It seems like the whole world is talking about Japan right about now, and it’s no surprise really!
A country full of epic attractions, from Mount Fiji to Tokyo.
But when you’re visiting Japan, how do you stay connected the entire time?
Rather than relying on spotty WiFi, or hunting for a local sim when you land, you should opt for an eSIM to make sure you’ve always got an internet connection.
"Why would I always need an internet connection", I hear you ask?!
Well....Maps, opening hours, buying tickets, sharing photos, Instagram stories, Google Translate, and so much more!
In fact, planning both your eSIM setup and your transport ahead of time, for example by checking options on Japan eSIM and rail travel planning here— can make navigating cities and the countryside much smoother once you’re on the ground.
So in this post I’m going to take you through my top 5 eSIMs for Japan!
But, first up…
Don’t be alarmed if you haven’t heard of an eSIM yet.
They’re still pretty new technology, but they’re absolutely everywhere now. Thank gosh!
Gone are the days of having to search for a sim card every time you land in a new country (I am seriously glad I don’t have to do this anymore). eSIMS are the future.
An eSIM is like the digital version of a regular SIM card.
Instead of using a physical SIM, eSIMs come pre-installed in your phone.
That means all your data is stored digitally.
You can activate it by purchasing and installing different eSIM plans, letting your device connect to mobile networks worldwide.
With this virtual setup, there’s no need to insert a physical card into your phone.
Unlike a mobile WiFi hotspot or portable WiFi, an eSIM allows your phone to connect directly to the internet through the local cellular provider.
No extra gadgets needed!
Taking the top spot for eSIMs for visiting Japan is, Sim Local!
Why?
Well, to start, Sim Local is partnered with AU, one of the leading mobile networks in Japan, well known for its reliability and fast speeds.
This means you can stay connected, fuss free, on your entire trip.
If you’re heading to Japan, staying connected is a must. And with Sim Local, you get a fast, reliable, and hassle-free mobile experience.
Here’s why it’s a top choice:
Sim Local only partners with the best mobile providers worldwide, and Japan is no exception. Their AU plans ensure strong, stable connections throughout your trip—so whether you’re navigating bustling Tokyo or exploring remote temples, you’ll always stay connected.
Need to share your internet with your laptop, tablet, partner or friend? No problem!
With Sim Local’s unlimited data plans (naturally they’re subject to fair usage), you can connect multiple devices seamlessly.
This makes me sooo happy, because if you’re a digital nomad like myself, or you simply travel with a laptop for planning, you NEED to be able to hotspot.
And I thoroughly hate it when eSIM plans don’t have that as an option ;)
Thankfully, you have no issues with Sim Local!
AU plans offer the best data-to-price ratio out there, making them an affordable and efficient choice for travelers.
Since they are known for their widespread coverage, fast speeds, and top-rated customer service—you pretty much know your money is well spent.
Plus, if you don’t need as much data, there are lower GB plans available to suit your specific travel needs.
Plus it’s even cheaper when you use our discount code of DREAMBIG10 for 10% off ;)
Forget the stress of running out of data! An eSIM with Sim Local will provide a reliable, unlimited data experience without unexpected speed drops or cutoffs.
Whether you’re working remotely, streaming, or using maps on the go, you’ll always have seamless connectivity—letting you focus on enjoying Japan to the fullest.
Overall, I’d say the unlimited data plans for Japan with Sim Local are actually some of the best value I’ve come across!
1. No Voice or SMS Services: Most eSIM data plans (including Sim Local) do not include calls or SMS—they’re data-only. If you need to make local calls (e.g., to hotels, restaurants, or for emergencies), you’ll need to use services like WhatsApp, Skype, or Line, which may not always be accepted by some Japanese services that require a local number.
Journey Japan eSIM is a Japan-only eSIM provider built specifically for travelers who want fast, reliable data across the country without dealing with complicated plans or unreliable coverage. The brand focuses entirely on Japan, using the country’s strongest mobile networks — including NTT Docomo — to deliver excellent speeds and nationwide coverage.
Journey Japan eSIM has also gained recognition with its connection with Chris Broad from Abroad in Japan, one of the most trusted Japan travel creators on YouTube, which adds extra credibility for travelers researching the best Japan eSIMs. I mean, what can be better than an eSIM developed, researched and used by someone who is actually a foreigner living abroad in a country, i.e, they know how important good, consistent data connections are!
