Another trip to another country for tourism or work will provide a unique and exciting experience. But most often, many things are overlooked, and one of them is communications, internet and communications. When abroad, it is not very convenient to use your phone with a set tariff from a mobile operator. It is advisable to use the services of a local operator, having received affordable prices.
Previously, you had to buy a SIM card at airports or stores, replace it with your card and thus not be due to lack of access to your phone number. An excellent choice would be to buy Japan travel eSIM, when you do not need to use a physical card. This is a digital card that is built into the phone and is activated using the appropriate settings provided by the mobile operator.
Reasons to use eSIM
This tool solves several obvious problems:
- Instant connection. You can buy a virtual card on the way to the airport, and a few minutes before arriving in the desired country, you only need to activate it. There is no need to look for local operator stands and waste time on it;
- Cheaper than roaming. The cost of eSIM is much cheaper when compared to roaming from your operator;
- International coverage. Depending on the coverage, the card can work in a specific country or an entire region. We are talking about Japan, so with a high degree of probability you can purchase a tariff that works throughout Asia;
- No need to change or disable cards. Activation of eSIM does not force you to use a physical card, the main SIM does not need to be disabled, thus two cards will work in parallel;
- Clear tariffs. The designation of the conditions of each of the tariffs will allow you to choose the best option, focusing on the number of minutes or the volume of Internet traffic.
It remains only to make sure that the phone supports eSIM and learn how to set up virtual cards.
Where to buy eSIM in Japan?
Excellent conditions are offered by the mobile operator Mobal, offering a wide range of tariffs and a real Japanese number. No additional or hidden payments and fees. The minimum contract period is not set. Customers receive service in English.
Connection is made to the Docomo network, which covers 99% of the territory. This creates comfortable conditions for making calls. Long–term eSIM Japan will be an ideal tool for long–term residence in the country. There are special rates and conditions. Credit and debit cards, as well as PayPal, are accepted for payment.
Ordering an eSIM with subsequent delivery is available online. In advance of traveling to Japan, it is possible to evaluate and select tariffs, after which, upon arrival, all that remains is to activate the new data in the phone.
Tariffs from the operator Mobal
There are two options to choose from – long–term eSIMs from 90 days and short–term up to 90 days. The first tariff is ideal for situations when a person lives in Japan, studies, works or came on a long business trip. The main features of the tariff are as follows:
- plans from 1 to 30 GB per month;
- work in the Docomo network;
- real Japanese number;
- no contract and the ability to cancel at any time;
- english language support.
The cost is 2970 yen, and the monthly fee after activation is from 1650 yen. Limits are updated on the 1st of each month.
Short–term tariffs have a number of conditions and restrictions. eSIM cards for 8 days and only for data transfer have the following cost:
- 3 GB – 2340 yen;
- 10 GB – 2750 yen;
- 30 GB – 3200 yen.
16–day cards have the following tariffs:
- 3 GB – 2800 yen;
- 10 GB – 3300 yen;
- 50 GB – 3900 yen;
- 100 GB – 6500 yen.
31–day cards are offered at the following tariffs:
- 10 GB – 3850 yen;
- 50 GB – 4900 yen;
- 1000 GB – 8000 yen.
Short–term cards exclusively for calls have the following tariffs:
- 30 days – 7920 yen;
- 60 days – 12870 yen;
- 90 days – 17820 yen.
Depending on the purposes for which and how the eSIM will be used, an appropriate tariff is selected.
How does buying an eSIM work?
The first thing you need to do is buy your first eSIM in Japan for 2970 yen. You can choose the delivery option – pick up or free delivery to the desired point in Japan. When choosing free delivery, you must enter the ID in the secure system of the mobile operator.
The access code will be sent directly, but if you want to pick it up yourself, it is important to show your ID at the pick–up point. The access code must be entered on the mobile operator’s portal and then select the desired tariff plan. All that remains is to install the eSIM and enter the APN settings.
Features of the Mobal operator
This is one of the first and oldest mobile operators, founded in 1989. The company has representative offices in Japan, North America and Europe. Over the course of its history, more than 250,000 travellers from all over the world have been served. The company donates part of its profits to charity, while guaranteeing high-quality service.
Troubleshooting Tips for Your Japan eSIM
Even though eSIMs are user-friendly, here are some quick tips if you encounter issues:
- QR code won’t scan?
Try better lighting or a clearer printout. You can also enter the activation details manually if provided. - No signal after activation?
Restart your phone, ensure the correct eSIM profile is enabled, and confirm the plan’s start date. - Is my phone compatible?
Check if your phone supports eSIM (iPhone XS or newer, recent Android phones like Pixel 3+ or Samsung S20+). Look in your phone’s settings under “Mobile Network” > “Add eSIM.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I keep my home number active while using a Japan eSIM?
Yes! Most modern smartphones allow you to use a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously, so you won’t lose calls or messages on your original number.
Q: Is an eSIM cheaper than pocket Wi-Fi?
Generally, yes. Pocket Wi-Fi rentals cost around $5–10 per day, while eSIMs offer competitive data rates and eliminate the need to carry an extra device.
Q: Will the Japan eSIM work outside major cities?
Absolutely. Thanks to Docomo’s nationwide network, coverage extends throughout Japan, including rural areas like Hokkaido and Okinawa.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Trip Stress-Free with a Japan eSIM
If you want seamless mobile connectivity during your Japan trip, an eSIM is the smartest choice. It offers instant activation, cost savings, and convenience — all while keeping your home number active.
For the best deals and reliable service. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying longer, Mobal’s flexible plans and excellent coverage will keep you connected without the usual headaches.
