Pocket Wifi or E-Sim 📱 Which is best for Japan in 2024?

[@sdjgfashjasbfasd]

We just returned from Japan on a 3 week tour. My wife and I both got an Airalo E-sim with 10 gigs at $20 USD per phone. I used less than 2 gigs during our whole trip, and my wife even less. Connection was fantastic. I could open my home security camera app and be seeing a live feed in just a few seconds. Kind of amazing really. Turned it on when we landed at Narita and boom we were connected. I wouldn't hesitate to get it again.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked well, thanks for the review! When you can check your home cameras when you're the other side of the world, it makes you remember how useful the internet can be!!

[@brianmansan]

We are East Asians, and for 3 weeks trip we need at least 50Gb. That is just normal among East Asians 😂

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@brianmansan Gotta have all the internets!! 😝

[@TwoTicketsToAdventure]

For our 13 day trip in Japan, I had a 20GB eSIM (good for 30 days) from Airalo and it was more than enough data for me. The coast was $26USD. Coverage was great traveling all across the country in the cities and in the country side. My wife has t-mobile who gives free international service and it was not as great with coverage. Agree with Phil that the convenance on always having it there and ready to go is a plus.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the recommendation! That's a great price, and good to know the service was good.

[@HenachokoFujoshi]

Hey, Im a long time watcher. Just want to say that in my youtube travels you are by far the best content creator for practical and logistical info on travelling to Japan. Your videos are so useful. I really appreciate your efforts. Thank you for helping us fellow Japan lovers. X

[@cakeswithfaces]

Aww thank you so much! I put a lot of time into editing my videos so that means a lot!

[@MihaiMarinescuJr]

I second that! Amy was a great help for me. I can recommend also her book!

[@pokyboss4281]

Our group had a mix of pocket wifi and just paying the extra money for an international plan. Main complaints with the pocket wifi was needing to be near the person with the pocket wifi and I think our provider was on a network with less than stellar coverage. Those of us that opted to just go with an international plan had the benefit of needing zero setup, just used our phones normally. If you can afford it (and you can stay within any data limit), activating the international plan of your phone for a few weeks might be the best option for non-budget travelers.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I think some countries/networks have more reasonable international plans than others. That's definitely the easiest option if yours is affordable!

[@melgordon2490]

Which network are you with?

[@Piotrunusus]

I will travel to japan soon, and I'm watching many different youtubers. Only you seem to be reliable and your movies are very good in my opinion! Full of useful info, and calm and logical. You are very helpful!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that means a lot! I always try and make my videos as helpful as I can - I remember how many questions I had when I first went to Japan!

[@Piotrunusus]

@@cakeswithfaces Do you happen to work as a guide?

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Piotrunusus No - but I wrote a guide book: cakeswithfaces.co.uk/product/japan-travel-guide-book/

[@MadsMcKay]

We didn't set up our e-sim before we landed at Haneda and ended up doing the ol' school print-outs and offline maps for a week until we figured it out. (SUPER glad I over prepared, hahaha.) Stressful, but also kept us from staring at our phones for half the trip! Thank you for this video, I'm gonna come back and reference it before my next trip.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha, that's the traditional way! 😂 I did always used to kind of enjoy having a break from the internet when travelling though! And then getting lots of messages when you turn your phone back on at the airport at home...!

[@shoeithecat523]

I went for eSIM mainly for the convenience of setting it up at home and simply switching over to secondary line for data when the plane landed, that was the main attraction for me as wasn’t keen on the idea of queuing at the airport or relying on 3rd party delivery. Didn’t even consider the added bonus of still having internet access after leaving my bag on the train from Kanazawa to Kyoto and how that made getting it back less stressful, so yeah, you convinced me I made the right call!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Oh no, hope you got your bag back ok!!

[@shoeithecat523]

@@cakeswithfaces It was an experience looking back, the helpful member of staff we found after I realised what happened calmly explained in perfect English what train we should get on and what to do when we arrived. The people at the ticket gates in Osaka then asked for a description of the bag and what was inside, calmly said don’t worry we’ll find it, and returned 5 minutes later with the bag, before presenting us both with stickers of train that looked like a panda face and wishing us all the best on the rest of our trip! 10 points for something that would probably never happen in London lol!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@shoeithecat523 Ah that's so nice of them! Although it's no surprise they handled it so smoothly for you. There are so many stories of people getting things back after losing them, that would never happen in London!! 😂

[@Sam_Leo1]

so when you arrive in Japan, you phone is on fly mode all the time? When you land, you change your fly mode to non fly mode but when you do that, before switching to your secondary line, how does your phone prevent you from getting some data using your home connection?Because it takes a few seconds right to switch to secondary line after you change fly mode to normal mode no?

[@coobcakes]

I've watched a couple videos of yours and they have been super helpful for planning!! Thank you for making these videos and having the info be so accessible and well-presented

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that means a lot! I just remember how many questions I had when I first went to Japan!

[@simpllysharelle]

Your videos are soo helpful!!! My sister and I did the pocket WiFi option for our trip to Japan last October 2023, it worked pretty good!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! I think I'll always be team pocket wifi at heart! 😅

[@karenalvarez7545]

Which pocket wifi did you get? Was it good ?

[@onionbag9]

Really helpful as always. As we’ll be travelling as a family of 4, I was thinking pocket WiFi as our main connection and an e-sim with a small amount of data for each of us for the times when we are maybe not together doing different things or in different hotel rooms, or maybe if one of us gets separated and needs to be connected

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sounds like a good plan if you won't be together all the time or splitting off to do things separately sometimes!

[@joeward8302]

Perfect timing with this Amy, I'm literally just looking at which esim to go with.

[@cakeswithfaces]

What a coincidence, hope it helps!! :-)

[@LordMcGray]

go with the japan wireless router. It's superior!

