ULTIMATE GUIDE Japan Data Plans: Pocket WiFi, eSIM, SIM Card Compared

[@KenshoQuest]

Find the right pocket WiFi or eSIM for your Japan trip! Download our cheat sheet of the top data plans: kenshoquest.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/KQ-Japan-Internet-Options-V3.pdf The best option for most people is Japan Wireless: www.japan-wireless.com/?via=kenshoquest Save 10% with JWKENSHO, eSIM: www.japan-wireless.com/esim?coupon=ESIMKENSHO&via=kensho

[@SayuriSeriati]

Hi, why your link to purchase ESIM card doesn’t work ? Question, if I use E SIM card should I put my phone on airplane mode while I am in Japan? I am going with my two adult kids , each phone has to purchase eSIM card right to be able work with pocket WiFi ? My son only needs his phone for watch movie from KZbin Planned traveling to Japan Tokyo this September Thanks you are so kind to answer all the questions.

[@KenshoQuest]

@@SayuriSeriati Hi, can you tell us which link is broken? Now, if you get a pocket wifi , you don't need to get individual eSIM cards. Especially if it will be used mostly for watching KZbin, the best choice is just a pocket wifi because it will have more data, faster and you only need one to share. However, if they are going to be traveling separate ( going out on their own ) then get eSIMs because with a pocket wifi, it is just like a wifi router, you need to be near it in order for it to work.

[@SayuriSeriati]

@@KenshoQuest Hi ,,my mistake , your link it’s perfectly work! So we are going together most of the time so I think pocket wifi work the best for us, since my son using for watch KZbin. I saw on the link the offered it’s pay per day but it can cover for 30 days. So we gonna traveling for 7 days only , how they charge per day ? They don’t have option for daily user. Can I use your coupon too for purchase pocket WiFi ? Also which one the best pick up at the airport or ship to my hotel ? It can activate immediately right ?

[@SayuriSeriati]

@@KenshoQuest the link work perfectly fine now on my browser, I was having a little issue with my phone last nite. If I want buy a pocket WiFi , I confused here for pick up at the airport, I choice Narita but it looked like one of they kiosk open 6.00 am - 1 hour after the last flight arrival. My flight arrive at 17.50 pm Tokyo time. I was wondering what they meant by 1 hour after the last flight arrival ? Should I just take a chance to pick up at that kiosk ? Or just have them deliver to my hotel so safe my time at the airport cause I want to catch Limo bus to the hotel.

[@jaybeltisroy8239]

Rented Japan Wireless for 18 days. Internet is fast and reliable with no lag. Used it for about 12 hrs max with 2 iphones and a working laptop daily and never experiend data cap. It has worked so far in fukuoka, Oita, hiroshima, and Osaka. Will be travelling to tokyo on monday and will see how the connection works there.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience, it's great to know! The itinerary sounds awesome :)

[@jaybeltisroy8239]

@@KenshoQuest yes i am so amazed how fast the pocket wifi works and again no data cap ever. Indeed this is the best wifi option in japan. Love japan and already planning to go back next year 😂😂

[@raksham123456]

I used Japan wireless during my recent Japan trip, it worked very well in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kamakura, Hakone, and Tokyo.

[@ufcpa1]

Thank you for your fantastic channel. We just returned from a three week trip to Japan, which was fabulous, in large part due to your advice. Echoing other comments regarding Japan Wireless. We rented their higher speed pocket WiFi and were very happy with the service for our entire trip, including all of the usual places, along with a trip across the mountains from Toyama to Matsumoto, where we only saw one small coverage issue. We used 60gb of data over the trip and did not notice any throttling.

[@Invictus22656]

@@jaybeltisroy8239 thanks for sharing. I'm planning to use japan wireless on my next trip as well. But I'm a solo traveller, would you say it's better to use an eSIM if I'm travelling alone?

[@happy_sady]

George and Heidi, you're amazing and generous with your time and knowledge! Thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

Our pleasure. Thank you!

[@bradmca2022]

Our family of 5 is going to Japan in April 2025 - and this is some amazingly comprehensive content!

[@angelblaise1]

I paid for a Mobal SIM, and they shipped it to Puerto Rico to my address without a problem. I bought it a couple of months before my trip, it took about a month, but I got it, and when I went to Japan in April I put it in the phone, I had to input the SIM info manually (they send the instructions by email and with the SIM card) and started working immediately. It worked awesome for the 15 days I needed it.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience and how you got it working, this helps a lot :)

[@deaddrunkgamer7399]

did the same for my 2019 trip, after that i've used e-sim all the the way.

[@shaunm382]

Appreciate everything you all do. We went with an esim for one line and pocket wifi for the rest of the fam. Worked wonderfully and everything was super easy to pickup/set up. No issues with data throttling.

[@ht3939]

We rented Japan wireless for 14 days for family of 3. We didn't hit the fair usage limit & there were no network or speed issues. Only time the internet got slow was when the wifi router was low on battery. Powerbank that came with it wasn't reliable, but we had our own powerbank, so it woked out really well. They delivered the wifi to our hotel reception and we dropped it off at airport post office box in the return package it came with. It was easy to use, reliable and easy to pick up & return. Highly recommend it. Thank you for the recommendation.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience, this is very helpful!

[@rank1839]

Thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thank you!

