If you are planning to use an eSIM during your trip to Japan, you may have many questions such as, "How do I set it up on my iPhone?" "Which iPhones are compatible?" "What should I do after I arrive in Japan?"
The Japan eSIM can be used on compatible iPhones without the need to swap out a SIM card. You can install the eSIM before departure and simply activate the line after arriving in Japan to connect to the internet right away.
This article will provide detailed explanations on compatible devices, setup procedures for using the Japan eSIM on an iPhone, settings to configure after arriving in Japan, and troubleshooting steps if you cannot connect.
Can I use Japan eSIM on my iPhone?
You can use the Japan eSIM if you have an eSIM-compatible iPhone.
Since eSIM is a digital SIM built into the device, there is no need to swap out a physical SIM card. You can easily add a line by scanning a QR code, making it simple to prepare even before your trip to Japan.
You can check the eSIM plans for your trip to Japan at Japan eSIM Products and Pricing Plans.
Compatible iPhones for Japan eSIM
Generally, many models from iPhone XS and XR onwards are compatible with eSIM.
- iPhone XS / XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 16 series
Compatibility may vary depending on the sales region and model. Please check the list of eSIM-compatible devices before use.
What to prepare before setting up Japan eSIM on iPhone
- eSIM-compatible iPhone
- Stable Wi-Fi connection
- QR code received after purchase
- Update to the latest iOS version (recommended)
- Unlocked device
Since an internet connection is required to scan the QR code, it is recommended to set it up in a stable Wi-Fi environment such as at a hotel or home.
How to install Japan eSIM before departure
- Open "Settings"
- Select "Cellular"
- Tap "Add Cellular Plan"
- Select "Use QR Code"
- Scan the QR code received after purchase
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add it
- Changing the line name to something like "Japan eSIM" can make management easier
At this point, it is not necessary to turn on the Japan eSIM. It is recommended to complete the installation before departure and activate the line after arriving in Japan.
Settings to configure after arriving in Japan
Once you arrive in Japan, please configure the following settings in order.
- Turn on the Japan eSIM
- Change mobile data to the Japan eSIM
- Turn on data roaming for the Japan eSIM
- Turn off data roaming for the primary line
- Turn airplane mode on or off as needed
After a few minutes, you will connect to the Japanese communication network.
How to change mobile data
- Settings
- Cellular
- Mobile Data
- Select Japan eSIM
It is recommended to keep "Allow Mobile Data Switching" OFF. This prevents automatic switching to the primary line and helps avoid incurring overseas roaming charges.
How to turn on data roaming
- Settings
- Cellular
- Japan eSIM
- Turn on Data Roaming
Many travel-oriented Japan eSIM products require data roaming to be ON to connect to partner networks within Japan.
How to set up the primary line?
There is no need to delete the SIM you usually use.
The recommended settings are as follows:
- Mobile Data: Japan eSIM
- Data Roaming for Japan eSIM: ON
- Data Roaming for primary line: OFF
- Voice Calls: primary line
- SMS: primary line
You can maintain your phone number and SMS while using the Japan eSIM for internet communication.
If you are looking for a plan with a phone number, please check eSIM with Phone Number.
If Japan eSIM does not connect on iPhone
If you cannot connect even after setting it up, please check the following items.
- Japan eSIM is ON
- Mobile data is set to Japan eSIM
- Data roaming is ON
- Airplane mode is OFF
- APN settings (only for necessary products)
- Network selection is automatic
- Restart the device
For detailed troubleshooting methods, please refer to Troubleshooting Japan eSIM Connection Issues.
Is APN setting necessary?
On iPhone, APN is automatically configured for many Japan eSIMs.
Only manually configure the APN if the information is provided in the instructions after purchase. If you are able to connect normally, there is no need to change it.
You can also check the setup method at Japan eSIM Support.
Is it okay to delete the eSIM?
Even if you cannot connect, it is not recommended to delete the eSIM on your own judgment.
Some travel eSIMs can only be used once with the QR code, and deleting it may prevent reinstallation.
Please first check the line settings, data roaming, APN, and so on.
Benefits of using Japan eSIM on iPhone
- No need to swap SIM cards
- Can be set up before departure
- Available for use immediately after arriving in Japan
- Supports dual SIM
- Can use the internet while maintaining the primary line
- Many products support tethering
For plans that match your travel duration, please check Comparison of Japan eSIM Pricing and Plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to remove the SIM card from my iPhone?
No, you can add the Japan eSIM while keeping the physical SIM.
Is it okay to set it up after arriving in Japan?
It is possible, but you may need Wi-Fi at the airport or elsewhere. It is recommended to install it before departure.
Can I use tethering on my iPhone?
You can use it if you have a tethering-compatible plan.
How many eSIMs can I store?
The number of eSIMs you can store varies by iPhone model, but most devices can store multiple eSIMs.
Is it okay to delete it if I cannot connect?
Deleting it may prevent reinstallation. Please check the settings first, and if it still does not improve, contact support.
For other inquiries, please check Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM.
Conclusion
With an iPhone, you can easily set up the Japan eSIM before departure and activate the line after arriving in Japan.
When setting up, make sure to check the following points:
- Confirm that you have an eSIM-compatible iPhone
- Scan the QR code before departure
- Turn on the line after arriving in Japan
- Change mobile data to Japan eSIM
- Turn on data roaming
- If you cannot connect, check the settings instead of deleting
If you want to know more about purchasing and setting up Japan eSIM, please check Complete Guide to Japan eSIM.
