, meaning that retailers can set the price (but the ones mentioned above are the suggested prices). Actual prices may be slightly higher or lower than above.

However, if a retailer (often foreign resellers) is charging you significantly more, be sure to try another reseller.

For up-to-date JPY:your currency (let's say HKD) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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Can You Use Your Phone in Japan?

Japan uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Japan. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).

Traditional European frequencies are used in Japan, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).

The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American frequencies, which differ from the European ones.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Japan.

But be aware, Japan uses some uncommon frequencies that are used in the country only, but you should still be fine if you bought your phone in ITU Regions 1 and 3).

If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Japan or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).

If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Japan (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Japan

Japan has one mobile network operator and nine Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

  • SoftBank Japan
  • Bmobile Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)
  • COMST Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)
  • GTN Mobile Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)
  • IIJmio Japan Travel SIM (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)
  • Mobal Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO (data-only) & SoftBank MVNO (with calls/SMS)
  • Nippon SIM for Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO & SoftBank MVNO (for one SIM card only))
  • Sakura Mobile (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)
  • Wirless Gate Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)
  • Wi-Ho! Japan (NTT DoCoMo MVNO)

The following frequencies are used in Japan:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz, 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 2100 MHz – not for Rakuten Mobile
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 18 & Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1500 MHz (Band 11 & Band 21), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1), 2500 MHz (Band 41) & 3500 MHz (Band 32 & Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78), 3700 MHz (n77) & 4900 MHz (n79)

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in Japan, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).

Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).

If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.

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VoLTE & VoWiFi in Japan

Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) are available in Japan. All Japanese mobile operators (NTT DoCoMo, AU, SoftBank & Rakuten Mobile) offer both services.

This means that your phone does not have to downgrade to 2G or 3G when making a call in Japan (unlike mobile operators that do not support VoLTE).

VoWiFi is, as the name implies, calling on a WiFi connection as opposed to on a cellular network.

But, as you recall from the Can You Buy a SIM Card in Japan section, travelers cannot get voice-enabled SIM cards.

Mobal is the only exception (maybe because it is an American-based company?).

I only got its data-only SIM card in the past, so I do not know if it supports VoLTE and VoWiFi too.

5G NR in Japan

Commercial 5G NR has been available in Japan since May 2019. It is available on the NTT DoCoMo, AU, SoftBank & Rakuten Mobile networks. Only COMST has SIM cards with 5G NR access for travelers.

Best SIM Card in Japan

If you want to buy the best SIM card in Japan, I recommend going with Bmobile, COMST, Mobal, Nippon SIM & Sakura Mobile. All use the NTT DoCoMo network, which is the best in the country. Nippon SIM and Sakura Mobile have unlimited plans. COMST is the only one with 5G NR access.

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Best eSIM in Japan

Bmobile and Nippon SIM (for Japan) offer eSIMs for its travel SIM cards.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards (will be discussed later).

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan without personal detail capturing, you can get the Japan (Moshi Moshi) eSIM from Airalo.

Japan Moshi Moshi eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have these six options:

  1. Japan/Moshi Moshi 1 GB eSIM for 7 days
  2. Japan/Moshi Moshi 2 GB eSIM for 15 days
  3. Japan/Moshi Moshi 3 GB eSIM for 30 days
  4. Japan/Moshi Moshi 5 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. Japan/Moshi Moshi 10 GB eSIM for 30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  6. Japan/Moshi Moshi 20 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

The Airalo links above will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

For an in-depth analysis of the Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Japan eSIMs Compared guide.

You can also get Japan eSIMs from Nomad.

Japan eSIMs Nomad
Japan Value Pack eSIMs Nomad

By the way, the 5 GB Nomad Japan eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 3 GB for 30 days variant is very popular.

Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!

For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Japan eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Japan eSIMs Compared guide.

Nomad Travel eSIM Reviews by Phone Travel Wiz

Finally, you can get Japan eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Japan eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Japan eSIMs Compared guide.

Holafly Travel eSIM Reviews by Phone Travel Wiz

With these eSIMs, you can skip Japan's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Japan!

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: check out my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Japan, including ones not mentioned above.

Airalo recently heavily improved its Asia eSIM, following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries, with six variants: 1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days to be used in Japan and 13 other Asian countries:

Asialink Asia eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Just like in Europe, many readers tend to visit multiple Asian countries, so they would rather have a travel eSIM covering multiple countries than just one (like Japan).

The Asialink eSIM can be used in 14 countries in East Asia and Southeast Asia:

  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Hong Kong
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Laos
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore 1
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam

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

Airalo Asialink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

With the Asialink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit.

  • Check out my Airalo Asialink review ((being) tested in Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, the Philippines, (Singapore), South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand & Vietnam (ongoing review throughout 2023 and 2024, so check back often!)
Airalo Asialink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: Check out my eSIM lookup tool for an overview of local mobile operators offering eSIMs to prepaid customers and travel eSIMs I use and love (for eSIMs in Japan and eSIMs worldwide) and my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparion of several eSIMs for Japan.

Best International/Travel SIM Card for Japan

If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Japan, I recommend going with SimCorner's Japan Travel SIM cards. Consider SimCorner's Asia SIM cards to be used in Japan and 20+ countries, including neighboring China, South Korea & Taiwan.

You have the following three Japan Travel SIM cards:

As you can mostly get tourist SIM cards in Japan, it may be more convenient getting a SIM card from SimCorner instead.