[@Fangirl4bands]

I’ll be arriving in a few weeks. I just got a new phone, so it’s carriert locked. I’ve been doing some research about pocket wifi this week, so I love that this is the first video I see when i clicked on your channel. Perfect timing

[@KenshoQuest]

Let us know if you have questions :)

[@silviawhetsell7432]

Thank you! I just rented the pocket Wi-Fi from Japan wireless and used your code. Can’t wait to start using.

[@camwoo]

Super informative with no filler. Nicely done!

[@NathanHesson]

Even if your phone is locked, newer iPhones have dual sim and you can use the second sim for data plan

[@koshelyev]

This is a really helpful video - thank you so much

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome!

[@Riverrly]

Thanks for the discount code! Will be testing out Japan wireless esim for my upcoming trip

[@mckinley05]

You rock! I'm still a few months away from my travel, but your videos are helpful. First time to bring the wife and 2 kids to Japan.

[@KenshoQuest]

We hope you have an amazing time in Japan! Here’s our checklist, to make sure you have everything covered for your trip: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6DCgXl9bd2KjbMsi=MYv9GsGut8SQfJ60

[@mckinley05]

@KenshoQuest thank you so much! Appreciate it

[@dlittle8340]

Thank you! You and Heidi have been so helpful in planning our trip to Japan next week!❤😊

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome. Have a wonderful time in Japan!

[@dlittle8340]

Thank you!

[@louielouie_1791]

Thanks, very informative. Traveling to Hokkaido, Sapporo in February 2025. Planning to rent Japan wireless pocket wifi for the trip.

[@KenshoQuest]

Happy to help. Japan wireless worked well for us in Hokkaido. Have a great trip!

[@jfmaz259]

Best summary on this topic of all the videos I’ve watched ! Thanks - I’m a lot more Confident as we head to Japan soon!

[@KenshoQuest]

Have a wonderful time in Japan!

[@lanexang8127]

i bought esim from Airalo for Sydney Australia and Hong Kong couple weeks ago, it was very slow connected for Uber, Restaurant searching, Direction to places, so i switch back to pocket wifi Numen Air 5G, What is your thought ? did i do any thing wrong on esim or just the way it is ? thanks

[@KajiMajix]

I live in Québec Canada, ordered a mobal physical SIM, it arrived in exactly 10 days. Ordered October 07, arrived October 17th. I will activate it when i land in JP :)

[@KenshoQuest]

Thank you for sharing your experience :) Have a great trip!

[@willreyes860]

My friend and I are going to Japan Late October and the first half of November. Your videos have been fantastic. Do you guys ever do live streams here or on twitch? It might be a great way to interact with your followers and for us to get questions through to you pros!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, yes we do occasional live streams on KZbin. We just have an incredibly buys schedule that we haven't been able to fit on in recently. We will have one soon!

[@KingVVIlly]

@@KenshoQuest I can imagine, especially with 2 or 3 kids!!! I know its a lot to keep track of, but please reply to this if you plan on having one in September or early October. It would be awesome to be able to chat with you guys! Thank you, and excellent work on your videos.

[@KenshoQuest]

@KingVVIlly we are planning to have one on Sunday ( not. 100% sure yet ). We'll put out a trailer to confirm :)

[@s4nnybunny04]

This video is a lifesaver. Big thank you. Plus you’ve just earned a subscriber.

[@rajatkhandelwal5097]

really appreciate your effort to make this video. my one question. i will get a pocket wifi and a physical sim. when getting a physical sim what are the documents required?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, when you go to pick up your SIM you will be required to show your confirmation number and your passport.

[@MrAmk3rd]

Howdy all. Sitting on the shinkashen Tokyo to Osaka right now. I tried to order the Japan wireless but they no longer allow pickup at terminal 1 in Narita international airport, per their website. So we went with Sakura Mobile, picked it up at terminal 1, no issues with it. We went to Akita 1st leg of trip on the train, i switched back and forth between the Wi-Fi on the train and noticed when one was out both were out. Using a VPN and 3 phones and a tablet on the pocket Wi-Fi, no issues with data usage. I set up a travel modem in the hotel room so we don't use it in the room. Been in country since July 4 today is the 7th. So far, no complaints with Sakura. Thanks for your vids!! I discovered your channel a month before we left and you truly helped with all the info on here. We look forward to more. 👍👍👊👊🤘🤘 Texas

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing your experience and your setup. Good stuff!

[@MarkLongos]

thanks for doing this video. im opting for Mobel's physical sim.

[@JDanielAV]

I will go in September to Tokyo, I will get that eSim with the 15% for 50GB thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Have a wonderful time in Japan.

[@Yuliana_lisova]

What eSIM ?

[@pkorobase]

Seems with two Androids that dont support eSIM a handy solution might be a Pocket-WIFI and maybe a Skype account for VoIP calls. Or even a real SIM additionally. ;)

[@disjunction66]

Thanks for the info, I just ordered a pocket wifi. Will see how that works out in a week!

[@jaywilliams3453]

i used your older video (haven't watched this one yet!) and did Japan wireless pocket wifi. It worked great! i had it delivered to my hotel and dropped it in the mail. other than the battery running out, it worked great. Thanks for the video!!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@mygmin648]

Thank you for the info. This is very helpful. I’ve decided to use the Mobal.

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad to have helped!

