Explore Japan — with its ancestral temples, futuristic metropolises, and serene landscapes — requires immediate and reliable connectivity. By 2025, virtual chips (eSIMs) became the most practical solution for tourists, eliminating queues at airports, exorbitant roaming costs, and dependence on public Wi-Fi networks.
This guide details global and local options, focusing on coverage, prices, and real experiences, so you can choose the best plan for your journey through the "Land of the Rising Sun".
Exploring Japan — with its ancestral temples, futuristic metropolises, and serene landscapes — requires immediate and reliable connectivity. By 2025, virtual chips (eSIMs) had established themselves as the most practical solution for tourists, eliminating queues at airports, exorbitant roaming costs, and dependence on public Wi-Fi networks. This guide details global and local options, focusing on coverage, prices, and real experiences, so you can choose the best plan for your journey through the "Land of the Rising Sun."
Table of Contents
Holafly
Holafly stands out as the ideal choice for those prioritizing unlimited data without daily speed reductions. With plans ranging from 5 to 90 days, its eSIM operates on the SoftBank and KDDI networks, ensuring stable 4G/5G coverage even in mountainous regions like the Japanese Alps or remote islands of Okinawa. Tourists who stream live, use GPS intensively, or work remotely during their trip find the best value for their data and price here — a 15-day plan costs approximately US$ 46.90 16.
In addition to convenience, Holafly offers 24-hour in your language via the app, essential for resolving any connectivity issues without language barriers. Activation is simplified: after the online purchase, you receive a QR code to scan while still on the plane, ensuring internet access upon landing at Narita or Haneda.
Airalo
Recommended for short trips or those seeking regional flexibility, Airalo offers modular packages ranging from 1GB to 20GB, valid for 7 to 180 days. Its Asialink plan (US$ 20 for 10GB/30 days) covers Japan and 17 other Asian countries, such as South Korea and Thailand — perfect for multi-destination itineraries. The partner network is NTT Docomo, a leader in urban and rural coverage, ideal for exploring everything from the Tokyo subway to the historic villages of Shirakawa-go 310.
The difference of Airalo lies in its loyalty program: each purchase earns points that ensure 5% of cashback in credits for future trips. The intuitive app allows you to manage data, recharge plans, and activate the eSIM in minutes, without needing an initial Wi-Fi (just use the airport network).
Ubigi
For those who demand high-speed real-time, Ubigi is the only provider that offers free 5G in covered areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Their plans range from 500MB to 50GB, with a highlight on the 10GB/30 days package for US$ 17. The partnership with NTT Docomo ensures minimal latency, crucial for augmented reality applications, instant translation of kanji signs, or high-definition video calls 68.
The installation is done directly through the Ubigi app, available on iOS and Android, with the option to store multiple eSIMs simultaneously — useful for those combining trips to Japan with stops in other countries. Although it focuses on data, the network allows the use of VoIP via WhatsApp or Skype without interruptions. Tech-savvy travelers or technology enthusiasts prefer this option for its stability in congested locations, such as Shibuya Station or festivals like the Gion Matsuri 412.
Saily
Developed by the same company as NordVPN, Saily combines connectivity with cybersecurity. Its eSIM includes integrated VPN, essential for accessing online banking or social networks on public hotel and café Wi-Fi. Plans start at US$ 3.99 for 1GB, ideal for moderate s who only use the internet for maps and messages 68.
In addition to the VPN, the app offers a ad blocker and tracking protection, enhancing the browsing experience. Coverage is guaranteed by SoftBank, with excellent penetration in underground areas (such as subways) and rural zones. Chat responds in less than 3 minutes, addressing issues from activation failures to APN adjustments — a relief for those who do not master the Japanese language 512.
Sakura Mobile
Unlike global competitors, Sakura Mobile is a local operator that offers eSIMs with a Japanese phone number. This allows you to make reservations at traditional restaurants (such as ryokans) or book taxis, services that often require confirmation by call. Their unlimited 30-day plan costs US$ 66, but includes Portuguese and real-time assistance for network issues 812.
Sakura uses the infrastructure of KDDI au, ensuring a stable signal in less touristy areas, such as the Seto Inland Islands or the mountains of Nikko. The downside is less flexibility: there are only 30-day plans, with no reduced data options. For group travelers, Sakura offers discounts of 15% for two or more lines, making it worthwhile for families or couples 712.
ZenSim
ZenSim stands out for its instant connection upon arriving in Japan, without the need to scan QR codes. Simply install the eSIM before your trip (via app) and it activates automatically when connecting to local networks. Its 20GB/30 days plan costs US$ 30, the best cost per gigabyte among the analyzed options 812.
The platform is 100% digital, with recharges made in two clicks, and offers real-time consumption reports. ZenSim operates on the Docomo network, prioritizing stable speeds on bullet trains (Shinkansen) and rural areas. For those seeking simplicity, it is the most intuitive option — ideal for elderly travelers or those less familiar with technology 68.
Local Options: Ninja WiFi and Mobal
For those who prefer to buy after arriving in Japan, Ninja WiFi offers both physical and virtual eSIMs in airport lockers such as Narita and Kansai. Plans start from ¥3,000 (US$ 19) for 3GB/7 days, with the advantage of in-person at stores in Tokyo and Kyoto. The network is SoftBank, suitable for urban routes 412.
Mobal is the right choice for long stays (over 90 days), with unlimited eSIMs valid for 1 year and a permanent Japanese number. Prices are higher (around US$ 100), but they include address registration — useful for renting phones or receiving parcels. Both require a port for purchase, complying with local registration rules 127.
Roamic
Ideal for those seeking simple plans and low prices, Roamic offers eSIMs with coverage in Japan and global activation. Their packages start at €1.99 for 1GB/7 days, scaling up to unlimited data for 30 days for €94.99. Coverage is provided by the major Japanese carriers, with stable performance in urban and suburban areas.
The difference lies in the cancellation policy: the traveler can request a full refund up to two months after purchase, if they do not activate the plan. Activation is done via a QR code sent by email — a common practice among global eSIMs, but with direct multilingual in the app, a relief for those who do not speak Japanese.
TravelSim
With a strong presence in the global market, TravelSim offers eSIMs that work automatically in Japan without complicated settings. The packages are modular, and you can choose from plans ranging from 3GB to 20GB, valid for up to 30 days.
Highlight for the automatic recharge system that allows you to extend use even while traveling, without needing to reinstall or change the QR code. Activation takes less than 2 minutes, and the dashboard allows you to view exact consumption, ideal for those who need to control expenses.
By operating in more than 100 countries, the same eSIM can be reused on future trips — an advantage for those who have Japan as one of their stops but will be traveling around Asia or Europe.
Final Considerations
When choosing between an eSIM or a physical SIM card for your trip to Japan, consider factors such as the length of stay, required data volume, available budget, and the convenience of activation.
eSIMs offer the advantage of being activated before arrival, while physical SIM cards can be easily acquired after landing. Regardless of the choice, ensuring a reliable internet connection will allow you to make the most of your experience in Japan.
