Find Your Perfect Japan SIM

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Key Things To Know Before You Buy

eSIM vs. Physical SIM: Which is right for you?+

📱 eSIM (Embedded SIM): A digital SIM you can install with a QR code. Best for convenience and modern phones.

Pros: Instant delivery online, setup before you travel, keep your home number active for calls/texts.

Cons: Only works on newer, unlocked phones (iPhone XS/XR+, Pixel 3+, etc.). Requires Wi-Fi for initial activation.

💳 Physical SIM: The traditional plastic card you insert into your phone. Best for older phones or guaranteed compatibility.

Pros: Works in almost any unlocked phone.

Cons: Must be picked up at the airport/hotel or shipped to you, which can be less convenient.

The "Unlimited" Data Myth: What is a FUP?+

Most "unlimited" plans in Japan have a Fair Usage Policy (FUP). This means you get a certain amount of high-speed data per day (e.g., 2GB or 3GB). If you exceed it, your speed is severely slowed down (throttled) until the next day.

Throttled speeds are only good for basic messaging (like WhatsApp text).
Truly unlimited plans with no FUP exist but are more expensive (e.g., Sakura Mobile's 5G plan).
Always check the FUP before buying an "unlimited" plan to know what you're really getting.

The #1 Requirement: Is Your Phone Unlocked?+

To use any Japanese tourist SIM (physical or eSIM), your phonemust be unlocked. This means it's not restricted to your home carrier's network.

If you bought your phone on a payment plan from a carrier (especially in the US), it might be locked. Contact your home carrier *before* you travel to confirm it's unlocked. If it's locked, a tourist SIM will not work.