[@androidemulator6952]

Thanks you for a clear , comprehensive phone reviews- travelling back to Japan later in year- will be using your guides to setup. :)

[@m8sm8s74]

Does Mobal allow activation of the eSIM while in US before landing in Japan? If so, What’s the time period in advance it can be activated?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, unfortunately no, because you will require to connect to a Japanese network in order to complete the activation process.

[@SebYes-c9p]

Great video. Went with japan wireless, saved 15% on a plan thanks to your reflink and checked this big boogeyman off my to-do list before arriving to Japan in 20 minutes. 10/10

[@KenshoQuest]

Great choice! Have a great trip!

[@juanebello5233]

Excellent video, as always. Quick question: any eSIM consideration when traveling to Okinawa? (Is Japan Wireless still a good option there?) Please advice . Regards

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for watching :). Yes, Japan Wireless covers Okinawa. In fact, all of the recommended carriers in the video will work in Okinawa.

[@FTTrainer]

We’re in Japan now for 2 weeks using Sakura Mobile pocket WiFi and it’s very unimpressive. The service drops throughout the day and the speed is

[@KenshoQuest]

I'm sorry to hear you've been having troubles with your Sakura Mobile pocket wifi. But greatly appreciate you posting your experience for everyone. I hope you are having a great time in Kanazawa!

[@FCL70]

Excellent video, sir, thank you very much!

[@KenshoQuest]

You are very welcome.

[@jquach7572]

your videos are very informative thank you. I enjoyed watching them.

[@rohankhare9020]

Awesome video!! Will be travelling from India for 12 days. Your channel has been a great help!!

[@DevRel1]

1 more CON for home carriers is that they often have very slow speeds. Almost better to always go the (e)sim or pocket WiFi router

[@darthdiddums845]

Used Sakura Mobile last year during a 16 day visit. I received a pocket wi-fi that had no charge in the device...Lucky for me I had memorised the route from Haneda to Tokyo Station to catch a connecting overnight bus to Kyoto...and don't get me started on Kuro Neko! Plus, I had to reset the device every morning for it to connect to my phone...which I didn't work out until day 4. Thank heavens for Maccas free wi-fi and internet in my hotel! Exciting times indeed! This year I'm opting for an esim and will keep my fingers crossed. 😅

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. It's helpful for everyone. Sorry you had issues with your pocket wifi. It certainly happens. But glad you knew the route. eSIMS are the future!

[@mythiliiyer3004]

Thank you for the helpful tips and the discount coupon, it really helped to purchase.

[@KenshoQuest]

You are so welcome!

[@rappere11]

Just some information. Got back from Japan on 8/1/24 after close to 3 weeks of travel. I got the Ubigi esim 10 GB. It was difficult getting it to work. Once working it was either slow or did not work in many places. Ended up mostly using my friends pocket wifi.

[@KenshoQuest]

Sorry to hear about Ubigi issues. Do you mind sharing the places where you had issues? Thanks for sharing, it helps a lot!

[@rappere11]

@@KenshoQuest Hello Ken, sorry I can't remember exactly but these are a list of places that it sort of worked or was very slow using my iPhone 11 pro. 8/17 Tokyo activated it, 8/21 Koby issues, 8/22 Kyoto issues 8/24 Hiroshima issues, 8/26 Nagasaki issues, Tokyo issues.

[@KenshoQuest]

@rappere11, Thanks again for taking the time to share your valuable information! We greatly appreciated it!

[@GS-op7ec]

Super helpful and insightful video! thank you so much :)

[@Max-hr1ch]

Excellent video. Very thorough and informative. Thank you.

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad it was helpful!

[@OfFiCiAllCiNnAmOn]

i have used ubigi in japan and found it to be very reliable...so much so that i occasionally use it in my home country too when i need data...the speeds were fine for my usage - surfing and communications etc - occasional video streaming worked fine but of course the data volumes are lower than you'd get with a pocket wifi. was perfect as for solo traveller as i didnt need a japanese phone number.

[@KenshoQuest]

Excellent! Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@vamos419]

From my experience of using both pocket wifi and e-Sim, it's important to note that eSim will drain your phone's battery very quickly. If you use pocket Wifi, you will connect your phone to it via Wi-Fi, so it's very efficient. If you are planning to purchase an eSim, get a power bank with you as it's a must.

[@castrocompany]

@@vamos419 was the batery drain cause hotspot?

[@vamos419]

@@castrocompany No. It was because of constant 4G network being on. I didn’t use any hotspot. You can switch off cellular data when not needed to save battery

[@L0n3W0lfBl4ck]

Is this greater usage from when you are connected at home to your local cell network?

[@bornufree]

@@vamos419 Similar question. More so than home cellular? Thanks

[@andzc9230]

we used pocket wifi for our vacay (the one from jr website) easy to use and fast. the main issue though is its very slow in high crowds when we went to disneysea and disneyland(it was struggling). customer service said its not uncommon for such areas. would try esim for our next journey

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. Disney area is notorious for being slow and for losing connection. We have had similar issues with both pocket WiFis and eSIMs in the area. It makes sense it would affect both since they use the same networks.

[@andzc9230]

@ wonder how it would fare on areas such as uni studios

[@KenshoQuest]

@@andzc9230 We haven't had any issues at USJ.