Japan Travel SIM Card SimCorner
© SimCorner
Japan Travel SIM Card (Unlimited Data) SimCorner
© SimCorner

You have these two Asia SIM cards:

Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 8 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner
Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 15 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner

The SimCorner Asia SIM cards can be used in Japan and the following other countries:

  • Azerbaijan 2
  • Bahrain 1
  • Bangladesh
  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Georgia
  • Guam 1
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Jordan 1
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait 1
  • Kyrgyzstan 2
  • Laos
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Mongolia 1
  • Myanmar (Burma)
  • Nepal
  • Oman 1
  • Pakistan
  • Philippines
  • Qatar 1
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Sri Lanka
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand 2, 3
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam

1 for the 8 day version only
2 for the 15 days version only
3 only 500 MB in Thailand – better get the SimCorner Thailand Travel SIM Cards instead

You can also get the SimCorner International Travel SIM card (new: also available as an eSIM) 6 GB of data valid for 15 days to be used in Japan and 100+ countries, including most of the ones mentioned above (Asia) and in the Americas, Europe & Oceania:

SimCorner International SIM Card Banner
© SimCorner
International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner
  • Åland Islands
  • Albania
  • Argentina
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bangladesh
  • Belarus
  • Belgium
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Cambodia
  • Canada
  • Chad
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Congo, the Republic of (Brazzaville)
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Egypt
  • El Salvador
  • Estonia
  • Faroe Islands
  • Fiji
  • Finland
  • France
  • Gabon
  • Germany
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Guam
  • Guatemala
  • Honduras
  • Hong Kong
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kenya
  • Kuwait
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Macau
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Malaysia
  • Malta
  • Mexico
  • Moldova
  • Mongolia
  • Montenegro
  • Myanmar
  • Nauru
  • Nepal
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • North Macedonia
  • Northern Cyprus
  • Norway
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Panama
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Puerto Rico
  • Qatar
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • San Marino
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Serbia
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Sri Lanka
  • Svalbard and Jan Mayen
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • Tonga
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Uganda
  • Ukraine
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Uruguay
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vatican City
  • Vietnam

Instead of spending between 0.34 USD to 384 USD for SIM cards in each country, get a SimCorner travel SIM card covering numerous countries for just one price!

Use discount code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings!

SIM Card Registration in Japan

SIM card registration, with the use of your passport information, is mandatory in Japan. This will be done at the point of purchase.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Remember, SIM cards purchased by tourists cannot make calls because only those with a Japanese Residence Certificate can purchase voice-enabled SIM cards.

Japan Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Flag of Japan

Japan is not the cheapest country in East Asia, but it is also not the most expensive in the region.

However, the same cannot be said about mobile data rates – they are not too high (but high for Asian standards, nonetheless).

The average price for 1 GB of data in Japan is 528.26 JPY (3.85 USD), around the Asian average of 1.47 USD. The world average is 3.12 USD.

In fact, Japan is the second most expensive country for mobile data in East Asia, behind South Korea, but ahead of Hong Kong, Macau, Mongolia & China.

Some data-featured prepaid plans can be generous in Japan, but that is not always the case.

While the prices for data-featured plans are low, will you also get slow speeds in Japan?

Not really.

Japan's median mobile download speed is around 39 Mbps.

For reference, the global median is around 31 Mbps at the moment.

Japan has the third slowest median download speeds compared to its (indirect) neighbors, behind China (92.53 Mbps), Taiwan (58.83 Mbps), Macau (54.76 Mbps) & Hong Kong (48.09 Mbps), but ahead of the Philippines (22.35 Mbps) and Russia (21.24 Mbps).

But the competition is fierce in this neighborhood 😜.

Japan's mobile download speeds have increased by 10.2% year on year.

Okay, now it is time to know which mobile operator is the fastest in Japan.

That would be NTT DoCoMo, with an average download speed of 52.9 Mbps. Followed by AU (47 Mbps), SoftBank (41.9 Mbps) & Rakuten (27.5 Mbps).

The mobile operator with the best 5G NR speeds is also NTT DoCoMo, with an average download speed of 84.1 Mbps. Followed by AU (53.2 Mbps), SoftBank (51.1 Mbps) & Rakuten (35.4 Mbps).

Unfortunately… 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet) 🥲.

So what about coverage? Which mobile operator has the best coverage?

Honestly, the four mobile operators cover almost all of Japan – even the new Rakuten (98.8% – 99.6% availability score).

So which mobile operator is winning the 5G NR race in terms of coverage?

Currently, NTT DoCoMo has the best 5G NR reach (2.8 on a 10-point scale), ahead of SoftBank (2.5), AU (2) & Rakuten (0.5).

Regarding 5G NR availability, in the places where 5G NR should be available, NTT DoCoMo is winning the race (4.3%), ahead of SoftBank (4.1%), AU (3.7%) & Rakuten (1%).

So what about overall network performance by the Japanese mobile operators?

NTT DoCoMo and SoftBank are the winners of the Japan Mobile Experience Award of April 2022.

Basically, you cannot go wrong with NTT DoCoMo or SoftBank.

Luckily for you, the MVNOs easily accessible to tourists are mostly on the NTT DoCoMo network and some on the SoftBank network, so you will be fine 🤪.

But… for the best overall performance, especially on 4G/LTE, NTT DoCoMo is the clear winner (best 4G/LTE coverage and the fastest 4G/LTE speeds).

With reasonable SIM card prices, practically perfect nationwide coverage, good mobile download speeds, and average mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Japan.

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Currency in Japan

10 000 Japanese Yen Bank Note
© Bank of Japan/日本銀行

Japan uses the Japanese Yen with the symbol JPY (which will be used throughout this guide).

However, prices are often listed as ¥. For example, 25 JPY = ¥25.

For reference, below are some exchange rates between JPY and USD (US Dollars):

  • 10 JPY = 0.07 USD
  • 100 JPY = 0.75 USD
  • 1000 JPY = 7.30 USD
  • 10 000 JPY = 73.10 USD
  • 100 000 JPY = 731 USD

For up-to-date JPY:your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.

Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).

I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

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Japanese Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through SoftBank Japan, Bmobile Japan, COMST Japan, GTN Mobile Japan, IIJmio (Japan Travel SIM), Mobal Japan, Nippon SIM for Japan, Sakura Mobile, Wireless Gate Japan & Wi-Ho! Japan, and go through:

  • Background information
  • Mobile coverage
  • SIM card types, prices, and availability
  • Recharge/top-up information
  • Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)

With that being said, let’s see what Japan to offer to us.


SoftBank Japan

SoftBank Japan Logo
© SoftBank Japan

SoftBank Japan, just SoftBank, is the third-largest mobile operator in Japan.

It is currently the only mobile operator offering prepaid services (or a travel SIM card) to travelers (NTT DoCoMo has prepaid options for residents only, while AU Japan and Rakuten Mobile discontinued their prepaid lines altogether).

SoftBank has the best 5G NR availability.

But you cannot use 5G NR with the SoftBank tourist SIM card.

SoftBank uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 18 – not the usual Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1), 2500 MHz (Band 41) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3700 MHz (n77) – not for prepaid customers… yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a tourists
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a tourists

This is what you will learn about SoftBank:

* Coverage
* How to Get a SoftBank SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – SoftBank Japan

SoftBank has excellent coverage throughout Japan.

While this is true for all the other Japanese mobile operators, it is still remarkable.

Below is SoftBank's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – SoftBank Japan

You can get a SoftBank tourist SIM card for 4500 JPY in SoftBank stores. Resellers, including electronic stores, sell them too. SoftBank tourist SIM cards are also sold at airports, including (Tokyo) Haneda Airport (HND) and (Tokyo) Narita International Airport (NRT).

SoftBank Japan Tourist SIM Card
© SoftBank Japan

While SoftBank has regular prepaid SIM cards, which is uncommon for Japanese mobile operators nowadays, you need to have a Japanese Residence Certificate (Jūminhyō – 住民票) to get one, which is why they are not mentioned in this section.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

While SoftBank does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to those with tourist SIM cards.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Japan Moshi Moshi eSIMs from Airalo (six options):

Japan Moshi Moshi eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian nations, consider the Airalo Asialink eSIM to be used in 14 Asian countries 1 with six variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

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

Airalo Asialink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

I have used, and will be using, the Airalo Asialink eSIM in every country it can be used in.

Airalo Asialink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that SoftBank offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – SoftBank Japan

SoftBank top-up vouchers are sold in SoftBank stores and convenience stores throughout Japan.

To top up your SoftBank SIM card, call 1400 and follow the instructions.

Call 1400 to check your SoftBank balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – SoftBank Japan

SoftBank has only one data-featured prepaid plan for the tourist SIM card.

I will list all the prices in JPY (Japanese Yen).

To convert JPY to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

For 1650 JPY, you get 500 MB (without 5G NR access) for 31 days.

This plan can be purchased multiple times, and each activation extends the validity of your tourist SIM card by 31 days.

APN/Internet Settings – SoftBank Japan

  • Name: SoftBank
  • APN: plus.4g
  • Username: plus
  • Password: 4g

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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B-mobile Japan

B-mobile Japan Logo
© B-mobile Japan

B-mobile Japan, just B-mobile and not to be confused with Bmobile in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, or Trinidad & Tobago, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is one of the MVNOs offering SIM cards to tourists.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which B-mobile uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77) – not for Bmobile customers… yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a Bmobile customer
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a Bmobile customer

This is what you will learn about B-mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a B-mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – B-mobile Japan

B-mobile is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning B-mobile uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have BASICALLY perfect nationwide coverage).

With B-mobile, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – B-mobile Japan

You can get a B-mobile SIM card for 1980 JPY or 2970 JPY from resellers, such as AEON, Bic Camera, Yamada Denki & Yodobashi Central. They can also be delivered to various airports, including the Tokyo ones, and post offices for 370 JPY. Delivery to your accommodation will cost 520 JPY.

The following two B-mobile SIM cards are available:

PriceDataValidity
1980 JPY5 GB10 days
2970 JPY7 GB21 days
B-mobile Japan SIM Card Prices

Delivery to any prefecture and airport will take one business day (you can place your order at least one week before arrival so that it will be waiting for you at the airport's post office).

Delivery to your accommodation, hotels, or private addresses in Hokkaido, Kagoshima & Okinawa will take two business days – even longer for remote islands (up to six business days).

B-mobile SIM card can be delivered to the following international airports:

  • Chitose – New Chitose Airport (CTS)
  • Chubu/Tokoname (Aichi) – Nagoya/Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
  • Kagoshima – Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT)
B-mobile Japan SIM Card (5 GB 10 Days)
© Bmobile Japan
B-mobile Japan SIM Card (7 GB 21 Days)
© Bmobile Japan
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

It is possible to get a B-mobile eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.

Somehow, you will not receive your eSIM immediately after placing your order.

Instead, it can take up to 24 hours before you receive the activation details.

Moreover, B-mobile eSIMs are only available online – not from the resellers mentioned above.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (seven options):

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asia nations, consider the Holafly Asia eSIM to be used in 11 Asian countries with two variants:

  • 6 GB/15 days (max. 500 MB/day) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  • 10 GB/30 days (max. 500 MB/day) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Holafly Asia eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Holafly review!

Remember to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase!

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network Bmobile uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Bmobile Japan

You can top-up your Bmobile SIM card online – the same page can be used for checking your balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Bmobile Japan

Bmobile has one data-featured prepaid plan with no apparent name.

For 500 JPY, you get 1 GB of data (without 5G NR access) until midnight.

