🔗 Related Guides
| Guide | Link |
|---|---|
| 🔄 SIM Cards | SIM Cards – Japan Mobile Guide |
| 🏠 Plans for Residents | https://japanmobileguide.jp/wp-admin/post.php?post=19&action=edit |
| 📶 Pocket Wi-Fi Rental | https://japanmobileguide.jp/wp-admin/post.php?post=15&action=edit |
| 📝 How to Register Your SIM | https://japanmobileguide.jp/wp-admin/post.php?post=21&action=edit |
🏖️ Plans for Tourists：Best SIM & WiFi Options in Japan
🔍 Who is this guide for?
- Short-term visitors
- People staying 1–90 days
- Travelers who want fast & reliable internet in Japan
🇯🇵 Recommended SIM Cards for Tourists
1. Prepaid SIM (Data Only)
Suitable for:
✔ Google Maps
✔ Social media
✔ Translation apps
Pros:
- Cheapest
- Easy to use
Cons:
- No phone number
- Requires SIM-unlocked phone
Best options:
- MNO option A（後で実名入れる）
- MVNO option B
2. Prepaid SIM (Data + Voice)
Suitable for:
✔ Making domestic calls
✔ Hotel or restaurant reservations
Pros:
- Includes Japanese phone number
Cons:
- Identity verification required
📡 Pocket Wi-Fi for Tourists
Why choose Pocket WiFi?
- Connects multiple devices
- More stable than SIM in some areas
- Unlimited data plans available
Best for:
- Families
- Groups
- Heavy data users
🏆 Which is better: SIM or WiFi?
| Item | SIM Card | Pocket WiFi |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Very easy | Requires pickup/return |
| Price | Cheap | Moderate |
| Speed | Fast | Fast |
| Unlimited data | ✖ | ◎ |
| Best for | Solo traveler | Groups / heavy users |
📍 Where to buy in Japan?
- Airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai)
- Major electronics stores (Bic Camera, Yodobashi)
- Online (Amazon, official websites)
✈️ Best plan for short-term travelers（まとめ）
| Travel Duration | Best Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1–7 days | Prepaid SIM | Quick setup, cheap |
| 8–14 days | Pocket WiFi | Stable unlimited connection |
| 15–30 days | SIM (data heavy) | Cost-efficient |
| 30+ days | Long-stay SIM | Better long-term value |
💡 Tips for Tourists using SIM in Japan
- Make sure your phone is SIM unlocked.
- 5G available in major cities.
- Rural areas may drop to 4G.
- eSIM options exist for newer iPhones.
❓ FAQ for Tourists
Q: Is Japanese WiFi fast?
A: Yes, especially in Tokyo/Osaka. 5G is widely available.
Q: Can I keep my WhatsApp number?
A: Yes. SIM does not change WhatsApp number.
Q: Can I buy SIM at convenience stores?
A: Yes, but activation might be complicated.