[@lagycart]

I have just purchased an eSIM from Japan Wireless for my trip next week, using your link, thanks for the discount! :) Do you recommend to do the setup before traveling (I can scan the QR code from a PC screen) or only after I arrived in Japan (using the manual way)? As it did say that the days calculation will start when I activate the eSIM.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, I don't recommend you start the activation process until you have landed in Japan. Because even if you start the process, you cannot complete it because you will need to be connected to the Japanese network. You can do this as soon as you arrive at the airport in Japan and use the free airport WiFi.

[@trevorchristensen4103]

I noticed that any plans with a Japanese phone # don't have any pre-allotted minutes but charge for every outgoing call or outgoing text. Is that a normal thing even for locals or is that just for foreigners? I've gotten spoiled with included local free talk/text for Europe and the USA.

[@dmitriysotnykov9928]

I purchased a Mobal data+voice 30Gb package (that includes a local Japanese phone number). Connection is horrible. I spent three days in Tokyo, two in the Mt Fuji area, three in Kyoto, three in Osaka with day trips. Now I'm in Hokuriku region. Everywhere the internet via Mobal eSIM is super slow. I have Pixel 7 Pro, unlocked.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, really sorry to hear about your experience. Have you tried contacting their support to see if there is anything they can do? We appreciate you sharing your experience to help others make an informed decision.

[@dmitriysotnykov9928]

@@KenshoQuest I planned to contact the support but given a busy travel schedule didn't have a chance. My wife has been using Airalo with zero problems whatsoever.

[@m8sm8s74]

Good to know. Won’t be using them on my trip for sure.

[@Tommy2x93]

Great, insightful video. Thank you!

[@nizestuff]

Good day, dummy question, is it true that eSIM can drain phone battery compared to just connecting to wifi?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi this is a good question! eSIM can drain your phone faster if you are using a lot of data such as online gaming or watching a movie in HD. Or if you are sharing your internet connection with others it will also drain your battery faster. But for normal use, it does not. Regardless, while traveling we recommend carrying a powerbank. We have some recommendations if you need one in the description.

[@nizestuff]

@@KenshoQuest I appreciate your insights so much. 🙏🏼 Thank you! I'm a fan. 🫡

[@quietlywandering1995]

I used Japan Wireless in spring 2023 on Honshu & Hokkaido for 6 weeks and had no problems. Autumn 2023 I used Sakura Mobile for 9 weeks on Okinawa and constantly got slowed with the fair usage provision at 3Gb. Location may play a big part of when that provision comes into play. Just my observations.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. This is great for others who still need to make a decision! I believe you are correct about the FUP issues in Okinawa.

[@SayuriSeriati]

@@quietlywandering1995 did you have to turn on your phone on airplane mode while using pocket WiFi ? Thanks

[@quietlywandering1995]

@@SayuriSeriati Normal mode is all you need. Just connect to wifi the same way you would connect to any new available wifi source. Find/input password/connect

[@SayuriSeriati]

@@quietlywandering1995 thanks !

[@danieldevine]

Can't seem to find any 5G plans? I rarely see 4G on my device these days in the UK even when travelling, so was hoping for at least similar. Also plans with numbers come with 7GB of data? Maybe I've just missed some option but that can't be the only one right?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, they aren't advertised because while 5G is all over Japan it is hard to get on rented devices or eSIMs. Regarding plans, are you looking at Ninja WiFi? If yes, the 7GB is a dedicated amount of highspeed data/day. They do have a 3 and 5GB plan as well. Or you can look at other companies that offer 'unlimited' data but do know that they are all. subject to the FUP discussed in the video

[@danieldevine]

@ so annoying. Our FUP in uk are typically 500-1000GB per month :( no reason 5G should be hard to get on ESIM either, eSIM and physical sim do the same thing. It’s a purely artificial limitation by the carrier

[@ShelbyCorGT500]

Thank you so much for your info, I found out some of the places in the airport ( Narita ) close at 18:00 hours. This makes it difficult to pick your pocket WIFI.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, most pocket wifi companies also can send directly to your accommodation. If you prefer the airport, you might want to contact the company directly to know their current hours of operation as this can change.

[@ShelbyCorGT500]

@@KenshoQuest thank you so much !! We love your content and we’ve learned so much !!!

[@noelfrancisco5778]

Thank you so much for the suggestions and promo codes :)

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome!

[@KrysBetts-c1e]

Hi, thank you for your video, its very informative and helpful. We're going to Japan next week ( last minute) do I need to order the pocket wifi or e-sim ahead of time, or can they be done upon arrival? Thank you. 17:48

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, for pocket WiFi you should rent in advance to ensure they will have stock and to save time. For eSIM you can do at anytime. You still have time to reserve a pocket WiFi :)

[@KrysBetts-c1e]

@@KenshoQuest silly question, how do I reserve in advance? Do I just go to each individual providers website or the airport website. Apologies for the questions, too many preparations for such a short notice. Thank you for the help.

[@KenshoQuest]

​@@KrysBetts-c1e You can reserve on the provider's website. Our top recommendation for Pocket WiFi is Japan Wireless. This is our affiliate link, meaning we will earn a small commission if you purchase through this link: www.japan-wireless.com/?via=kenshoquest Save 10% with coupon JWKENSHO

[@KrysBetts-c1e]

@@KenshoQuest will do. Thank you

[@Odnarref20]

I have a personal pocket wifi (Galaxy SCR01). What is your recommended sim to use with it?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, while it should work fine with any of SIMs we recommend you check with the carrier and ask them. Sorry I don't know for sure, so it's best to ask.

