Best Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan Compared: Cost, Reviews, Coupons
We compared top pocket WiFi services for travel in Japan, including NINJA WiFi, Japan Wireless, and Sakura Mobile, based on cost, speed, and data limits. Pick the best fit for your needs and book with a discount.
Pocket WiFi: Portable Routers for Japan Travel
To stay connected in Japan, you can use a pocket Wi‑Fi, a physical SIM card, or an eSIM. If you need to connect multiple devices or are traveling in a group, pocket Wi‑Fi is the best option.
We researched prices and data to pick the top 3 pocket WiFi services in Japan for families/groups, business travelers, and heavy users, plus seven other notable options. Discount coupons are included for bookings.
Pocket WiFi for Japan Travel: Service Comparison
Overview: Top 3 Pocket WiFi for Travel in Japan
1. NINJA WiFi: Several Plans Available and a 35% Discount
2. Japan Wireless: Just ONE Plan with Truly Unlimited Data
3. Sakura Mobile: For English Support
Choose by Travel Style
- Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Family/Group Travel in Japan
- Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Business Travel in Japan
- Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Heavy Internet Users
- Other Pocket Wi-Fi Options for Short Trips (within 2 Weeks)
- Pocket Wi-Fi for Long Trips (over 1 Month)
Basic Tips on Pocket Wi-Fi
How to Rent a Pocket WiFi Router in Japan
Pocket WiFi or eSIM - Which to Choose?
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Overview of the Best Pocket WiFi for Travel in Japan: Top 3 Ranking
| Wi-Fi Service | Cost of Basic Plan | Data Limit | Download Speed | Devices |
| NINJA WiFi | 352 yen with our 20% discount | Unlimited | 187 Mbps | up to 15 |
| Japan Wireless | 695 yen/day | Unlimited | 187 Mbps | up to 15 |
| Sakura Mobile | from 850 yen/day | Unlimited | 187 Mbps | up to 15 |
NINJA Wi‑Fi, from Global Wi‑Fi (Vision Inc.), is highly rated for its wide range of plans. With flexible options for light browsing or video streaming, you can choose the plan that fits your needs and keep costs low — making NINJA Wi‑Fi the best value-for-money choice.
Japan Wireless previously offered Business and Premium plans but now provides a single Unlimited Wi‑Fi option. Its main advantage is truly unlimited data with consistent speeds regardless of usage, making it one of the best choices for heavy data users.
Sakura Mobile’s pocket Wi‑Fi has a single, easy-to-book plan. Its biggest advantage is highly rated English support, which is helpful for first‑time users in Japan.
At MATCHA, we tested and compared these three major pocket Wi‑Fi services. Below are detailed features to help you choose the best one for your needs.
1. NINJA WiFi: Several Plans to Choose From and a 35% Discount

Picture courtesy of Ninja WiFi
NINJA WiFi is our recommended service as the best pocket WiFi for travelers to Japan, because it offers the best balance of quality and price.
The 4G/5G connection remains reliable even when multiple devices are connected, making it ideal for family, group, or business travel. Additionally, you can choose from a variety of plans to suit your specific connectivity needs.
NINJA WiFi is provided by Vision, a well-established internet service company known for its Global WIFI brand.
NINJA WiFi Cost and Plans
| 4G Plans | Cost | MATCHA Discount | Price after Discount |
| Unlimited 1GB/day | 440 yen/day | 20% | 352 yen/day |
| Unlimited 3GB/day | 770 yen/day | 20% | 616 yen/day |
| Unlimited 5GB/day | 1,100 yen/day | 20% | 880 yen/day |
| Unlimited 10GB/day | 1,320 yen/day | 35% | 858 yen/day |
| Infinite Unlimited | 1,980 yen/day | 35% | 1,287 yen/day |
| 5G Plan | Cost | MATCHA Discount | Price after Discount |
| Unlimited Plan | 2,200 yen/day | 35% | 1,430 yen/day |
As summarized above, with NINJA WiFi, you can choose from among 4G and 5G plans.
The 4G Unlimited 10GB/Day, 4G Infinite Unlimited, and 5G Unlimited plans are available at a special 35% discount when booked through MATCHA.
Other plans are also discounted by 20%. No coupon code is required—the discount is applied automatically when booking via this link.
Data Limits
The NINJA WiFi plans are unlimited within the data capacity of your plan.
How it works:
- If you book the Unlimited 3GB/day plan, you'll be able to use 3GB of data per day without any speed restrictions. If you exceed this limit, your speed will slow down, but you'll still be able to access the internet.
