Best SIM card Japan options have evolved dramatically since I first started exploring Japan’s islands in 2000. As someone who’s personally used SIM cards everywhere from Tokyo city to the remote Yaeyama Islands 1,200km southwest of the capital, in this complete buyers guide I share the standout choices that actually deliver reliable connectivity when you need it most.

Summary: My comprehensive guide reviews the best SIM card providers for Japan travellers in 2026, with detailed comparisons of coverage, pricing, and features to help you choose the best provider for your trip.

Key Takeaways

• Mobal is my #1 top recommendation – offers reliable Softbank network coverage, English support, and donates profits to charity. Order your Mobal SIM card HERE.
• Sakura Mobile is suited for first-time visitors – provides excellent English customer service and uses the dependable NTT Docomo network
• Budget travelers should consider IIJmio or b-mobile – both offer affordable data-only plans on Docomo’s network with good coverage
• NTT Docomo network providers are best for rural travel – essential if you’re exploring countryside areas, hiking trails, or remote locations
• Free worldwide delivery in advance is most convenient – simply order online, or pre-order and collect your SIM at major Japanese airports on arrival for immediate use
• eSIMs (digital SIM cards) offer instant activation – ideal for unlimited data users with compatible smartphones

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Why you need a local SIM in Japan

Depending on free Wi-Fi hotspots is more of an Easter egg hunt than a guarantee. You’ll find open networks in train stations or cafés, but many require registration, have time limits, or drop connections when you need them most. Honestly, it’s not a serious or practical option. You are better off paying for ensuring connectivity in Japan. And international roaming charges add up pretty quickly with daily fees from most carriers.

A local SIM gives you consistent 4G or 5G service across cities and rural areas alike. This means seamless use of navigation apps, instant messaging, and cashless payments throughout Japan. It also keeps entertainment within reach during those 3-4 hour shinkansen journeys. A SIM allows you to watch Netflix, play mobile games, stream sports, or check out Japan’s online casinos. Whatever your needs, a reliable Japan SIM card offers stable data, keeping you connected and making travel less stressful and more enjoyable.

The major network players in Japan

It’s worth your while knowing a little about Japan’s mobile network providers as this should be a key factor when choosing your SIM card provider. Japan’s mobile landscape is dominated by four major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs):

• NTT Docomo: The largest provider with the most extensive network coverage, including rural and remote areas
• SoftBank: Known for competitive pricing and and intensive expansion of the 5G network
• au by KDDI: Strong competitor offering excellent coverage and diverse plans
• Rakuten Mobile: The newest operator with competitive pricing, though network coverage is still developing

Best SIM Cards for Japan travellers

My #1 Recommendation: Mobal SIM cards

After many years, Mobal remains my top choice for most Japan travellers. Here’s why:

What sets Mobal apart

• Genuine Japanese phone numbers: A valuable rarity, includes free incoming calls on voice plans
• Reliable Softbank network: Covers over 99% of Japan’s population
• Native English support: Real human customer service representatives (though currently email-only)
• Flexible pickup options: Order online and have delivered worldwide or collect at major airports
• Ethical business model: Mobal donates the majority of its profits to charity, supporting ethical and sustainable travel

Mobal plan options

Data + Voice + Text Plans:

• 30, 60, or 90-day options
• Unlimited data (7GB at full 4G LTE speeds, then 200kbps)
• International calling and texting capabilities
• Perfect for business travelers

Data-Only Plans:

• 8, 16, or 31-day options
• More affordable for tourists who don’t need voice services
• Instant activation when inserted

Real-world testing in remote islands

My wife and I’ve have both personally tested Mobal SIMs in Japan’s remote Yaeyama Islands – more than 1,200km southwest of Tokyo. Even on tiny Ishigaki Island, the network worked perfectly well. If it works there, you can be confident it’ll work anywhere you’re likely to travel in Japan.

For excellent English support: Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile focuses exclusively on foreign visitors, making them ideal for tourists who want hassle-free service. They provide:

• Clear English instructions and responsive customer service
• Flexible delivery to hotels or airports
• Both physical SIM and eSIM options
• Uses the reliable NTT Docomo network for broad coverage

Best for: First-time visitors who prioritize English support and reliability.

