Travel Smart: How to Stay Online in Japan with Ease

When traveling in Japan, staying connected is essential for navigating, translating, and sharing your adventures. While all our properties offer fast and reliable Wi-Fi, we understand you may need options for staying online while on the move. Here's a quick guide to portable Wi-Fi and SIM card options to keep you connected during your stay.

Free Wi-Fi in Japan: Progress but still lacking

In Tokyo, free Wi-Fi is becoming more common in public areas, major train stations, and tourist spots (see bottom of the post for a couple places to check out for options). However, the quality and consistency of free Wi-Fi can still be really hit-or-miss. Outside of Tokyo, coverage is even less reliable, so having your own portable Wi-Fi device or SIM card is highly recommended, especially if you're venturing into rural areas or other cities. There are a couple of things to think about before choosing a plan that is right for you and your travel.

SIM cards for travelers

For short-term visitors, data-only SIM cards are a convenient and affordable way to stay online. We recommend Mobal SIM Cards, which offer flexibility for both short- and long-term use.

Mobal Japan SIM Card Options:

• Japan Voice + Data eSIM Card: Ideal for longer stays if you're living, working, or studying in Japan.

• Short-Term Data eSIMs: Perfect for tourists who just need reliable internet on the go.

Mobal SIM cards can be shipped to you before your trip or picked up for free upon your arrival in Japan (When looking, be sure to click short term at the top right to get best options for you) There are  SIM collection points at Narita, Haneda, Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa, Yokohama, etc.

Portable Wi-Fi: Ninja WiFi or Mobal

Not sure which option is right for you?

• SIM Cards: Best for solo travelers who need a simple and affordable solution for internet access.

• Portable Wi-Fi: Perfect for groups or families who want to stay connected with multiple devices.

Staying connected in Japan is easier than ever with options like Mobal SIM cards and Ninja WiFi. Whether you’re navigating Tokyo’s bustling streets, exploring Kyoto’s temples, or heading off the beaten path, having reliable internet access will enhance your trip.

For free Wifi options check out https://www.wifi-tokyo.jp/ and  https://www.gotokyo.org/en/plan/wifi-connectivity/wifi_hotspotguide.html

Please note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Japanese SIM cards work with all unlocked phones from overseas?

Most modern unlocked phones work fine with Japanese SIM cards as long as they support the correct network bands. Japan primarily uses 4G/LTE bands 1, 3, 8, 18/19, 21, 28, 41. If your phone is newer (e.g., iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel), you should have no issues. Double-check if you’re bringing a less common model.

2. Can I use an eSIM in Japan instead of a physical SIM card?

Yes! Many providers now offer eSIMs for tourists, which can be purchased online before arrival or upon landing. eSIMs are convenient because you can activate them with a QR code or via email, eliminating the need to find a store or swap cards. For SIM cards, we recommend Mobal SIM cards. For portable Wi-Fi, we recommend: Ninja Wi-Fi (Plus you get 10% off!).

3. Is it better to rent portable Wi-Fi or buy a Japanese SIM card for a 2-week trip?

Portable Wi-Fi: Ideal for groups/families, as multiple devices can connect simultaneously. Easy setup, switch it on. Downsides: you need to carry and recharge it.

SIM/eSIM: Ideal for solo travelers seeking a more compact option. Offers direct data to your phone, but only for one device (unless you use tethering).

💡 For a 2-week stay, solo → SIM/eSIM is usually cheaper. A family or group can use a pocket Wi-Fi device, which is more cost-effective.

4. Can I share portable Wi-Fi with multiple devices at the same time?

Yes, most portable Wi-Fi routers allow 5–10 devices to connect simultaneously, including phones, tablets, and laptops. Perfect if you’re traveling as a family or with friends.

5. Where can I pick up a rental Wi-Fi device at Tokyo airports?

Narita: Counters in all terminals (near arrivals). Providers include Ninja Wi-Fi, Global Wi-Fi, and Sakura Mobile.

Haneda: Similar counters in the international arrivals area.

You can also pre-book online and collect at designated airport counters. For booking in advance, we recommend Mobal SIM cards. For portable WiFi, we recommend Ninja WiFi (plus you get 10% off!).

6. Is it easy to return rented portable Wi-Fi routers in Japan?

Very easy! You can:

• Drop them at the airport counter before your flight.

• Return via a prepaid envelope in any post office box (if the provider includes one).

7. Are there internet restrictions or blocked websites in Japan?

No, unlike some other Asia-based countries, Japan has open internet access. Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and streaming services all work normally. No VPN required unless you want to access your home country’s streaming library.

8. What’s the average internet speed for portable Wi-Fi in Japan?

Portable Wi-Fi in Tokyo and major cities usually offers 4G LTE speeds around 20–50 Mbps download, sometimes faster. That’s enough for video calls, streaming, and heavy browsing. Some premium plans even support 5G in certain areas. In rural spots, speeds may drop but remain usable.