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SIM Card Registration Guide for Japan [Beginner’s Guide]

What you’ll learn in this article

When using a SIM card purchased in Japan, several setup and registration steps are required.
Here, we’ve compiled the procedures in an easy-to-understand format so that even first-time SIM users in Japan won’t get confused.

This content covers both tourist SIMs and long-term resident SIMs.

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Basic Steps for SIM Card Registration

When using a SIM in Japan, the process generally involves these 4 steps:

  1. SIM card insertion (or eSIM setup)
  2. Identity verification (only when required)
  3. APN configuration
  4. Connection verification

※Prepaid SIMs (for tourists) may not require identity verification.

STEP 1: Insert SIM Card into Your Phone

For Physical SIM

  • Open your phone’s SIM slot
  • Insert the SIM card aligned with the tray
  • Restart your phone

This applies to both iPhone and Android devices.

For eSIM

You can set it up simply by scanning a QR code.

  1. Prepare the QR code sent by your carrier
  2. Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM
  3. Scan the QR code with your camera
  4. Install the profile
  5. Restart and check connectivity

STEP 2: Identity Verification (Only When Required)

In Japan, identity verification is mandatory for SIMs with voice calling or long-term contracts.

The required documents are as follows:

  • Residence card
  • Passport
  • Documents confirming your Japanese address

Tourist prepaid SIMs may be available for immediate use without identity verification.

STEP 3: APN Configuration (Network Settings)

APN (Access Point Name) is the configuration needed to connect to the internet.

For iPhone

Most SIMs are configured automatically.
If it doesn’t connect automatically, install the APN configuration profile.

For Android

  1. Go to “Settings” → “Network Internet”
  2. “Mobile Network” → “Advanced”
  3. Add APN
  4. Enter your carrier’s information and save

Please configure according to your SIM provider’s instructions.

STEP 4: Verify Internet Connection

  • Turn Airplane Mode ON → OFF
  • Turn off Wi-Fi
  • Open a page in your browser
  • Check for 4G/5G indicator

If you can connect, registration is complete.

Common SIM Registration Issues and Solutions

No Internet Connection

  • APN settings may be incorrect
  • Phone may not be SIM unlocked
  • Mobile data may be turned off

Cannot Read eSIM

  • QR code may have expired
  • Wi-Fi is turned off
  • QR code already scanned on another device (reissue required)

Phone Number Not Displayed

Data-only SIMs may not display a phone number.

Differences Between Tourist SIMs and Long-term Resident SIMs

SIM Cards for Travelers

  • Fixed validity period (7 days, 14 days, etc.)
  • Mostly data-only
  • Simple registration and setup

SIM Cards for Long-term Residents

  • Monthly renewal type
  • Voice calling plans available
  • Identity verification and address required

If you’re unsure which to choose, deciding based on your length of stay is the simplest approach.

SIM Registration Precautions

  • SIM-unlocked device required
  • Keep Wi-Fi ON during setup for convenience
  • Setting screen names may differ between iPhone and Android
  • Pay attention to supported bands for Chinese/Hong Kong phones

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Can I register my SIM at the airport?
A. Airport counters often provide support for this.

Q. Can I set it up without knowing Japanese?
A. eSIMs and tourist SIMs come with English instructions.

Q. What is APN configuration?
A. It’s the configuration information needed to connect your phone to the internet.

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