The Best Pocket WiFi in Japan: Top 14 Services in Comparison

Pocket WiFi: Portable Routers Convenient for Japan Travel

We are introducing pros and cons of Pocket Wifi, SIM cards, and eSIM in a video. If you are undecided between Pocket Wifi and eSIM, please take a look at this first.

Internet access is indispensable for a trip to Japan. In recent years, SIM cards and eSIMs have become popular, but when using multiple devices like laptops and smartphones, or when traveling with multiple people, pocket WiFi can be convenient.

However, there are various pocket WiFi services in Japan, making it difficult to understand the differences and what is recommended. In this article, we introduce the main features of the services and especially highlight the services that MATCHA recommends.

For information on the differences between pocket Wi-Fi and SIM cards, as well as the situation of free Wi-Fi in Japan, please check the Frequently Asked Questions at the end.

Top 14 Pocket Wi-Fi Services in Japan

Things to Know Before Choosing a Pocket WiFi

Comparison between eSIM and Pocket WiFi

As of 2024, eSIM has become popular for internet use during travel. eSIM can be set up entirely online, and since it can be carried in just one smartphone, it is very convenient.

On the other hand, Pocket WiFi has advantages such as:

1) the ability to use a larger amount of data more affordably
2) easier connection setup (eSIM setups are prone to errors)
3) the capability to connect multiple devices.

For individuals who frequently act alone or require only a small amount of data, eSIM is recommended. On the other hand, for those who need a large amount of data, travel with multiple people, or have concerns about connectivity, Pocket WiFi is advised.

Airport Rental vs. Pre-ordering

As of 2024, major airports in Japan such as Narita and Haneda have rental counters for Pocket WiFi. At these airports, you can rent on the same day.

However, when applying on the day at the airport, there are risks and disadvantages such as:

1) the possibility of no inventory available for rental and
2) the potential for higher fees compared to pre-ordering (the price difference can be around 20%).

Therefore, MATCHA recommends pre-ordering for a smoother experience.

Top 10 Pocket Wi-Fi Services for Short Trips

Service	Price for Basic Plan	Data Capacity	Benefits
★NINJA Wi-Fi	770 yen/day (with discount: 616 yen/day	3 GB/day	Highest quality at one of the lowest prices in Japan
★Japan Wireless	7,960 yen/7 days(*)	unlimited data at 120 Mbps	no data limit (but speed becomes slower)
★Sakura Mobile	8,558 yen/7 days	no limit	Reliable customer support
Japan Wi-Fi rental	430 yen/day ＋1,110 yen (for shipment and charging device)	50 GB/month	Lowest price for 1 GB or more per day
Wifi Rental Store	390 yen/day ＋ 1,100 yen (shipment fee)	20 GB/month	The cheapest service per day use
eConnect Japan	5,280 yen/7 days	20 GB	Regardless of the usage period, the data capacity can be used consistently
Pupul	900 yen/day + 1,800 yen (shipment fee)	no limit	Fast communication service for urban areas
Softbank Global Rental	860 yen/day + 330 yen (handling fee)	-	You can also rent smartphones/mobile phones
Global Advanced Communications	3,970 yen/7 days	3 GB/day	High-speed communication plan available
iVideo	about 600 yen/day	no limit	Cheap internet plan using a dedicated router

All prices include tax. Additionally, for services that do not incur shipping fees for airport pickup/drop-off, the shipping costs are not listed.

At MATCHA, we have researched various services focusing on prices and available data capacities. Among them, we will introduce a total of 10 pocket WiFi options, highlighting three particularly recommended for short-term use (one day to one month) and seven others with unique features.

Top 3 Recommended Pocket WiFi for Short-Term Use

Here are the top 3 pocket WiFi options particularly recommended by MATCHA.

1. NINJA Wi-Fi: Affordable and Diverse Plans

NINJA Wi-Fi is the best choice for short trips. This service is provided by Vision, a well-established internet service company known for its Global WIFI brand.

Ninja Wi-Fi's basic plan offers a daily limit of 3 GB for 770 yen. Furthermore, if you apply through MATCHA, you can get a 20% discount, bringing the cost down to 616 yen per day! For a four-day interval, it is the cheapest in Japan, and even for two-week trips, it is one of the cheapest services in Japan.

Ninja WiFi offers plans tailored for those who require a large amount of data: 5 GB per day for 1,100 yen, 10 GB per day for 1,320 yen, and an unlimited plan for 1,980 yen per day.

Many other companies advertise "unlimited" plans, but in reality, there are often speed restrictions after using 2 - 3 GB per day.

