Your 2025 Guide to Picking the Right Japan eSIM
I have been to Japan several times, and staying connected is always essential. On my latest trip, I arrived in Tokyo with an eSIM already set up on my phone, which provided me with immediate internet access to navigate the metro, translate signs, and find my hotel in Tokyo without any issue. This seamless connectivity greatly enhanced my experience, especially as Japan welcomed a record 36.87 million international visitors in 2024, all of whom need reliable internet for tasks like using Google Maps or sharing photos and videos on social media.
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Table of contents
- How to Stay Connected in Japan: eSIM vs Other Options
- Best Overall eSIM for Japan: Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM
- Best eSIM for Unlimited Data in Japan: Holafly Japan eSIM
- Best for Flexible Plans: Nomad Japan Travel eSIM
- Conclusion – My Recommendation
- FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Q: Can I purchase and activate a Japan eSIM before arriving in Japan?
- Q: Will these eSIMs work on my phone? How do I check compatibility?
- Q: Do I need to show my passport or ID to buy a Japan eSIM?
- Q: Can I make phone calls or send texts with a data-only eSIM?
- Q: Is tethering (mobile hotspot) allowed with these eSIMs?
- Q: What if I run out of data on my eSIM while in Japan?
- Q: What if I run out of data on my eSIM while in Japan?
In this guide, I will share the best eSIMs for Japan that I have used, explain what an eSIM is, and review my top picks: Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly. I’ll also provide some tips and a VPN recommendation for fast, affordable internet. Let’s dive in!
How to Stay Connected in Japan: eSIM vs Other Options
Staying connected while travelling in Japan typically means choosing from a few options: buying a local SIM card, renting a pocket Wi-Fi device, using international roaming from your home mobile operator/carrier, or opting for the newer solution – eSIM.
When I went to Japan for the first time in 2015, I bought a SIM card online one month in advance. Yet, I was still not sure it would arrive in time. It was rather stressful.
After trying all these methods, eSIMs are often the easiest and most cost-effective way to access the internet in Japan.
You can purchase a Japanese tourist SIM card at airports or in stores, but this process can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you don’t speak Japanese. Pocket Wi-Fi rentals are also popular, but they come with the inconvenience of carrying an extra device that requires charging. Additionally, international roaming through your home carrier can be quite expensive, with charges sometimes exceeding £6/$6 per MB.
This is where eSIMs come in. eSIMs are digital SIMs embedded in modern smartphones (more in this article about eSIM). Instead of using a physical card, you download an eSIM profile directly onto your device. I purchased and installed my eSIMs online before my trip, which allowed me to activate them immediately upon landing.
Advantages of using an eSIM in Japan include:
- Convenience: Set up from home in minutes, avoiding queues.
- Dual SIM Capability: Keep your primary SIM in the phone for texts/calls while using the eSIM for data.
- Cost Savings: eSIM plans are generally cheaper than roaming.
- No Local ID Required: Purchase online without needing a Japanese address or ID.
When considering eSIMs, keep a couple of downsides in mind:
- They are usually data-only, meaning you won’t have a local phone number for calls or SMS.
- A compatible and unlocked phone is needed – make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with eSIM technology, as most modern smartphones support it.
Now, let’s explore the best eSIM options for Japan, focusing on providers such as Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad.
Best Overall eSIM for Japan: Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM
Airalo’s Moshi Moshi eSIM is the best choice for reliable connectivity throughout Japan. It operates on the SoftBank and KDDI networks, providing fast 4G LTE data even in smaller towns.
Data Plans and Cost: Airalo offers a variety of Japan-specific plans, ranging from 7 days (1 GB) to 30 days (up to 20 GB). The pricing is budget-friendly, with 10 GB available for around $18. This is significantly cheaper than roaming fees or renting pocket Wi-Fi.
Setup Experience: The setup process was straightforward using their website. I received a QR code for installation via email. I recommend installing the eSIM before your trip while on Wi-Fi and activating it upon arrival in Japan. I was online within a minute of landing, without needing any APN configuration.
Performance: The eSIM provided consistent 4G/LTE speeds for web browsing, video calls, and streaming. While 5G isn’t currently available through Airalo, I found 4G sufficient for my needs. My phone automatically switched between SoftBank and KDDI networks, ensuring continuous coverage while on the go.
Overall Rating
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast registration | No 5G |
| Easy eSIM set up and activation | No SMS and voice |
| Fast and reliable connection | No unlimited data option |
Overall, if you’re seeking a reliable and cost-effective eSIM for Japan, Airalo Moshi Moshi eSIM is an excellent choice.
Best eSIM for Unlimited Data in Japan: Holafly Japan eSIM
If your motto is “Internet = life,” then Holafly’s Japan eSIM is an excellent choice, especially for heavy data users. They offer unlimited data plans, which are quite rare among eSIM providers. However, more and more eSIM providers started introducing them in 2025. During my trip, where I relied heavily on data, it was wonderful not to worry about data limits. I could watch videos on Netflix and YouTube, upload photos, and video call home without constantly checking my data usage.
Unlimited Plans & Pricing: Holafly’s plans are all unlimited and are sold based on duration, ranging from 1 to 90 days. While the prices are higher than those of capped plans, they offer valuable unlimited options. For example, for example, the 90-day plan (£ 116/$ 139.90) costs about £ 2.32/$ 1.55 per day compared to £ 4/$ 4.95 per day for the 2-day plan (£ 8/$ 9.90).
