The Best esim for Japan? Pros and Cons of eSIM
What is eSIM? How does it differ from regular SIM cards?
eSIM stands for embedded SIM, a virtual SIM card that's integrated into your device. Unlike traditional SIM cards that need to be physically swapped when changing carriers, eSIMs provide a virtual pathway for switching carriers seamlessly. You simply reconnect to the new carrier's network, download the new eSIM in seconds, and you're good to go. No physical cards, just pure convenience!
Picture this: You arrive at a Japanese airport without worrying about finding a SIM card slot. With a simple setup, your phone roams freely on Japanese networks. Plus, you don't even have to remove your home country's SIM card, ensuring you can still receive international calls.
Check out the most recommended Japan eSIM
| Category | Mobile Wi-Fi | Prepaid SIM Card | eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Speed and Stability | Utilizes major carriers, ensuring fast speeds and stable connectivity. Prepaid SIM Cards (eSIM) from MVNOs may have slower speeds but pose no issues with smartphones. For activities like online business meetings, opting for Mobile Wi-Fi is advisable. | Offers fast communication speeds and maintains stability even with multiple connected devices. Speeds may be inferior to Mobile Wi-Fi, but for smartphone usage, it remains problem-free. | |
| Data Capacity | Often provides ample data capacity, with options exceeding 100GB. | Generally offers smaller data capacities due to a short-term usage assumption. Recently, options with around 50GB capacity have become available. | |
| Usage Period | Suitable for short-term to long-term stays. | Typically designed for a usage period of around 30 days. | |
| Installation Method | No installation required | Physical chip inserted into devices such as phones | Installation via QR code scanning |
| Price | Relatively high | Moderate | Relatively low, better cost-performance ratio |
How to Use eSIM? A Quick Guide to Japanese eSIM
Once you've purchased eSIM, you'll receive a QR code. Some will be emailed to you, others can be accessed directly from MyPage, and some may require you to visit a specific website and enter your order number to obtain it. This QR code is what you'll use to install eSIM on your device—simply scan it, and eSIM will be installed.
For detailed eSIM setup instructions, you can visit this page.
eSIM Setup Instructions
Recommended Japanese eSIM
We highly recommend CDJapan Rental's eSIM plans. Here's a comparison with other companies' eSIM plans.Feel free to compare and choose the eSIM that best suits your needs.
| eSIM Provider | Main Network Coverage | Price Range | Speed Limitations | eSIM Setup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CDJapan Rental | NTT docomo (Japan's largest and most stable network) |
30GB (8 days) ¥3200 50GB (16 days) ¥3900 50GB (31 days) ¥4900 |
Speed reduced to 200kbps after exceeding data limit | QR code displayed on MyPage |
| Company A in Japan | KDDI/AU | Unlimited data From ¥950 to ¥5000 |
Daily usage limits despite being an unlimited plan. Speeds reduced to 256Kbps after daily usage of 0.5G/1G/2G. | QR code sent via email |
| Company B in Taiwan | NTT docomo | 10GB (30 days) ¥6000 30GB (30 days) ¥8500 50GB (30 days) ¥14000 |
eSIM becomes unusable after exceeding data limit. | QR code displayed on MyPage |
Benefits of Using eSIM When Traveling to Japan
- No physical card, no risk of loss, no need to return
- Complete installation and setup online, no need to wait for delivery
- Ready to use immediately upon arrival, can use data and communicate right after getting off the plane
- No need to change physical SIM cards, no need to search for SIM card ejector tool, prolongs the lifespan of phone's SIM slot, avoids issues with poor physical chip contact
- Can continue using personal SIM card and phone number, convenient for receiving domestic calls and messages
- Installation to activation solved within a minute
- Relatively cheaper compared to physical SIM cards
- Wearable devices (such as Apple Watch) can also use the same phone number through eSIM, without needing to apply for an additional number
- eSIM cannot be duplicated, providing higher security
Potential Drawbacks of Japanese eSIMs
- Some phone models may not support eSIM.
- eSIMs can't be deleted and reinstalled after activation.
- eSIMs can't be swapped between different devices repeatedly.
- eSIMs need to be activated within a certain timeframe after purchase.
- eSIM does not support returns.
Some phone models may not support eSIM.
Due to its recent emergence, some older phone models might not support eSIMs. For instance, iPhones released before the iPhone XR (pre-2018 models) likely don't support eSIMs. Similarly, some Android phones, especially those before the Google Pixel 4, may not support eSIMs either.
Additionally, even some newer phones manufactured in certain countries or regions may not support eSIMs.
Also, if your phone is SIM locked, you won't be able to use eSIMs (and probably not physical SIM cards either, in which case you might consider Japanese pocket WiFi Rental).
- Open your dial pad.
- Dial *#06#
If your phone doesn't support eSIMs, you can consider purchasing a prepaid Japanese SIM card (with large data/unlimited data) or opting for Japanese pocket WiFi rental services.
eSIMs can't be deleted and reinstalled after activation.
Once activated, eSIMs can't be removed or reinstalled at will.
Unlike traditional physical SIM cards that can be easily swapped, eSIMs are digitally embedded in the device. This means once you've activated an eSIM on a device, you can't reinstall the same eSIM after deletion. This might be considered a drawback compared to traditional physical SIM cards. Therefore, before activating an eSIM, ensure the chosen carrier and plan suit your needs to avoid inconvenience later on.
It's not just Japanese eSIMs that have this limitation; eSIMs in most countries have similar restrictions.
eSIMs can't be swapped between different devices repeatedly.
Typically, eSIMs are tied to specific devices and can't be easily moved between different devices like traditional SIM cards.
Once you've activated an eSIM on a device, it remains bound to that device and can't be transferred freely to another. This restriction is in place for security and authorization purposes, ensuring eSIMs are used only on authorized devices, thus enhancing communication security.
eSIMs need to be activated within a certain timeframe after purchase.
Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, some eSIM plans may set a specific validity period, requiring users to complete the activation process within a certain timeframe after purchase. This is because of the virtual nature of eSIMs; carriers may set this limit to manage resources and ensure users activate services promptly.
eSIM does not support returns.
Once eSIM is activated, it is bound to the device and cannot be reused on another device even if removed. Therefore, once eSIM is sold, no returns will be accepted for any reason. Before purchasing an eSIM, please ensure that your device supports eSIM and that the eSIM package (such as validity period and data allowance) meets your needs.
Understanding the pros and cons of Japanese eSIMs and their usage scenarios in Japan is crucial before your trip. While eSIMs bring convenience and flexibility, they also come with limitations and challenges that require careful consideration. By carefully evaluating and selecting the right eSIM plan for yourself, you can make your travels more enjoyable and hassle-free.
