Best Ways to Get Mobile Internet in Japan
Jan 16,2025 | Milo
Table of contents
Best Ways to Get Mobile Internet in Japan
Comparison of Different Internet Options in Japan
Stay Connected in Japan with ByteSIM
Exploring international destinations like Japan is exciting, but navigating unfamiliar terrain—and its unique regulations—can be a bit overwhelming. This becomes even trickier if you're not familiar with the local language.
That’s where dependable mobile internet comes in handy—it allows you to translate Japanese signs into English, plan subway routes, and even search whether it’s appropriate to snap a selfie with a Geisha (spoiler: it’s not!).
In this guide, we’ll cover the five most popular ways for travelers to stay connected in Japan, helping you choose the option that best suits your needs.
Best Ways to Get Mobile Internet in Japan
When traveling to Japan, there are various ways to stay connected, such as using traditional SIM cards, eSIMs, portable WiFi devices, or relying on free public WiFi hotspots. Below, we’ll break down and compare these options to help you decide which works best for your trip.
1. Data Roaming
The priciest option for staying connected in Japan is data roaming. For instance, Verizon, a well-known U.S. provider, charges $2.05 per MB for pay-as-you-go international data, which equates to an eye-watering $2,050 per GB.
Verizon does offer prepaid international plans to make data roaming somewhat more economical. One such plan is the $100 monthly package, which includes 20 GB of high-speed internet. Once you exceed the data allowance, there are no additional charges, but your browsing speed will be significantly reduced. This plan breaks down to roughly $5 per GB of fast internet, with calls and texts included as well.
For shorter trips, Verizon’s TravelPass might be more appealing. Priced at $12 per day, it provides unlimited data, calls, and text messaging. However, there is a daily 5 GB cap on high-speed data, after which your connection slows down. At that rate, the cost per GB of high-speed data comes to approximately $2.40.
2. ByteSIM Japan eSIM
An embedded SIM (eSIM) offers an excellent alternative to avoid steep roaming fees while traveling in Japan. It’s a practical, budget-friendly, and versatile solution for maintaining reliable internet access abroad. Since eSIMs don’t require a physical card, switching between different carriers and plans is seamless and hassle-free.
The activation process is fast and entirely digital, meaning there’s no need to visit a store or wait for a SIM card to be delivered. You can purchase an eSIM online before your trip and activate it as soon as you arrive in Japan by simply scanning a QR code.
ByteSIM also allows data sharing without limit, so you can easily turn your phone into a hotspot to share internet access with friends or connect to other devices while traveling. Additionally, ByteSIM offers flexible data plans. Just select the plan that best fits your trip, and enjoy uninterrupted internet access.
Note: You can enjoy a Japan local IP with a daily plan such as 500MB/day.
Before buying an eSIM, verify whether your phone supports eSIM functionality and if it remains unlocked. Additionally, iPhones from regions such as mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao are not designed to work with eSIMs.
3. Japan's local SIM cards
If your device doesn’t support eSIMs and you’re okay with the inconvenience of switching SIM cards at the airport, a prepaid Japan SIM card could be a good alternative.
These cards are available for purchase upon arrival at the airport or at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. For added convenience, you can also order one online before your trip, as some providers offer international shipping.
However, switching SIM cards may feel inconvenient, particularly if your phone doesn’t support dual SIM functionality. In such cases, you’ll need to replace your regular SIM with the local one, which could make it difficult for friends and family to reach you during your travels.
In Japan, SIM cards come in two varieties: data-only and data + voice. Among the many tourist options, only Mobal offers both data and voice services. Other popular providers, including Sakura Mobile, IIJmio, and b-mobile, exclusively offer data support. (¥: Japanese Yen)
Here are two important factors to consider when purchasing a local SIM card in Japan:
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Make sure your phone is unlocked. If your device is locked to a specific carrier, reach out to your provider’s customer service to request an unlock. Be aware that unlocking may require meeting certain criteria, such as paying off your phone entirely.