Our tip:
- If you're traveling in a group and plan to connect more than three devices to the router, we recommend booking the Unlimited 10GB/day plan or the Infinite Unlimited plan (both available at a 35% discount) to ensure all group members have sufficient connectivity.
Speed
Both the 4G and 5G plans of NINJA WiFi offer a standard speed of 187 Mbps. Please note that speeds will be reduced to 128 kbps if you exceed your daily data limit, resulting in slower internet access.
*Many other companies advertise "unlimited" plans but actually impose speed restrictions after users consume 2 to 3 GB per day. In contrast, NINJA WiFi clearly outlines its high-speed data limits, enabling users to utilize the service with confidence.
Network Coverage
NINJA WiFi's 4G plans use the Softbank network, ensuring reliable connectivity across all populated areas of Japan.
The 5G plan uses the docomo network, which provides access even in remote areas such as islands and mountain regions. If you plan to travel to remote areas of Japan, we recommend choosing the NINJA WiFi 5G Unlimited plan.
Number of Devices
A NINJA WiFi portable router can support up to 15 devices simultaneously. In our tests, we connected up to 8 devices without experiencing any connectivity issues.
Pick-up and Return
NINJA WiFi is notable for offering the most pickup locations. You can collect your device at most major international airports in Japan, at the NINJA WiFi office in Tokyo, or MATCHA's office near Asakusa, Tokyo.
They have recently introduced a smart-pickup system that uses coin lockers, an industry first. Check the complete pick-up location list here: https://ninjawifi.com/en/receive/smartpickup
Customer Service
NINJA WiFi provides 24-hour customer support in English. You can contact them for assistance with connectivity issues or questions about the pick-up and return of the router.
User Review
We conducted real-use tests of NINJA WiFi in April 2025. During the tests, we connected five computers for work and three smartphones, and we were surprised at how smooth the communication was.
With dedicated counters at the airport, NINJA WiFi is easy to pick up and return. Plus, the 20% and 35% discount coupons make it so convenient! This is a service we can confidently recommend.
You can also book the Ninja WiFi with Welcome Suica (prepaid IC card for Japan public transportation) option, pick them up together at the airport counters, and take the train to start your journey right away. This means you won't need to wait in line to buy the Suica card.
2. Japan Wireless: Just ONE Plan with Truly Unlimited Data

Photo courtesy of Japan Wireless Wi-Fi
Japan Wireless simplifies the pocket WiFi rental process by offering just one unlimited data plan without speed limitations.
Japan Wireless Pocket Wi-Fi: More Cost-Effective for Longer Rental Periods
With Japan Wireless pocket Wi‑Fi, daily rates drop the longer you rent:
- Japan Wireless Unlimited Wi‑Fi: 4,064 yen for 1 day or 20,860 yen for 30 days (≈ 695 yen/day)
Moreover, you can get the Japan Wireless Unlimited WiFi at a 20% discount from MATCHA.
Data Limits
Both plans offer unlimited data capacity.
Speed
- Japan Wireless Unlimited Wi-Fi: 187Mbps
Network Coverage
Japan Wireless uses the 4G network, ensuring connectivity in all the populated areas of Japan.
Number of Devices
- You can connect up to 15 devices to the Japan Wireless pocket WiFi router.
Pick-up and Return
The Japan Wireless pocket WiFi can be picked up at major airports in Japan, as well as at post offices and their headquarters in Tokyo.
To return the router, you can simply drop it in a postbox in Japan. The provider covers the return postage, making the process very convenient.
Customer Service
Japan Wireless offers customer support in English, seven days a week.
User Review
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.
Japan Wireless is a highly recommended service for those who want to use a high-capacity plan. Similar to the aforementioned NINJA WiFi, the communication quality is very good, allowing for smooth operation even when connecting several computers.
3. Sakura Mobile: Excellent Service 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 in Japan.
They offer two types of pocket WiFi: short-term rental for travelers and long-term subscription plans for residents. Below, we focus on the features of their pocket WiFi for travelers.
Sakura Mobile Pocket WiFi: Cost and Plans
Compared to NINJA WiFi, which offers a variety of plans to choose from, Sakura Mobile's pocket WiFi offers only one option.
The price varies depending on the rental period and time of year. In November 2025, the cost was 563 yen/day. *Excluding the pocket WiFi insurance and spare battery rental fee.
Data Limits and Speed
While the service generally offers unlimited data, there may be speed reductions if one violates the Fair Usage Policy (FUP).
Network Coverage
The Sakura Mobile pocket WiFi uses a 4G network, offering connectivity in all the populated areas in Japan.