Rather that offering generic global or regional plans, Journey Japan eSIM keeps things simple: clear pricing, strong local coverage, and plans designed specifically for travel in Japan.
Journey Japan eSIM offers prepaid Japan eSIM data-only plans with a full 30-day validity, making them ideal for typical Japan trips, longer vacations, business stays, and even cruises around Japan.
Available plans include:
All plans activate when you land and connect automatically, so there’s no need to visit airport counters or swap physical SIM cards. If you need more data mid-trip, you can simply purchase an additional eSIM.
Plans include hotspot/tethering support and no daily data caps, which is a major advantage compared to many “unlimited” plans that throttle speeds after a set daily amount of usage.
I personally like how streamlined Journey Japan eSIM is — there are no overly complicated packages to compare. You simply choose how much data you need for Japan, which makes the website clean, easy to use, and very beginner-friendly.
Personally, I don’t see this as a major drawback, as most travelers already rely on messaging apps rather than traditional SMS or calls.
Journey Japan eSIM is ideal for travelers who want the best eSIM for Japan, with strong local coverage, transparent pricing, and zero stress once they arrive. It’s perfect for
If you want to take the worry out of mobile data while traveling in Japan, Journey Japan eSIM is one of the most dependable options available.
What's more perfect for a Japan eSIM than a Japanese company & provider?
Sakura Mobile are a Japense company, that offer data and mobile packages for both travellers and residents (so you know it's going to be good!)
For travellers, they actually offer 3 main products.
One of those produtcts is a physical sim, but for the purpose of this post, we're going to focus on the eSIM offering.
With the unlimited data options you are limited to a certain amount of high speed GBs daily, but for 4G, this is 3GB per day, which is honestly still very generous for unlimited data. I've seen many plans where it's limited to 1GB before they slow your speed!
For normal sightseeing, you'll be fine!
Unlimited data options are a great choice, but it's not your only choice.
With Sakura, you can input the dates & duration you're staying in Japan, and they'll offer you the best options of different data packages.
For example, I've done a sample search below.
This is a good variety of data packages at reasomable costs.
ESIMJAPAN.com is the Japan-focused storefront of ESIMWORLD.net, a global travel eSIM provider trusted by 2+ million travelers. ESIMWORLD delivers fast, reliable eSIM service across 150+ destinations and operates 18 country-specific stores, so staying online abroad feels as effortless as it does at home—no matter where you land.
Blink esim is an excellent choice for travelers seeking simplicity and reliability for their Japan trips.
It offers fast and stable local data coverage without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards.
Just activate it via app or QR code upon arrival, and you’re connected instantly—no airport lines or extra SIM purchases needed.
The list of eSIM-compatible devices is constantly growing, with over 200+ devices currently supporting eSIM technology! Below are some of the major brands and models that work with eSIM.
Most newer Apple devices support eSIM, including:
iPhones:
Apple Watches:
iPads (With 4G/LTE, Released Since 2018):
Many of Samsung’s flagship models support eSIM:
Galaxy S Series:
Galaxy Note Series:
Foldable Phones:
Wearables:
Not Compatible: Samsung Galaxy S20 FE (4G & 5G) does NOT support eSIM.
Google Pixel phones also come with eSIM support, but some restrictions apply:
Pixel Series:
Huawei:
Oppo:
Sony:
Honor:
Fairphone:
Motorola:
Other Devices:
Important Note: This list is not exhaustive, and new devices continue to add eSIM support. Always check your device settings or manufacturer specifications to confirm compatibility before purchasing an eSIM!
One of the biggest advantages of an eSIM is its flexibility.
Forget the struggle of buying and inserting a physical SIM card every time you land in a new country.
Physical SIM cards and international roaming can be costly, but eSIMs offer a more affordable alternative:
Say goodbye to misplacing tiny SIM cards or struggling with different SIM sizes. I am so guilty of losing sim cards, btw, so this is one of the main reasons I love eSIMS for travel.
Even with dual SIM phones, swapping SIMs constantly can be a hassle.
So there you have it!
My guide to the best eSIMS for Japan. Again if you're still thinking, who do I go for? I think for Japan, Sim Local is your best option!
I hope you've found this eSIM guide useful and comment below if you've had any experience with the above eSIM providers!
Love,
Cazzy
Leave a comment
Let us know what you think!