Quick Answer
Get a SIM card, not a pocket WiFi device. The pocket WiFi era in Japan is ending — modern Japanese SIM cards (physical or eSIM) offer faster speeds, lower cost, and no battery dependency. The main caveat: Japan SIMs require registration with a Japanese address for monthly plans. Tourist SIMs solve this and are available at the airport immediately.
Why Pocket WiFi Is No Longer the Default
Historically, many Japan visitors used pocket WiFi devices (portable routers) because Japanese SIM cards were difficult to obtain without Japanese residency. This has changed significantly:
- Tourist SIM cards are now widely available at airports, convenience stores, and electronics stores
- eSIMs can be purchased before travel from international providers
- 5G speeds on modern Japanese SIMs match or exceed pocket WiFi devices
- Pocket WiFi requires charging a separate device, has battery limits, and costs more
Pocket WiFi still makes sense for: groups sharing a single connection, visitors who prefer not to handle SIM logistics, or those needing a Japanese number for local calls.
Tourist SIM Cards at Narita/Haneda Airport
Both Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports have SIM card counters for visitors in the arrivals halls. Main options:
IIJmio Tourist SIM: Uses Docomo's network (best coverage). Data plans: 15GB for ¥3,850 ($25.40) for 15 days, unlimited for ¥4,400 ($29) for 30 days. No Japanese phone number included.
Mobal SIM / b-mobile Tourist SIM: Multiple day-based options, Docomo network. ¥3,000–5,000 ($19.80–33) for 15–30 days unlimited data.
Softbank Tourist e-SIM: Available for download before travel. 10–30 day unlimited plans ¥3,000–5,000 ($19.80–33).
eSIM Options (Best Pre-Arrival)
Airalo Japan eSIMs: 3GB/30 days ~$12, 10GB/30 days ~$20, 20GB/30 days ~$28. Works on any eSIM-compatible phone. Data-only, no Japanese number. Activate from anywhere before landing.
For heavy remote work use (video calls, large file transfers), the unlimited local tourist SIM is more cost-effective than Airalo for stays over 2 weeks.
Long-Term Stays: Monthly Plans
For stays of 1–3 months, a monthly contract SIM significantly reduces cost:
- Requires a Japanese address (hotel address works at some providers)
- IIJmio, Mineo, and Rakuten Mobile offer monthly unlimited plans from ¥2,178/month ($14.40)
- Registration can be done online in English for some providers
- Payment by international credit card accepted by some providers
If you have a Japanese address (longer-term accommodation), this is the most economical option.
Networks in Japan
Japan has three main networks: NTT Docomo (most comprehensive coverage, used by most tourist SIMs), SoftBank (strong urban coverage, good 5G), au/KDDI (competitive urban coverage). For rural travel and regional exploration, Docomo-based SIMs have the strongest nationwide coverage.
What About Pocket WiFi?
If you want pocket WiFi: Global WiFi, Ninja WiFi, and SoftBank rental services offer devices from ¥300–800/day ($2–5.30) with unlimited data. Pick up at airport counter, return at airport on departure. Still works, just more expensive and cumbersome than a SIM for most use cases.
Bottom Line
Buy a tourist SIM at Narita/Haneda arrivals, or pre-install an Airalo eSIM for immediate data on landing. For stays over 1 month, research monthly plan providers. Leave the pocket WiFi in the past.
Next steps: Japan Digital Nomad Visa | Cost of Living in Tokyo
*Last updated: June 2026*