Which Store at Narita Airport Has the Best Deals for SIM Cards?
Narita Airport is a major gateway for travelers visiting Japan. However, SIM cards sold within the airport tend to be more expensive. This article explains how travelers arriving at Narita Airport can purchase SIM cards at a lower cost and why these options are more affordable.
SIM Card Purchase Options at Narita Airport
Where to Buy SIM Cards at Narita Airport
At Narita Airport, SIM cards can be purchased from various locations, including:
- Telecom-related shops inside the airport
- Vending machines
- Convenience stores
While these locations offer convenience due to their prime locations within the airport, the prices for SIM cards and Pocket WiFi rentals tend to be higher.
Why Are SIM Cards More Expensive at Narita Airport?
Airport Usage Fees
All stores inside Narita Airport must pay airport usage fees, which are added to the retail price of SIM cards.
Store Operational Costs
Shops must cover costs such as staff salaries and other operational expenses, leading to higher prices compared to other purchasing options.
Similarly, Pocket WiFi rental fees are also higher at the airport due to these additional costs.
Since services that do not incur airport-related costs tend to be cheaper, alternative purchasing options offer better deals.
Buying a SIM Card Online and Picking It Up at Narita Airport
Benefits of Online Purchase
Lower Prices
Online retailers do not have to pay airport usage fees, allowing them to offer the same services at a lower cost.
Wide Variety of Plans
Online shops provide a range of plans tailored to different travel durations and data needs, offering more options for users.
Time and Effort Savings
Upon arrival at Narita Airport, travelers can simply pick up their SIM card without dealing with crowded stores or long waiting times.
Picking Up at the Airport
Some online retailers offer a service where customers can order a SIM card online and pick it up at designated airport counters. However, these counters charge handling fees.
Picking Up at Narita Airport Post Office
Narita Airport has a post office that operates as a public service, ensuring the same conditions for all pickups. Many online retailers allow customers to choose "Narita Airport Post Office" as a pickup location, avoiding extra handling fees.
Narita Airport Post Office
| Terminal 1 | 8:30 - 20:00 | Everyday | 4F: Departure Lobby | MAP |
| Terminal 2 | 8:30 - 20:00 | Everyday | 3F: Departure Lobby | MAP |
| Terminal 3 | N/A | N/A | You can walk from TERMINAL 3 to TERMINAL 2. | MAP |
Steps to Purchase and Pick Up a SIM Card Online
- Reserve and Purchase a SIM Card Online - Before traveling, select a SIM card plan that matches your needs and complete the purchase online.
- Specify the Pickup Location - Choose "Narita Airport Post Office" as the pickup location during purchase.
- Pick Up at Narita Airport Post Office - Upon arrival, bring the necessary documents (e.g., passport) and collect your SIM card at the post office.
Price Comparison: Online vs. Airport Purchase
Prices for SIM Cards Sold at Narita Airport
Here are the SIM card plans and prices from providers that have vending machines or stores at Narita Airport. The prices listed are from the official websites and may vary depending on the season and stock availability.
| Provider | Data Volume | Validity | Price (JPY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AnyFone | 3GB | 5 days | 3,960 |
| 1GB/day | 5 days | 4,950 | |
| 6GB | 8 days | 5,500 | |
| UNLIMITED | 4 days | 5,610 | |
| 3GB | 10 days | 5,610 | |
| 1GB/day | 10 days | 6,600 | |
| 10GB | 30 days | 6,600 | |
| 50GB | 7 days | 7,150 | |
| UNLIMITED | 7 days | 7,700 | |
| JAL ABC | UNLIMITED | 7 days | 4,500 |
| UNLIMITED | 15 days | 6,000 | |
| UNLIMITED | 30 days | 7,000 | |
| NNinja Wifi | 20GB | 30 days | 5,049 |
| UNLIMITED | 30 days | 9,900 |
Prices for SIM Cards Purchased Online and Picked Up at Narita Airport Post Office
CDJapan Rental allows customers to choose Narita Airport's post office as the pickup location for their SIM card. There is no shipping fee to the airport—you only need to pay for the SIM card itself. The prices for CDJapan Rental's SIM cards are as follows:
| Provider | Data Volume | Validity | Price (JPY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| CDJapan Rental | UNLIMITED* | 8 days | 4,000 |
| UNLIMITED* | 17 days | 5,000 | |
| UNLIMITED* | 32 days | 6,000 | |
| 30GB | 8 days | 3,200 | |
| 50GB | 16 days | 3,900 | |
| 50GB | 31 days | 4,900 |
Additionally, various plans are available through different services, providing a wide range of options. This makes it easier for travelers to find the best plan for their communication needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it safe to pick up a reserved SIM card at the airport?
A: Yes, after reserving online, you can securely pick up your SIM card at the Narita Airport post office with a straightforward process.
Q2: Does picking up a SIM card take a long time?
A: No, the post office operates efficiently as a public service, allowing quick pickup with minimal waiting time.
Q3: What SIM card plans are available for online purchase?
A: A variety of plans are available, catering to short-term and long-term stays with different data allowances.
Q4: How many days in advance should I book my SIM card for airport pickup?
A: Most online retailers recommend booking at least five days in advance to ensure availability at the airport.
While purchasing a SIM card at Narita Airport is convenient, it comes with additional costs due to airport fees and store operation expenses. Therefore, reserving a SIM card online and picking it up at the Narita Airport post office is a cost-effective and hassle-free option.