[@Odnarref20]

@ This is unlocked so hopefully it will work. Thank you so much for the reply.

[@Enlightened-h4w]

thanks for your post. what is the best solution for wifi and portable battery capabilities in Okinawa and Japan for a month ? much appreciated.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, any and all the carriers I recommend in the video will work well in Okinawa as well as throughout Japan. for portable battery, do you mean powerbank? If so, then you can either rent a Japan Wireless pocket wifi as it is included. Or you can purchase one ahead of time. Anker makes very good powerbanks. 5000mAh - 10,000mAh will be sufficient.

[@NyGiant718]

Great info i will be leaving to japan friday arigato gozaimasu btw i don't think the link discount for the e sim works i just tried using it and it gives me the same price with your link and purchasing directly through the website

[@joeandorian7719]

Japan wireless did not have a place for the coupon, that I could see at checkout.

[@johnnymathers6412]

Great video very informative. Do you have a recommendation for power banks to charge phones and devices

[@KenshoQuest]

We like Anker brand power banks: amzn.to/4btovxi and also Futurizta: geni.us/futurizta. These are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through our link.

[@dlittle8340]

I’m thinking gettin eSIMs for me and my husband might be best. Is there one you can get and test before leaving for Japan? Both our phones are unlocked.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, unfortunately there is no way to test the eSIMs since they only work with Japanese data networks. What I suggest is look at the areas you plan to travel, if mostly in cities then your connection should be solid. Once you start going into the mountains and deep country you can lose connection. So you might want to check if the Docomo Network or Softbank or KDDI coverage is better it the area. Some of the carriers mentioned use more than one network, which could be a nice advantage. Also of note, Android phones typically have more issues than iPhones due to a lack of support for Band 19 on some Android phones ( sorry this might be too much information ).

[@dlittle8340]

Thank you! I’m thinking we will go with both as you and Heidi do. Two eSIMs just might save us some time at the airport. 😊

[@chriscunningham1985]

For some reason, my UK iphone complains when using more than one eSim (don't get me started!) so to not mess with my UK eSim I went with Ninja Wifi 5GB unlimited, which is fine for me as a solo traveller per day. Just pop the pocket wifi in my bag with my power bank and I'm good to go.

[@denisedomingo8537]

@@chriscunningham1985 this is what i am so worried about. I will be traveling to japan this October alone and my first time. Trying to decide if i should buy an esim or pocket wifi. Might have some technical issues with my iphone though its unlocked

[@rkuri2023]

Great information, thank you!

[@johnbailey2933]

Past trips, used Japan Wireless Routers; excellent coverage and delivered to our hotel. For this trip, will definitely add ESim; liked the suggestion about different providers - so may use Mobal for the esim. Dumb Q. how do you remove ESim and return to original carrier coverage at end of travel?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, not a dumb question! Most have never done it. All you need to do is delete it from your phone. Then switch your original carrier as the active one. I'll make a quick video on this in the near future.

[@lailiag5040]

Thank you very much for the video, it was useful. My husband and I are going to japan with tour, we like the idea of having the internet and being able to call locally. I am a bit lost with so many items choices you have. Which one that is good so which eSIM that we could get from that would allow us to to text, internet, and japan phone number to so it possible required for 2FA, please advise.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. If you want a Japanese phone number, the Mobal eSIM is the best option. Here is our affiliate link: www.mobal.com/japan-esims/?source=3402 And here is our video explaining more about the Mobal eSIM with data and Japanese phone number: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4K4ZWWtfsd3qrc

[@cdankski]

Just a question about 2 factor auth. Since we're going to be in Japan only about 2 weeks, I was thinking about removing 2 factor auth for that time period. Do you concur?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, not sure I understand. But if you are trying to avoid a text message to your home phone, then yes, it can be useful.

[@cdankski]

@@KenshoQuest Do you try to keep your phone active for 2 factor authentication (i.e. for safety reasons)? Keeping Verizon active and provide that additional layer of safety of 2 factor authentication. Sorry to bother you but my wife and I are on the fence about keeping the cell phone active.

[@KenshoQuest]

@@cdankski We have phone numbers through Google Fi that we use to receive text messages while traveling abroad, including 2 factor authentication. We try not to use the data aspect of the plan, since it's expensive.

[@Hanyapoulis94]

Very helpful video thank you! I need some clarification though, do you mean to say that I can't use Yamoto luggage forwarding services unless I have a phone number? And a Japanese one at that? We were planning on using luggage forwarding service during our stay - Do other luggage forwarding services have the same requirement?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, sorry for the confusion. You can certainly use Yamato without having your own Japanese number, however you are required to add a Japan number. Therefore, you can use your hotel phone number where you will be staying. The main reason they require it is in case they cannot locate you. If you are staying at an Airbnb you may want to get a Japanese phone number unless you have a different Japanese number you can use. I do believe all types of delivery services require a Japanese number, not just luggage forwarding.