[@tomasso911]

I also used pocket Wi-Fi from Japan Wireless back in 2019 and had great experience with it. They even provided a power bank to charge the pocket Wi-Fi on the go free of charge. I collected it at Haneda airport. Overall a smooth experience 👍

[@Vara91391]

I am going with an E-sim. Got plenty of crap to carry around already, and eSim I can easily charge, 5G and for my needs (google maps) definitely cheaper and faster than the wireless pocket wifis.

[@markylon]

@@LordMcGray I disagree. It's another thing to charge and carry with you. Battery doesn't last so long. E-SIM is FAR FAR Superior. You can also hotspot if you need to

[@psprog]

Just got back from Japan. I used a physical SIM again (not too many Android phones support eSIM). £17.50 for 15 days 10GB of data which was great. Ordered in UK from Ebay and placed in my dual-SIM phone once I got to Japan. Vodafone charge £6.75 per day roaming so I definitely needed a SIM! I love the fact in Japan there's always a signal wherever I went. Getting back to the UK and the signal disappeared 3 or 4 times on the train, and of course only works on a bit of the London Underground.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, I didn't realise that about Android and e-sims. Phil's iPhone and I have a Google Pixel so we could have tested that! The signal is impressive in Japan - can't believe I even had signal up a volcano!

[@bh0666]

Thanks for another timely and enjoyable lesson. I shyed away from e-sim before but have found the collection/return and use of pocket wifi for both our use across Japan worked well. Might try the e-sim next time. Ta! P.S. when returning pocket wifi make sure router and charger are flat and not overlapping inside envelope otherwise won't fit in narrow post box slot.....

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good tip! The e-sim was better than expected, but for the two of us travelling together, I think we'll still get a pocket wifi next time.

[@12morganna]

Hello, I've used a sim in October (bought beforehand), and everything worked perfectly, everywhere (I had no data limitation).

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked well! Also worth checking if there's a data limit! :-)

[@samanthabrown1517]

Where did you get your physical SIM from?

[@12morganna]

@@samanthabrown1517 On the website of Japan Experience

[@vinyalonde]

Very helpful - thanks. My experience with an e-Sim in Japan was mixed. It worked, mostly, with no service problems but I could not get an accurate read on how much data I had used. And it proved impossible to get additional data (I used Ubigi). This is not to say that Ubigi is bad but only that I could not make it work. In the past, I have used a portable router without incident and I plan to do so again when I return to Japan. I agree that a power bank is an excellent idea. I did have a router die on me once and It was a real challenge retracing my steps.

[@cakeswithfaces]

The data did stress us out a bit too! I think next time we'll be getting a portable wifi again, as it's for both of us sharing as well.

[@mickstevens7650]

I took my son to Japan last summer. He requires a lot of down time and we worried about separating with only one of us having a pocket WiFi. I purchased 2 physical SIM cards through Japan Experience that had unlimited data. We had great connections in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. I brought plastic containers that some SD cards came in so I had a place to safely store our US SIM cards for when we got to the airport back home. I think this option is great if you don't want to rely on sticking together at all times or if your phone doesn't accept eSIM.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Great choice! It's good you found one with unlimited data - that was our only real complaint about the e-sim tbh.

[@austinsakura]

Could I ask you how much the physical sum cards were, thank you.

[@mickstevens7650]

@@austinsakura I paid $68 USD for 2 SIM cards for 16 days.

[@nicoleh1680]

My plan for our next trip in the beginning of next year, is 1 pocket wifi for the 3 of us traveling together, but also an esim for back up since with multiple people, we might end up not in range of the person who has the wifi.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sounds like a good plan! Pocket wifis are great to share, but if you won't be together all the time, an e-sim can be handy.

[@jackbear5564]

Thanks Amy, we’ve just returned from Japan and I only found out about eSIMs on our last day. As it was I ended up paying Vodafone £6 a day to use my uk plan. We’re off to USA & Canada and I’ve bought a Airalo regional eSIM for North America.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it works out well - a few people here in the comments have said that Airolo are good!

[@vickyhepfinger7458]

If you get the pocket wi-fi , make damn sure you return it when you're in Japan. It is really expensive to ship that tiny little thing back from the US. I wasn't told that I could only return in at the 2nd terminal at Haneda and I was already running late for my flight so I didn't have time to go back.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes - some companies will charge you a fee as well if you don't return it before you leave.

[@garys5540]

I just got back from Japan yesterday and used Google Fi. The google maps using google Fi was very confusing. The lag was unbelievable. Very disappointing. It would not reset from your staying point for sometime, even after restarting your phone. Email kept saying I needed another app. Just to read some emails on Gmail. The trips prior, I always used pocket Wifi. Never had a problem with the Wifi. Unless your group decides to split up, then one group was left with getting over charged by their provider back in the US. For me, I will use Google Fi as a backup but will order the Pocket Wifi again for my next trip. Oh, the other con for using E Sim is that your phone should have duel sim capability but you may have to remove your SD card. That maybe pose a problem for some. Thanks Amy! Stay safe and healthy!

[@cakeswithfaces]

I've not tried Google Fi; thanks for sharing your experiences. Overseas charges can be pricey so if you're using a pocket wifi it's best to switch your phone to airplane mode as soon as you get on the plane, then turn on wifi, so your data, etc is off for your whole trip and there are no extra charges.

[@williamcostigan2134]

This and the pricing video have been really great thank you

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! Glad it's helpful!

[@isaactristan6427]

I’ve used ninja WiFi the last two times. Using japan wireless this time. Glad you had a good experience with them. Looking forward to using their pocket WiFi.

[@cakeswithfaces]

No complaints about Japan Wireless, they were all good! I might try out Ninja next time!

[@JohnnyNacis]

my phone (iphone13) still takes a sim card. I got a Mobal Softbank sim card for my last japan trip. worked great too! i also got it shipped to me before my trip

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked well, thanks for reporting back!

[@londoncreative]

Thank you as always, we have just booked our first trip we are going to Korea first and then onto Japan for all of June (we are going to be broke when we get back!!) But i'm ordering your book over the weekend😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much!! That sounds fantastic, I'd love to go to Korea one day!

