SIM, eSIM and Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi exists but comes and goes. If you rely on maps, sort out your own data.

What to know

• Major international airports have free Wi-Fi in the terminals, including Narita, Haneda, Kansai, New Chitose, Centrair and Fukuoka.
• The three big convenience store chains offer free Wi-Fi when you're in range. Cafes and fast-food chains often do too, after a sign-up, but the signal can be patchy and slow.
• Most major city hotels have Wi-Fi. Ryokan and minshuku may not, so check when you book.
• Pocket Wi-Fi: rental counters are at all major airports, or you can reserve online and have the router delivered to your hotel.
• SIM cards: sold at major airports and at electronics stores such as Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera. Your phone must be unlocked.
• eSIM: if your phone supports it, you can set up a data plan before you fly. Check with your provider that it covers Japan.

psst, install your eSIM or test your rental at home on Wi-Fi. The arrivals hall is a bad place to discover your phone is locked.

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