Is it Better to Use Pocket WiFi or eSIM in Japan?

When planning a trip to Japan, many travellers find themselves torn between using pocket Wi-Fi or an eSIM. Both options offer convenience, but making this captivating decision can significantly influence how connected you feel during your adventure.

Staying connected while travelling is crucial for efficient navigation, sharing experiences on social media, and communicating with family and friends. Losing connectivity can disrupt your travel experience and leave you feeling disconnected from the world.

When choosing between pocket Wi-Fi and eSIM, it’s essential to consider factors such as the number of devices that need to be connected, data requirements, and the overall convenience of use.

What is meant Pocket Wifi

Pocket Wi-Fi is a portable device that provides a wireless internet connection through a cellular network. It acts as a mobile hotspot, allowing multiple devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, to connect to the internet simultaneously using Wi-Fi. Pocket Wi-Fi devices are especially popular among travellers, as they allow users to access the internet on-the-go without relying on public Wi-Fi networks, which can be unreliable or insecure.

These devices typically come with a preloaded data plan, which can be used in specific countries or regions, and they often have a rechargeable battery, making them easy to carry and use throughout the day. Users can find pocket Wi-Fi devices available for rent or purchase at various locations, including airports and mobile service providers, allowing for convenient and seamless connectivity during their travels.

Advantages of Pocket Wi-Fi:

1. Multi-Device Connectivity: Pocket Wi-Fi allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, ensuring that everyone can stay online.
2. High Mobility: With its portable design and rechargeable battery, pocket Wi-Fi is easy to carry, providing consistent internet access while you explore Japan.
3. Signal Quality: Pocket Wi-Fi often delivers good signal quality, particularly when compared to some public networks that may be unreliable or slow.
4. Flexible Data Usage: Some providers offer customizable data packages to meet your specific needs during your stay in Japan, giving you the freedom to choose the best plan for your travel itinerary.
5. Security: Using pocket Wi-Fi provides a higher level of security than public Wi-Fi networks, as you have full control over the connection.

Disadvantages of Pocket Wi-Fi:

1. Rental or Purchase Costs: Renting or buying pocket Wi-Fi can be more expensive than using an eSIM, especially for long-term internet usage.
2. Battery Maintenance: Pocket Wi-Fi requires regular charging, which can be inconvenient if you cannot recharge while out and about.
3. Range Limitations: While pocket Wi-Fi can cover a few hundred metres, it’s important to stay within range to maintain a stable connection.
4. Availability at Rental Locations: Pocket Wi-Fi must often be rented from specific locations, such as airports, which may not always be available or could involve waiting in line.
5. Initial Setup Complexity: For some users, setting up a pocket Wi-Fi device and connecting multiple devices can be less straightforward compared to the simple process of activating an eSIM.

By weighing these advantages and disadvantages, travellers can determine whether pocket Wi-Fi or another connectivity solution, such as eSIM, is the best choice for their needs while visiting Japan.

eSIM Japan for Tourist

• Japan 5G eSIM | 3 – 50GB | Data-Only | 30 Days
  • This eSIM offers up to 50GB of data at 4G/5G speeds and is valid for 30 days, making it perfect for staying connected in Japan. It’s specifically for data only, so make sure to activate it within 90 days of purchase. With a rating of 4.59 out of 5 from customer reviews, you can trust its quality and reliability.

• Japan (Docomo IIJ) eSIM | 3 – 50GB | Data-Only | 30 Days
  • This provides up to 50GB of data at 4G/LTE speeds and is valid for 30 days, making it ideal for your travels in Japan. It’s specifically for data only, so be sure to activate it within 90 days of purchase. With an impressive rating of 4.71 out of 5 based on 35 customer reviews, you can trust its quality and reliability.

• Japan eSIM Unlimited Max | Unlimited Data* | Data-Only | 1 – 30 Days
  • This offers 1GB of daily high-speed data along with unlimited data at 10Mbps, making it a great choice for staying connected in Japan. Valid for up to 30 days (24 hours per day), it’s designed for data only, so make sure to activate it within 90 days of purchase. It also has received positive feedback with 7 customer reviews, reflecting user satisfaction.

• Japan 5G eSIM | 1GB / Day | Data-Only | 7 – 15 Days
  • This plan provides 1GB of data per day at 4G/LTE speeds, ensuring fast connectivity for your travels in Japan. It is valid for up to 15 days and is designed for data only, so remember to activate it within 90 days of purchase. The plan has garnered positive feedback, with 16 customer reviews highlighting user satisfaction.