[@ilysxmmy2702]

Hey Amy I love your videos I’ve been using your videos to help plan my Japan trip for years and I’m finally going in 2 weeks! The video is very informative but I’m still not sure if I should use a pocket wifi or an e-sim because my group consists of 13 people and we’ll probably not be together all the time so which one should my group use?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! It depends how you'll be going around. If you'll be in smaller groups at times, I'd get several pocket wifi. As long as one person in each party has a pocket wifi, everyone in that group can connect to it. (You don't have to connect to the same one each time - it's like joining someone's wifi at their house - you just enter the password to connect). Some pocket wifi have a limit to how many devices you can connect at one time (5 or 10), so watch out for that.

[@annettepeacock967]

Thank you Amy going in May to Japan, found this most helpful. I’m traveling with a tour so looking at an eSIM. 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! Have a great time!!

[@ChibiFallingStar]

We're going to go with pocket wifi cause there is 2 of us, tethering a hot spot each time seems tedious, we dont anticipate being apart, and probably the deciding factor, our phones are older so we cant use esims or physical sims as our phones are also locked. XD But does look like a convenient choice for those who can take advantage and need to be apart. Thanks for the video Amy! :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sounds like a good decision! I wouldn't like having to hot spot either, and we both want internet!

[@PhantomCatMusic]

My biggest problem with pocket wifi has actually been coverage. I got my pocket wifi from wi-firental. Often, the connection spotty and slow. There were even places in Tokyo, in the open sky, where I had no reception. Twice, I had to switch on roaming on my phone to get some information (luckily that wasn't too expensive for the short moments I used it). Next trip I'll probably go for an E-sim instead.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Oh no, that's not good. The pocket WiFi I had from Sakura Mobile was slow, but the others have been good. Unfortunately that's something that's difficult to know before you try it, unless you have a reliable recommendation.

[@BlindManTravels]

I used a mobile data the last time I was in Japan in December 2019 but when I go back in May I will use eSIM as I am traveling solo. I may have to top up as I plan on doing a few livestreams.

[@cakeswithfaces]

An e-sim's a good option for solo travel. Just make sure you have good enough speed/data for livestreaming!

[@matthewelmakias3667]

Amazing channel for someone coming to japan your great at it

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that means a lot!

[@MadLadOfCulture]

I do both 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Just to double make sure you always have internet! :-)

[@WolfyLuna]

I am currently in Japan myself and am using Sakura Mobile as a second physical sim. it costed ¥ 26.950 so about € 164 euro for 90 days for unlimited data. The only downside I found is that I have 3 sim cards that I need to activate after one-other. Each SIM card only lasting 30 days. Non the less I am quite content with the performance of the data sim card so-far. Today the first day of Japanese language school starts so have to see how things turn out :) Thanks for the video

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the recommendation! It's good to know it's unlimited data - that seems more common with physical sims than e-sims. Good luck with language school! Ganbatte!

[@waihwangtan1662]

Another issue with pocket wifi, family need to stick within range. If for some parts of trip u need to split up (eg shopping in a mall), some will end up with no internet (no google translate). So these days we go with a combo of both. Pocket wifi heavy user, and a small esim for individuals when we do split up during the trip. Also try. To use different providers as the network coverage can be quite different especially when outside of major cities (eg Hokkaido country side).

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes that's a good point. Pocket wifi's only best for groups if you'll all be travelling around together.

[@sheyanakt]

We've done two SIM/ESIM (one each) every time we've visited Japan. We haven't found the data limits an issue - and you can often get 2 SIM with a decent data allowance for the same price as one pocket wifi. 40GB between the two of us for two weeks has always been plenty, and I think we've done less than that too. It works great for us, and means we can be in two different places (or unexpectedly separated) and still able to get in contact or navigate/translate. Means we don't have to have the 'now if I get off the train and you don't, you wait there and I'll come to you' plan in place.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes that is a great benefit of esims/sims if you're not going to be together all the time! Thanks for sharing your experiences!

[@Myownuniquestyle]

We just got back yesterday. I used an e sim. I have a newer phone and my husband has an older phone, he found the free wifi great and we relied on my phone and e sim, battery life was fine. Ordered a 10gb e sim and used just over 2gb and I was using it hard every day. Maps, social media etc. It was so easy and scanned the QR code at the excellent airport wifi. I used Sakura and it was fine for our needs (maps and whatsapp).

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked well! Thanks for sharing your experiences!

[@Dutchmijk]

I took the pocket WiFi from Sakura. We use it with 3 phones. The battery runs out fairly quick, however we have 3 powerbanks we us, so it is never an issue. We have been to: Kyoto, Himeji, Hiroshima, Kumamoto and Tokyo, and we always had good reception. Except under te ground😂. We don’t download and movies, using the pocket WiFi.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Maybe I just had bad luck with Sakura mobile then! It was very slow even when viewing images on webpages, and on certain services it seemed like the speed was being limited. Haven't had that problem with other providers!

[@jaredsharethealoha]

Thank you for the info. eSIM is convenient no extra thing to carry or recharge. Little tricky to set up at first. I used Airalo eSIM and was cheap. Plus you can always add on after you use up your data. Have to have LINE or facebook messenger etc to call other people. I might try WiFi again only because I use iPhone and I messages and FaceTime works with WiFi that should be constantly connected. Going in July and will use both to see also. Thank you

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for sharing your review! With FaceTime, the unlimited data that comes with a pocket wifi would be useful.

[@zeeZerl]

I've used pocket wifi in the past and I agree on the group usefulness. The only downside is that someone will be without data if you split the party for a bit. Last year I used a physical SIM card from Sakura since I already have an eSIM from my regular carrier, and my phone can't dual sim with two eSIMs. The physical ones come with unlimited data while the digital ones do not, for some reason. Speed was perfectly fine, but I also didn't really use it for streaming and stuff.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good tip about the unlimited data from physical sims - limited data was our main complaint about the e-sim.

