SIM Cards for Foreigners in Japan: The Best Options for Visitors and Residents
Staying connected in Japan is essential for foreigners, whether you're visiting for a short trip or planning a longer stay. With a smartphone, you can easily navigate maps, translate languages, and stay in touch with family and friends. However, choosing the right mobile plan can be challenging, especially with the complex contracts from major carriers.
Understanding SIM Card Options: Affordable vs. Prepaid
In Japan, SIM cards are generally divided into two main categories: "Affordable SIM Cards" and "Prepaid SIM Cards." Affordable SIM cards offer lower rates than major carrier plans and require monthly payments, while prepaid SIM cards provide fixed data usage and must be paid upfront.
Top Affordable SIM Cards for Foreigners
Here are some recommended affordable SIM card options for foreigners in Japan:
- JP SMART SIM: Easy application process with just a passport or residence card. Pay at convenience stores, making it ideal for those without credit cards.
- Mobal: Known for minimal procedures, no long-term contracts, and diverse plans catering to different stay durations.
- Sakura Mobile: Offers plans for both short and long-term stays, with discounts for students.
- Rakuten Mobile: Popular for unlimited data within Rakuten's network and free domestic calls via Rakuten Link.
- LINE Mobile: Provides data and voice call plans with free data for using LINE.
Comprehensive Comparison: Top 5 Recommended Prepaid SIM Cards for August 2024
Prepaid SIM cards are an excellent choice for temporary smartphone use, such as during business trips or short-term stays back in Japan. One of the main advantages is that they require no credit checks and can be obtained without a credit card. However, with various telecom providers like Rakumoba and IIJmio offering different options, choosing the right one can be daunting.
In this section, we’ll compare and review five popular prepaid SIM plans to help you find the best option. We’ve tested each SIM card based on three key criteria:
- Affordability
- Ease of Acquisition
- Network Speed
Let’s dive into our findings and explore which prepaid SIM card comes out on top. We also provide tips on selecting the right prepaid SIM to guide your purchase decision.
What is a Prepaid SIM?
A prepaid SIM is a disposable SIM card that can be used until a set data limit is reached or until its expiration date. Unlike traditional carrier plans or budget SIM cards, prepaid SIMs require no cumbersome procedures or credit checks. They’re ideal for those who need a temporary secondary phone for short trips or while traveling.
Advantages:
- No Credit Checks: Suitable for those who cannot pass contract screenings or who lack credit cards or bank accounts.
Disadvantages:
- Higher Costs: Generally more expensive than regular SIM cards.
- Expiration Dates: Usually not suitable for long-term use due to their limited validity.
How to Choose the Best Prepaid SIM Card in Japan
When selecting a prepaid SIM, consider the following five points:
- Do You Need a Phone Number? Choose the SIM Type: Prepaid SIMs come in two types: “Data SIMs” for internet access only and “Voice Call SIMs” that allow phone calls. Generally, data SIMs are more common, as voice call options can be prohibitively expensive. However, services like LINE or Skype can still enable voice calls over data.
- Purchase Location: Online is Standard, but Some are Available In-Store: Most prepaid SIMs are sold online, but some, like “b-mobile 10GB Prepaid” and “IIJmio Prepaid Pack,” are available at major electronics retailers. Be sure to check availability in advance.
- Network Speed Varies by Location: Network speed is crucial for a smooth smartphone experience. In our tests, SoftBank’s network provided the best speeds in urban areas, while NTT Docomo excelled in suburban regions.
- Consider Prepaid SIMs with Extendable Usage Periods: Prepaid SIMs have limited usage periods ranging from 1 to 6 months. For regular use, choose one with a longer validity period or a recharge option to extend usage.
- Compatibility with Your Smartphone: Ensure the prepaid SIM is compatible with your device. Check the SIM card size (nano, micro, or standard) and whether your phone is unlocked.