In contrast, Ninja WiFi clearly specifies the high-speed data limits, allowing users to comfortably utilize the service. These plans also benefit from a 20% discount, making them cost-effective.

MATCHA's office is on the first floor of LIT Higashi-Nihonbashi

Ninja WiFi can be picked up at most major international airports in Japan, as well as at their office in Shinjuku. Particularly, at airports like Narita and Haneda, they have their dedicated counters, providing reassurance to users about the service.

You can also pick up your Ninja WiFi at MATCHA's office in Higashi-Nihonbashi, Tokyo (Map). Our office is located just 5 minutes on foot from Asakusabashi Station or Higashi-Nihombashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line.

The pick-up service is available from 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays. The best part about picking up your Ninja WiFi at MATCHA is that you can also receive free travel tips from our team members!

With its affordability and user-friendly features, NINJA Wi-Fi stands out as a highly recommended service.

*Note: For stays that exceed 5 days, Japan WiFi Rental or Global Advanced Communications may offer slightly lower rates.

Read the article below for more details on NINJA WiFi.

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2. Japan Wireless: No Concerns about Data Capacity

Photo courtesy of Japan Wireless Wi-Fi

Many pocket Wi-Fi services either stop working or impose speed limitations once you reach a certain data usage limit.

In contrast, Japan Wireless offers a unique plan where the data usage is unlimited (without speed limitations), but the speed is limited based on the chosen plan.

There are a total of three plans: Unlimited data at 120Mbps, Unlimited data at 150Mbps, and Unlimited data at 187Mbps (*).

Under the Unlimited data at 120Mbps plan at Japan Wireless, the cost is $47 for one week (approximately 7,450 yen). With MATCHA's 20% discount, the price drops to around 5,960 yen. However, in terms of pricing, it is relatively more expensive compared to Ninja WiFi.

Japan Wireless's strength lies in the fact that there are no speed restrictions regardless of data usage. This makes it a recommended service for those who prioritize an unrestricted data experience even if it comes at a slightly higher cost.

*For reference: The aforementioned Ninja Wi-Fi is said to have a maximum speed of 187Mbps.

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3. Sakura Mobile: Excellent Support in English

Photo by Sakura Mobile

Founded in 2014, Sakura Mobile has garnered high praise for its internet services aimed particularly at English-speaking tourists and students visiting Japan.

They offer two types of pocket WiFi rental services: short-term options and monthly subscription plans for long-term stays.

Short-term rentals vary in price depending on the rental period and time of year. According to MATCHA's research in June 2024, the cost for one week was 8,558 yen. While the service generally offers unlimited data, there may be speed reductions if one violates the Fair Usage Policy (FUP).

Sakura Mobile's rates are slightly higher compared to Ninja WiFi. However, it is recommended for its specialized English customer service and troubleshooting support.

The company is known for its quick responses and expertise in advising users on whether a SIM card or pocket WiFi would better suit their specific communication needs during their travels. Users have highly commended Sakura Mobile for being a reliable ally, particularly in times of anxiety, such as during a first trip to Japan.

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Other Recommended Short-Term Pocket WiFi Options

In addition to the three mentioned above, there are other companies that offer more affordable or unique plans for short-term pocket WiFi rentals.

4. Japan Wi-Fi rental: Recommended for Stays of Two Weeks

Photo by Japan Wifi Rental

If you are looking to use WiFi cheaply for a trip of about 2 weeks, Japan Wi-Fi rental comes highly recommended.

The most affordable plan starts at 430 yen per day, available for daily rentals. For a one-month rental, the cost is 6,450 yen. Discounts apply for rentals exceeding one month, leading to significantly reduced prices.

All plans offer a maximum transfer speed of 612Mbps, using the SoftBank network (with a monthly data limit of 50GB).

Separate fees apply for shipping for pickup and return (1,100 yen), making it relatively more expensive for rentals of 5 days or less compared to Ninja WiFi. However, for rentals longer than that, it becomes more cost-effective.

With a monthly data limit of 50 GB, this means for a one-month rental, you will have around 1.6GB of data per day. As highlighted in the Frequently Asked Questions section, some users find that around 1GB per day is sufficient, depending on usage habits. If you don't need a large amount of data, this option could be suitable.

Japan Wi-Fi rental offers pickup at airport post offices and can also be delivered to hotels, ryokans, or friends' homes. Returns can be done via post. In case of loss, there will be charges of ¥16,500 for the device and a ¥19,800 termination fee.