However, each plan extends the validity of your SIM card by another day.

Suppose your SIM card has expired, and you still want to use it.

In that case, you can purchase the plan within two days of expiry (any later, and it will stay deactivated permanently).

APN/Internet Settings – Bmobile Japan

  • Name: b-mobile
  • APN: bmobile.ne.jp
  • Username: bmobile@4g
  • Password: bmobile

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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COMST Japan

COMST Japan Logo
© COMST Japan

COMST Japan, just COMST, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is the only MVNO in this guide allowing prepaid customers to use 5G NR.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which COMST uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77)
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a COMST customer
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a COMST customer

This is what you will learn about COMST:

* Coverage
* How to Get a COMST SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – COMST Japan

COMST is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning COMST uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With COMST, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – COMST Japan

You can get a COMST SIM card for 2750 JPY to 3960 JPY from Yodobashi Central.

The following four COMST SIM cards, also called Initial Plans, are available:

PriceData 1Validity
2750 JPY2 GB30 days
3520 JPY5 GB30 days
3740 JPY300 MB/day (9000 MB)30 days
3960 JPY10 GB30 days

1 with 5G NR access

COMST Japan SIM Cards
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

COMST SIM has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Nomad without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (ten options):

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian nations, consider the Nomad APAC eSIM (Asia-Pacific) to be used in 7, 12, or 15 countries, depending on the plan, with nine variants:

Note: all plans (7 Countries Plan, 12 Countries Plan & 15 Countries Plans) can be used in Japan.

Nomad APAC eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Check out my Nomad review for a complete country list

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

I have used, and will be using, the Nomad APAC eSIM in select countries it can be used in (I may try the Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM instead – but in the long run, I will use it in all where possible).

Nomad APAC eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network COMST uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – COMST Japan

You can top-up your COMST SIM card online – the same page can be used for checking your balance. But you can also top-up in convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Circle K & FamilyMart.

COMST Japan Top-Up Locations
© COMST Japan

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – COMST Japan

COMST has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Recharge Plans (data). They are slightly cheaper than the initial prices for COMST SIM cards.

I will list all the prices in JPY (Japanese Yen).

To convert JPY to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

The following Recharge Plans are available:

PriceDataValidity
1100 JPY1 GB15 days
1980 JPY3 GB30 days
2750 JPY7 GB30 days
3300 JPY“Unlimited”, 300 MB/day (9000 MB)30 days
COMST Japan Recharge

APN/Internet Settings – COMST Japan

  • Name: COMST
  • APN: linksmate.jp
  • Username: user
  • Password: mate

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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GTN Mobile Japan

GTN Mobile Japan Logo
© GTN Mobile Japan

GTN Mobile Japan, just GTN Mobile, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is one of the MVNOs offering SIM cards to tourists.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which GTN Mobile uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77) – not for tourists using GTN Mobile … yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a tourist using GTN Mobile
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a tourist using GTN Mobile

This is what you will learn about GTN Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a GTN Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – GTN Mobile Japan

GTN Mobile is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning GTN Mobile uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With GTN Mobile, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – GTN Mobile Japan

You can get a GTN Mobile SIM card for 5000 JPY or 10 000 JPY from a handful of stores in Kyoto, Namba & Shin-Okubo (Tokyo). They can also be delivered to the post offices in various airports, including the Tokyo Haneda Airport, for 700 JPY. Delivery to your accommodation will cost the same.

The following two GTN Mobile SIM cards, also called Data-only SIM cards, are available:

PriceDataValidity
5000 JPY50 GB30 days
10 000 JPY135 GB90 days
GTN Mobile Japan Plans

While GTN Mobile has several other, perhaps attractive to you, plans listed on its site, tourists cannot get them – only residents.

GTN Mobile SIM card can be delivered to the following international airports:

  • Chitose – New Chitose Airport (CTS)
  • Chubu/Tokoname (Aichi) – Nagoya/Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
  • Kagoshima – Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
  • Osaka – Kansai International Airport (KIX)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND)
GTN Mobile Japan Tokyo Haneda Airport Store
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

GTN Mobile has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Japan Moshi Moshi eSIMs from Airalo (six options):

Japan Moshi Moshi eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian OR Oceanian nations, consider the Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM (Southeast Asia) to be used in eight countries with nine variants:

Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Check out my Nomad review for a complete country list

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

I have used, and will be using, the Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM in select countries it can be used in (I may try the Nomad APAC eSIM instead – but in the long run, I will use it in all where possible).

Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM Review

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network GTN Mobile uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – GTN Mobile Japan

You cannot purchase top-ups for the GTN Mobile SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended, nor can credit be added.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – GTN Mobile Japan

You cannot purchase additional plans for the GTN Mobile SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended.

You will have to purchase a new GTN Mobile SIM card if you need more data or if the SIM card expires.

APN/Internet Settings – GTN Mobile Japan

  • Name: gtnmobile
  • APN: plus.acs.jp
  • Username: ym
  • Password: ym

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM Logo
© IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM)

IIJmoi, with the Japan Travel SIM, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is one of the MVNOs offering SIM cards to tourists.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which IIJmoi Japan Travel uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77) – not for IIJmoi Japan Travel customers… yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a IIJmoi Japan Travel
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a IIJmoi Japan Travel

This is what you will learn about IIJmoi Japan Travel:

* Coverage
* How to Get a(n) IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM) is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning IIJmoi uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With IIJmoi, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for IIJmoi on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

You can get a(n) IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM card for 1990 JPY and 3020 JPY from resellers, including Bic Camera, Joshin & Yodobashi Camera. SIM cards are also sold at various airports, including (Tokyo) Haneda Airport (HND) and (Tokyo) Narita International Airport (NRT).

