How to buy a prepaid SIM card in Japan

Planning a trip to Japan — whether for a high-speed adventure on the Shinkansen, a deep dive into Tokyo’s urban sprawl, or a peaceful visit to Kyoto’s temples — requires careful preparation. One of the most important aspects of your preparation is ensuring you have reliable, affordable mobile data. But, if you’re travelling from the UK, navigating international roaming fees and local Japanese options can be confusing.

In this guide, we break down your options and explain why an eSIM for Japan is a convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected.

eSIM T&Cs apply.

Why reliable mobile data is essential for your Japan trip

Beyond the obvious need to share your holiday snaps, connectivity is vital for several reasons:

• Navigation: using apps like HyperDia and Google Maps to get live information on train schedules and platform changes.
• Translation: communicating with locals and reading signs using translation apps.
• Payments: checking banking notifications. Japan still favours cash, but digital payments are growing quickly.
• Safety: having access to emergency numbers and resources when you need them.

Without a Japanese SIM, you rely entirely on public WiFi, which can be patchy, slow, and often requires registration that's difficult to complete without a local phone number.

Can I use my UK SIM card in Japan?

The answer is yes, but it's almost always the most expensive option. Since Brexit, many UK mobile networks (like Vodafone, EE, and Three) have re-introduced or increased daily charges and out-of-bundle rates for roaming outside Europe.

The high costs of roaming with a UK SIM card

Japan is one of the most expensive roaming zones for most UK providers. While specific rates vary, you could face charges relating to:

• Daily passes: paying a daily fee (often between £6–8) to unlock your home plan's data allowance. These can quickly add up on a 2-week trip.
• Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) rates: if you don't buy a pass, the charges are often expensive. Data can cost upwards of £1 per MB (megabyte), meaning a few minutes of video streaming or a simple map download could cost a lot.
• Hidden use: even background apps updating or receiving a simple text message can trigger minimum daily charges or start accumulating fees you won't see until your bill arrives.

If you're travelling on a budget or plan to stay in the country for more than a few days, using your UK mobile plan isn't a good idea. It's usually best to switch off data roaming as soon as you land in Japan to avoid bill shock.

Local Japan SIM cards: your traditional options

In Japan, there are 3 main types of physical connectivity: data-only SIMs, voice and data SIMs (rare for tourists), and pocket WiFi rental.

Japan has 3 main mobile network operators (MNOs): NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au by KDDI. However, most tourist plans are sold by Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) like Sakura Mobile or IIJmio, which use the MNO networks.

Leading Japanese mobile operators and plans

• NTT Docomo is known for offering great nationwide coverage, which is particularly important if you plan to travel by train or visit more rural areas like the Japanese Alps or remote islands. Many top MVNO tourist SIMs use the Docomo network for reliability.
• SoftBank and au (KDDI) offer great speed and connectivity in all major metropolitan areas, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, but may be slightly less robust than Docomo in far-flung rural locations.
• Data-only focus: most prepaid SIM cards available to tourists in Japan are data-only. This means you can't make traditional phone calls or send SMS texts. You must rely on services like WhatsApp, LINE, or FaceTime for communication.

Where can I buy a physical Japan prepaid SIM card?

If you choose the physical SIM card route, the process is streamlined but often involves some delay.

• Airports: the most convenient spot is one of the kiosks at major international airports like Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND). These often offer SIMs from MVNOs (like Sakura or IIJmio) and rental counters for pocket WiFi.
• Electronics stores: major electronics retailers like BIC Camera or Yodobashi Camera in cities often have the best selection and slightly lower prices for data SIMs. Staff may also be available to help you install and configure the SIM card.
• Pre-order: many travellers pre-order a SIM card online and choose to pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to their hotel to save time.

Important note: local requirements

While the process is generally straightforward, keep in mind:

• Passport required: you must present your passport to purchase and register a prepaid SIM card in Japan.
• Data-only: if you need a Japanese phone number for making local calls or receiving texts, a standard tourist SIM won't be enough. You need a specialised, voice-enabled SIM (like those offered by Mobal), which requires a stricter identification process.

The modern alternative: why a Japan eSIM is the smarter choice

While local prepaid solutions are available, they often require choosing between pocket WiFi (which is bulky and needs charging) and a physical SIM card (which must be purchased upon arrival and has its limits). This is where embedded SIMs (eSIMs) offer a solution, and we're leading the charge for travellers.