[@Matto-91]

thanks for the video ! one thing to note, you may need to unlock your phone to use ( connect) to a network using a sim card from another country ( at least for Canadians ) now federal Wireless Code changed in 2017 so all phones purchased after that date should already come region free or unlocked so you can use any sim card, but I highly recommend checking with your service provider prior to traveling. I ran into this issue when I travelled to Japan in 2016 but I didn't know my phone was locked so other sims wouldn't let me connect to a network , but I got a pocket Wi-Fi as well and that worked flawlessly. Again I think this issue only applies to Canadians, but always double check with whatever cell provider you use

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's a good point, thanks for mentioning that!

[@etherdog]

Very useful video, Amy! I imagine that you both use VPNs and I know that adds to data and battery usage. Perhaps you could do a vid on that topic?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Phil uses a VPN and I know he used it occasionally for work stuff on this trip with no problems! :-)

[@Gantorin]

I used pocket wifi, and planned to use it on my next trip there. You never know when you might need internet, so unlimited is my jam.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I agree, it's good to know you can always have as much data as you need!

[@Gantorin]

@@cakeswithfaces I tend to wear cargo pants on vacation even in summer (Florida boy), so there is always a pocket for the wifi. Besides it is safer to keep money and passport in an odd Zipped or velcro pocket so it it is harder to get stolen.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Gantorin Very true - even in a country with low crime rates like Japan you can never be too careful! (You can tell I grew up in London...!).

[@Geisti]

In the past we have used a pocket wifi. For the upcoming trip in october I will travel with my parents and my sister. With the good chance that we will split up or that the parents want to retire earlier to the hotel I'd probably get us E-Sims. That is the main issue with a pocket wifi, if you split up.. who gets to take it along ;)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes that is true! We have a tradition of having one separate lunch to try out veggie and non-veggie ramen places, and it always felt weird not having internet, it's like a comfort blanket, you always know where you are!

[@Geisti]

@@cakeswithfacesI also think my parents will really need google translate. They are both deaf and that could be a interesting experience for them beeing in a country with a very different culture. And they kind of need there smartphones for a lot of their communication.

[@LordMcGray]

or go with two routers instead. will still be cheaper and your parents will probably not split up, so they could take one and you the other.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Geisti Smartphones are so useful not just for language barriers but general accessibility and communication barriers!

[@pastense]

My last Japan trip I was forced to get the pocket WiFi because I forgot to unlock my phone. So I had no other choice. And to be quite honest, it was a very reliable option the whole time. I only ever kept the pocket WiFi itself in my jacket pocket. It only ever fully died on one day. But I also have a very reliable power bank with me. Might add slight bulk to your jacket or bag, but I’d say it’s definitely worth it! Especially if you prefer not to unlock your phone

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked out well! They've served us well many a time!

[@tigerandbuddy]

What do you mean 'unlock your phone'? Is than an iphone thing?

[@pastense]

@@tigerandbuddy I use AT&T and got my phone thru them. And when purchased thru them, their phones are “locked” strictly to only AT&T networks. Which means, internationally, I’d be forced to roaming, which can get very, very expensive.

[@chuck6290]

Last year we did pocket Wi-Fi and it worked pretty well most everywhere! Getting it at our hotel and having it sent back to them was a breeze (probably the most stressful part for me, what if it never got back to them?). That said, I am going eSim for my trip back next month. It was a huge hassle plugging the pocket Wi-Fi brick into the USB power bank, turning it on, connecting it to the phones, and then having all these cables and devices to charge at the end of each day. That pocket wi-fi barely held a charge too, it was always dying. Digging through my backpack to mess around with the pocket Wi-Fi device also was super awkward. With eSim it is going to simplify everything. I really hope the internet service is just as good! Would hate to get lost because I can't connect to Google Maps D:

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hopefully you'll find the e-sim's a smoother process! Just watch our for data limits. If it helps, I found the Japan Wireless coverage was the same with e-sim and pocket wifi. That's the only e-sim I've tried, but I'd avoid Sakura Mobile as their internet speed was sloooow.

[@Jiskle]

I'm with the Three network and I can unlock my general data plan, admittedly it's a bit expensive but the tethering is fine and we often carry around portable batteries or buy them whilst we are out. Useful video though thanks :)

[@Jiskle]

We also just take a safe extension lead so we can use multiple English plugs.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad that works well! I use travel adapters with extra USB plugs too - especially with the cameras it always helps to be able to charge more at the same time.

[@LouieGrandie]

I have a pocket Wi Fi and when i visit Asia anywhere i get an AIS tourist SIM card or a local phone company sim card. Usually the cost is less than $20 US and i get large GB limit. Works great for me. I do buy a one day data package that gets me going until i get to a phone store.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@LouieGrandie]

@@cakeswithfaces the AIS 8 day tourist card is only $11 US and comes with 25 GB of 4/5 G speed. I use a GlocalMe Numen Air 5 G Wi Fi unit and in Thailand i have gotten up to 250 mbs speed. As you are in Japan get the AID Sim2Fly which is a great deal

[@diamonddave2622]

As a solo traveller I always go SIM. Been to Japan many times and can get away with a small amount of data

[@cakeswithfaces]

I think that's what I'd do too if I was travelling solo, and didn't have an iPad or any other devices to connect. :-)

[@simoneklomp9496]

I will use Airalo eSIM soon in Japan and South Korea as they are offering a Asia plan

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the rec! It's good you can use one for both countries.

[@kc3302]

Good choice. Airalo works well.

[@bmorgan7559]

Airalo may have connection issues in Japan! I had this plan on my very recent trip- worked great in Taiwan, but I couldn't get a signal at all in Japan (Tokyo and Kyoto) and had to switch to Ubigi. When I looked it up it seems like this is not uncommon (although airalo was recommended to me before my trip!)

[@kc3302]

⁠I don't know if it's only in Japan but for Airalo to work you need to make sure that roaming is enabled on the esim configuration. That may have been your issue as getting no signal at all generally means that something on your phone isn't right. Did you contact their support? This is probably the first thing they would get you to check.

