When travelling in Japan, having an internet connection is essential for checking maps on your smartphone, using social media, and searching for shops and tourist attractions. In recent years, more travellers have started choosing eSIMs instead of traditional physical SIM cards or rented Wi-Fi routers.
This article explains the basics of eSIMs, their advantages and disadvantages, how to choose one, and the general steps involved in using one. It also introduces eSIMs with a Japanese phone number, which are useful for SMS verification and making phone reservations.
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a built-in SIM that is embedded in a device, such as a smartphone.
Unlike a traditional physical SIM card, an eSIM does not require you to insert a small card into your device. Simply purchase a plan online and scan the QR code provided to activate and start using a Japanese mobile network in a short amount of time.
Some smartphones now support eSIM only. For example, certain iPhones sold in the United States do not have a physical SIM slot and can connect to mobile networks only through eSIM. Depending on the device you use, you may therefore need to choose an eSIM for your trip to Japan.
Benefits of Using an eSIM in Japan
Using an eSIM when travelling in Japan offers several advantages.
No need to swap SIM cards
You do not need to use a SIM ejector tool to remove or insert a small SIM card, reducing the risk of losing or damaging it.
No need to collect a SIM card or Wi-Fi router
Many travel eSIMs can be purchased and activated entirely online.
With these services, you can avoid queuing at airport counters after arriving in Japan, as you might need to when collecting a rented Wi-Fi router or purchasing a physical SIM card.
Purchase in advance and connect as soon as you arrive in Japan
Many travel eSIMs can be purchased and set up online before departure, allowing you to connect to the internet as soon as you arrive in Japan.
Keep your home country’s SIM
If your device supports dual SIM functionality, you can keep your home country’s SIM card and add a Japanese eSIM at the same time.
This allows you to retain your usual phone number while in Japan, making it convenient to stay in touch with family or handle work-related communications.
Disadvantages of Using an eSIM in Japan
Although eSIMs are convenient, there are a few things to be aware of before using one.
Not all devices are compatible
Some older smartphones may not support eSIM functionality.
Transferring an eSIM to another device may not be straightforward
Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM cannot simply be removed and inserted into another smartphone.
If you change phones or your device stops working, you may need to have your eSIM reissued.
An internet connection is required during setup
You need an internet connection, such as Wi-Fi, to download your eSIM profile by scanning a QR code.
Most travel eSIMs do not include a Japanese phone number
Many travel eSIMs provide data-only service, meaning you cannot make calls or send SMS messages using a Japanese phone number.
If you need a Japanese phone number for SMS verification or phone reservations, you will need to choose an eSIM with a phone number.
Things to Check Before Using an eSIM in Japan
Before purchasing or using an eSIM, make sure you check the following.
Check Whether Your Device Supports eSIM
Not all smartphones support eSIM.
For iPhones, models from the iPhone XS / XS Max / XR (released in 2018) onwards support eSIM.
However, many iPhones sold in Hong Kong, Macau and other regions use a dual physical SIM configuration. Due to their hardware design, these models may not support eSIM, so it is important to check your specific device.
You can check whether your device supports eSIM by looking for an EID number.
- Check in Settings: On an iPhone, go to “Settings > General > About”. On Android, look under “Settings > About phone” or a similar menu to see whether an EID field is available.
- Check using the Phone app: Enter “*#06#” on the dial pad. If “EID” appears on the screen, your device supports eSIM.
Please note that iPhone 14 models released in 2022 and later versions sold in the United States are eSIM-only and do not have a physical SIM slot. If you own one of these devices, you will need to choose an eSIM service for your trip to Japan.
Check Whether Your Device Is SIM-Unlocked
If your smartphone is SIM-locked, you may not be able to use an eSIM from another mobile carrier.
If you purchased your device through a mobile carrier, check in advance that it is unlocked.
An Internet Connection Is Required to Download an eSIM
An eSIM works by downloading mobile network subscription information onto your smartphone.
Therefore, you need an internet connection, such as Wi-Fi, during the initial setup process, including scanning the QR code and installing the eSIM profile. To ensure a smooth setup, it is best to complete these steps before departure at home or in a hotel with a stable internet connection.
How to Choose an eSIM for Use in Japan
To find an eSIM that meets your needs, check these five key points.
Validity Period
Choose a plan that matches the length of your trip.
