Summary
- tourist SIMs offer hassle-free connectivity with English support, no residence card requirements, and instant activation
- Best options include Sakura Mobile tourist SIM, Japan Travel SIM, and airport rental counters with pricing from ¥2,200 to ¥7,700
- Pre-ordering online 3-7 days before arrival typically saves 20-30% compared to airport purchases
Arriving in Japan and immediately getting connected is a top priority for most travelers. But with Japan's unique mobile ecosystem, choosing the right SIM card can be confusing. This guide focuses specifically on the best options for tourists and short-term visitors staying in Japan for 1-3 months.
Why tourists Need Specialized Mobile Services
If you're visiting Japan for a short period, your mobile needs differ significantly from long-term residents:
tourist-Specific Challenges
- No residence card (在留カード / zairyu card) for standard contract applications
- Limited or no Japanese language ability
- Need for immediate activation upon arrival
- Short usage period (typically 1-90 days)
- Desire to avoid complex paperwork or contracts
- Often using an unlocked foreign phone
📘 Also read: Understanding 'Foreigner-Friendly' Mobile Services in Japan to learn more about why some services target foreigners specifically.
For these reasons, tourist-focused mobile services in Japan charge a premium but provide essential convenience that makes them worthwhile for short stays.
Best SIM Card Options for tourists in 2025
Sakura Mobile tourist SIM
Best for: Overall tourist experience with English support
- Data packages: 2GB/7days (¥3,300) to 10GB/30days (¥7,700)
- Network: Docomo (excellent nationwide coverage)
- Purchase options: Online pre-order, airport counters, hotel delivery
- Activation process: Plug-and-play
- English support: Excellent (dedicated English-speaking staff)
- Unique features:
- Airport pickup locations at major international terminals
- Multi-size SIM fits all phones
- Options for extending if your trip gets longer
📌 Pro tip: Pre-order at least 3 days before your trip for guaranteed airport pickup and better rates.
Japan Travel SIM
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who need flexibility
- Data packages: 3GB/8days (¥2,200) to 15GB/30days (¥5,500)
- Network: Softbank
- Purchase options: Online, major electronics stores, some convenience stores
- Activation process: Simple activation via QR code
- English support: Good (website and instructions in English)
- Unique features:
- No registration required
- Available at many convenient locations throughout Japan
- Data-only (no voice calls)
📌 Pro tip: Look for special tourist packages at Yodobashi Camera or BIC Camera stores for promotional deals.
Airport Rental Counter Options
Best for: Last-minute travelers or those uncomfortable with online ordering
Multiple providers offer rental services at major airports:
- JAL ABC: Various plans available at counter
- Global Advanced Communications: Pre-order or counter pickup
- Telecom Square: Offers both SIM and portable WiFi options
Key considerations:
- Usually more expensive than pre-ordered options
- Convenient but often with longer wait times during peak arrival hours
- Require return before departure (some have dropboxes at airports)
What You'll Need to Purchase a tourist SIM
The documentation requirements for tourist SIMs are intentionally simplified:
Required Items
- Passport: Almost all services will require this for identification
- Credit card: For payment (most accept international cards)
- Unlocked smartphone: Must be SIM-free/unlocked and compatible with Japanese networks
- Email address: For account creation and confirmation
📌 Compatibility Check: Most modern phones work in Japan, but verify your phone supports these frequency bands: 4G LTE Bands 1, 3, 8, 18, 19, 26, 28, 41, 42. iPhones from iPhone 6S onward are typically fully compatible.
Getting Your tourist SIM
Option 1: Pre-Order for Airport Pickup (Recommended)
- Order online: Visit provider's website, select plan, enter flight/passport details
- Airport pickup: Present passport and confirmation at the counter
- Activation: Insert SIM, follow instructions (usually QR code scan), restart phone
Option 2: Purchase After Arrival
Where to buy in Japan:
- Airport shops and kiosks
- Electronics stores (BIC Camera, Yodobashi Camera)
- Some convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson)
- tourist information centers
Data Limits and Coverage in Japan
tourist SIM Data Packages
- 7-day: 2-5GB total
- 15-day: 3-10GB total
- 30-day: 10-20GB total
📌 Save Data By:
- Downloading offline maps
- Using free WiFi spots
- Disabling background refreshing
- Limiting video calls
Network Coverage
- Urban: Excellent coverage and speed
- Rural: Good overall with occasional dead spots
- Mountains: Limited in remote areas
- Subway: Coverage on major lines with brief interruptions
Cost Comparison of Top tourist SIMs (2025 Prices)
| Provider | 7-Day Option | 15-Day Option | 30-Day Option | Voice Calls | Airport Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sakura Mobile | ¥3,300 (2GB) | ¥4,950 (5GB) | ¥7,700 (10GB) | Optional add-on | Yes (7 airports) |
| Japan Travel SIM | ¥2,200 (3GB) | ¥3,850 (8GB) | ¥5,500 (15GB) | No | Select locations |
| JAL ABC | ¥3,970 (3GB) | ¥5,500 (6GB) | ¥7,150 (12GB) | Yes | Counter service |
❗ Important: Prices may vary by season and promotional campaigns. Check the official websites for current pricing.
Common Questions from tourists
"Can I make phone calls with these SIM cards?"
Most tourist SIMs are data-only by default, but:
- Sakura Mobile offers voice call add-ons
- JAL ABC includes voice calling in some packages
- For data-only SIMs, you can use calling apps like LINE, WhatsApp, or Skype
"What happens if I run out of data?"
Options typically include:
- Purchasing a top-up online (if the provider offers this)
- Using public WiFi as a backup
- Switching to a new SIM (less convenient)
"Can I use my tourist SIM for longer than planned if I extend my trip?"
- Some providers offer extensions or top-ups for existing plans
- Sakura Mobile specifically has extension options for unexpected stay changes
- Otherwise, you may need to purchase a new SIM for extended stays
"Will my foreign phone work with a Japanese SIM?"
Most modern unlocked phones are compatible, but:
- Your phone must be carrier-unlocked
- Check compatibility with Japanese networks (frequencies listed above)
- iPhones (6S and newer) and major Android phones typically work well
📘 For more details: If you're interested in understanding all the options for mobile connectivity in Japan, see our Complete Guide to Foreigner-Friendly Mobile Services.
Quick Tips for tourist SIMs
Before Travel:
- Unlock your phone with home carrier
- Pre-order SIM 3-7 days before departure
- Download essential Japan apps (transit, translation, maps)
During Stay:
- Keep original packaging (contains PIN/PUK codes)
- Monitor data usage regularly
- Save provider's support contact information
When Leaving:
- No return required (automatic deactivation)
- Backup your data before removing SIM
- Reinstall your home country SIM
Conclusion: Choosing the Right tourist SIM
For most tourists visiting Japan for 1-3 months, specialized foreigner-friendly SIM services offer the best combination of convenience and value. While they cost more than options targeting long-term residents, the seamless experience and English support are worth the premium for a stress-free trip.
Our top recommendation for most tourists: Sakura Mobile tourist SIM offers the best balance of reliable service, English support, and convenient pickup options—especially for first-time visitors to Japan who want a hassle-free experience.
My Experience
As a resident of Japan, I often recommend options to visiting friends. When my colleague came for a 2-week trip, she tried both tourist SIMs and Rakuten Mobile's eSIM option. While tourist SIMs are convenient, she was impressed that Rakuten offered an English eSIM setup with competitive pricing when compared to tourist-focused options.
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