[@bmorgan7559]

@@kc3302 it worked perfectly in Taiwan, but once I landed in Tokyo there was nothing (flew direct from Taiwan)- I would get little flashes of the network it was trying to connect to (an australian network, for some reason), but no internet. Tried resetting everything and fiddling with the settings, but no luck. Once I switched to a different esim on a different network, everything was fine. Didn't contact support, but looked up "why doesn't my airalo work in Tokyo" and found other people who experienced the same issue.

[@kingreese808]

Hi ! Do the different pocket wifi rental companies use different networks? I believe the top 3 in Japan are Docomo, Softbank, & AU. Which one is stronger in rural remote areas, and would I need to rent the wifi router from? Thanks for the vids!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

It doesn't really say on your phone which network it's using, because it just looks like you're connected to wifi, like your wifi at home. I had excellent signal everywhere with the pocket wifi from Japan Wireless, and I never had any problems with the wifi from japan-rail-pass.co.uk either. The Sakura Mobile wifi had signal everywhere, but it was slow in general, so I wouldn't recommend that one.

[@kingreese808]

@@cakeswithfaces We’ll be going in June so I’ll try Japan Wireless. Thank you so much for the helpful answer and video!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@kingreese808 Have a great trip! I love how warm it is there in June!

[@kingreese808]

@@cakeswithfaces Thanks! We’ll be staying up North in Aomori, kinda rural area so I’ll update the router usage here we get when we come back!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@kingreese808 I was impressed how there was signal everywhere around Kyushu, even in some remote areas in Nagasaki prefecture, so hopefully you should be ok!

[@jiyon167]

Been traveling to Japan since 2008. Been a regular traveller there. Believe me it was even worse then. I couldn’t even use my iPhone 1 then as all the Japanese networks were 3G no 2G. Always used a Japan Wireless pocket router. Always been great. I would recommend to anyone if you’re staying at a Airbnb and they promise the usage of a pocket WiFi don’t rely on it. The data would have been used by the previous occupant so you can expect super low speed to the point where it’s unusable. So always rent a pocket WiFi for your trip.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good tip! The first couple of times I went to Japan, pocket wifis weren't really a thing, so we were surviving without internet, using offline maps. It took a lot more research! It's so much easier now when you can just check opening times, trains times and everything as you go. 😅

[@simpllysharelle]

I used Sakura Mobile! It was pretty good!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked out better for you - I found it slooow! Even loading images was slow.

[@gokaijourney2105]

I've always used the pocket wifi. I have been curious about the sim card but was always worried about the whole locked vs unlocked phone causing trouble. Thank you for trying out both options. The esim seems like a great option.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah I hadn't thought about that! From a quick Google search, it seems like you might not be able to use an e-sim if your phone's locked. (Before I tried it, I'd always thought that services linked to your phone number like Whatsapp might not work, but you can choose which sim you want to use for which services so it's fine).

[@lohanette]

I did data roaming with my UK network provider paying £6 a day. Don’t know what network I was connected to in Tokyo but it was so slow live streaming was near impossible. Next trip I’ll try that Mobal SIM card which gives calls and data and the option for a Japanese phone number.

[@cakeswithfaces]

It should work out better for live streaming hopefully. And a Japanese phone number can be useful if you need to register for anything or make bookings, etc.

[@garethcadd6430]

I used pocket WiFi as I took multiple devices. It was well used and needed to be connected to power bank non stop though

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sounds like you made good use of it! :-) They are good for multiple devices.

[@olivers1185]

If you go on regular trips is worth looking at buying a pocket wifi. I have the glocalme and paid for itself after 2 trips. Just need to buy the tariff you want and top up.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah I hadn't thought about buying one. So it's like a pay as you go phone, that you top up?

[@olivers1185]

@@cakeswithfaces yes, you choose your location and how long and how much data you want and is the same as the pocketwifi. If you have 2 people and multiple devices its more cost effective, but really saves money on multiple trips when you aren't renting one. I got the GlocalMe UPP, didn;t need the screen version and manage top ups via phone

[@sorehammer]

Very informative cheers.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, hope it helps!

[@coorie]

Just finishing up my trip, I would have loved to save a bunch of money and use and e-sim, but unfortunately I need to keep my normal number active for work meaning I had to pay for the full fat international plan from my provider each week. If you can avoid or forward your number somehow I would highly recommend it

[@pstevenson]

you can keep two lines active on iphones if you use esim (either physical + esim or two esims). so you could keep your work phone active for calls, and have all data via a cheap esim.

[@cakeswithfaces]

If it's for work it has to be done! 😅 Maybe you can at least put it on your business expenses...?

[@ysl9784]

The problem of pocket wifi is if one traveller lost during travelling, he or she may not able to use the phone to contact the other person who carry the pocket wifi .

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, that is a point. And it's only good if you're always doing the same things, together.

[@brittanycollier4635]

Which portable chargers do you like/recommend?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I got this one: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BYNYBTYK/ref=pe_27063361_485629781_TE_item Not complaints, it's pretty small and lightweight. (Japan Wireless provide a portable charger if you rent a pocket wifi).

[@brittanycollier4635]

@@cakeswithfaces awesome! Appreciate you and your videos :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@brittanycollier4635 Thanks so much! 🥰

[@WildCatMiyuu]

The only place I struggled with signal on Pocket Wifi was in the deeper, most rural parts of bungoono. We usually take pocket wifi because there's 2 of us, we're rarely apart from each other, and the extra portable charger and plug are very handy even for some personal devices :D (even though we bring our own) But I'd be very tempted to try an eSIM next time if we can get 2 with a large amount of data at a good price.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Same here - a pocket wifi's great for the two of us to share! I was impressed by the e-sim but will probably still stick with the pocket wifi in future. How was Bungoono - it looks gorgeous!

[@WildCatMiyuu]

@@cakeswithfaces Bungoono was amazing! We rented little tree houses by the river, and since we had a car we got to see caves, waterfalls and go on forest walks. The roadside station had a weirdly delicious specialty: green pepper ice cream!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@WildCatMiyuu That sounds wonderful! Green pepper ice cream sounds interesting... I'd give it a try!