For budget-conscious travellers: IIJmio & b-mobile

IIJmio offers affordable prepaid data-only SIM cards available at major electronics retailers like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera. While English support may be limited, it’s cost-effective for tech-savvy travelers. IIJmio operates on the NTT Docomo network.

b-mobile provides a range of prepaid data SIMs with various data caps and validity periods, allowing you to match your plan closely to your needs without overspending. b-mobile also uses the NTT Docomo network.

Best for: Experienced travelers comfortable with self-setup who want to minimize costs.

For countryside travel: best network providers

If your travel plans include remote destinations beyond the major cities, choose SIM card providers that utilise the NTT Docomo or Softbank networks for exceptional reliability in the countryside. Docomo’s infrastructure provides the most comprehensive coverage across Japan, including rural areas and remote locations.

Best for: Travellers planning to explore rural areas, hiking trails, or small towns.

eSIM options: the digital alternative

For travellers with eSIM-compatible smartphones, digital SIM cards offer instant activation:

For Tourist and Business travellers: Mobal (my eSIM recommendation)

Mobal offers eSIMs into two categories: Short-Term and Long-Term solutions. (Short means less than 90 days.) Their short-term eSIMs are perfect for tourists and business travellers. See my review: Mobal eSIMs – Better than Airalo and Ubigi?

For Unlimited Data: Holafly

Holafly provides unlimited data plans for various durations, made for heavy users who stream content, navigate extensively, and stay active on social media.

For Flexible Plans: Airalo & Ubigi

Both Airalo and Ubigi offer range of affordable data plans with various allowances and validity periods. Activation is through their respective apps.

Where to buy your Japan SIM card

Online in advance

Order from providers like Mobal or Sakura Mobile for home delivery or Japan pickup. This is my preferred method. Personally, I like to have the SIM sent to me at home before I travel – that way I can activate it and start using immediately – even before I even step off the plane. Others are happy to collect at the airport on arrival.

At Japanese airports

Major international airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu) have numerous options:

• Provider counters (SoftBank, JAL ABC)
• Vending machines
• Electronics stores (Bic Camera)

In Japanese cities

• Electronics retailers (Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera)
• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) – limited selection

Essential pre-purchase checklist

Before buying any SIM card:

• Check phone compatibility: Ensure your device is unlocked and supports Japanese network frequencies
• Identify the mobile network provider: not all operators are equal, choose one that matches your needs
• Verify SIM size: Most providers offer 3-in-1 SIMs that fit any device
• Estimate data needs: Choose appropriate data allowances but without overpaying
• Voice requirements: Most tourist SIMs are data-only – ensure voice service if needed (can sometimes be essential)
• Confirm eSIM support: If choosing digital, verify your phone model supports eSIMs (see this post to find out how)

Tips for using SIM cards in Japan

• Confirm unlocked status: Locked phones won’t accept foreign SIM cards
• Store home SIM safely: If your phone doesn’t have dual SIM card slots you’ll need to safely store your home SIM when travelling
• Keep passport handy: Required for in-person purchases
• Download essential apps: Google Maps, Google Translate and Japan Travel by Navitime
• Monitor data usage: Track consumption on capped plans to avoid service interruption
• Activate eSIMs over Wi-Fi: Use airport lounges or hotel networks for setup

My final recommendation – Mobal

While this guide highlights several solid options, Mobal consistently delivers the best overall experience for most Japan travellers. Their combination of Softbank’s reliable and extensive 5G network coverage, English support, flexible pickup options, and ethical business practices makes them stand out from their competitors.

For budget-conscious travellers comfortable with limited English support, IIJmio and b-mobile offer cost-effective alternatives. Those prioritising unlimited data might want to consider Holafly’s eSIM plans.

Whichever provider you choose, having a local SIM card will dramatically improve your Japan travel experience by keeping you connected to navigation, translation, and communication tools when you need them most.

Ready to stay connected in Japan? Get your Mobal SIM card here and start your Japanese adventure fully connected. And if you have any questions or want to share your experience of using SIM cards in Japan please leave a comment below.

Further Related Guides

Is it Safe To Use Free WiFi in Japan? 5 Risks and How to Avoid Them

Mobal eSIMs Better Than Airalo and Ubigi?

Mobal SIM Card Review: The Best Unlimted SIM in Japan?

Ninja Pocket WiFi: 7 Key Reasons To Rent

More Planning Resources

Planning Travel Hub

My List of Recommended Japan Travel Resources

Recommended Japan Travel Resources

My Japan Travel Store

The Real Japan Travel Store

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