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5. Wifi Rental Store: Plans Available for 390 Yen/Day!

Photo by Wifi Rental Store

Wifi Rental Store has been providing Wi-Fi rental services for Japanese and visiting tourists since 2013.

For example, if you choose the one-month 50 GB plan, it will cost 490 yen per day, which is slightly more expensive compared to Japan Wi-Fi rental. On the other hand, there is also a plan where you can use 20 GB per month for 390 yen per day. If you require less data, this plan may be a better option for you.

Please note that Wifi Rental Store primarily operates through postal service for both receiving and returning WiFi routers, with a round-trip cost of 1,100 yen. For an extra charge, you have the option to pick up the device at the airport or their store in Akihabara for 550 yen. Returning the device to the store will refund the return postage of 550 yen upon handing over the return envelope.

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6. eConnect Japan: A Unique Plan with No Data Limit!

Alongside Japan Wireless, eConnect Japan also offers a unique plan. Its distinctive feature is that it provides the same data capacity regardless of the usage period.

eConnect Japan offers plans with data caps of 20 GB, 50 GB, and 100 GB, all featuring a speed of 187.5 Mbps and utilizing the SoftBank network. While these plans often cost more than Ninja WiFi, they can be cost-effective for situations requiring over 10GB in a short duration.

The pricing at eConnect Japan varies based on the rental period. As of June 2024, renting the 20GB plan for one week costs 5,280 yen, and for 4 days, it is 4,950 yen. Note that these prices are slightly higher than those of Ninja WiFi or Japan Wi-Fi Rental, so please be mindful of this when considering your options.

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7. Pupul: Convenient Plans for Internet Use in Large Cities

Photo by Pupul

Pupul has a track record of over 100,000 rentals. Its notable features include the Hi-Speed Plan, which offers fast communication speeds in urban areas such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and the Broad-Coverage Plan, which can be used anywhere in Japan.

Both plans offer unlimited data for 900 yen per day. However, please note that there is a postage fee of 1,800 yen. Additionally, you can also ask questions via AI chat on the official website.

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8. Softbank Global Rental: With Mobile Phone Rental

Photo by Softbank Global Rental
SoftBank offers Softbank Global Rental, which allows you to rent a pocket Wi-Fi for 860 yen per day. The available data usage is not explicitly stated.

Please note that there is an additional fee of 330 yen, and if you choose to have the device sent to you, there will be an extra charge of 1,000 yen, so please be aware of this.

Furthermore, a unique feature of "SoftBank Global Rental" is not just offering WiFi or SIM cards but also providing smartphone rentals and simple phones for voice calls only. This service caters to individuals who specifically require phone rentals, adding convenience for those in need of a phone itself rather than just data or internet services.

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9. Global Advanced Communications: Offering Support in French!

Photo by Global Advanced Communications

In addition to English, Global Advanced Communications also offers customer support in French. The Standard Plan, offering 3 GB per day and a maximum download speed of 150Mbps, has varying prices based on the rental period and timing. As calculated by MATCHA in June 2024, the cost for one week was 3,970 yen.

Additionally, they offer three other services: the Unlimited Plan with unlimited data and a max download speed of 350 Mbps, the 5G Unlimited Plan that includes access to 5G networks, and the Unlimited Long Plan allowing rentals up to 360 days.

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10. iVideo: Offering a DAY PASS Plan

Photo by iVideo
Founded in Taiwan in 1999, iVideo provides Wi-Fi and SIM services in various Asian countries, including Japan, as well as in the United States of America and Australia.

For travelers in Japan, there is a diverse range of WiFi plans available, but the most basic option typically is unlimited data WiFi using the SoftBank network. As of June 2024, the cost is approximately 3.91 dollars per day (around 613 Japanese yen, subject to price fluctuations based on the period).

Additionally, iVideo offers a DAYPASS plan where, by purchasing a dedicated router, you can have unlimited internet access for about 2.2 dollars per day (approximately 345 yen). This service also provides SIM and eSIM sales in addition to the router option.

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Top 4 Cost-effective Pocket Wi-Fi Services for Long-term Rentals (One Month or More)

Service	Price	Data limit	Benefits
Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM	6,600 yen	5 GB/day	Large data capacity
mobal	4,980 yen (*initial fee: the device rental costs 6,980 yen)	100 GB/month	Cost-effective plans in combination with a SIM card
CD Japan Rental	7,500 yen/30 days	100 GB/month	Large data capacity to use
Sakura Mobile	5,478 yen	100 GB/month	Customer support in English

If you're visiting Japan for a long-term stay for study or work, we recommend using one of the following services.

11. Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM: Several Pick-Up Counter Options!

Photo courtesy of Wi-Fi Rental.com

Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM is a service boasting over 1.5 million users.

They offer three plans: one with unlimited data on the SoftBank network with a daily limit of 5GB at 6,600 yen per month, another with a monthly limit of 5GB at 3,190 yen, and a plan on the WiMAX network with a 10GB limit over 3 days at 6,930 yen per month.

The daily 5GB plan is especially popular as it provides around 150GB per month, making it very convenient for studying, working, or watching videos during holidays in Japan.

One significant advantage is the wide availability of pickup counters. They cover various locations including Narita, Haneda, Kansai International Airport, Osaka Itami Airport, Chubu Centrair International Airport, Fukuoka Airport, New Chitose Airport, Naha Airport, and Komatsu Airport, ensuring easy access to internet upon arrival in Japan.

Moreover, if you need to have the device delivered to your accommodation in Japan or returned as you depart the country, using this MATCHA coupon can waive the delivery fee (totaling 1,100 yen for pickup and return).

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12. mobal: 10% Off with SIM card! Compatible with All Major Networks

Photo courtesy of mobal

mobal is a service provided by Mobell Communications Limited, a telecommunications company founded in the UK in 1989.

mobal offers a simple plan of a 100 GB data limit for only 4980 yen per month. It connects through the same cell towers as the major telecommunications companies - Softbank, NTT Docomo, and au, for fast service and wide coverage. This ensures a seamless internet connection by connecting to the most reliable network available in each location.

The minimum rental period is three months and you can have the device mailed to your desired location within two to five business days. There's no service fee for the delivery!

A notable aspect of mobal is that you can get a 10% discount on the pocket Wi-Fi rental when you subscribe to both the SIM card/eSIM and the pocket Wi-Fi as a set. This is convenient for those who plan to stay in Japan for a long period as they will have both a SIM card for their smartphone and a high-capacity pocket Wi-Fi for devices like laptops. Please check mobal's official website for more details.

Furthermore, Mobell Communications Limited is notable for its active involvement in charity, such as directing a portion of its profits to support impoverished communities in Africa.

Please note that the pocket Wi-Fi router device itself needs to be purchased, which will cost an initial fee of 6,980 yen.

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13. CD Japan Rental: Perfect for Those Who Want to Use the Internet a Lot

Photo by CD Japan Rental

CD Japan Rental provides a pocket Wi-Fi service that is convenient for stays of one month or longer.

A popular option is the 30-day plan offering 100GB for 7,500 yen. Additionally, there are plans like 150GB for one month at 6,900 yen and an unlimited data 30-day plan for 11,180 yen.

CD Japan Rental stands out for offering the ability to use large amounts of data at relatively affordable prices for rentals of several months. For instance, a 3-month unlimited data plan costs 7,900 yen per month (with a minimum usage period of 3 months).

For short-term rentals, you can rent for 5 days starting at 3,560 yen.

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14. Sakura Mobile: Excellent Customer Support in English!

Photo by Sakura Mobile

Even though we've introduced Sakura Mobile as a short-term Wi-Fi service provider, they also offer long-term pocket Wi-Fi rentals. For long-term rentals, the pricing is  5,478 yen for 100 GB per month.

Sakura Mobile's strength lies in not only providing pocket Wi-Fi but also offering SIM cards and home internet services. This allows for a one-stop solution for internet services in Japan, and with their robust English customer support, it becomes very convenient.

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How to Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi Router in Japan

Photo by Pixta
To rent a pocket WiFi in Japan, there are several methods available. One crucial point to note is that for most pocket WiFi rentals, you need to apply online in advance. While there are options for same-day rentals, availability may be limited, so it's advisable to make reservations in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.

When collecting the device, you can visit the provider's counters at the airport, stores in the city, or opt for delivery to your accommodation or specified location.

For returning the device, you can hand it in at airport counters or stores, or use a delivery service from convenience stores. Choose the return method that best suits your needs.

In case of damage or loss, there may be a penalty fee (around 40,000 yen), so handle the device with care. Selecting insurance as an optional extra can provide peace of mind in such situations.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Connect to the Internet in Japan With Pocket WiFi

With so many pocket Wi-Fi services available, it's easy to become overwhelmed and unsure of which one to choose.

We hope this article serves as a helpful reference for you to select the pocket Wi-Fi that suits your needs, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable internet experience in Japan!

Main image by Pixta