[@fanglord13]

e-sim bet and it's not even close. Even as early as last year, e-sims were still not good enough value compared to a physical sim, but the cost gap has closed to near parity. The convenience of setting up your e-sim ahead of time so that you can be connected as soon as you land and quick access to your home mobile for 2FA Authentication when required by your bank are benefits far too great to ignore. The Pocket Wifi relies on another device, meaning another battery to charge/maintain, plus the cost/hassle of collecting and dropping off the hire unit. Going over in June and will get out e-sim's just before leaving :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Have a great trip!

[@AlanVByrnes]

Amy the pocket WiFi Japan has always looked more better and useful to me but which one do you think is? Again I’d rather go with the pocket WiFi 🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵

[@cakeswithfaces]

I still prefer the pocket wifi, that's what we'll be getting next time I think!

[@AlanVByrnes]

@@cakeswithfaces same here and thanks always super helpful with your opinions and best advices especially when traveling to Japan 🤝🤝🤝

[@chimparse]

Hiya, we're in Japan right now, staying at the Gracery in Shinjuka. Took your advice on the esims and they work great 👍🏼 . Could you recommend any bars / pubs for us? Around shinjuku as that's where we're based. We're 4 blokes in our 50's, we're after good beer and atmosphere music. Any recommendations would be appreciated. Loving Japan so far. Thanks fot the vids, keep the good work. 😢

[@cakeswithfaces]

Great hotel choice! Not very original but have you been to the Golden Gai? Always an experience! Or pick a random izakaya (although not one in Kabukicho with touts or you might get your drinks spiked & end up with a massive credit card bill... Choose somewhere yourself, don't let anyone drag you into their place). It's more for eating as well as drinking but Torikizoku's good for food & drinks - it's somewhere relaxed you can all hang out as long as you want.

[@chimparse]

@@cakeswithfaces Thanks so much for your reply. We're back in England now and after nearly a week, still fighting the jetlag. We enjoyed Japan so much and we're already talking about returning next year!. We did loads, but missed so much! We had 5 nights in Shinjuku, took the Shinkansen to Osaka and spent 3 nights there, day tripping to Kyoto, back to Tokyo for 2 nights in Shibuya (will deffo stay there longer next time). We did Golden Gai a cpl of nights, loved it. We also did the GoKarting around Tokyo dressed as minions! we really wanted to be Mario, but I think Nintendo put stop to that :-) We managed to get a 'proper' SUICA card! and it was so convenient, lasts 10 years so it's good for next year! Keep doing the videos, they're great and will help us with our next trip to Japan, next year :-).

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@chimparse That sounds fantastic! I know the feeling of wanting to go back straight away...!

[@motojojo_]

Because of how I travel, I get a SIM every time and get really stingy with apps needing data (either limiting access to wifi or just turning data off until I need it). Tried going without data, solely relying on hotel/public wifi… didn’t go well, would not recommend 😂

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha, yes it can be difficult without internet! It's definitely worth it to help you out when you get stuck, and save time making trips to places that might be closed already.

[@jaynekilbride5620]

We are going on a cruise around Japan. Would an eSIM work while we are at sea? The cruise wifi is very expensive.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I believe that many do, as long as you're within a certain number of miles from the shore. However I haven't been on a cruise, so I can't speak from experience. I'd check with the provider when you order it. However, when I took the night ferry (through the Seto Inland Sea, from Kyushu to Kobe), the ferry website said there may not be internet signal, but both the pocket WiFi and e-sim worked perfectly.

[@mpabriaga]

Although, they are convenient, not all eSIMS have shareable data capability. There are telecom companies that offer eSIMs with shareable data but they’re really expensive especially if you’re a heavy user. That’s why I always opt for a pocket wifi when I go to Japan since it has unlimited data and it’s more economical.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, if you want to share, the pocket wifi does seem like the better option. It's what we'll be using next time I think.

[@rafmi3685]

Nornal sim card! I tried the Sakura unlimited data sim card. I think it was around 6000 yen for 2 weeks. Worked well everywhere even on top of mount Fuji!

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's good to know, thank you! It's good you got unlimited data.

[@rafmi3685]

@@cakeswithfaces just checked now, they increased the price to ~7000 yen +_+. Thanks for your great content by the way!

[@BobSaysWhat22]

I am Japanese living abroad and I always rent pocket wifi and mostly worked fine. However it didn’t work at all at Tokyo Disney so was my international roaming. It worked fine in middle of Tokyo Shibuya etc but not in Disney where so many people congregate in one place so I am thinking what to do next time when I will be in Japan this year.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's interesting, as Shibuya is also extremely crowded at times. Maybe not as many people browsing their phones as people standing in queues at Disney. Someone else here in the comments said they had problems with location services in the Disney app with an e-sim.

[@tigerandbuddy]

Great video! I'm going to Japan next week and plan on getting an esim before I go. However I keep seeing people talk about locked and unlocked phone? What does this even mean?

[@cakeswithfaces]

A locked phone can only be used with one service provider/network. An unlocked phone can be used with any network. To use an e-sim, you need to have an unlocked phone. Have a look on Google for instructions on how to tell if your phone is locked or not.

[@tigerandbuddy]

@cakeswithfaces Thank You so much! I appreciate it!

[@Joslor]

I used japan wireless. And I didn’t have any issue. I would used it again

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it worked well for you too!