Number of Devices
The pocket WiFi is shareable among several devices.
Pick-up and Return
The Sakura Mobile pocket WiFi can be picked up at major airports in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Hokkaido), but also at their Tokyo office and at hotels.
Customer Service
The biggest merit of using the pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile is 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 a 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.
User Review
What surprised us during actual use was the excellent battery life. Even after connecting five computers and working for an hour, the battery had only decreased by 2%.
However, the communication speed was significantly slower than that of NINJA WiFi.
We recommend Sakura Mobile's pocket WiFi for travelers who do not plan to use a lot of data during their trip and who prefer having reliable support in English for added peace of mind.
Read also
Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Family/Group Travel in Japan
If you travel to Japan with your family or as a group, you'll want a shared router that offers a reliable connection and long-lasting battery life.
Best Choice for Family Travel: NINJA WiFi's Unlimited 10GB/Day

NINJA WiFi offers the best value for unlimited data plans with high-speed connectivity, especially when you take advantage of the 20% or 35% discount.
The router can support multiple devices at the same time, making it suitable for various activities such as video streaming, online gaming, web browsing, using Google Maps, social media, business tasks, and more. Additionally, it boasts a robust battery life of up to 12 hours.
NINJA WiFi also offers the option to book two routers together at a discounted price. This is a great choice for groups larger than five people.
MATCHA's English editor tested the device when her 6-member family—two kids, their parents, and a pair of grandparents—visited Japan for the first time. We booked the Unlimited 5GB/Day plan for 10 days. During the Shinkansen ride from Tokyo to Kyoto, the kids were playing online games, their parents were uploading videos and photos on social media, the grandparents were exchanging messages with friends back home, and our editor was doing the online check-in for their accommodation.
We had eight devices connected and in active use, and we encountered no connectivity issues. The battery held up well until we reached our destination.
Our only regret was not choosing the Unlimited 10GB/Day plan—since with seven people using the connection simultaneously, 5GB per day wasn’t always enough.
2nd Best Choice: Japan Wireless Unlimited WiFi
Japan Wireless Unlimited Wi‑Fi offers a single plan, making it very easy to book. The device is simple to set up and maintains a consistent speed regardless of how many devices are connected.
It has about a 10‑hour battery life and includes a free power bank for extended use.
Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Business Travel in Japan
As a digital nomad or business traveler in Japan, it's essential to have full connectivity at all times, wherever you are in the country. High speed and long battery life are the most important criteria for reliable, uninterrupted service.
Best Choice for Business Travel: NINJA WiFi's Unlimited 10GB/Day
With its Unlimited Data plans, NINJA WiFi meets the needs of any business traveler, whether you're using multiple devices simultaneously or conducting consecutive online meetings.
The Unlimited 5GB/day or Unlimited 10GB/day plans should be perfect for your requirements. (*With the 35% discount from MATCHA, the Unlimited 10GB/day plan is actually more cost-effective than the 5GB plan!)
The battery lasts for about 12 hours. Be sure to also enjoy some downtime to take in the stunning sights and experiences that Japan has to offer.
2nd Best Choice: Japan Wireless Unlimited WiFi
The pocket WiFi offered by Japan Wireless offers unlimited data and up to 18.5 hours of battery life. It can support up to 15 devices simultaneously.
The only reason it ranks below NINJA WiFi is its higher price. If you prefer this service, book it from this link to get a 20% discount.
Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Heavy Internet Users
Travelers who document their trips through live streams and videos or need to stay online throughout the day should look for a pocket WiFi that offers truly unlimited data, high-speed connectivity, and long-lasting battery life.
Best Choice for Heavy Users:
NINJA WiFi's 4G Infinite Unlimited or the 5G Unlimited
NINJA WiFi's 4G Infinite Unlimited Data plan guarantees no speed restrictions, regardless of your usage. Its 4G network coverage ensures availability in all populated regions of Japan.
If you're visiting remote islands or mountainous areas, consider the 5G Unlimited plan—the only portable WiFi that truly works in remote and rural locations in Japan.
The battery lasts around 12 hours. Both plans can be booked at a 35% discount through MATCHA, making them highly cost-effective.
2nd Best Choice: Japan Wireless Unlimited WiFi
Japan Wireless Unlimited Wi-Fi is also a great option, offering coverage across all of Japan's populated areas. The battery lasts approximately 20 hours.
While it may not be as budget-friendly as NINJA WiFi, it is still available at a 20% discount.