IIJmio Japan Travel SIM Stores
© IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM)

The following three IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM) are available:

PriceDataValidity
1990 JPY1 GB30 days
3020 JPY2 GB3 months
3020 JPY3 GB30 days
IIJmio Japan Travel SIM Card Price

The IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM card is available at the following international airports from these resellers:

  • Chitose – New Chitose Airport (CTS – from Kiosk)
  • Fukuoka – Fukuoka Airport (FUK 🗿 – from Global WiFi)
  • Osaka – Kansai International Airport (KIX – from Global WiFi)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND – from Global WiFi & JAL ABC)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT – from BLUE SKY & JAL ABC)
IIJmio Japan Travel SIM Card
© IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM)

Apparently, it is possible to get IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM cards (the 2 GB/3 months variant) in other countries, including Australia, Austria, Brazil, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Malaysia, Norway, the Philippines, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Kingdom & the United States, but this is not something I can confirm (I do not often buy local SIM cards in other countries 🤪).

IIJmio Japan Travel SIM Airport Stores
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (seven options):

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other countries in Asia and others in other regions or continents, consider the Airalo Discover Global eSIM to be used in 85+ countries worldwide with five variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

Airalo Discover Global eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

From 2023 on, my goal is to test this eSIM in all eligible countries.

Airalo Discover Global eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network GTN Mobile uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

IIJmoi top-up vouchers are sold by various resellers (7-Eleven, Bic Camera, Don Quijote, FamilyMart, Kiosk, Lawson, Ministop, Nojima, University Co-op &Yodobashi Camera) throughout Japan.

Note that you can get any IIJmoi voucher, like the ones below (including Bic SIM ones), for your IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM (mostly because there are no vouchers specifically for the Japan Travel SIM).

IIJmio Japan Travel SIM Top-Up Cards
© IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM)

IIJmoi (and Bic) top-up vouchers can be redeemed online – the same page can be used for checking your balance (or this one).

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM has only one data-featured prepaid plan with no apparent name.

I will list all the prices in JPY (Japanese Yen).

To convert JPY to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

The following plans are available, which can be activated online.

PriceDataValidity
1500 JPY500 MB30 days
2300 JPY1 GB30 days
3000 JPY2 GB30 days
4100 JPY3 GB30 days
5400 JPY5 GB30 days
IIJmio Japan Travel SIM Plans

APN/Internet Settings – IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

  • Name: iijmio
  • APN: iijmio.jp
  • Username: mio@iij
  • Password: iij

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Mobal Japan

Mobal Japan Logo
© Mobal Japan

Mobal Japan, just Mobal, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO and a SoftBank Japan MVNO.

Surprisingly, it is one of, if not the only, MVNO allowing tourists to make calls (legally, of course).

How they manage to do it – I do not know… but it works!

Anyway, if you get the Mobal data-only SIM card, you will be on the NTT DoCoMo network (the best in Japan).

You will be on the SoftBank Japan network instead if you get the voice-enabled Mobal SIM card.

This is what you will learn about Mobal:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Mobal SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Mobal Japan

Mobal is an NTT DoCoMo and SoftBank Japan MVNO, meaning Mobal uses the NTT DoCoMo and SoftBank Japan networks and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With Mobal, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

In the case of SoftBank Japan, you should get full access, but that is not something I can confirm yet (I only got Modal's data-only SIM card, using NTT DoCoMo).

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Mobal Japan

You can get a Mobal SIM card for between 3990 JPY to 16 500 JPY online, and it can be picked up from various convenient locations, including at airports (Travelex), train stations & tourist information centers. Mobal SIM cards can be shipped for free to select destinations 1, allowing you to have your SIM card before going to Japan.

1 to Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Israel, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom & the United States

Mobal Japan Unlimited SIM Card (Data-Only) NTT DoCoMo SIM Card
© Mobal Japan (data-only)
Mobal Japan Unlimited SIM Card (Regular) SoftBank Japan SIM Card
© Mobal Japan (voice-enabled)

Note that Mobal is the only MVNO on this guide with a few voice-enabled SIM cards (using SoftBank Japan).

If you remember from earlier, SIM cards sold to tourists must be data-only because only nationals and those with a Japanese Residence Certificate (Jūminhyō – 住民票) can purchase voice-enabled SIM cards.

How Mobal manages to do this… I do not know, but it works!

Anyway, the following six Mobal SIM cards are available:

PriceDataLocal Minutes 3Local SMS 4Validity
3990 JPY“Unlimited”, 3 GB/day (24 GB) 1N/AN/A8 days
5990 JPY“Unlimited”, 3 GB/day (48 GB) 1N/AN/A16 days
7490 JPY“Unlimited”, 3 GB/day (93 GB) 1N/AN/A31 days
7500 JPY“Unlimited”, 7 GB 2AllowedAllowed30 days
12 000 JPY“Unlimited”, 7 GB 2AllowedAllowed60 days
16 500 JPY“Unlimited”, 7 GB 2AllowedAllowed90 days

1 while you can use more than 3 GB in a day, your speeds may be reduced for the coming 48 hours – you are better off using less than 3 GB/day for the best performance
2 +unlimited data @ 200 Kbps (annoyingly slow!) after exhausting your data allowance
3 @ standard rates (39 JPY/minute for local calls, 65 JPY/minute for calls to Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Kingdom & the United States) & 200 JPY/minute to any other country (if you use dial prefix 0063)
4 @ standard rates (29 JPY/SMS for local texts & 140 JPY/SMS for international SMS (to any country))

Mobal Japan SIM Cards

The Mobal SIM card can be picked up at the following international airports (if you ordered them online before arrival):

