Internet in Japan: A Guide for Tourists and Expats

If you are considering either visiting or moving to Japan, internet access is likely one of your concerns.

This article will explain how foreigners, both tourists and expats, can get the internet in Japan, highlighting the key differences between short-term and long-term options.

Best internet options for foreigners in Japan in 2025

There are various options for internet connection in Japan depending on your needs.

For tourists: short-term internet access

For tourists, the following options are commonly used.

• Free Wi-Fi Hotspots—Public Wi-Fi access at major train stations, major airports, convenience stores, and tourist areas.

• eSIM—A digital SIM for instant mobile data in Japan, activated via QR code.

• Pocket WiFi—Portable Wi-Fi routers that connect multiple devices and offer unlimited data. Available for rent at airports and online services.

• Prepaid Physical SIM Cards—Data-only and voice-enabled prepaid SIM cards for unlocked smartphones.

1. Free Wi-Fi

It is still possible to get by with Free Wi-Fi in Japan in major cities as more and more facilities are offering free Wi-Fi. Not only major airports and stations but also many cafes and shopping malls offer Free Wi-Fi for tourists to use.

NTT, a major Japanese telecommunications company, offers the app "Japan Wi-Fi Auto Connect," which allows you to use Wi-Fi at over 50,000 spots across Japan.

However, rural areas in Japan often do not have Free Wi-Fi, and if you want to use Google Maps, then free Wi-Fi is not a good option for you. In addition, there are security risks when using Free Wi-Fi.

2. eSIM

eSIM is a digital SIM card without needing to insert a SIM card physically.

eSIM can be used simply by changing the settings on your phone and can be purchased and set up by an eSIM app such as Airalo and Holafly. It costs almost the same as a physical prepaid SIM card, but easier.

However, some old smartphone models are not compatible with eSIM. It is important to check if your smartphone model can use eSIM.

I personally recommend Airalo as I could use it at almost every major travel destination in the world, and it was fairly easy to set up.

3. Pocket WiFi

Another option is pocket Wi-Fi, a portable router slightly smaller than mobile devices. It is convenient and easy to use, as you can turn it on whenever you need an internet connection and use it like your normal Wi-Fi router at home.

Pocket WiFi devices can be rented online, at the airport, or at various shops. 

Pocket Wi-Fi usually has a large amount of data, can connect to multiple devices, and is recommended for tourists traveling in a large group.

If you choose this option, you’ll want to do some research on how and where to rent the pocket Wi-Fi before your travels. Please note that pocket Wi-Fi routers are rentals; that is to say, you’ll need to rent and return them, which can be an inconvenience to some. Also, fees will incur if you lose or damage the device.

4. Prepaid physical SIM card

A prepaid SIM card is also a good option. Unlike pocket Wi-Fi, there is no worry about return or damage. The price tends to be cheaper since the data amount is generally smaller.

You can get a prepaid SIM card at the airport or at mobile shops in the city.

It is important to check if your smartphone has a SIM lock before purchasing a SIM card. Some people might have a hard time setting up a SIM card in the beginning, and it might take longer than they expected after a long, tiring flight to Japan.

For expats: long-term internet solutions

For expats and anyone planning a long-term stay, the following are some good options for internet access.

• Home fiber optic internet—High-speed and reliable, but requires a long-term contract. Providers include NTT, SoftBank, au, and Rakuten Mobile.

• Mobile SIM plans—Postpaid or prepaid SIM cards from major carriers (SoftBank, NTT Docomo, au, Rakuten) or MVNOs (budget carriers like IIJmio, Mobal, and Sakura Mobile).

• Pocket WiFi for long-term use—Some companies offer rental plans for foreigners who don’t want a contract or are waiting for home internet installation.

1. Home fiber optic internet

At home, it is recommended to have fiber optic internet. It is the most stable and high-speed internet option, which is ideal for long-term residents in Japan. 

Major internet providers such as NTT, Softbank, au, and Rakuten Mobile offer fiber optic plans. Some of them offer discounts for bundling with mobile plans, and some of them include a free Wi-Fi router.

However, you must consider how long you will live in Japan since contracts usually last 2 years with early termination fees. Also, installation can take some time, so it is important to arrange it in advance.

👉See also: How to Set Up Utilities For the First Time in Japan

2. Mobile SIM Card Plans

For your mobile internet access, it is common to have a postpaid or prepaid mobile SIM plan. Major carriers such as NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au, and Rakuten Mobile provide postpaid contracts, but they may require a residence card, bank account, and a registered address.