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Opt for a SIM with both voice and data services if you plan to use apps like PayPay or ticketing services such as LINE, as these platforms typically require a Japanese phone number to function properly.
4. Pocket WiFi in Japan

Another viable choice—especially if you're traveling to Japan with a group or need to connect multiple devices—is renting a pocket WiFi. While it’s not the cheapest option, it offers far more security than relying on public WiFi hotspots.
Renting a portable WiFi device usually involves making an online reservation before your trip. You can choose to pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel, depending on the provider.
When it’s time to leave, returning the device is simple. Most providers allow airport drop-off or mail returns. For example, NINJA WiFi lets you pick up and drop off at the airport, while Japan Wireless offers hotel delivery and return by mail.
Note: The exact process can differ depending on the provider, so it's a good idea to review the specific instructions from your selected service.
Japan offers over a dozen pocket WiFi providers, with some of the top choices being:
- Ninja Wi-Fi: Prices begin at $13 (¥1,980) per day for their Unlimited data-only plan.
- Telecom Square WiFiBOX: Rates start at $9.90 (¥1,390) per day for the Truly Unlimited data-only plan.
5. Free WiFi in Public Places

You’ll find free public WiFi in many urban areas across Japan, including airports, train stations, restaurants, and convenience stores. To maximize your use of these networks, take advantage of the readily available connections. However, exercise caution, as public WiFi can be unsecure and may expose your personal data to potential risks.
In Japan, free WiFi is readily available in many places, including major international airports like Haneda, Narita, and Kansai, making it convenient to stay connected upon arrival. Most boutique hotels and Western-style restaurants, such as Starbucks and McDonald’s, offer free WiFi, though traditional inns like Ryokan may only provide it in communal areas. Additionally, coffee shops and Manga Kissas (Netto Cafes) often have complimentary WiFi access.
For broader coverage, SoftBank's Free WiFi Passport grants tourists access to around 400,000 hotspots, allowing up to five devices to connect. You can streamline this process by using the Japan WiFi Auto-Connect app, which automatically links to available networks after a one-time registration.
While free WiFi can be helpful, it’s generally not ideal due to security risks, slower speeds, and occasional time limits. If you must use it, consider employing a VPN to safeguard your personal information.
Comparison of Different Internet Options in Japan
Having explored the various methods to access the internet in Japan, it’s time to dive deeper and evaluate how these options stack up against each other in terms of additional factors.
In Japan, eSIMs stand out as the most budget-friendly and convenient option, with plans like ByteSIM offering unlimited data for a reasonable price. In contrast, data roaming and pocket WiFi are considerably pricier, particularly for long stays or heavy data use. While pocket WiFi offers reliable connectivity, it requires a security deposit, insurance, and the hassle of device pickup or delivery.
Although free WiFi is widely available in public spaces, it often proves unreliable and insecure, with frequent interruptions and repetitive logins. Both eSIMs and pocket WiFi deliver fast and stable internet, while physical SIMs may experience speed throttling after hitting data caps. For those who value simplicity and minimal equipment, eSIMs are the ideal choice, while pocket WiFi may suit group travelers or those with significant data needs.
Stay Connected in Japan with ByteSIM
Whether you're visiting Japan for a single day or an entire month, having reliable mobile internet is essential. The simplest and most cost-effective solution, particularly for heavy data users, is to opt for a Japan eSIM. Its activation process is quick and hassle-free, making it a convenient choice.
For those needing a Japanese phone number or voice and SMS capabilities, physical SIMs are a good alternative. However, high data consumption can quickly drive up costs compared to eSIM options.
If you’re considering investing in a pocket WiFi device, pairing it with an eSIM is a smart move—especially for group travelers. This way, even if you venture away from your companions, you’ll still stay connected.
With a ByteSIM Japan eSIM, you can share data with others without limit and easily manage your plan through their mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.