An eSIM is a digital SIM profile embedded in your phone's hardware. Instead of swapping out tiny pieces of plastic, you simply install a data plan digitally using a QR code or an activation code.

The advantage of Revolut eSIMs

Revolut offers a range of regional and global eSIM plans, including a dedicated Japan eSIM option that can be purchased and activated in-app.

By choosing a digital solution, you can skip the airport queues and the hassle of physical installation. You land in Japan with your connectivity already sorted, ready to navigate from the moment you step off the plane.

Staying connected across the region

If your holiday involves travel beyond Japan, perhaps to South Korea, Taiwan, or Hong Kong, managing multiple local SIM cards becomes a major inconvenience. Our regional plans, including our Asia Pacific eSIM, offer coverage across multiple countries, ensuring you remain connected throughout your entire multi-stop itinerary without needing a new SIM at every border.

To find out more about which plans suit your trip, just check in-app. We offer plans for Japan and 100+ other countries globally.

More ways we make travelling to Japan easier

Managing your spending in Japanese yen (JPY) is just as important as staying connected. We have various offerings designed to simplify your travel finances, making your trip stress-free.

Spending seamlessly with the Revolut card

Exchanging currency by ordering cash from a high street bank or a bureau de change can often mean poor exchange rates. But, with a multi-currency account at Revolut, you can manage your spending in JPY at competitive rates.

Our multi-currency account allows you to hold, exchange, and spend in dozens of currencies, including JPY. When you use your Revolut card in Japan, we automatically convert your money using competitive rates, allowing you to spend like a local without worrying about excessive fees. You can easily keep track of your transactions in real-time in-app, helping you stick to your holiday budget.

If you’re ready to start saving on your trip, explore the features of our travel money card.

18+, fees and T&Cs apply.

Protecting your trip with Revolut travel insurance

For many travellers, especially those visiting remote areas or engaging in activities like skiing, hiking, or climbing Mount Fuji, having comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable.

Depending on your Revolut plan, you may have travel insurance benefits included, ranging from medical emergencies to trip cancellations and flight delays. Knowing you have reliable coverage means you can enjoy Japan's incredible sights and adventures with greater peace of mind. Check your specific plan details in-app to see what coverage is included.

Insurance policy T&Cs (incl. exclusions) apply.

Getting started with a Revolut eSIM

Here's how you can set up your Japan eSIM in just a few taps:

1. Open or download Revolut. Signup only takes a few minutes.
2. Go to RevPoints from your home screen. Next, tap eSIM.
3. Choose your plan. Select the Japan eSIM or a regional plan that best fits your trip length and data needs. You can also explore our range of Global eSIMs.
4. Buy and activate. Complete the purchase and follow the simple on-screen instructions to download the eSIM profile to your device.
5. Land and connect. Make sure your data roaming is turned on for the new eSIM line (and off for your home SIM line) in your settings and get connected the moment you touch down in Japan.

Final travel tips for Japan

Now you’ve got your SIM card for Japan sorted, here are a few extra tips to ensure a smooth, stress-free trip:

1. Cash and cards: while card payments are accepted in major retail chains, cash (in Japanese yen) is essential for many smaller restaurants, temples, rural train stations, and traditional inns (ryokan). You can withdraw cash from ATMs using your Revolut card.
2. Public WiFi: Japan has great WiFi in train stations and major tourist areas, but it isn't reliable on the go — having your own data is crucial.
3. Etiquette: when using public transport, be on time and remember that conversations on the phone are generally considered impolite on trains and buses.
4. Local apps: download essential apps like the Japan Transit Planner or Google Maps before you go.

No withdrawal fees charged by Revolut within your plan's rolling monthly limit. Fair-usage fees and third-party ATM fees may apply.

Planning a trip to another country and looking for the best SIM card options? Check out our different guides to:

• Australia SIM card
• Saudi-Arabia SIM card
• Morocco SIM card
• Turkey SIM card
• Dubai SIM card
• Egypt SIM card
• Spain SIM card
• South-Africa SIM card
• Thailand SIM card
• United States SIM card

The information provided is accurate as of 15 October 2025.

The content of this page is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. If you have any questions about your personal circumstances, please seek professional and independent advice. Revolut is not a financial adviser.