A trip to Japan in the summer is a must for lush gardens, summer festivals, and beautiful fireworks displays.
However, "securing an Internet environment" is essential for a comfortable trip.
In this issue, we provide the latest information on mobile SIMs and internet access in Japan for independent travelers.
1. why you should know about the telecommunications situation in Japan
- Japan has a very good telecommunications environment in urban areas
- Communication speeds may drop in rural and mountainous areas, and there may be no signal coverage.
- Public Wi-Fi has issues with safety and stability, so a dedicated internet environment is recommended for travelers.
2. mobile SIM card: convenient for short-term visitors
Recommendations
- Can be used directly with your smartphone
- Easily available at airports and major cities
- Full range of English-speaking plans
Recommended Brands
- Ninja SIMHigh-speed, high-capacity plans, attentive support
- Japan Wireless eSIMNo physical SIM required, can be set up prior to arrival
- Mobal Japan SIMA portion of profits are donated to charity, for those with a strong sense of social responsibility.
💡 advice
If you want to use it immediately upon arrival,eSIMto be purchased and set up prior to departure.
3. mobile Wi-Fi router: ideal for multiple device use
Mobile Wi-Fi is recommended for group travel and frequent use of PCs and tablets.
A single device can connect to multiple devices and is more secure than public Wi-Fi.
Rental Method
- Airport pickup (Haneda, Narita, Kansai, etc.)
- Hotel delivery (can be picked up at check-in)
- Advance reservations ensure availability
Highly rated brands
- Global WiFi (high-quality, high-speed connection)
- Ninja WiFi (translator rental available)
4. use public Wi-Fi as a supplement
- Free Wi-Fi available at JR stations, major airports, and cafes
- However, lines without passwords are a security risk
- Avoid using personal information and banking apps.
5. internet usage for travelers
- Concierge AppOnline booking of luxury hotels, private cars, and more!
- Restaurant Reservation Site(ichiyu.com, Omakase): Advance reservations available for popular restaurants
- Translation App + Map App: Local tourism and small stores.
Traveler's Column: "Why Cell Phones and the Internet are Essential in Japan" as I actually felt it
What I realized most during my first trip to Japan in a long time,Importance of cell phones and internet accessIt was.
Not many people in Japan speak English yet, and there are many areas where signs and information displays are not written in English.
Smartphones are especially reliable when on the move.
For example, changing trains and shinkansen trains, checking timetables, and finding places to visit can almost always be completed with an application. In large cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, the transportation network is complex, and without the Internet, it is not possible to move around smoothly.
Furthermore, while the cashless society in Japan is growing, a little caution should be exercised. While touch payments with credit cards and smartwatches are convenient, we also hear news of unauthorized use.
In fact, when we tried to make touch payments for credit cards, there were several cases where we could not make touch payments, saying "For credit card payments, please insert your card. This was due to a series of fraudulent touch payments.
Safety.Real credit card and PINand be sure to check your receipts and statements at the time of use.
Also, although it may seem surprising, it is not uncommon for buses, local trains, and small stores in rural areas to still only accept cash. Fine restaurants and hotels generally accept cards, though,Always have cash on hand for small transfers and shoppingIt is safe to do so.
(Supplemental) Major convenience stores have ATMs that accept foreign credit cards.
summary
The key to a pleasant trip to Japan is to have an Internet environment ready before you arrive.
By utilizing an eSIM or mobile Wi-Fi, you can always have a stable Internet environment, making travel, reservations, and payments stress-free.
And don't forget the cash - enjoy the charms of Japan in the safety and comfort of your own home.