  • Chubu/Tokoname (Aichi) – Nagoya/Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
  • Osaka – Kansai International Airport (KIX)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT)

Mobal SIM cards can also be picked up from these non-airport locations:

  • Kyoto – Kyoto Tower JTB Kansai Tourist Information Center
  • Nagoya – Nagoya City Sakae Money Transfer Plaza Travelex
  • Osaka – Pivot BASE Dotonbori
  • Tokohama – Yokohama Station Keikyu Travelex
  • Tokyo – Shibuya Mark City Building (Play! Diversity Shibuya Coin Space (4th floor))
  • Tokyo – Shinjuku Station (Travelex Keio Shinjuku)
Mobal Japan Pick-Up Points
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Mobal has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Nomad without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (ten options):

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other countries in Asia and others in other regions or continents, consider the Nomad Global eSIM to be used in 110 countries worldwide with five variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in February based on data up to the 7th of February.

Nomad Global eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Nomad review!

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network Mobal uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Note that NTT DoCoMo and SoftBank, the networks Mobal uses depending on the type of SIM card you have, offer VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, these features will not be available to you 😓.

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Mobal Japan

Mobal top-ups are sold by FamilyMart, Lawson & Ministop throughout Japan.

Note that the Mobal unlimited data-only SIM cards cannot be extended, and no credit can be added because it is unnecessary (which also means the SIM cards become deactivated after 8, 16, or 31 days).

However, the voice-enabled SIM cards are also long-term plans (which will be discussed in the next section), for which you can top up your SIM card (or pay for your plan online).

You can check your balance online.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Mobal Japan

Mobal has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Japan Unlimited SIM Long Term Plans. it is a data bundle (without 5G NR access).

I will list all the prices in JPY (Japanese Yen).

To convert JPY to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

It can only be added to the Mobal voice-enabled SIM cards (SoftBank Japan)

Japan Unlimited Long Term Plans can be activated online:

PriceDataValidity
1480 JPY1 GB1 month (until 1st of month)
2980 JPY5 GB1 month (until 1st of month)
3280 JPY10 GB1 month (until 1st of month)
4380 JPY30 GB1 month (until 1st of month)

It is recommended to purchase a plan as early on in the month to get the most out of it because plans expire on the first of each month, regardless of when it was activated (even if it was done on the 28th (February), 29th (February leap year), 30th, or 31st.

These plans do not have call or SMS allowances, but you can call and text with them (after adding extra credit to your SIM card.

You will be charged 39 JPY/minute for local calls

International calls to Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Kingdom & the United States) are charged at 65 JPY/minute

International calls to any other country than the 26 mentioned above will cost 200 JPY/minute (if you use dial prefix 0063)

Local texts will cost 29 JPY/SMS. International SMS to any country will cost 140 JPY/SMS.

APN/Internet Settings – Mobal Japan

  • Name: Mobal (data-only/NTT DoCoMo & voice-enabled/SoftBank Japan)
  • APN: ppsim.jp (data-only/NTT DoCoMo) OR sb.mvno (voice-enabled/SoftBank Japan)
  • Username: pp@sim (data-only/NTT DoCoMo) OR data@jp (voice-enabled/SoftBank Japan)
  • Password: jpn (data-only/NTT DoCoMo) OR data (voice-enabled/SoftBank Japan)

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Nippon SIM for Japan

Nippon SIM Card for Japan Logo
© Nippon SIM (for Japan)

Nippon SIM for Japan, just Nippon SIM, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO and a SoftBank Japan MVNO, depending on the SIM card you choose.

However, the SoftBank Network SIM card has only one option, so you will most likely be on the NTT DoCoMo MVNO instead.

This is what you will learn about Nippon SIM:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Nippon SIM SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Nippon SIM

Nippon SIM is an NTT DoCoMo and SoftBank MVNO (the latter for one starter pack only), meaning Nippon SIM uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network or SoftBank network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators, including SoftBank, have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With Nippon SIM, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

I believe you get full access to the SoftBank network if you get the SoftBank SIM card (but you cannot use its 5G NR access).

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

Below is SoftBank's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SoftBank Japan Coverage Map

SIM Card Price – Nippon SIM

You can get a Nippon SIM card for 1780 JPY to 7980 JPY from resellers, such as Askul, Bic Camera, & Yodobashi Central. They can also be delivered to the post offices in various airports, including the Tokyo ones, for 550 JPY. Delivery to your accommodation is free (up to five business days). International delivery is available too (for up to 10 000 JPY).

Nippon SIM has four different SIM card lines: SoftBank Network Plan, Unlimited Plans, Standard Plans & App Count Free Plans.

These SIM cards also act as plans for the Nippon SIM (which cannot be extended if you need more data).

Note that no Nippon SIM allows for 5G NR access.

The SoftBank Network Plan is the only Nippon SIM card that does not use the NTT DoCoMo network (for some reason).

It costs 1780 JPY and gives you 10 GB of data (without 5G NR access) until your SIM card expires.

The SIM card's expiry date is stated on the SIM card starter pack (often many months in the future), meaning you could use your allowance for months.

