Find the best data eSIM in Japan

Japan boasts a robust mobile network scene with several key players offering eSIM services, catering to both locals and travelers. Below are some of the prominent mobile network providers offering eSIM services in Japan:

✓ NTT Docomo: If you're looking for a reliable mobile provider in Japan, NTT Docomo is the one to go with. It's been around since 1991 and they offer 4G LTE with speeds up to 75 Mbps. And according to OpenSignal, they have the best coverage in the country.

✓SoftBank: SoftBank is the second biggest mobile provider in Japan and they have over 30 million subscribers. They've been around since 1985 and offer 4G LTE speeds up to 100 Mbps. Coverage and speeds are both good with SoftBank.

✓ KDDI: KDDI is the third largest mobile provider in Japan and they have more than 25 million subscribers. They've been around since 1984 and offer 4G LTE speeds up to 150 Mbps. KDDI's network coverage and speeds are both good.

✓ Rakuten Mobile: If you've been living under a rock, you might not have heard of Rakuten Mobile. It's the newest kid on the block, having launched in October 2019. They already have over 4 million subscribers and they offer 4G LTE speeds up to 200 Mbps. Coverage and speeds are both good with Rakuten Mobile.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): If you want to save a few bucks on your mobile bill, you could check out a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). They rent network capacity from the major telecom providers and offer services at cheaper prices. UQ Mobile, LINE Mobile, and Y!mobile are some of the most popular MVNOs in Japan.

Travel MVNO eSIM providers for Japan include:

✓ Airalo: Airalo is a global eSIM store offering travelers simple and convenient connectivity solutions through its Moshi Moshi plans. They partner with local carriers like KDDI and SoftBank to provide high-speed internet and voice services in Japan, with data plans ranging from 1GB to 100+GB at competitive prices​

✓ Textr eSIM: Textr eSIM offers a variety of data plans for travelers in Japan, partnering with major carriers like KDDI and SoftBank to ensure reliable connectivity. They provide easy setup and have various data packages to suit different usage needs, with some unlimited data packages also available for short durations​.

✓ MOGO eSIM: MOGO, short for Mobile on the Go, provides pay-as-you-go mobile data and roaming plans around the world, including Japan, with a convenient reusable eSIM. They offer flawless connectivity for various devices across Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America at affordable prices​.

✓ Yoho Mobile: Yoho Mobile offers eSIM services in Japan with a variety of data plans. They provide seamless global exploration with no hidden costs, entirely prepaid plans, and the ability to keep the current phone number active, making it a great choice for travelers looking to avoid roaming fees.

✓ Research your options: Before you travel, explore the eSIM plans available in Japan, looking for plans that offer the connectivity and data speeds you need, as well as coverage in the areas you'll be visiting.

✓ Consider your needs: Reflect on how you'll be using your eSIM while in Japan. If you'll be making a lot of calls, look for a plan with a phone number and a high allowance of minutes. If you'll be using data-intensive apps like streaming video or online gaming, look for a plan with a high data allowance.

✓ Activate your eSIM before you leave: It's advisable to activate your eSIM before you leave home, so it's ready to go as soon as you arrive in Japan. This will ensure that you have connectivity as soon as you land, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and access the internet right away.

✓ Consider purchasing a local SIM card: In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a local SIM card when you arrive in Japan. This can be a good option if you're only staying in Japan for a short period of time, or if you need a lot of data and can't find a suitable eSIM plan.

✓ Keep track of your usage: It's important to keep track of your usage when you're on an eSIM plan, as you may be charged extra for going over your allowance. Keep an eye on your data usage, and consider turning off data roaming or using a Wi-Fi hotspot to avoid overage charges.