How to stay connected
For international travellers heading to Japan, staying online is essential—for maps and trains, translation, bookings, keeping in touch, and more. In this guide we’ll cover everything from using your phone, to pocket Wi-Fi routers, SIM/eSIM, free hotspots, and Wifi at hotels & ryokans — so you can pick the best option for your trip.
Quick Start: Can I Use My Phone in Japan?
Available via the following steps
Compatibility Check (unlocked phone, bands, eSIM support)
If you’re bringing a US (or other international) smartphone, first check it’s unlocked (not locked to your carrier). Also check that it supports the frequency bands used in Japan (many major carriers use LTE/4G and increasingly 5G).
If your phone supports eSIM (modern iPhones / many Androids), that gives you another option.
Roaming vs Local Options (costs at a glance)
Using your US carrier’s international roaming is the easiest: you keep your number, you don’t change SIMs. But cost is often high and data may be limited.
Alternatively you can switch to a local SIM or eSIM in Japan, or carry a pocket Wi-Fi router. These tend to give you more data for less cost.
Fast Setup on Arrival (airport pickup vs eSIM QR)
Upon arrival at major airports, counters or kiosks for rental mobile internet devices (SIM cards, pocket Wi-Fi) are often available. If you book online in advance, you can pick up your device at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel. To enable immediate setup upon arrival, many travelers choose to pick up their pre-booked pocket Wi-Fi at the airport and select a meet-and-greet service to assist with setup and ensure a smooth first train ride.
When using an eSIM, you can receive a QR code via email and install it before or upon arrival.
Do You Really Need Pocket Wi-Fi?
For foreign travelers in Japan, pocket Wi-Fi is extremely useful, especially when traveling in groups or using large amounts of data. By pre-booking pocket Wi-Fi with an airport pickup option, you can connect to the internet immediately upon arrival, making your trip significantly smoother.
What is Best For (families, groups, heavy maps/video)
Connect multiple devices simultaneously with one device and share costs. Plus, choosing a large-capacity plan ensures worry-free frequent use of map apps and video streaming.
Pros & Cons (battery, sharing, coverage, speed caps)
Pros／Cons
・Battery
Multiple users/devices can connect / Speed may become unstable with many users
・Sharing
Reduces smartphone battery consumption / Requires charging the router itself (adds to luggage)
・Coverage
More secure than free Wi-Fi / Risk of loss or damage
・Speed caps
Unlimited plans available / Some plans have data caps
When a SIM/eSIM Is Enough (solo, light data)
eSIM eliminates the need to swap physical SIM cards and can be prepared online beforehand, making it especially recommended for solo travelers prioritizing convenience (requires compatible device).
Best Ways to Get Internet in Japan (Ranked)
Here are the main connectivity options, ranked for typical tourist use.
1. Pocket Wi-Fi Routers (how they work, pickup/return)
Features: Connect multiple devices, high-speed and stable, large-capacity plan.
How to use: Simply turn on the router and connect to Wi-Fi.
Pickup/Return: Pick up at airport counters or via hotel delivery. Return via airport drop-off
2. Japan SIM & eSIM (where to buy including, ID needs, top-ups)
Features: Doesn't add extra luggage, ideal for solo travel.
Where to buy: Airports, electronics retailers, online.
When purchasing a JR Pass: When purchasing a JR Pass or regional pass, you can check the SIM card and eSIM (eSIM coming soon) options on the checkout screen.
(Note: Passport presentation required. Prepaid plans are typically one-time use.)
3. International Roaming (simple but usually very expensive and may not work properly—check carrier packs)
Features: No hassle, no paperwork.
(Note:Without a flat-rate plan, you risk high charges. Before departure, be sure to check the rates and data limits for your home carrier's “daily flat rate” or “data pack” options.)
4. Free Wi-Fi at certain locations (hotspots, cafes, trains—limits & logins)
Location: Available at convenience stores, cafes, major stations, on trains, etc. (EXAMPLE: “HANEDA-FREE-WiFi”, “JR-EAST FREE Wi-Fi”)
Restrictions: Due to security risks (many networks lack encryption), unstable connections, usage time/frequency limits, and cumbersome login procedures, use these only as a supplementary option.
5. Hotel/Ryokan Internet (speeds, room vs lobby Wi-Fi)
Features: Free Wi-Fi at the accommodation. Available in guest rooms or the lobby.