PriceDataValidity
1780 JPY10 GBUntil SIM card expiry 1

1 stated on the SIM card starter pack

Nippon SIM for Japan SoftBank Network SIM Card
© Nippon SIM (for Japan)

The following three Nippon SIM Unlimited Plans are available:

PriceDataValidity
1980 JPYUnlimited5 days
2980 JPY 1“Unlimited”, 2 GB/day (14 GB)8 days
4980 JPY 1“Unlimited”, 2 GB/day (30 GB)15 days

1 also available as eSIM

Nippon SIM for Japan Unlimited Plan SIM Cards
© Nippon SIM (for Japan)

The following 13 Nippon SIM Standard Plans are available:

PriceDataValidity
2480 JPY“Unlimited”, 3 GB30 days
2980 JPY3 GB90 days
2980 JPY10 GB180 days
3280 JPY15 GB180 days
3980 JPY6 GB180 days
3980 JPY9 GB90 days
4980 JPY 115 GB90 days
4980 JPY30 GB180 days
5980 JPY18 GB180 days
5980 JPY20 GB365 days
6980 JPY 130 GB180 days
7980 JPY 150 GB180 days

1 also available as eSIM

Nippon SIM for Japan SIM Cards

The following three Nippon SIM App Count Free Plans are available:

PriceDataSocial Data 1Validity
2980 JPY1 GBUnlimited7 days
3980 JPY2 GBUnlimited14 days
4980 JPY3 GBUnlimited30 days

1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Google Maps, Instagram, Kakaotalk, LINE, Skype, Twitter, WeChat & WhatsApp

Nippon SIM for Japan App Count Free SIM Card
© Nippon SIM (for Japan)
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

It is possible to get a Nippon eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.

However, the selection is limited (only five of the 19 Nippon SIM starter packs are available as eSIM).

But you can also get travel eSIMs from Airalo, Holafly & Nomad (which are, in most cases, cheaper than the Nippon eSIM options).

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Japan Moshi Moshi eSIMs from Airalo (six options):

Japan Moshi Moshi eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian nations, consider the Airalo Asialink eSIM to be used in 14 Asian countries 1 with six variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

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

Airalo Asialink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

I have used, and will be using, the Airalo Asialink eSIM in every country it can be used in.

Airalo Asialink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo and SoftBank offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Nippon SIM

You cannot purchase top-ups for the Nippon SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended, nor can credit be added.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Nippon SIM

You cannot purchase additional plans for the Nippon SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended.

You will have to purchase a new Nippon SIM card if you need more data or if the SIM card expires.

Nippon SIM for Japan SIM Cards

APN/Internet Settings – Nippon SIM

The APN settings are depend on the Nippon SIM card starter pack (or eSIM) you get.

Luckily, Nippon SIM has an extensive guide on which APN settings to use for the SIM card (or eSIM) you get on this page.

Note: leave anything not mentioned in the guide untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile Japan Logo
© Sakura Mobile

Saruka Mobile is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is one of the MVNOs offering SIM cards to tourists.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which Saruka Mobile uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77) – not for Sakura Mobile customers… yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a Sakura Mobile customer
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a Sakura Mobile customer

This is what you will learn about Sakura Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Sakura Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning Sakura Mobile uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With Sakura Mobile, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Sakura Mobile

You can get a Sakura Mobile SIM card for 4950 JPY to 26 400 JPY at airports, including the Tokyo ones, from JBL ABC or post offices. Delivery to your accommodation is free.

Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card
© Sakura Mobile

The following six Sakura Mobile, also called Sakura Mobile Travel SIM Unlimited Plans, are available:

PriceDataValidity
4950 JPYUnlimited8 days
7150 JPYUnlimited15 days
9900 JPYUnlimited30 days
15 950 JPYUnlimited45 days
17 600 JPYUnlimited60 days
26 400 JPYUnlimited90 days

Sakura Mobile SIM card can be picked up (after placing an order online) at the following international airports:

  • Chitose – New Chitose Airport (CTS – airport post office)
  • Chubu/Tokoname (Aichi) – Nagoya/Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO – airport post office)
  • Osaka – Kansai International Airport (KIX – terminal 1)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND – terminal 3)
  • Tokyo – Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT – terminals 1, 2 & 3)

Below are the Tokyo-Narita International Airport pick-up locations:

Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (Tokyo-Narita International Airport Terminal 1)
© Sakura Mobile – Terminal 1
Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (Tokyo-Narita International Airport Terminal 2)
© Sakura Mobile – Terminal 2
Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (Tokyo-Narita International Airport Terminal 3)
© Sakura Mobile – Terminal 3

Below are the pick-up locations of the remaining airports:

Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (New Chitose Airport (Post Office))
© Sakura Mobile – Chitose
Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (Tokyo-Haneda Airport Terminal 3)
© Sakura Mobile – Haneda Terminal 1
Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (Osaka-Kansai International Airport International Terminal)
© Sakura Mobile – Osaka Terminal 1
Sakura Mobile Japan SIM Card Pick Up (Central Japan International Airport Centrair (Post Office))
© Sakura Mobile – Nagoya
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Saruka Mobile SIM has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (seven options):

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asia nations, consider the Holafly Asia eSIM to be used in 11 Asian countries with two variants:

  • 6 GB/15 days (max. 500 MB/day) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  • 10 GB/30 days (max. 500 MB/day) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Holafly Asia eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Holafly review!

Remember to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase!

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network Bmobile uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Sakura Mobile

You cannot purchase top-ups for the Saruka Mobile SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended, nor can credit be added.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Sakura Mobile

You cannot purchase additional plans for the Sakura Mobile SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended.

You will have to purchase a new Sakura Mobile SIM card if you need more data or if the SIM card expires.

APN/Internet Settings – Sakura Mobile

  • Name: ppsim
  • APN: ppsim.jp
  • Username: pp@sim
  • Password: jpn

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Wireless Gate Japan

Wireless Gate Japan Logo
© Wireless Gate Japan

Wireless Gate Japan, just Wireless Gate, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is one of the MVNOs offering SIM cards to tourists.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which Wireless Gate uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77) – not for Wireless Gate customers… yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a Wireless Gate customer
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a Wireless Gate customer

This is what you will learn about Wireless Gate:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Wireless Gate SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Wireless Gate Japan

Wireless Gate is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning Wireless Gate uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With Wireless Gate, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Wireless Gate Japan

You can get a Wireless Gate SIM card for 2420 JPY to 8800 JPY from Yodobashi Central. They may be sold at various airports, but I will have to confirm this in April 2023 (SIM card availability at airports has decreased significantly due to COVID-19 – even in 2023).