Top 5 Prepaid SIM Cards in 2024
Here are our top picks based on a detailed comparison:
- Prepaid Sim for Japan
- Price: ¥3,590
- Data: Unlimited
- Validity: 1 month
- Network: Docomo
- Pros: Widely available in stores, fast speeds in rural areas.
- Cons: Slower speeds in rural areas.
- Japan Tourist SIM
- Price: ¥2,200
- Data: 10GB
- Validity: 6 months
- Network: SoftBank
- Pros: Affordable, good speed in urban areas.
- Cons: Slower speeds in rural areas.
- Japan Communications | b-mobile 10GB Prepaid (SoftBank Version)
- Price: ¥3,850
- Data: 10GB
- Validity: 1 month
- Network: SoftBank
- Pros: Available in stores, affordable.
- Cons: Slower speeds in rural areas.
- Nippon SIM for Japan
- Price: ¥2,080
- Data: Unlimited
- Validity: 5 days
- Network: NTT Docomo
- Pros: Widely available in stores, fast speeds in rural areas.
- Cons: Higher price per GB, slower in urban areas.
Additional Recommended Prepaid SIM Cards for Foreigners
In addition to the top picks above, here are some more prepaid SIM card options recommended for foreigners visiting or living in Japan:
- JAPAN TRAVEL SIM
- Provider: IIJmio
- Options: 1GB for 30 days or 2GB for 3 months
- Pros: Easily available at electronics retailers, top-up with coupon cards
Prepaid SIM Cards Available at Airports
Please read more details on the JAL ABC website.
| SIM Type | Data Amount | Price | Availability Period | Size | Purchase Airports | Speed | Speed Limit When Capacity Exceeded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Japan Prepaid SIM | Unlimited | 7 days: 4,500 JPY 15 days: 6,000 JPY 30 days: 7,000 JPY | 7, 15, or 30 days from the initial communication date | Multi type (Nano/Micro/Regular) | Narita Airport Haneda Airport (Terminal 3) Kansai Airport | Max 788 Mbps (LTE) | No restrictions |
| TRE SIM | 5GB/10GB | 5GB: 3,000 JPY 10GB: 4,800 JPY | 30 days from the initial communication date | - | Narita Airport Haneda Airport (Terminal 3) Kansai Airport | Max 612 Mbps (LTE) | Communication impossible |
| Sumikkogurashi SIM | 5GB/10GB | 5GB: 3,500 JPY 10GB: 5,400 JPY | From the date of purchase for 30 days | - | Only at SIM card vending machines at Kansai Airport | Max 612 Mbps (LTE) | Decreased speed (256 kbps) |
| eSIM | 4GB/day | 7 days: 5,000 JPY 14 days: 7,000 JPY | 7 or 14 days from the initial communication date | - | Narita Airport Haneda Airport (Terminal 3) Kansai Airport | Max 612 Mbps (LTE) | Decreased speed (256 kbps) |
Selecting the right SIM card can greatly enhance your experience in Japan, whether you're here for a short visit or a longer stay. Consider your data needs and stay duration to find the best option for seamless connectivity.
Conclusion
Our comprehensive review shows that Parrot Beak’s JAPAN PREPAID SIM is the best overall choice for its affordability and reliable speed in urban areas. If you’re looking for convenience in purchase, IIJmio stands out with its widespread availability. For those who need voice calls, HIS Mobile Prepaid SIM offers an all-in-one solution despite its higher cost.
When selecting a prepaid SIM, consider your usage location, budget, and data needs to find the most suitable option. Happy browsing!
Choosing the Right SIM Card for Your Needs in Japan
When selecting a SIM card in Japan, consider the length of your stay, your data needs, and whether you prefer a contract or the flexibility of prepaid options. By understanding your priorities, you can choose a SIM card that ensures you stay connected without hassle.
Whether you're visiting Japan for a short trip or settling in for a longer stay, having the right SIM card can make all the difference. Explore the options listed above to find the best fit for your communication needs in Japan. Stay connected and enjoy your time in this vibrant country!