Plans are available for various periods, such as 3, 5, 7, 15 and 30 days. Choosing a plan that lasts slightly longer than your intended stay can give you extra peace of mind.
If you visit Japan regularly, another option is an eSIM that lets you use the same Japanese phone number on future trips.
Data Allowance
Choose a plan based on how you intend to use your phone.
Using social media and watching videos as well: A medium to large data allowance
Want to use data without worrying about limits: An unlimited data plan
Note: Even if a plan is advertised as “unlimited”, speeds may be restricted after you use a certain amount of data.
Network Provider
Travel eSIMs mainly use the networks of Japan’s major mobile carriers.
- NTT DOCOMO
Offers extensive coverage across Japan. - au (KDDI)
Provides broad coverage in both urban and regional areas. - SoftBank
Available in major cities and tourist destinations throughout Japan.
In most of Japan’s major tourist destinations, any of these networks will generally provide a comfortable browsing experience.
Tethering
If you also want to connect a laptop or tablet to the internet, check whether the plan supports tethering.
Some services may not support tethering, while others may impose restrictions.
Customer Support
If this is your first time using an eSIM, it is worth checking the available customer support options.
For example, check whether you can contact customer support if you have trouble setting up your eSIM, and whether help is available through convenient channels such as email or live chat.
A service with comprehensive setup guides and frequently asked questions (FAQs) can also make the process easier, especially for first-time users.
How to Use an eSIM in Japan: A General Guide
A typical travel eSIM can be used by following these steps.
2. Receive a QR code or setup information by email or another method
3. Add the eSIM to your device while connected to Wi-Fi
4. Activate the eSIM and switch to the relevant mobile network after arriving in Japan
5. Start using the internet
Note: These steps are an example of how a typical data-only travel eSIM works. The activation process and setup instructions vary by service. An eSIM with a Japanese phone number requires additional procedures, such as identity verification and collecting the necessary information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using an eSIM in Japan
Many services allow you to add an eSIM to your device before departure and start using it after arriving in Japan. Setup instructions vary by service.
You can check whether your device supports eSIM by looking for an EID number.
・Check in Settings: On an iPhone, go to “Settings > General > About”. On Android, look under “Settings > About phone” or a similar menu to see whether an EID field is available.
・Check using the Phone app: Enter “*#06#” on the dial pad. If “EID” appears on the screen, your device supports eSIM.
An eSIM is a good choice if you want to avoid the hassle of collecting and swapping SIM cards. However, if your device does not support eSIM or you prefer to use a physical SIM card, a physical SIM is a better option.
Many plans support tethering, but some plans, including certain unlimited data plans, may have restrictions. Check the details of each plan before purchasing.
Most standard travel eSIMs provide data-only service and do not include a Japanese phone number.
If you need a Japanese phone number for SMS verification or phone reservations, or want to keep using the same number on future trips to Japan, an eSIM with a phone number is another option.
eSIMs with a Japanese Phone Number for Travellers
Although many travel eSIMs provide data-only service, some eSIMs also offer a Japanese phone number that travellers can use.
An eSIM with a Japanese phone number can be useful in the following situations.
- When using services that require SMS verification, such as purchasing tickets, using shared bicycles or registering for various apps
- When making restaurant reservations or joining a waiting list
- When you need to make calls or send SMS messages using a Japanese phone number
However, an eSIM with a Japanese phone number works differently from a standard data-only travel eSIM.
For example, HanaCell’s Japan eSIM provides an official Japanese mobile phone number, so identity verification is required under Japanese law. As a result, you need to receive the access code required for setup in advance, either by post or at the airport.
Although the process differs from that of a standard travel eSIM, which can be activated simply by scanning a QR code, this is a convenient option for travellers who need a Japanese phone number or visit Japan regularly. For more details, visit HanaCell’s Japan eSIM service page.
Summary
An eSIM is a convenient way to stay connected while travelling in Japan, without the need to collect or swap a physical SIM card.
However, plans differ in terms of validity period, data allowance, network provider and customer support. It is important to choose an eSIM that suits your travel needs.
If you need a Japanese phone number for SMS verification or phone reservations, an eSIM with a Japanese phone number is another option worth considering alongside data-only eSIMs. As the setup and usage process may differ from that of a standard eSIM, check the service details in advance to find the option that best suits your needs.