The following six Wireless Gate SIM cards are available:

PriceData 1Validity
2420 JPY1.5 GB31 days
2750 JPY3 GB31 days
3410 JPY5 GB31 days
5000 JPY50 GB31 days
6380 JPY30 GB90 days
8800 JPY90 GB60 days

1 no 5G NR access

Wireless Gate Japan SIM Card
© Wireless Gate Japan
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Wireless Gate SIM has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Nomad without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (ten options):

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian nations, consider the Nomad APAC eSIM (Asia-Pacific) to be used in 7, 12, or 15 countries, depending on the plan, with nine variants:

Note: all plans (7 Countries Plan, 12 Countries Plan & 15 Countries Plans) can be used in Japan.

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in February based on data up to the 7th of February.

Nomad APAC eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Nomad review!

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

I have used, and will be using, the Nomad APAC eSIM in select countries it can be used in (I may try the Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM instead – but in the long run, I will use it in all where possible).

Nomad APAC eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network COMST uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Wireless Gate Japan

You cannot purchase top-ups for the Wireless Gate SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended, nor can credit be added.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Wireless Gate Japan

You cannot purchase additional plans for the Wireless Gate SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended.

You will have to purchase a new Wireless Gate SIM card if you need more data or if the SIM card expires.

Wireless Gate Japan SIM Cards

APN/Internet Settings – Wireless Gate Japan

  • Name: JPSIM
  • APN: xi01.wi-gate.net
  • Username: wg@sim
  • Password: wg

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Wi-Ho! Japan

Wi-Ho! Japan Logo
© Wi-Ho! Japan

Wi-Ho! Japan, just Wi-Ho!, is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO.

It is one of the MVNOs offering SIM cards to tourists.

The NTT DoCoMo network, which Wi-Ho! uses, uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2012 (yes, about a decade ago)
  • 3G: 800 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 19 – not the usual Band 20), 1500 MHz (Band 11), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) & 3700 MHz (n77) – not for tourists using Wi-Ho! … yet
  • VoLTE: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a tourist using Wi-Ho!
  • VoWiFi: Yes, but you cannot make calls as a tourist using Wi-Ho!

This is what you will learn about Wi-Ho!:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Wi-Ho! SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Wi-Ho! Japan

Wi-Ho! is an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, meaning Wi-Ho! uses the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

NTT DoCoMo has the best coverage in Japan (although all Japanese mobile operators have basically perfect nationwide coverage).

With Wi-Ho!, you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, but it is still extensive.

Below on the left, you have NTT DoCoMo's coverage and a coverage map for another NTT DoCoMo MVNO on the right produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Wi-Ho! Japan

You can get a Wi-Ho! SIM card for 4980 JPY, 5980 JPY, or 6980 JPY at Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND) 1. They can also be purchased online from your local Amazon and delivered to you before traveling to Japan.

Before COVID-19, Wi-Ho! had sales channels at practically all international airports. From March 2020 until early 2023, all its airport stores closed. Wi-Ho! is slowly re-opening its airport stores, so you may want to purchase one from Amazon instead or get a SIM card from any other MVNO listed in this guide.

The following three Wi-Ho! SIM cards are available:

PriceData 1Validity
4980 JPYUnlimited8 days
5980 JPYUnlimited16 days
6980 JPYUnlimited31 days

1 without 5G NR access

Wi-Ho! Japan SIM Cards
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Wi-Ho! has no eSIMs.

Note that the Japanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Japan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Japan Moshi Moshi eSIMs from Airalo (six options):

Japan Moshi Moshi eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian OR Oceanian nations, consider the Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM (Southeast Asia) to be used in eight countries with nine variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in February based on data up to the 7th of February.

Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Nomad review!

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

I have used, and will be using, the Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM in select countries it can be used in (I may try the Nomad APAC eSIM instead – but in the long run, I will use it in all where possible).

Nomad SEA-Oceania eSIM Review

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Japan.

You can read about them in my Best Japan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Japan Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, SimOptions, Nippon SIM for Japan, b-mobile, Asialink, AU, Moshi Moshi & AIS)

Note that NTT DoCoMo, the network GTN Mobile uses, offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

But as you can only get data-only SIM cards in Japan, the features will not be available to you 😓.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Wi-Ho! Japan

You cannot purchase top-ups for the Wi-Ho! SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended, nor can credit be added.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Wi-Ho! Japan

You cannot purchase additional plans for the Wi-Ho! SIM cards because the validity cannot be extended.

You will have to purchase a new Wi-Ho! SIM card if you need more data or if the SIM card expires.

APN/Internet Settings – Wi-Ho! Japan

  • Name: ppsim
  • APN: ppsim.jp
  • Username: pp@sim
  • Password: jpn

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Japan

Getting a SIM card from Bmobile, COMST, Mobal, Nippon SIM & Sakura Mobile would do you well when considering a Japanese SIM card.


Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences

Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:

Support Phone Travel Wiz

It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).

Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).

Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.

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Check Out My Resource Page

Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience

Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!

Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises & accommodation.

Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!

Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling

Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?

In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services & products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.

If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!

Learn About Your Phone Travel Options

You can buy local prepaid SIM cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile hotspots, or roam internationally.

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.

Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks

I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!

Sign Up for the Phone Travel Wiz Newsletter

Get updates related to the newest guides, videos & recommended products and services.

Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.

Let's Be Social

Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone?

A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!

Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is

Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!