• Japan (Docomo IIJ) eSIM | 1GB / Day | Data-Only | 7 – 14 Days
  • This 1GB of data per day at 4G/LTE speeds, making it a reliable choice for staying connected during your travels in Japan. Valid for up to 14 days, it is specifically for data only, so be sure to activate it within 90 days of purchase. Although it has received 3 customer reviews, it provides a solid option for those looking to maintain mobile connectivity while exploring the country.

• Japan 5G eSIM | 1GB | Data-Only | 7 Days
  • This plan offers 1GB of data with 4G/5G speeds, providing reliable connectivity for your time in Japan. Valid for 7 days and designed for data only, it’s important to activate it within 90 days of purchase. Although it has received 2 customer reviews, it serves as a convenient option for travellers looking to stay connected while exploring the country.

• Japan (Docomo IIJ) eSIM | 30GB | Data-Only | 60 Days
  • This plan offers 30GB of data at 4G/LTE speeds for 60 days, designed for data only. Remember to activate it within 90 days of purchase for seamless connectivity during your travels in Japan.

• Asia Explorer 5G eSIM 10 Countries | 3 – 50GB | Japan Included | 30 Days
  • This plan offers up to 50GB of data at 4G/5G speeds for 30 days and is designed for data only. It can be used in 10 countries and has received 22 customer reviews, highlighting its reliability.

• Asia Explorer eSIM 14 Countries | 1GB Daily Data | 3 – 30 Days
  • This plan provides 1GB of data per day at 4G/LTE speeds for up to 30 days and is designed for data only. It can be used in 14 countries and should be activated within 90 days of purchase. It has received 34 customer reviews, indicating strong user satisfaction.

• World Explorer eSIM | 13GB* | Data-Only | 365 Days
  • This plan offers a total of 13GB, comprising 8GB of data and 5GB for social media, valid for 365 days. It should be activated within 180 days of purchase and can be used in 74 countries. Please note that it is incompatible with Pixel devices and has received 2 customer reviews.

What is meant eSIM Japan

eSIM Japan is a digital SIM solution designed specifically for travellers visiting Japan, allowing users to activate mobile data plans without needing a physical SIM card. This technology offers the convenience of downloading and managing multiple mobile plans directly on your device, such as a smartphone or tablet, without the hassle of swapping SIM cards.

With eSIM Japan, travellers can easily stay connected for navigation, communication, and social media sharing while exploring the country. eSIM plans often provide options for various data allowances and durations, catering to different travel needs. Additionally, eSIMs are particularly beneficial for visitors who are travelling throughout Japan, as they can access local data networks seamlessly without the need to purchase multiple SIM cards or worry about compatibility issues. This makes eSIM Japan a popular choice for those looking to maintain reliable connectivity during their travels.

Advantages of eSIM:

1. Ease of Activation: eSIM allows users to activate a data plan instantly without needing to swap out a physical SIM card. Users can simply scan a QR code to get started.
2. Flexibility: eSIM provides the ability to store multiple mobile plans on one device, allowing users to switch between different operators easily based on their needs.
3. Seamless Connectivity: With eSIM, travellers don’t have to worry about losing connectivity when crossing borders; they can simply choose a plan that supports multiple locations.
4. No Risk of Losing a Card: Since eSIM does not require a physical card, the risk of losing or damaging a SIM card is eliminated, offering added peace of mind while travelling.
5. Environmentally Friendly: eSIM helps reduce plastic waste associated with physical SIM cards, making it a more sustainable choice.

Disadvantages of eSIM:

1. Operator Limitations: Not all mobile operators or service providers offer support for eSIM, especially in certain countries or regions. It’s important to ensure that the chosen eSIM can be used in Japan.
2. Device Compatibility: Not all devices support eSIM technology. Ensure that your smartphone, such as the iPhone XR and newer models or most recent Android devices, is compatible.
3. Initial Setup: Some users may find the initial setup of eSIM challenging, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the new technology. Although there are instructions available, it may take time to understand the process.
4. Data Usage Limitations: eSIM data packages may have specific limitations, and users should be mindful of their data usage to avoid incurring extra charges.
5. Customer Support: If issues arise during your travels, customer support for eSIM might not be as prompt or effective as that for physical SIM cards, depending on the service provider.

Whether to use Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM in Japan depends on your specific needs. Choose Pocket Wi-Fi if you need to connect multiple devices, or select eSIM if you prefer instant access and convenience without the hassle of carrying extra equipment.