[@hermes8258]

I like how you have carefully edit and your presentation style (like Rick Steves). Thank you for the update. I too am returning to Japan. I will get either another pocket wifi (trying a competitor to Ninja - at NRT they close early and there are long queues to return) or a SIM for my 21 days. The WiFi in my Air BnB is so-so. Plus with pocket WiFi I can easily set it up for use on my laptop and iPad simultaneously too. No, maybe I will get Mobal instead/as well because I wil be receiving packages and sending my luggage ahead. But for someone who spend only a few weeks in Japan twice per year Mobal plan seems poor value. There seems to be no moderate priced option anywhere close to when I am in Vietnam. I wish you the best of health (hopefully you are just aging, as I am at a breakneck speed). P.S. Have you considered doing a video on how to solve the 2FA issue? All of my banks, fintec (and probably my stock broker too) require me to reregister every time I move countries and change my phone number. With Wise it really involves jumping through hoops and delays. But when I ask if a VOIP will work they tell me 'no". Very frustrating!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, regarding the 2FA issue, if you are from the United States then we recommend Google Fi. While their support is the worst, if it works for you then it can be a good cheap option. We are on their cheapest plan ( their data is expensive and we don't use it) and only use for the occasional call but mostly for 2FA! We use it almost daily and has helped us stay abroad for three years now.

[@hermes8258]

​@KenshoQuest regarding my constant whinging about Mobal... You have no doubt read my comments on your other videos. Again, I caution everyone. While it is true that I finally I got Mobal SIM to work, well - it was WORK. Here is what I told their 'customer service'... "I followed the information in the link you kindly sent me, and now my phone service is working. The problem was that the paper insert provided with the SIM at Narita Airport JTB counter is *incomplete*. There were 3-5 APN settings that had to be changed (in addition to the printed ones) in order for Mobal service to function at all. The paper did not mention those. Even the link provided on the paper did not mention them. I had to email Mobal 'care' then be linked to a different webpage. Major communication oversight! Therefore, I cannot recommend Mobal to my friends and business associates. We expect 'plug and play' with a telephone number to call for technical assistance (or better yet, trained personal at customer service counters *who work for Mobal*). Maybe Mobal is suitable for young persons very familiar with technology. This semi-geezer with little patience for delays and complications found it to be a headache and most important, a waste of previous time. I value support over price and features. Mobal fails. Sincerely, Mr. Kasuhara"

[@KenshoQuest]

I'm so sorry about your issues with Mobal! I agree the system should be easier as no one enjoys entering APN settings and if they are incomplete... Yikes. I'm glad that you informed Mobal of the issue and got it to work. And thank you so much for sharing your experience. It helps our audience make an informed choice.

[@happy_sady]

Hi George. Where's the cheat sheet you mentioned comparing the options? I believe you mentioned it would be in pdf format.

[@KenshoQuest]

Here's the pdf cheat sheet kenshoquest.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/KQ-Japan-Internet-Options-V3.pdf

[@Unplugged704]

So for pocket wifi-- devices that connect to it, is it cellular service or WIFI?

[@KenshoQuest]

Think of the device as like your home router for internet. the pocket wifi receives an internet connection ( cellular ) from the network provider then you connect your phone via wifi to the Pocket WiFi.

[@michaell6995]

I was wondering what speed you can expect when using pocket wifi while in Japan? I had one on a 3 day layover trip and was happy with the speed and ended up going back to my US carrier. I mentioned the issue to the vendor and ended up getting half of my fee back.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, it varies by region and carrier. But in general the range was between 25Mbps - 75Mbps. I have never topped 100Mbps with any of the pocket Wifis I have tried over the years. In our experience the fastest was usually Ninja Wifi.

[@tceller08]

We were planning to get a pocket wifi but also use luggage forwarding. So, this won’t work because we won’t have a local number?

[@KenshoQuest]

You should be fine with just WiFi if you are forwarding your luggage from a hotel to a hotel. We often go into a Yamato Transport office to have our luggage forwarded to another office or an Airbnb rental. We need to provide a Japanese phone number in that scenario. 🌸 Heidi

[@tceller08]

@@KenshoQuest Thank you! We will be doing mostly hotel to hotel, hotel to airport at the end. This will be our second trip, but our first doing all of the planning ourselves. Your videos have been a tremendous help. We appreciate you. (and are using your links where possible)

[@alsimplicio]

Great video 🎉 Thank you!

[@angelaholbery]

Thanks for sharing your videos. We're family of 4 travelling but fun Japan wireless mobile compatibility list wise, it's not very extensive, not listing some of the newer mobiles. Would they still work as long as the mobiles is esim compatible? Also, I'm thinking of getting a pocket WiFi, as the kids mobiles are not compatible with esim, then buy one airalo esim and one Japan wireless esim just to hedge our bets for connectivity. Is that a good solution or do you recommend something else

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, the newer mobile phones with eSIM should not have any issues. In particular, and not just with Japan Wireless, the issue is usually with older Android phones and Japanese networks. If you have a newer Google Pixel, or Samsung Galaxy it will work fine. Getting a pocket WiFi is always a solid option and usually doesn't have the common issues of eSIMs. Getting Airalo in addition is a good backup since they use different networks.

[@angelaholbery]

@@KenshoQuest thanks!!! Useful advice!

[@bluecheese1675]

Great video, my question is for Japan Wireless esim, can it be used as a hotspot itself for a 2nd phone/device to connect to?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi yes it can. Usually by default, eSIM companies don't have this enabled. You will need to enter APN settings on your phone to get the hotspot feature to work. You will need to contact Japan Wireless for this info. It's easy to set up.

