HOW TO GET A MOBILE PHONE AND INTERNET IN JAPAN – SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A SIM OR eSIM?

After arriving in Japan, arranging a mobile phone number and internet connection is one of the first things international students should consider. A Japanese phone number may be needed when contacting your school, employer, bank or when completing certain everyday procedures.

International students in Japan can choose between a physical SIM and an eSIM, depending on their smartphone, usage needs and the requirements of the mobile operator.

1. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PHYSICAL SIM AND AN eSIM?

A physical SIM is a SIM card that is inserted directly into a smartphone. An eSIM is a digital SIM built into the device and activated electronically.

There is no single option that suits everyone. Before signing up, check whether your smartphone supports eSIM and whether the device is compatible with the mobile operator you intend to use.

2. SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A SIM OR eSIM WHEN YOU FIRST ARRIVE IN JAPAN?

If your smartphone supports eSIM and you meet the registration requirements, an eSIM can be convenient because you do not need to wait for a physical SIM card to be delivered.

A physical SIM, on the other hand, may be more suitable if you want to remove the SIM card and transfer it to another device, or if your smartphone does not support eSIM.

Before registering, international students should check:

• Whether their smartphone supports eSIM

• Whether the device is SIM-locked

• Whether the device is compatible with Japanese mobile operators

• Whether they have a registered address in Japan

• Whether they have the required residence documents for registration

3. ADVANTAGES OF A PHYSICAL SIM

Physical SIM cards remain a common choice for people arriving in Japan for the first time.

Key advantages include:

• The SIM card can be removed from the smartphone.

• It can be transferred to another compatible device.

• You do not need to check whether your phone supports eSIM.

• It can be easier for people who are unfamiliar with eSIM activation.

However, take care not to lose the SIM card or SIM tray. If the SIM card is lost or needs to be replaced, you may have to complete additional procedures with your mobile operator.

4. ADVANTAGES OF eSIM

An eSIM is built directly into the smartphone, so there is no physical SIM card to handle.

With a compatible device, users may be able to complete the registration and activation process online, depending on the mobile operator.

An eSIM may be suitable for international students who want to:

• Sign up for a mobile service online.

• Avoid waiting for a physical SIM card.

• Use an eSIM-compatible smartphone.

• Keep the physical SIM slot available for another number, if supported by the device.

However, check your smartphone's compatibility and the operator's identity-verification requirements before registering.

5. WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED TO REGISTER A SIM IN JAPAN?

The required documents vary depending on the mobile operator and registration method.

For foreign residents living in Japan, a residence card is an important document for identity verification. In some cases, a passport or other supporting documents may also be required.

International students should prepare:

• Residence card

• Passport, if required by the mobile operator

• Address in Japan

• Existing telephone number or contact details, if required

• An accepted payment method

• The smartphone that will be used with the SIM or eSIM

The name, date of birth and address provided during registration should match the information shown on the identity documents.

6. HOW TO REGISTER A SIM OR eSIM

The exact procedure varies between mobile operators, but the general process is as follows.

Step 1: Check your smartphone

Check whether your smartphone is compatible with the SIM or eSIM service offered by the operator.

If you are using an eSIM, make sure that your device supports eSIM.

Step 2: Choose a mobile plan

Choose a plan based on your needs:

• Data only

• A Japanese telephone number

• Large amounts of mobile data

• Long-term use

• Calls and SMS

Step 3: Prepare your documents

Prepare your residence card and any other identity documents required by the mobile operator.

Step 4: Apply

Depending on the operator and plan, you may be able to apply online or at a shop.

Step 5: Complete identity verification

Follow the operator's instructions for identity verification. Enter your name, date of birth and address accurately.

Step 6: Activate the SIM or eSIM

For a physical SIM, insert the SIM card into your smartphone and complete the activation process.

For an eSIM, follow the operator's instructions to download and activate the eSIM on your device.

Step 7: Check the connection

After activation, check the following:

• Whether you have a mobile signal

• Whether you can make calls

• Whether you can send and receive SMS messages

• Whether mobile data is working

7. SHOULD YOU BUY A DATA SIM BEFORE TRAVELLING TO JAPAN?

If you do not yet have a Japanese telephone number, arranging a data SIM or another temporary internet option can be useful during your first few days in Japan.

