Where to buy a SIM card in Japan? Airport? Convenience Store? Amazon? The Cheapest and Fastest Way to Get One

For travelers visiting Japan, ensuring access to the internet is as crucial as choosing accommodation. There are 3 main methods for travelers to access the internet in Japan.

1. Renting a Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan
2. Purchasing a SIM card / eSIM
3. Using roaming services

eSIMs are highly convenient as they can be purchased anytime and anywhere, and set up instantly. However, many people still own devices that do not support eSIMs. Physical SIM cards are often easier to set up and offer a wider variety of plans, making them the second most popular choice for travel in Japan, right after Pocket WiFi rentals.

Comparison of eSIM and Physical SIM Card Benefits and Drawbacks

If you are undecided on which to choose, here is a comparison of their main features.

Item	eSIM	Physical SIM Card
Setup Ease	Very easy (QR code scan)	Slightly more effort (Insertion and APN setup)
Acquisition Timing	Anytime (Even before arriving in Japan)	After physically receiving the SIM card
Compatible Devices	Limited to some latest models	Almost all unlocked devices
Dual SIM	Can be used concurrently with a physical SIM	Often only one card can be inserted per device

This article will focus on prepaid SIM cards in Japan, where to purchase them, and recommend some of the best available options. If you're looking to obtain a user-friendly prepaid SIM card in Japan or are curious about where to buy one, this article is for you.

SIM Card Setup and Important Considerations

【Note for Physical SIM Use: APN Settings】 After inserting a SIM card (physical SIM) into your smartphone, you may need to perform "APN settings (Access Point Name settings)" to connect to the internet. While most tourist SIM cards support automatic setup, if it doesn't work automatically, you will need to manually enter the information provided in the SIM card's package instructions into your smartphone's settings.

※ Important: Don't forget your SIM card tray ejector pin. A dedicated SIM pin is required in most cases to swap a physical SIM card.

Alternative Options When SMS/Phone Numbers are Unavailable (Addressing 'Japan SIM with Phone Number' query)

Both eSIM and physical SIM cards for travelers visiting Japan are exclusively for data communication; sending or receiving SMS messages and making phone calls are not possible. This is due to Japanese regulations requiring identification and verification for plans that include SMS or phone numbers.
【Alternatives】 If you need a phone number, you can use messaging apps like **LINE** or **WhatsApp**, or VoIP apps like **Skype/Google Voice**, to make calls and exchange messages using your SIM's data connection.

Data Communication	SMS	Calling
Possible	Not Possible	Not Possible

Where to Buy Prepaid SIM Cards in Japan

International Airports

• Stores
• Vending machines

International airports in Japan have stores and vending machines that sell prepaid SIM cards.

Convenience Stores (Best for Emergencies and 'Near Me' Searches)

• Seven-Eleven
• Family Mart
• Lawson
• etc.

SIM cards are sold at some stores such as Seven-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. While not all convenience stores in Japan sell SIM cards, those located in areas with many tourists are more likely to stock them. (If you are searching for a 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart SIM, check the cashier area or the mobile accessories section.) The available SIM card plans are generally limited.
Plans and Prices of Prepaid SIM Cards Sold in Japanese Convenience Stores

Electronics and Home Appliances Retail/Chain Stores (Recommended for those unsure about setup)

• Bic Camera
• Yodobashi Camera
• Yamada Denki

Although the number of stores is not extensive, they offer SIM cards with a variety of plans. While airport SIM cards are often expensive, those sold at electronics stores are typically cheaper by comparison.

【Biggest Advantage】 The biggest advantage of purchasing at an electronics store is that you can ask knowledgeable staff for assistance with the setup and product details right on the spot. This is highly recommended for those who are uneasy about configuring the settings themselves.

Online Malls / Stores

• Amazon.co.jp
• Rakuten
• Yahoo

Many online stores sell SIM cards for travelers visiting Japan. There are a variety of plans available, and they are the most reasonably priced. The recommended method is to buy a SIM card from an online store and pick it up at the airport. You can pick up your SIM card as soon as you arrive at the airport, allowing you to use the internet immediately.

Purchasing a SIM Card Before Arriving in Japan

For those visiting Japan, airports are likely the most common places to purchase SIM cards. However, SIM cards sold at airports tend to have limited options and slightly higher prices. While vending machines are convenient, it's recommended to choose a SIM card online before arriving in Japan and have it delivered to the airport.

Both Narita and Haneda airports have post offices, and many services allow you to select the post office as your SIM card pickup location. This method is highly recommended as it saves time and effort, as you only need to pick up the card upon arrival.

For those who didn't reserve a SIM card before coming to Japan or couldn't buy a SIM card at the airport, consider checking convenience stores at tourist spots.

If you can't find a suitable plan, you can always purchase one online and have it delivered to your hotel during your stay.

Recommended Prepaid SIM Cards and Hotel Delivery Notes

Here are some SIM cards, popular even among Japanese users, sold on Amazon Japan. Amazon Japan cannot deliver to the airport post office, but they will deliver to the hotel where you are staying in Japan. Even if you couldn't get a SIM card at the airport, you can purchase one during your stay and have it delivered to your hotel. When ordering from Amazon Japan, you may receive your order on the same day in the shortest case, and ordering is possible in English or Chinese.

【Important Note for Hotel Delivery】
When ordering a product from Amazon to be delivered to your hotel, always specify a delivery date that is on or after your check-in date, and accurately write the exact name (full name) used for your reservation as the recipient. Some hotels may not accept packages in advance or may refuse packages if the name does not match the guest's reservation name. We recommend confirming with your hotel beforehand.

How to buy from Amazon in Japan and pick up at the hotel