Other Pocket Wi-Fi Options for Short Trips (within 2 Weeks)
In addition to our top recommendations listed above, there are other pocket WiFi services in Japan that offer additional advantages, such as customer support in languages other than English.
| Wi-Fi Service | Cost of Basic Plan | Data Limit | Download Speed | Devices |
| Japan Wi-Fi Rental | 430 yen/day | 50 GB/month | max. 612 Mbps | up to 14 |
| Wifi Rental Store | 390 yen/day | 20 GB/month | 150 Mbps | up to 7 |
| eConnect Japan | 237 yen/day | 20 GB/month | 187.5 Mbps | up to 10 |
| PUPURU WiFi | 900 yen/day | Unlimited | 187.5 Mbps | up to 4 |
| Softbank Global Rental | 860 yen/day | not specified | not specified | up to 10 |
| Global Advanced Communications | 470 yen/day (for 15 days) | 3 GB/day | 150 Mbps | 1 device |
| Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM | 106 yen/day (for 30 days) | 5 GB | max. 300 Mbps | not specified |
| mobal | 166 yen/day + device price 6,980 yen (*purchase only) |
300 GB/month | 150 Mbps | up to 10 |
| CD Japan Rental | 250 yen/day (for 30 days) | 100 GB/month | 187.5 Mbps | up to 10 |
Below, we introduce some of these alternative options.
Japan Wi-Fi rental: Great for 2-Week Stays

Picture courtesy of Japan Wifi Rental
If you are looking to use WiFi cheaply for a trip of about two 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 yen for the device and a 19,800 yen termination fee.
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 the 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.
eConnect Japan: One Plan Only, No Data Limit

Alongside Japan Wireless, eConnect Japan also offers just one 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 July 2025, renting the 20GB plan for one week costs 4,800 yen (686 yen/day). 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.
PUPURU WiFi: Convenient Plans for Internet Use in Large Cities

Picture courtesy of PUPURU WiFi
PUPURU offers portable Wi-Fi with good connectivity, especially in urban areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
PUPURU WiFi's prices are relatively high compared to other services. However, its standout feature is the ability to consult with an AI chatbot.
While other services generally provide customer support in English, the AI chatbot can give quick responses, making it a good option for those who want to inquire before renting.
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 shipped to you, an extra charge of 1,000 yen will apply, so please be aware of these costs.
A unique feature of SoftBank Global Rental is that it also offers smartphone rentals and basic phones for voice calls only. This service is convenient for individuals who need a dedicated phone for calls, in addition to or instead of data or internet services.
Global Advanced Communications: Customer 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.
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.
Pocket Wi-Fi Services for Long Trips (One Month or Longer)
If you're visiting Japan for a long-term stay for study or work, we recommend using one of the following services.
| Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM | ||
| Price for Basic Plan | 6,600 yen | |
| Data Capacity | 5 GB/day | |
| Benefits | Large data capacity | |
| HP | https://wi-firental.com/ | |
| mobal | ||
| Price for Basic Plan | 4,980 yen (*initial fee: the device rental costs 6,980 yen) | |
| Data Capacity | 100 GB/month | |
| Benefit | Cost-effective plans in combination with a SIM card | |
| HP | https://www.mobal.com/japan-wifi/ | |
| CD Japan Rental | ||
| Price for Basic Plan | 7,500 yen/30 days | |
| Data Capacity | 100 GB/month | |
| Benefits | Large data capacity to use | |
| HP | https://rental.cdjapan.co.jp/index_en_jpy_7.html | |
| Sakura Mobile | ||
| Price for Basic Plan | 5,478 yen | |
| Data Capacity | 100 GB/month | |
| Benefit | Customer support in English | |
| HP | https://www.sakuramobile.jp/ | |
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 the 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).
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 three plans: 100GB per month for 4,980 yen, 200GB for 5,980 yen, and 300GB for 6,980 yen.
It connects through the same cell towers as the major telecommunications companies - Softbank, NTT Docomo, Rakuten 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.
CD Japan Rental: Good Choice for Heavy Internet Users

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.
Sakura Mobile's Wi-Fi Router for Residents: With Customer Support in English
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.
How to Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi Router in Japan

Photo by Pixta
The process for using pocket Wi-Fi is as follows:
1) Make a reservation online before arriving in Japan
2) Pick up the router at the airport or hotel after arrival
3) Return it before leaving Japan (via mail or at the airport counter)
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.
Airport Rental vs. Pre-ordering
All major airports in Japan, such as Narita and Haneda, have rental counters where you can rent Pocket Wi-Fi. You can pick up and rent devices on the same day at these airports.
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.
Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM - Which to Choose?
