Most people traveling to Japan likely buy a SIM card or rent a Pocket Wi-Fi device at the airport.
At Narita, Kansai, and Haneda Airports, you can find SIM cards and eSIMs sold at shops, and there are also places where you can rent Pocket Wi-Fi. While prices at the airport can be higher, buying a SIM card or eSIM at a store offers staff support, which can be very helpful if you’re unsure about configuring your smartphone.
If your flight is delayed and you arrive late at night, shops might be closed. Also, if you have a short layover, you might not be able to buy a SIM card or eSIM at the airport. In fact, many people seem to find themselves unable to purchase a SIM card at the airport.
However, even if you can’t get one at the airport, you can still buy a SIM card elsewhere.
This article provides a summary of places where you can buy a SIM card if you weren’t able to get one at the airport.
eSIM is Convenient for Your Trip to Japan
Don’t have an eSIM-compatible smartphone?
With an eSIM, you can purchase and get connected anytime, anywhere.
First, check if your smartphone supports eSIM.
Open your phone app and dial *#06#.
If an EID is displayed, your device is eSIM compatible.
If you have an eSIM-compatible smartphone, we recommend purchasing an eSIM.
They are often more affordable and a great choice.
Reference: Travel Mobile Japan eSIM Plans
Features of SIM Cards and eSIMs Available in Japan
SIM cards and eSIMs purchased by travelers visiting Japan are primarily for data communication only.
You will not be assigned a Japanese phone number, nor will you be able to send or receive SMS messages.
| Data | SMS | Calls |
|---|---|---|
| OK | Not Available | Not Available |
Where to Buy a SIM Card Besides the Airport
| Purchase Location | Main Stores/Services | Example Business Hours | Key Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience Stores | Lawson, FamilyMart, 7-Eleven | 24 hours | Prepaid data-only SIMs can be purchased immediately. Requires setup with a QR code or entry code after application. |
| Electronics Retailers | Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera, Yamada Denki, etc. | Approx. 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wide variety of data plans and durations available. In-store APN setup support is provided. |
| Mobile Carrier Stores | SoftBank, NTT Docomo, au, Rakuten Mobile | Approx. 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (varies by store) | Purchase prepaid SIMs with passport. |
| Online Order | Amazon,Sakura Mobile, Travel Mobile, etc. | 24/7 web orders | Order in advance for pickup at the airport or your hotel. |
Detailed Purchase Methods
1. Purchasing at Convenience Stores
Participating Stores: Lawson, FamilyMart, 7-Eleven
Features:
- Data-only “prepaid SIM” packages are sold near the cashiers.
- After purchase, most require you to enter an entry code or scan a QR code in a Wi-Fi environment for setup.
- Only available at select stores.
2. Purchasing at Electronics Retailers
Major Chains: Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera, Yamada Denki, Sofmap, etc.
Benefits:
- They offer a wide variety of prepaid SIM plans, ranging from 1.5GB to 50GB and 10 to 180 days.
- You can request SIM insertion and APN setup at the counter for a fee (approx. ¥2,200).
- Many stores have staff who can assist in English or Chinese.
3. Purchasing at Mobile Carrier Stores
Major Carriers: SoftBank, NTT Docomo, au
Benefits:
- You can purchase a prepaid SIM by presenting your passport.
- Many stores have English-speaking staff.
- Some stores also offer initial SIM card setup support.
5. Online Order + Mail Delivery
Service Examples: Amazon, Travel Mobile, CDJapan
Process:
- Apply and pay online.
- Delivered to the airport counter or your hotel.
Benefits:
- Wide variety of plans.
- Affordable prices.
Important Notes When Purchasing a SIM Card
- SIM-unlocked device: SIMs for use in Japan are only compatible with SIM-free devices. Please confirm and complete any unlocking procedures beforehand.
- Passport and Credit Card: When purchasing in-store, these may be required for identity verification and payment.
To ensure immediate internet access upon arrival in Japan, ordering online and using an eSIM is the easiest and most affordable method.
If your device doesn’t support eSIM, or you prefer a physical SIM, convenience stores and electronics retailers are good options. Electronics retailers often have staff available to assist, so if you’re unsure about SIM card setup, they are highly recommended.
If you’re reading this article before your trip to Japan, we recommend purchasing your SIM card or eSIM online before you arrive.
I am Japanese and my nickname is Momo.
I have been working in the mobile telecommunications industry for about 7 years and am familiar with Japanese telecommunications services. Although my English is not very good, I would like to provide useful telecommunication-related information to those who stay in Japan as accurately as possible.
