How to Avoid Expensive Roaming Charges in Japan: Smartphone Settings for Travelers

When traveling in Japan, your smartphone might automatically connect to a local mobile network, which can lead to extremely high data roaming fees. To prevent this, many travelers switch their phones to airplane mode. But what happens if you accidentally turn airplane mode off?

Why Data Roaming in Japan Can Lead to a Huge Phone Bill

Data roaming happens when your phone connects to a foreign mobile network outside your home country. If you're not using your carrier's network, you’ll be charged based on the amount of data used — and those charges are often very high. Many travelers are surprised by unexpected roaming fees after their trip.

Automatic App Updates and Backups Can Use Data Without You Knowing

Even if your phone is on airplane mode, a simple mistake—like turning it off—can allow data to be used in the background. App updates or automatic cloud backups (like syncing photos) can quickly eat up data. Most apps update several times a month to improve performance, and the total data used can reach 3–4 GB monthly. If auto-updates are enabled, your phone could use data without warning.

2 Must-Do Settings to Prevent Roaming Charges in Japan

1. Turn Off Data Roaming

The most reliable way to stop roaming fees is by turning off data roaming. This prevents your phone from connecting to networks outside your provider's coverage. It’s a quick and easy setting change.

iPhone

• Open Settings
• Tap Cellular or Mobile Data
• Select Cellular Data Options
• Toggle Data Roaming off

Android

• Open Settings
• Tap Network & Internet
• Select Internet
• Tap the settings icon next to your carrier
• Turn Roaming off

2. Enable Airplane Mode

Airplane mode disables all wireless communication features on your phone. While enabled, you can still use offline features like the camera or calculator. Features that won’t work: calls, texts, mobile apps, internet, SMS. You can still connect to Wi-Fi if you manually turn Wi-Fi on while airplane mode is active.

How to Access the Internet in Japan Without Roaming

Turning off roaming protects you from high charges, but not having internet access can make your trip difficult. Here are four smart ways to get online in Japan without using international roaming.

1. Buy a prepaid SIM card
2. Rent a Pocket WiFi device
3. Use free public Wi-Fi
4. Activate an eSIM plan

Buy a Prepaid SIM Card

You can buy Japanese SIM cards at airports, often from vending machines. However, prices at airports tend to be high. It’s better to order one online and pick it up at the airport. These SIMs have fixed data plans, so you pay only once—no surprise charges. They work with most unlocked smartphones.

Rent a Pocket WiFi Device

A Pocket WiFi is a portable wireless router that can connect several devices at once. It's perfect for families or groups traveling together. Instead of buying multiple SIMs or eSIMs, one Pocket WiFi can connect phones, tablets, and laptops—saving you money.

Use Free Wi-Fi in Japan

Free public Wi-Fi is the cheapest option and is available in many hotels, cafes, and public spaces. However, in Japan, you often need to register before using it, and there may be time limits. So it’s not always available everywhere or at any time. To stay connected safely while abroad, choosing the right internet method and setting airplane mode are essential steps.

Buy an eSIM Plan

If your smartphone supports eSIM, this is a fast and convenient option. You can even purchase one after arriving in Japan, as long as you have a credit card.

Recommended eSIM Plans

To find the best eSIM plan for you, compare options based on travel duration, data usage, and budget.