[@bluecheese1675]

@@KenshoQuest Thanks for the quick response! Just checked my device and it is not compatible to use eSIM, that leaves the option as pocket wifi or physical sim only. By the way, is the coverage for Japan mobile providers similar in Hokkaido region?

[@KenshoQuest]

@@bluecheese1675 Yes, we spend a lot of time in Hokkaido and all carriers have worked well except in the most remote areas.

[@bluecheese1675]

@@KenshoQuest got it, thanks again!

[@bluesteelbass]

Great information, thank you. Is it just me, or do all Voice + Data with a Japanese phone number, all carry an extra fee for any outgoing call or text? I see ¥33-44 per minute outgoing domestic numbers, and ¥5.5-33 per domestic text. Am I only finding the gaijin part of their websites? Looking at SIM cards only, no eSIM. Even the long term plans have the same outgoing rates.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, you are correct. This is the fee structure. Any outgoing call or text will incur a fee. I have checked with other carriers and they charge as well. I'm curious about this and will inquire as I don't know why. You might need a physical address in Japan and visit a carrier like Softbank or Docomo directly to get a plan without fees. But this will not be easy as a tourist.

[@saml1965]

Great video! Thankyou so much!

[@mwilliams1825]

​​@Kenshoquest Do you purchase insurance with Japan Wireless? If so, which one do you recommend?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, we personally never purchase the insurance with any of the companies, that is completely up to you :)

[@mwilliams1825]

@@KenshoQuest Thank you!

[@BaybiiexVii]

Thanks for all the info! 😄

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome!

[@Overcome174]

Hello quick question! I'll travel to Japan in January 2025 for 22 days, so if I buy the eSim in advance this month, it'll be only activated when I arrive in Japan? Just to make sure I do the buying correctly!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, yes. But the key is to not start the activation process until you are in Japan. Because once you start the activation process it will become active within a couple of days ( depending on company ) regardless of if you are in Japan or not.

[@imjustacritic]

This and all your other videos have been extremely helpful for a first time Japan traveler! However, your prices in the PDF appear stale now. For example, Japan Wireless pocket wifi is almost 2x more expensive (10 days @ 5466 yen vs 9,780-11,030 yen) than what's on the summary sheet

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, thanks for watching! I just checked and the price is still the same for me. However, you aren't the first person who has mentioned this issue. Can you tell me how you got to this price so I can make it easier to get the correct price? Thanks!

[@imjustacritic]

@@KenshoQuest Sorry I thought I replied to this. I clicked the Japan Wireless URL in your description then clicked -> "Check the Rates" -> "More Info" under Premium Wifi -> selected JPY and 10 day price is still quoted at 11,030 yen

[@KenshoQuest]

@imjustacritic Hi, and thanks for the detailed response. I have gone through this and I am still seeing ¥5,466! I wonder if it is location based. Can you tell me where you are located? If you have time, do you mind trying this link and entering dates? Leave all the settings the way they are and just select your 'Pickup/Return Date'. Thanks!

[@Tiarachyntiadewi]

Can i activate the esim in my country? So when landing, my esim will start (for preparation purpose)

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, sorry but no, because you will need to connect to a Japanese network such as NTT DoCoMo. Fortunately, there is free WiFi in all of Japan's international airports.

[@snip3d]

Great video! ...Why are these plans so small? I use like 16gb a day without trying........gosh.. what year is it :|

[@pmahardika8699]

Wow, what do you do with that much data? I never even reach more than 10gb a month

[@Moonlight-tr7gm]

Thanks for the valuable information, i will be there for 10 days, i would like to have a japan phone number in case for Cabs etc. i see the Mobal is offering calls plan with 7GB data per month only. I am worried if the maps might use more than 7gb data. Please suggest what might be the better option for me.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, 7GB should be plenty for maps. Also, the data resets at the beginning of the month and since you will be arriving near the middle of the month, if you are still in Japan on the first of November, your 7GB will be reset. So you could get up to 14 GB of data. But again, 7GB should be plenty if the majority of your usage is maps.

[@Moonlight-tr7gm]

@@KenshoQuest Awesome thanks so much. You are doing an amazing job with your videos.

[@cfalcon01]

Thanks for all the helpful videos! I've been upvoting the ones I watch and would like to keep watching videos and streams when in Japan, plus play mobile games while on the train or in line. If one were to buy Ninja wifi's 5 GB/day plan, would they be throttled after reaching the general Fair Use Policy limit of 3 GB/day, or the 5 GB they paid for? If the former, is there any point in choosing anything other than the 3 GB/day (from this company)? I was favoring the Sakura Mobile pocket wifi for this reason, but realized I should prioritize the better coverage from combining a Mobal eSIM (them specifically for the Japanese phone number) which uses Docomo, plus a pocket wifi that uses Softbank.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, the Ninja WiFi 5GB will give you 5GB of high speed data before you will be FUP territory. Your second plan of using a combination of Mobal eSIM with a pocket WiFi that uses Softbank is a sound choice and what we would do to ;)

[@cfalcon01]

@ Thank you for the prompt and very helpful response! I will plan to go with Ninja WiFi then. Keep up the great work on the channel!