Whether the bank account needs to be Japanese or not depends on the provider.

If you are unsure about how long you will stay in Japan, it is recommended to use prepaid or contract-free SIM plans.

👉See also: How To Get A Japanese Phone Number: A Guide For Foreigners

3. Pocket WiFi for long-term use

A flexible alternative is to rent a pocket Wi-Fi for long-term use. This option is for expats who do not want a contract or need internet access while waiting for home installation. Some providers, like Japan Wireless and Sakura Mobile, offer monthly rental options with unlimited data.

Where to get a SIM card and pocket WiFi in Japan for tourists

In general, you can pick up SIM card or pocket WiFi at the airport or various electronics stores or convenience stores in Japan. 

1. Airport and online pickup

A lot of tourists buy SIM cards or rent pocket Wi-Fi at airports. Some minor airports may or may not have these options.

Some tourists order SIM cards or pocket Wi-Fi online in advance and have them picked up at the airport to have them delivered to hotels and Airbnb rentals.

2. Electronics stores and convenience stores

Electronics stores such as Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera sell prepaid SIM cards. Some convenience stores also carry temporary data SIMs.

Where to get Internet in Japan for expats

If you’re looking for Internet for a long-term stay, then it’s likely you’ll need to sign a contract. The following places will help you get set up. 

1. Mobile carrier stores

To get fiber-optic internet or SIM card contracts, you can visit SoftBank, Docomo, or au stores. However, Japanese language skills or an interpreter may be necessary.

2. Online

MVNOs offer easier sign-up options (sometimes available in English).

3. MailMate’s fiber optic Internet and utility setup service

If you are an expat looking for a home internet setup, it might be challenging due to a language barrier. 

Oftentimes, Japanese internet providers only operate in Japanese and it is rare to find an English-speaking person.

Let MailMate take care of your internet setup!

The service includes the following features:

1. Seamless Setup for Expats & Property Owners

   • MailMate offers an unlimited fiber-optic internet setup service with speeds up to 10 Gbps.

   • Ideal for expats moving into a new home or landlords setting up internet for Airbnb or rental properties.

2. Bill Pay & Utility Management

   • MailMate helps with setting up electricity, gas, water, and internet bills, eliminating the hassle of dealing with Japanese service providers.

   • List MailMate as your local point of contact with utility companies

3. Convenient & Reliable

   • Expats can stay connected from day one without worrying about language barriers or long contracts.

MailMate offers more services for expats and property owners in Japan, such as tax representation, home & disaster insurance, and domestic point of contact services!

FAQ

How do tourists get the internet in Japan?

Free Wi-Fi, eSIMs, pocket Wi-Fi, and prepaid SIM cards are popular options among tourists in Japan.

What is the best internet provider in Japan?

NTT, Softback, au, and Rakuten Hikari are popular options for home fiber internet. IIJmio, Mobal, and Sakura Mobile are well-known options for budget-friendly SIMs. Japan Wireless and Sakura Mobile offer flexible and various internet plans.

What is pocket WiFi?

Pocket Wi-Fi is a portable Wi-Fi router that can connect multiple devices to the internet via a mobile network. It is often rented by tourists and expats who need temporary or contract-free internet access.

How do expats get the internet in Japan?

Expats will often use home fiber optic internet, mobile SIM plans (contract or prepaid), or pocket Wi-Fi for long-term use.

How much does it cost for the internet as an expat in Japan?

Home fiber internet will cost between ¥4,000–¥8,000/month. Mobile SIM plans will cost from ¥3,000–¥5,000/month. And long-term pocket Wi-Fi is ¥3,000–¥7,000/month.

Does Japan have a lot of free wifi?

Yes, but coverage can be inconsistent. Free Wi-Fi is available at airports, major train stations, convenience stores, cafes, and tourist attractions, but connections may require registration or have time limits.

In closing

Japan offers a variety of internet options for foreigners.

Choosing the right option depends on the length of your stay, data needs, and device compatibility.

Expats can simplify the process with MailMate services, ensuring hassle-free internet and utility setup!

Founded in 2019, MailMate has simplified property ownership for foreigners living abroad and is an increasingly popular option recommended by users and well-known industry figures.

With expert support and seamless service, MailMate makes settling in Japan easier than ever!