Setup Experience: The setup process for Holafly was straightforward. I purchased the plan online, received an email with a QR code, and was able to install the eSIM while at home on a stable Wi-Fi connection. I was connected to the internet within minutes of landing in Japan. The connection to the KDDI network was quick, and I enjoyed both 4G and 5G speeds in urban areas.
Performance: The overall performance was excellent. I remained connected throughout cities and even in rural areas. I was able to stream videos smoothly and experienced consistent high-speed data. With Holafly, I never had to ration my usage.
Overall Rating
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy eSIM set up and activation | No SMS and voice |
| Fast registration to the network in Japan | Relatively high price if you only need a small amount of data |
| Reliable 4G/LTE speeds (even some 5G) | Hotspot/tethering is limited to ~500 MB per day |
Overall, Holafly is ideal for anyone who needs reliable, unlimited data while travelling in Japan.
Best for Flexible Plans: Nomad Japan Travel eSIM
Nomad is my recommendation for eSIMs in Japan, offering flexible plans and a user-friendly experience. Plans range from 1 GB for short trips to 50 GB for extended stays, with prices starting at $6/£4.47 for 1 GB (valid for 7 days). This variety allows you to select a plan that fits your needs.
Setting up the eSIM via the Nomad app is easy. I purchased and installed it without any issues, connecting to the KDDI network immediately upon arrival. I enjoyed fast and reliable 4G LTE service, with no problems streaming or tethering my laptop. Nomad also provides data usage notifications to help you monitor your usage.
Overall Rating
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy eSIM set up and activation | No SMS and voice |
| Fast registration to the network in Japan | Must activate eSIM within 60 days of purchase |
| Reliable speeds in cities | More expensive than competitors |
Overall, Nomad’s eSIM provides reliable connectivity and flexibility, making it a strong alternative to options like Airalo. It’s perfect for travellers needing specific data amounts and can be purchased easily via the Nomad app or website.
Conclusion – My Recommendation
Choosing the best eSIM for Japan depends on your specific needs, but any of the three eSIM providers I’ve reviewed are excellent options:
- Airalo: This is the best overall choice for most travellers. It is affordable, easy to set up, and reliable for moderate data usage. I highly recommend it for average tourists and business travellers.
- Holafly: If you are an unlimited data user, Holafly is the ideal option. With unlimited 4G (and some 5G) on a top-tier network, it’s perfect for those who frequently stream content or require consistent connectivity.
- Nomad: This provider is great for flexibility and variety. Nomad offers different data packages, and their app helps you find the right option for your needs. It’s a solid choice if you plan to use eSIMs in multiple countries.
Consider combining providers to meet specific needs, such as using Airalo for moderate usage and switching to Holafly for unlimited data when necessary. Be sure to set up your eSIM before departure or while connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network to avoid any issues upon arrival.
Japan offers a unique blend of modern and traditional wonders, and having reliable internet will enhance your experience, making navigation and communication much easier. Enjoy your travels!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I purchase and activate a Japan eSIM before arriving in Japan?
A: Yes an No! You can buy and download (install) your eSIM online before your trip. However, it typically activates when you connect to a Japanese network, so you won’t use data before landing. I installed mine at home, and it activated automatically when I landed in Tokyo and I turned on data roaming. You’ll have internet access as soon as you arrive.
Q: Will these eSIMs work on my phone? How do I check compatibility?
A: You’ll need an unlocked, eSIM-capable smartphone (most newer models, like the iPhone XR/XS and Google Pixel 3 and onwards, support eSIM). Check your settings for an option to add a new eSIM or consult the eSIM provider’s compatibility list. If your phone is older or a budget model, it may not support eSIM.
Q: Do I need to show my passport or ID to buy a Japan eSIM?
A: Depends. I most cases, no, eSIMs don’t require ID verification or a local address. You purchase through the app or website using a valid email and payment method. It’s quick and hassle-free! However, some eSIM providers do require ID when you purchase an eSIM plan with calls and SMS.
Q: Can I make phone calls or send texts with a data-only eSIM?
A: In most cases, no, traditional voice and SMS services won’t work since these eSIMs are data-only and lack a phone number, meaning you can’t receive SMS or calls.
However, you can use internet-based services like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal for messaging and calls. If your phone supports dual SIM, you can keep your regular SIM active for calls/SMS while using the eSIM for data.
Another option is to purchase an eSIM plans with calls and SMS (example Airalo Discover eSIM).
Q: Is tethering (mobile hotspot) allowed with these eSIMs?
A: Generally, yes. Airalo and Nomad allow free tethering. Holafly permits it as well, but there is a limit of 500 MB per day for hotspot data. Most travellers find occasional tethering suitable, but be cautious with Holafly if you plan to stream video.
Q: What if I run out of data on my eSIM while in Japan?
A: If you reach your data cap on Airalo or Nomad, you can easily top up by purchasing an additional plan through the provider’s app or website. With Holafly’s unlimited plan, you won’t run out of data, but you’ll need to purchase a new plan if your current one expires. Monitor your usage via the app for timely top-ups.
Q: What if I run out of data on my eSIM while in Japan?
A: If you reach your data cap on Airalo or Nomad, you can easily top up by purchasing an additional plan through the provider’s app. For example, Airalo allows you to buy extra GBs once you’ve used up your initial plan. Nomad offers similar options. Activation is usually quick, often within minutes. With Holafly’s unlimited plan, you won’t run out of data, but you’ll need to purchase a new plan if your current one expires. Monitor your usage via the app for timely top-ups.