[@Sn66pingAround]

Can you charge your phone with the pocket wifi power bank? just wondering so I don't have to buy one separate and have to be holding 3 devices.. (my phone, pocket wifi, and power bank)

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, you can. It's just a small power bank though. Maybe 5000 MaH.

[@Sn66pingAround]

@@KenshoQuest You're the best! Thank you

[@jonathanbrown1288]

Thanks for the discount code.

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome!

[@judypisano8552]

It looks like pocket wifi devices are also available to purchase. Is there a device you recommend?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, the easiest method would be to buy the Mobal pocket WiFi discussed in this video. The main reason for this is that it will 100% work in Japan. While many others will work, I have not tested them and therefore, I do not want to recommend something I haven't tested. But if you need a faster pocket WiFi you can copy the model number then ask Japan SIM companies, like the ones mentioned in this video if they will work on their network. I would not recommend asking an international carrier such as Airalo because they are a 3rd party and don't really know the Japanese network.

[@feelfreetoflow3563]

I was looking to buy the pocket Wi-Fi through your code on Japan wireless, I was wondering if what it says is true on the website, that it has no speed restrictions. I was wondering if that was the misleading statement as well, but I can’t find anywhere where it says that it will throttle the speed at a certain point. It just says there is no speed restrictions.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, every carrier has a speed limitation at some point. Japan Wireless is no exception. If you use a large burst of data over a short period of time you may be subject to the Fair Usage Policy (FUP) and your data will be throttled. It is up to the network provider ( NTT Docomo ), not Japan Wireless. If this happens, yes your speed will be very slow until it is reset which is usually around midnight. I recommend watching the video again, there is a whole section dedicated to Fair Usage Policy and why there really is no such thing as unlimited data speeds.

[@feelfreetoflow3563]

@@KenshoQuest okay thank you for the reply. Do you know why it would advertise that it has no speed restrictions? Am I just misunderstanding something? It seems pretty blatant no speed restrictions means no speed restrictions. I like chilling at cafés and watching KZbin videos for a couple of hours then listening to music as I walk around and using the maps. I don’t know what count says a short burst in data use it would only be me who’s using it as I’ll be solo travelling.

[@mpimento3]

hello< thanks for your post. what is best for two weeks in Okinawa and two weeks in Japan for wifi, eSim or sim card choice. i have an iphone 13 pro.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, if it's just you and you don't need to ton of data then get an eSIM. All the options mentioned have different data packages to choose from. If you have a family then you might want to get both a pocket wifi to share your internet and an eSIM for your iphone.

[@happy_sady]

Greetings from Miami. Regarding Go Taxi App; I downloaded it and set it up with my US phone # (while in the US). Does that mean that I'll have to have my Iphone roaming ON while using the Go Taxi App in Japan (in order for the US phone number registered in the App to work)? Separately, is a whistle an important item to take to Japan - for emergencies, like an earthquake? I noticed Heidi has one. Finally, do you have an affiliate link for a men's "passport wallet" since carrying passport on your person is required in Japan.

[@KenshoQuest]

For GoTaxi we only received the initial text message when setting up the account. After that everything was done within the app, with no need to receive text messages. It's personal preference if you want to bring a whistle. It's a safety precaution in general to help get found, whether when hiking or after an earthquake. Sorry, we don't have a recommendation for a men's passport wallet. We carry our passports together in a small bag, and I carry mine separately in my purse. 🌸 Heidi

[@eisenklad]

just to add for those using their own phone with E-sim/international plans, your phone might not support all 5G bands in use in Japan. so your speed might dip because you will fall back onto 4G/3G.

[@Marcaum]

Does it have any pros buying pocket wifi or esim before the travel? Are most of them easy to buy in Haneda Airport?

[@KenshoQuest]

The main reason to purchase ahead of time is so you know which plan will work best for you. Also, waiting to buy at the airport could mean a long wait and/or out of stock. As for eSIM, the same applies, but if you aren't too concerned which eSIM, they will always be available and you can certainly purchase upon arrival.

[@Marcaum]

@@KenshoQuest Nice, thanks for the help!

[@smsmyth]

Thank you

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome!

[@dlittle8340]

For a couple would going with two esims be less expensive?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, it certainly can be. It depends on the amount of data you need. But also keep in mind, that if you plan to do things separate then having eSIMs is the way to go so both of you will always be connected.

[@RetroRick1990]

Awesome 👏

[@luciocosta8213]

Is it worth it getting full insurance for the pocket wifi? Have you ever had problems with the device?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, we personally do not purchase the insurance. If you have any problems with the device, the companies are pretty good about replacing them at no cost to you. Getting insurance is completely up to you... It's more for if you break or lose the device.

[@gailcrockett9883]

Excellent Review. Planning to use my home carrier Verizon international plan. Not tech savvy Will be in Japan for 50 days starting in September traveling to Morioka, Hachimantai-shi, Sendai, Miyako, Kyoto and Hakadote. Would you advise that I get a Japanese phone number and which carrier WiFi? Traveling with my son who lives in Japan and/daughter who does not. Thank you

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, if you think you will either need to make local calls, restaurant reservations or other types of reservations then having a Japanese number is a good idea. Also, for your length of trip it is nice to have since you will be traveling to more remote areas. For this reason, we always get a Japanese number. For WiFi you can't go wrong with either Sakura Mobile or Japane Wireless. The are both super easy to use. I believe Sakura is having a sale at the moment. Have a great trip!