5 Best eSIMS for Japan (2025 Guide) - I've tested over 20 eSIM brands!

What is an eSIM?

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!

Best eSIMs for Japan

1. Sim Local - Get 10% off with DREAMBIG10

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. 

Why Choose Sim Local for Your Trip to Japan?

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:

1. Superfast Speeds & Reliable Connectivity

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.

2. Hotspot & Tethering for Multiple Devices

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! 

3. Incredible Value for Money

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 ;) 

4. True Unlimited Data

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! 

Advantages of Sim Local: 

1. One of the best pricings for eSIMS
2. Can be used for hotspots
3. Uses the best carrier for speed and connectivity
4. Unlimited data options at fantastic prices 

Disadvantages of Sim Local 

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.

2.  Saily - Get 5% off with DREAMBIG5

Saily offers a range of eSIM data plans tailored for travelers to Japan, providing flexible and affordable options to stay connected.

Their competitive pricing, ease of use, and flexible data plans make it a strong contender for those looking to stay connected while exploring Japan. They also allow hotspotting, which makes it a winner in my eyes! 

They also offer a Global Data plan that includes Japan.

Plan Options and Pricing: Saily's Japan eSIM plans are designed to cater to various data needs and durations:

• 1 GB: 7 days – USD 3.99
• 3 GB: 30 days – USD 7.99
• 5 GB: 30 days – USD 10.99
• 10 GB: 30 days – USD 17.99
• 20 GB: 30 days – USD 24.99

Advantages of Saily

1. Allows hot spotting 
2. Global and local data plan 

Disadvantages of Saily 

1. Not as cheap as other (although the 5% off will help!)

3. Maya Mobile

Maya mobile is another eSIM provider that I used, who provided eSIM plans for Japan. I’ve never had any issues with Maya Mobile, and I like how easy the eSIMS are to buy and use. In terms of what they offer for Japan. 

Data Packages: Choose from 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, and 20 GB plans, catering to various data needs for a good price. 

Unlimited Data: Daily unlimited data plans are available, providing continuous connectivity throughout your stay.

You can also hot spot data with them on Unlimited and Prepaid plans!

Advantages of Maya Mobile 

1. 180 day back guarantee if your plans change 
2. Unlimited data plans 

Disadvantages of Maya Mobile 

1. No local phone number as noted above! 

4. Eskimo

Eskimo is a little different.

They do offer eSIMS for specific countries, like Japan, but in addition to that they offer one global eSIM that covers 80 countries for 2 years.

This is a great option if you’re planning on visiting Japan multiple times, or you’re planning on visiting travelling to a bunch of different places. 

Advantages of Eskimo

1. Global data and local plans have 2 year validity
2. You can transfer data to friends 
3. Hotspotting allowed

Disadvantages of Eskimo 

1. Slightly higher pricing 
2. No local number 

5. Holafly

 Holafly are a popular eSIM provider and they offer Japan options too- mainly in the form of Unlimited data.

Which is great, BUT they have restrictions on the amount of data you can hot spot (500MB), which makes it a little difficult for me to choose. BUT, if I’m just using my phone, then it’s not a bad shout. 

Plan Options and Pricing: Holafly's Japan eSIM plans come with unlimited data and are available for various durations:

• 1 day: $6.90
• 5 days: $20.90
• 7 days: $29.90
• 10 days: $36.90
• 15 days: $50.90
• 20 days: $61.90
• 30 days: $74.90
• 60 days: $106.90
• 90 days: $139.90

Advantages of Holafly 

1. Unlimited data options 
2. Customer support in multiple languages

Disadvantages of Holafly

1. Data Sharing Limitation: While you have unlimited data on your device, hotspot sharing is capped at 500 MB per day.

FAQ about eSIMs 

Which Phones Are Compatible with eSIM?

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.

Apple Devices

Most newer Apple devices support eSIM, including:

iPhones:

• iPhone 13 series: 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 series: 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11 series: 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
• iPhone SE (2020, 2022)

Apple Watches:

• Apple Watch Series 3, 4, 5, 6
• Apple Watch SE

iPads (With 4G/LTE, Released Since 2018):

• iPad Pro 11″ (A2068, 2020)
• iPad Pro 12.9″ (A2069, 2020)
• iPad Air (A2123, 2019)
• iPad (A2198, 2019)
• iPad Mini (A2124, 2019)

Samsung Devices

Many of Samsung’s flagship models support eSIM:

Galaxy S Series:

• Galaxy S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra

Galaxy Note Series:

• Galaxy Note 20, Note 20+, Note 20 Ultra

Foldable Phones:

• Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3
• Galaxy Z Flip, Flip 3

Wearables:

• Samsung Galaxy Watch (via Samsung Wearable app)

Not Compatible: Samsung Galaxy S20 FE (4G & 5G) does NOT support eSIM.

Google Devices

Google Pixel phones also come with eSIM support, but some restrictions apply:

Pixel Series:

• Google Pixel 2, 2 XL (only if purchased with Google Fi)
• Google Pixel 3, 3a, 3 XL, 3a XL (except for Japan, Australia, Taiwan, Verizon, and some Canadian carriers)
• Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
• Google Pixel 5, 5a
• Google Pixel 6, 6 Plus

Other eSIM-Compatible Devices

Huawei:

• Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro (P40+ is NOT compatible)

Oppo:

• Oppo Find X5, X5 Pro, X3 Pro
• Oppo Reno 5A, Reno 6 Pro 5G

Sony:

• Xperia 10 IV, 10 III Lite

Honor:

• Honor Magic 4 Pro

Fairphone:

• Fairphone 4

Motorola:

• Motorola Razr (2019)

Other Devices:

• Nuu Mobile X5
• Gemini PDA
• Rakuten Mini
• Microsoft Surface Duo

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! 

Advantages of eSIMS

1. Ultimate Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of an eSIM is its flexibility.

• Switch between different call and data plans instantly, based on your needs.
• Change carriers virtually when you arrive at your destination—no need to hunt for a local SIM.
• Enjoy unlimited data packages and global plans, allowing you to stay connected across multiple countries without the hassle of buying a new SIM each time.

2. Quick & Hassle-Free Setup

Forget the struggle of buying and inserting a physical SIM card every time you land in a new country.

• Since an eSIM is built into your phone, all you need to do is purchase and download a plan online—no store visits required!
• It’s super fast—you can activate your plan before your flight or as soon as you land.
• If you work remotely, this means zero downtime, so you stay connected without wasting time.

3. More Cost-Effective

Physical SIM cards and international roaming can be costly, but eSIMs offer a more affordable alternative:

• No extra charges for buying a new SIM card—just pay for the data plan.
• Many eSIM plans are cheaper than traditional roaming packages, making them a budget-friendly option for frequent travelers.

4. No More SIM Cards to Lose

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.

• Since everything is digital, there’s no physical SIM to keep track of.
• No more digging around for a SIM ejector tool or worrying about storing your home SIM while abroad.

5. Keep Your Original Number

Even with dual SIM phones, swapping SIMs constantly can be a hassle.

• An eSIM lets you keep your original number while traveling.
• This is perfect for business travelers or anyone who needs two numbers—one for home, one for travel.
• Stay connected with friends, family, and work contacts while accessing local data plans abroad.

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