Speed: Varies by facility, but most locations offer sufficient speed for streaming video (10–30 Mbps or higher). If the connection is unstable in your room, try the lobby.
For a comfortable trip to Japan, consider your accommodations with JapanDen!
6. Internet Cafes / Manga Kissa (overnight, printing, lockers)
Features: Conveniently accessible in urban areas.
Services: Internet, comics, overnight stays, showers, printing, lockers, and more available at low prices.
How to Use the Tokyo Subway with Reliable Internet
Planning Routes (apps, offline maps, station codes)
When navigating Tokyo’s subway and train network, having reliable internet helps. Use apps (like Google Maps or local transit apps) and download offline maps in case you lose connectivity.
Navigating Transfers & Exits (signage, platform boards)
Signs in Tokyo stations use station codes (e.g., “G-01”, “M-08”). Wi-Fi helps you double-check exit numbers, platforms and live schedule changes.
Last Trains & Service Alerts (where to check)
Major train lines publish service alerts, delays or last-train times online. Having the internet allows you to check these on the go.
If you're planning a trip outside Tokyo, considering the Japan Rail Pass and regional passes is essential for transportation.
Bonus Train Tips:
The Japan Rail Pass→ Unlimited use of all JR lines, including Shinkansen. Ideal for travelers wanting comprehensive nationwide coverage.
Regional Tickets→Customizable to suit your travel plans. (Example: For touring Kyushu, use the JR Kyushu Rail Pass). Offers excellent value for those focusing their travels on specific regions.
（Note:When purchasing your JR Pass or Regional Tickets, bundle it with connectivity (SIM/eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi) for smoother trip planning and arrangements.）
Saving Money: Is SIM or Pocket Wi-Fi Cheaper?
Cost Factors (days, data needs, travellers/devices)
Key cost factors: number of days, number of people/devices, amount of data needed, whether you need to share connection.
For a solo traveller using one phone and moderate data, a SIM or eSIM may cost less. For a family or group connecting multiple devices, a pocket Wi-Fi might give better value.
Simple Break-Even Rules (solo vs couples/families)
A rough rule: solo + light data → SIM/eSIM. Family/group + heavy data → pocket Wi-Fi. Some rental guides show that pocket Wi-Fi daily cost may be lower when data is shared across users.
Hidden Costs (roaming fees, deposits, late returns)
Watch out for: setup fees, security deposit for rental gear, late return fees for pocket Wi-Fi, roaming surcharges for carrier plans. Also “unlimited” data may come with fair-use throttling.
Quick Buyer’s Guide (Choose What’s Right for You)
Solo, Light Data → eSIM/SIM
If you're traveling alone, have one device, and only moderate internet use (maps, messaging, light video), a local SIM/eSIM is a convenient and cost-effective option.
When purchasing a JR Pass or regional pass, you can check the SIM card and eSIM (eSIM coming soon) options on the checkout screen.
Couple/Family, Heavy Maps/Video → Pocket Wi-Fi
If you're traveling with your partner or family, streaming videos, or using multiple devices, it's convenient to pre-order a Pocket Wi-Fi with unlimited or high-capacity data and choose airport pickup.
One-night/Business, Keep Your Number → Roaming Pack
If it’s a short business trip and you must keep your existing number, then activating your carrier’s international roaming data pack may suffice.
Low Budget/Short Hops → Free Wi-Fi + Offline Maps
For very short stays or very light connectivity needs, you could rely on free Wi-Fi hotspots + offline maps. But you must accept occasional login hassles, slower speeds, limited coverage.
FAQs About WiFi in Japan
Q:What WiFi should I use in Japan?
A: It depends on your individual needs. Pocket Wi-Fi is a convenient way to connect to the internet wherever you are in Japan. However, some travellers may prefer a Japanese SIM card or eSIM.
Q:Is it better to get a SIM card or pocket WiFi in Japan?
A: For short individual trips, eSIM or physical SIM; for multiple people, pocket WiFi; for long-term stays, local budget SIMs are appropriate.
Q:How does Wi-Fi work in Japan?
A: Connecting to the internet is easy in Japan. There are plenty of Wi-Fi hotspots in major Japanese cities. However, we recommend renting a pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM to ensure access, especially if you're traveling to more remote areas.