[@128a51achd]

Simply ❤ed your video. I am (alongwith my spouse) planing to visit Tokyo for just about 15 hours during our stopover at Haneda Airport, on way to USA. I shall love to hear from you whether we should go for pocket wifi or esim during this short stay of less than just 1 day, at Haneda Airport. An honest and early advise on the following shall be highly appreciated. 1. For 15 hour's Tokyo visit should I opt for esim or pocket wifi. 2. How much each of these would cost for one day. 3. Which company esim &/or pocket wifi works best. From.where to bye either of these two options. 4. Please suggest names of companies I should go in for a seamless availability of internet. 5. For one day use, out of your experience, which one would you prefer. 6. Compare these 2 cost wise. 7. Which is easier to use/install, as we are elderly and not much IT/computer savvy travelers. Regards

[@cakeswithfaces]

If you're not tech savvy, a pocket wifi is probably easier to set up - you just turn it on and connect to it like you'd connect to any wifi network (select the network and enter your password). You can pick it up at the airport and then return it at the postbox at the airport before you leave. I've used Japan Wireless and japan-rail-pass.co.uk and they were both good. There are cheaper companies, but I can't say if the service would be as good.

[@128a51achd]

​@@cakeswithfaces Indebted for your quick revert. Thanx, a ton.

[@joawaehlte..]

I am not tech savy. I planned to ask my provider Tmobile to unlock. I fly on May 8, when do I have them unlock? Once unlocked, I then get esim upon arriving Narita terminal 1. Is it possible to have the staff at the store to install esim for me? Anything else i need to know or do?

[@cakeswithfaces]

You'll need an unlocked phone to use the e-sim, so I'd ask them to unlock it now, just in case of any problems. As the e-sim is virtual, there isn't really a store where anyone can help you. There should be instructions from the e-sim provider (Japan Wireless provided step by step instructions, and a video walk-through). If you're not tech savvy, I'd suggest a pocket wireless may be easier to set up. You just switch it on, then connect to it like you connect to any other wifi network.

[@greigmackenzie2091]

Do not get an esim if going to Disney. The location services with the park app don't work properly. Get a normal SIM.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Interesting, thanks for mentioning that! I'm hoping to go back to Tokyo Disney next time, when Fantasy Springs is open!

[@Coasterlove2020]

Pocket WiFi I used ninja WiFi in September and I was very good we will be use it again in October

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for sharing your review! I've heard of Ninja but not used them; it's good to know they offer good service.

[@dineshsubudhi8695]

Can we post/return the pocket wifi at any airport in Japan?

[@cakeswithfaces]

You can return it at any postbox in Japan, including postboxes at the airport. Check the rules just in case different companies have different requirements, but every WiFi I've had has been the same so far!

[@driftertravels928]

You can get many esims with unlimited plans now just like for pocket wifi. I never use pocket wifi now as esims are just much more convenient.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the tip - always worth checking the data limit with e-sims to make sure it's good for you!

[@Sayompoo134]

We are going for trip form UK to Tokyo in August for 21 day for family of 6 . 3 adult and 3 child what do think it best for us pocket wife or esim . ( pocket WiFi it said unlimited. Will it be get slower when we using alot of Internet ? )

[@cakeswithfaces]

If you'll be going around together, I'd recommend a pocket WiFi as you can all connect to one device, and the data is unlimited. I only have experience of using it between two people, but the speed's always been excellent.

[@ShardSpyder]

Always make sure to have my pocket WiFi shipped to my hotel before I even leave for Japan. It’s too convenient

[@cakeswithfaces]

You can't do without it these days!

[@Sealfarts]

Went in January this year, did the e-sim, and it worked the best for us as a couple! We went with the e-sims for two main reasons: we both had unlocked phones and a previous experience when we went in 2016. In 2016, the airbnb we stayed at actually provided us a pocket wifi! However, connection was spotty and we had a HUGE scare where we thought we lost it (we accidentally packed it in our luggage on our last day). We had to charge it daily, and I was always scared that if we did separate, we have no way to communicate. Next time I go, we're definitely doing e-sim again! And for the battery issue, we made sure to connect to the hotel wifi and carried a portable battery.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for sharing your experiences! I once stayed in a hotel that provided an actual mobile phone with internet access for you to use. Although you don't know about the security, etc, so I didn't use it!

[@tigerandbuddy]

What is a locked phone?

[@Iymarra]

This might seem like a dumb person question, but fellow UK person here - if you have a bolt on from [whichever provider] for data, would you just not be able to use that rather than a pocket wifi? I mean, I imagine a pocket wifi or esim might have slightly better speeds but in theory, you should be able to pop over with a travel data plan just as well...as I understand?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, if you get a bolt on for international data, you wouldn't need a pocket wifi or e-sim. On my plan it's quite pricey, but you might have a better phone plan than me!

[@Iymarra]

@@cakeswithfaces Yes, I think many of these are about £5 a day - for a longer trip, probably much better to go with your handy dandy pocket wifi or e-sim advice!

[@markjones2781]

I'm intrigued. How much did your UK provider hit you for the txts you received before you disabled their SIM? I recently got hit $10AUD each time by my Australian provider for receiving a couple of txts in both Singapore and Hanoi before I disabled their SIM. Hardly breaking the bank, but a tad annoying.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes that is annoying! There may be a better way to set it up without opening it up to international texts if you know what you're doing...! Luckily Phil had an add-on for international service on his phone (so he could get auth codes, etc, for work) so he didn't get charged that time.

[@Erck712]

Just the video I need right now. There are 3 of us so I will be getting the pocket wifi from Japan Wireless. We are going in September, when do you recommend I order it? Also, could I drop the pocket wifi back at the airport where I picked it up? And do I need an adapter for my electronic devices I'm bringing? Or will they fit the plugs I have? (American) Thank you in Advance!

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'd usually order my pocket wifi about a month before I go. I think it depends on the company, but you just need to leave enough time for them to despatch it to wherever you're picking it up. Usually you have to post the pocket wifi back, but there are postboxes at the airport (like the one in the video). The place where you pick it up at the airport isn't the wifi company; it's a counter where you can pick up parcels (a bit like a post office). Japanese plugs are the same as US plugs (two flat pins) so you won't need an adapter.

[@leejournals]

I always use a pocket wifi with unlimited data, it's a bit pricier but worth it!

[@cakeswithfaces]

It's good to know you can browse as much as you want with no limits.

[@Chrisb8s]

The Airbnb we went to in Osaka included a pocket WiFi

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's a great deal, very helpful!

