Best Prepaid SIM Cards for Short-Term Visits to Japan

When traveling to Japan for a brief visit, finding a reliable and affordable prepaid SIM card can be a game-changer. Several options offer unlimited data for a week, allowing you to stay connected during your trip. Here are some top choices:

Popular Unplanned Data SIM Cards in Japan

1. Japan Travel SIM by IIJmio

Highlights:

Unlimited Data: Up to a speed of around 300 Mbps. Validity: 7 days. Purchase: Available online or at airports.

The Japan Travel SIM by IIJmio is a go-to option for travelers looking for unlimited data during their stay. It's easily accessible through online platforms or at major airports, ensuring a convenient and straightforward purchase process.

2. B-Mobile Visitor SIM

Highlights:

Unlimited Data: 7 days with a speed cap of around 200 Kbps after a certain threshold. Purchase: Available at various locations or online.

B-Mobile Visitor SIM is another popular choice. While offering unlimited data, it comes with a speed cap to ensure fair usage. You can buy this SIM card from various outlets or the official website, providing a variety of purchasing options.

3. SoftBank Prepaid SIM

Highlights:

Unlimited Data: 7 days with a speed cap. Purchase: Can be picked up at SoftBank stores or at airports.

For those already familiar with SoftBank services, the SoftBank Prepaid SIM is a reliable option. It offers unlimited data for 7 days with a built-in speed cap, making it suitable for short-term visits. You can easily obtain this SIM card from SoftBank stores or pick it up from the airport, ensuring prompt service.

4. Mobal Japan SIM

Highlights:

Unlimited Data: Suitable for tourists for a week. Purchase: Can be ordered online and delivered to your accommodation or picked up at the airport.

Mobal Japan SIM provides travelers with an option that caters specifically to short-term visits. You can order this SIM card online and have it delivered to your accommodation or pick it up at the airport, making it easy to get access to reliable internet on your trip.

Alternatives for Unlimited Data

If you're specifically looking for unlimited data for a week, another option to consider is the “iVideo” prepaid SIM. While not as common, iVideo offers a 100GB or 90GB plan, which can be more than sufficient for most travelers. When I studied in Japan, I used their plans and found them to be both convenient and cost-effective.

However, if you need unlimited data for a longer period, iVideo also provides a pocket Wi-Fi device with similar long-term discount rates. This is a great alternative if you anticipate needing more data and want to avoid frequent SIM card replacements.

Challenges in Getting a Phone in Japan

It's worth noting that getting a phone in Japan can be a challenge, especially for short-term visitors. The telecom companies in Japan often require a contract, which can be cumbersome for short-term stays. Prepaid SIM cards are a more practical solution, but they come with their own set of restrictions, such as speed caps and limited data availability.

Historically, the practice of obtaining SIM cards for short-term visits has been contentious due to concerns over who might be misusing them. As a result, stricter measures have been put in place. While these measures have made it more difficult for certain individuals to obtain SIM cards quickly, they benefit those who need reliable, short-term internet access.

Despite these challenges, prepaid SIM cards remain a convenient and cost-effective solution for travelers in Japan. Whether you're a tourist, a student, or simply looking for reliable internet access, choosing the right SIM card can greatly enhance your experience in Japan.