Where is the best place to buy a SIM card for travel in Japan?
Are you planning a trip to Japan? If you've had experience traveling abroad, having access to Instagram, messaging apps, and Google Maps at your travel destination is crucial. In 2023, Prepaid SIM cards available in Japan have increased in data capacity, improved communication speeds, and become incredibly convenient. Not only Prepaid SIM cards but also eSIM options have become more abundant. While eSIM is on the rise, physical Prepaid SIM cards remain highly popular. In this guide, we'll explain where it's best to buy a Prepaid SIM card in Japan for your usage.
About Prepaid SIM Cards with Phone Numbers
In Japan, Prepaid SIM cards with phone numbers are rarely available for travelers. Those visiting Japan can only purchase SIM cards dedicated to data communication. Acquiring a phone number in Japan involves stringent personal verification, making it challenging for travelers. Although some are sold at certain airport locations, SIM cards with phone numbers require advance reservations and procedures, making spontaneous purchases difficult. Be cautious of companies advertising Prepaid SIM cards with phone numbers, as they may provide illegal services. Even with data-only SIM cards, apps like Skype and WhatsApp can be used for calls during your trip to Japan.
Reserving Online vs. Buying at the Airport
There are three methods to purchase a SIM card for use in Japan:
- Reserve online before arrival and pick up at a Japanese airport or hotel.
- Reserve online before arrival from platforms like Amazon and receive it in your home country.
- Purchase directly at shops in Japanese airports.
Reserve online before arrival and pick up at a Japanese airport or hotel.
This is the most recommended method. Purchasing from Japanese online services offers competitive prices, and they deliver throughout Japan. You can start using the SIM card immediately upon arrival. Additionally, if your plans change and you can't make it to Japan, cancellation fees are often lower.
Reserve online before arrival from platforms like Amazon and receive it in your home country.
As these cards are not sold in Japan, the sales commission is higher. However, since you receive the card before coming to Japan, there's no risk of not being able to pick it up, providing peace of mind.
Purchase directly at shops in Japanese airports.
During peak travel seasons, shops selling SIM cards at airports may run out of stock, leaving you unable to purchase one. Also, prices at the airport shops are slightly higher due to airport fees.
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Reserve online before arrival and pick up at a Japanese airport or hotel. | - Highly recommended method. - Prices are lower when purchased from Japanese online services. - Delivery available throughout Japan. - Immediate usage upon arrival. - Affordable cancellation fees if plans change. |
|
| 2. Reserve online before arrival from platforms like Amazon and receive it in your home country. | - No risk of being unable to pick up, as it arrives before coming to Japan. | - Higher SIM card sales commission, as it's not sold in Japan. |
| 3. Purchase directly at shops in Japanese airports. | - Convenient during travel season. |
- Risk of shops running out of stock. - Slightly higher prices due to airport fees. |
Before your trip, reserve a SIM card through a Japanese online service. It's the most cost-effective and reliable option.
CDJapan Rental also offers Prepaid SIM cards. They handle only those with ample data capacity and stable communication quality. Reserve a Prepaid SIM card before coming to Japan and pick it up at the airport or hotel for a hassle-free experience.
CDJapan Rental:Prepaid SIM Card
For those who can use eSIM, an eSIM that does not require a pickup location is more convenient. The products for eSIM are available here.
Forgot to reserve a Prepaid SIM card?
If you cannot purchase a Prepaid SIM card upon arriving in Japan, consider the following three alternative methods:
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eSIM Option:
- If eSIM is available for your device, buying an eSIM is the most convenient option.
- You can purchase an eSIM that allows you to communicate in Japan anytime, anywhere.
- eSIM for Japan Travel
-
Electronics Retailers in Certain Cities:
- In some major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you can buy Prepaid SIM cards at certain electronics retailers.
- Consider visiting large electronics retailers such as Yodobashi Camera; it's often more cost-effective than purchasing at the airport.
- Yodobashi Camera's website
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CDJapan Rental Delivery Service:
- If you choose to purchase through CDJapan Rental, they can deliver the SIM card to your hotel.
- Explore the options available on CDJapan Rental's website.
Please review each method and choose the one that best suits your needs.
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