It can be particularly helpful for:

• Contacting the person meeting you at the airport

• Using maps

• Contacting your school or accommodation

• Checking public transport routes

• Using messaging apps

However, a data SIM does not necessarily replace a Japanese telephone number for long-term use. If you need a Japanese number for other procedures, you can arrange a suitable mobile plan once you have settled into your accommodation.

8. WHAT TYPE OF HOME INTERNET SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

In addition to mobile data, international students may need an internet connection in their accommodation.

Common options include:

• Fixed-line internet

• Home routers

• Pocket Wi-Fi

• Wi-Fi provided by student accommodation

If you are staying in student accommodation, check in advance whether internet access is already provided and whether there is a separate charge.

If you rent your own accommodation, check the installation requirements, initial costs and monthly fees before signing a contract.

9. HOME ROUTER OR POCKET WI-FI?

A home router can be suitable for people who regularly use the internet at home but do not want to rely entirely on mobile data.

Pocket Wi-Fi is convenient because it can be carried with you when going to school, work or other places.

Before choosing a service, check:

• Data allowance

• Coverage area

• Connection speed

• Contract period

• Initial costs

• Monthly fees

• Cancellation conditions

Do not look only at the monthly price. Make sure you understand any other charges and the terms of the contract.

10. SHOULD YOU ARRANGE A MOBILE PHONE OR INTERNET FIRST?

When you first arrive in Japan, it is useful to make sure you have an internet connection so that you can communicate and complete essential procedures.

Once your accommodation and daily routine are settled, you can choose a longer-term mobile and internet plan that suits your needs.

A simple order of preparation could be:

On the day of arrival:
Arrange temporary internet access → contact your school/accommodation → settle into your accommodation.

Afterwards:
Arrange a Japanese telephone number → open a bank account → choose a long-term internet service.

Having a Japanese telephone number and internet connection can also make other everyday procedures in Japan more convenient.

11. COMMON MISTAKES INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS MAKE

Not checking whether the phone supports eSIM

Some people purchase an eSIM and only later discover that their smartphone does not support it. Always check compatibility before registering.

Not checking whether the phone is SIM-locked

Smartphones purchased in Vietnam or from a particular mobile operator may have specific usage conditions. Check this before travelling to Japan.

Looking only at the monthly fee

Some plans may involve registration fees, device costs, cancellation fees or other charges.

Not checking the contract period

If you sign a long-term contract, make sure you understand the contract period and the conditions for cancellation or changing the service.

Providing inconsistent registration details

Your name, date of birth and address should match the information on your identity documents.

12. INCLUDE MOBILE AND INTERNET COSTS IN YOUR STUDY ABROAD BUDGET

Mobile phone and internet costs are regular living expenses and should be included when planning your study abroad budget.

In addition to tuition fees, accommodation and everyday living costs, you may also need to pay for:

• SIM or eSIM

• Mobile data

• Home internet

• Device costs, if applicable

• Costs related to registration or installation

• Additional charges depending on the contract

When calculating the total cost of studying in Japan, do not overlook mobile phone and internet expenses.

SEE ALSO:

• The Real Cost of Studying in Japan – How Much Should Parents Prepare?

• How to Open a Bank Account and Get an ATM Card in Japan for International Students

• 5 Things You Should Do Immediately After Arriving in Japan

13. CHECKLIST BEFORE TRAVELLING TO JAPAN

Before departure, international students should check:

☐ Can my smartphone be used in Japan?

☐ Does my phone support eSIM?

☐ Is my phone SIM-unlocked?

☐ Have I prepared a way to access the internet immediately after arriving in Japan?

☐ Have I prepared the necessary residence documents?

☐ Do I know the address of my accommodation?

☐ Have I saved the contact details of my school and airport pick-up representative?

☐ Have I installed the necessary map and communication apps?

☐ Have I budgeted for SIM, internet and initial living expenses?

CONCLUSION

Arranging a mobile phone and internet connection is one of the practical matters international students should prepare for before travelling to Japan.

Both physical SIMs and eSIMs have their own advantages. The most suitable option depends on your smartphone, usage requirements and the operator's registration conditions.

If your smartphone supports eSIM, it can be a convenient option. If you prefer a traditional SIM card or your device does not support eSIM, a physical SIM remains a practical choice.

The most important thing is to check your device compatibility, required documents, contract conditions and total costs before choosing a service. After arriving in Japan, make sure you have a reliable internet connection first, then choose a long-term mobile and internet service that suits your lifestyle.

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