This video compares Pocket WiFi, SIM cards, and eSIMs. If you're unsure whether to choose Pocket WiFi or eSIM, please watch this first.
Since 2024, eSIM has become very popular for internet use during travel. It can be set up entirely online and, since it only requires a single smartphone, it is very convenient to carry.
However, pocket WiFi also offers several advantages, including:
- Access to larger amounts of data at a more affordable price
- Easier connection setup (as eSIM activation can sometimes be prone to errors)
- The ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously
For individuals who travel alone or only need a small amount of data, an eSIM is recommended. On the other hand, if you require a large amount of data, are traveling with multiple people, or have concerns about maintaining a stable connection, using a pocket WiFi is advised.
To those who prefer using an eSIM for connectivity, we recommend the MATCHA Japan eSIM, a service we developed in collaboration with Japan Wireless. You can choose from among various plans, including plans with unlimited data, and get your eSIM at a 40% discount.
Read also
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
How do I set up a pocket Wi-Fi?
Simply go to the "Settings" menu on your smartphone, select "Wi-Fi," click on the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to, and insert the password.
*Please note that the setup may vary depending on the device model.
Which is better, a SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi?
When using the internet in Japan, in addition to pocket Wi-Fi, using a SIM card that can be inserted directly into your smartphone is also popular. SIM cards have several advantages that pocket Wi-Fi does not offer.
First, SIM cards are inserted directly into smartphones, eliminating the need to carry a separate device like a Wi-Fi router. This makes them more convenient and reduces the risk of damaging or losing the device (additional fees may apply for damaged or lost Wi-Fi routers).
Furthermore, in recent years, eSIM has also been introduced, which allows you to use it immediately with just online procedures. While you need to pick up a Wi-Fi router at places like airports or hotels, eSIM eliminates this requirement.
However, using a SIM card can be inconvenient as it requires opening the smartphone's SIM card slot to swap cards. Additionally, some eSIM services may not allow tethering with other computers or smartphones.
On the other hand, pocket Wi-Fi is easy to set up and can be easily connected to multiple computers and smartphones, making it more convenient.
Both options have their own merits and drawbacks, so please consider which one suits your needs best.
For further information, please check MATCHA's article.
What is FUP?
FUP stands for Fair Usage Policy. It’s a rule set by ISPs and mobile/wifi providers to prevent a small number of users from overloading a shared network. Under FUP, a plan labeled “unlimited” may have limits: if you use an unusually large amount of data in a billing period, the provider can slow your speed, restrict access, or apply other temporary limits to keep service fair for everyone.
How much data do I need during my stay in Japan?
The amount of data you will need varies depending on the individual, but please consider the following guidelines:
- If you use free Wi-Fi at hotels or cafes for data-heavy activities like video streaming, even a small data plan should be sufficient to enjoy your trip to Japan.
- However, troubles can arise during international travel. If you're not very experienced with traveling, it is recommended to have a service that provides at least 1 GB of data per day.
Estimated data usage in Japan (what you can do with 1 GB):
Sending emails: approximately 2,090 emails (assuming each email is about 500 KB)
Video streaming: Approximately 2 hours for a 480p (medium quality) video, or about 3 hours for a 360p video.
Google Maps: Approximately 1,432 views (assuming each view lasts for 10 minutes)
Reference: Wi-Fi Rental.com
Is free Wi-Fi reliable in Japan?
In recent years, locations providing free Wi-Fi have increased not only in train stations and airports but also in cafes throughout Japan.
However, outside of such establishments, free Wi-Fi is generally not available. It is recommended to prepare a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card when going to outdoor tourist spots or when using Google Maps in urban areas.
For information on where free Wi-Fi is available, please refer to the following MATCHA article.
Can I buy the Japan Rail Pass and pocket Wi-Fi as a set?
The Japan Rail Pass, which allows unlimited travel on Japan Railways (JR), is a convenient pass for traveling in Japan.
In recent years, a plan has been introduced that allows you to purchase or rent the Ninja Wi-Fi pocket Wi-Fi router along with the Japan Rail Pass (nationwide version). You can apply for this set on the official website of the JR Pass.
However, please note that purchasing or renting the set plan does not necessarily make it cheaper. For example, using the previously mentioned discount, the Ninja Wi-Fi costs 3,080 yen for 5 days, while if you rent it within the set plan, it costs 5,800 yen (with added insurance).
The Japan Rail Pass can be easily purchased through the activity booking site Klook. Unless you have a specific reason to do so, it is not recommended to purchase the set plan unless all you wish for is convenience.
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!
Read also
Main image by Pixta