[@sadnormie4172]

What are the odds. Was considering what to get when I go to Japan in May!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha, hope it helps you decide! :-)

[@metomyoujane]

For pocket wifi, can you pick up from Kansai airport, then return at Narita airport or does device have to be returned to exact same location? I am flying into Kansai upon arrival to Japan and then departing from Narita at end of trip. Thanks

[@cakeswithfaces]

You return it by post, so you can post it in any postbox you like, whichever's most convenient. There are postboxes at both airports.

[@metomyoujane]

Thanks! That's so easy and convenient ❤

[@smyth339]

Did they send pocket wifi to your uk home address? :) did it take long to arrive?

[@cakeswithfaces]

You can choose to either pick it up from the airport when you arrive in Japan, or have it sent to your hotel in Japan. You tell them your arrival date and in my experience, it's always been there waiting for me.

[@smyth339]

@@cakeswithfaces thank you! Have you always opted to pick it up at the airport? :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@smyth339 Usually I pick it up at the airport (so I can use Google Maps to get to the hotel!), but this time (in the video) I had it sent to the hotel and it was waiting for me at check-in.

[@ianmarkham149]

I'm a bit of a techno idiot, so I'm going for the pocket WiFi so I can connect phone and small laptop without having to learn how to tether them. I've found 3gb per day for £2.55 per day. Seems reasonable. Hotel WiFi in the evenings for next day planning.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sounds like a good plan! Have a great trip!

[@impylse]

But what about a physical SIM? any info on that?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I haven't tried one myself; it's similar to an e-sim but it seems more common for physical sims to have unlimited data. And of course, you have to be careful not to lose your original SIM card!

[@tiptonshadowsong2163]

Set up our eSIM before we took the flight. Just needed to activate when we landed. Have used pocket WiFi previously, and what killed it for us was there throttling- laptop had a big update pocket WiFi went to dialup speeds for the next few days.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That may be what happened for us with Sakura Mobile, but I've not had a throttling problem from any other providers with pocket wifis. It can be difficult to know in advance though, which are going to do that.

[@LimexLive]

Im honestly looking for a unlimited pocket wifi or e sim hu6 usually they cap the connection after 5gb ??? I want to stream on twitch in Japan for my friends. Do you recommend anything else?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I believe that Japan Wireless's pocket WiFi is unlimited data, and the same with others I've tried. That's one reason I prefer a pocket WiFi to an e-sim. I don't do streaming though so I can't say how well each performs for that. I think Ninja WiFi used to have a plan that they recommended for streamers, but I'm not sure what plans they have now.

[@minako98501]

Looks like Japan wireless has an unlimited plan for eSIM now :D

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's good! That definitely makes it a more attractive option, especially for solo travellers.

[@sufamidan1006]

Was very close to buying Sakura pocket wifi … its cheaper than ninja. Would you recommend i pay a bot extra for ninja? Also, how much is enough GB a day for google maps, facetime and video streaming at night? Cheers.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I haven't tried Ninja, but there have been some good review of them here in the comments. I wouldn't recommend Sakura - it was very slow and definitely the worst I've tried. It's difficult to say how many GB you'd need, but 1GB a day wasn't really enough for us (for one person) and we didn't do any facetime calls.

[@garygiles63]

Hi, looking for help and advice, I'm travelling Japan in a camper for 6 weeks. My work is on the Internet, which allows me to travel for long periods of time. The issue I am having is the 2gig a day fare usage limit. This seems to be on all travel data sim cards. This is totally messing up my trip, as I am constantly hitting the limit and having to find WiFi spots. Has anyone found a solution to please

[@cakeswithfaces]

Most pocket wifis give you unlimited data, although they probably have fair usage limits. Or, I haven't tried it myself but I've seen this longer term wifi option recommended: www.therealjapan.com/mobal-wifi-review/

[@JYLiKayin]

Nomad is also a good choice

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@waihwangtan1662]

Some telcos will block sharing of mobile data via hotspots. Thats why u couldnt share esim data. Unfortunately they almost never state this in their package information and u can only find out the hard way. If u have more than 1 device, it might be safer to go with pocket wifi. These days all ‘unlimited’ packages have a fair use limit. It will throttle the speed severly once u go past the limit. Therefore dont go video streaming on these ‘unlimited’ packages, especially if u have a whole family sharing it.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, tbh for the two of us I'd get a pocket wifi next time. It was strange as Japan Wireless say you can use hotspots, and we often hotspot at home, but in practice these things don't always work out!

[@9OClockRant]

Is the an easy way to get a temporary Japan number? I guess on the eSIM we should set it as a metered data connection…..

[@cakeswithfaces]

If you get a sim that includes voice calling, that would give you a Japanese phone number. I've heard of them with physical sim cards, I'm not sure if there are e-sims that include it.

[@motojojo_]

Afaik, Mobal are the only ones doing proper Japanese phone number, available in physical and esim. Not the cheapest option and generally have a 7Gb per calendar month data limit (yes, personal experience, used it last time I was in Japan and have also just booked another for my next trip). Depends if you really need a Japanese phone number if it’s worth it, I only get them as I road trip solo and emergencies can happen that way.

[@9OClockRant]

@@motojojo_ thank you. I will take a look

[@ElrosTar-Minyatur]

I’m in Japan at the moment and I use a pocket wifi from Japan Wireless. Are the always with unlimited data?

[@cakeswithfaces]

They have been unlimited in my experience, but they might not all be the same so check the terms of the one you got! :-)

[@Omni0404]

What happens if you order an e-sim and realize halfway through your trip that you're going to need more data? Can you just top it up?

[@cakeswithfaces]

It depends on the rules from the company you got it from. Some you can top up, and with others you need to buy an additional plan. That's why I prefer unlimited data.

[@balgmi99]

can you make phone calls in Japan if you have eSim?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Most e-sims are data only, so no phone calls or text messages. But you can use data calling. Some e-sims may include it though - probably more physical sim cards I think.

[@balgmi99]

@@cakeswithfaces thanks. I will visit Japan soon and it helped a lot!