When traveling to Japan, "Should I buy a SIM card at the airport?" "Which is better, a SIM card or eSIM?" Many people may be confused.
Currently, there are not only methods to purchase a SIM card at the airport after arriving in Japan, but also an increasing number of travelers who buy and set up eSIMs online before their trip. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose based on your travel style.
In this article, we will compare in detail how to purchase a SIM card at Japanese airports, the differences with eSIMs, and which option is recommended.
Can you buy a SIM card at Japanese airports?
Yes. At major airports such as Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Kansai Airport, New Chitose Airport, Fukuoka Airport, and Naha Airport, there are stores that sell SIM cards.
On the other hand, some stores have limited hours, and depending on your arrival time, you may not be able to make a purchase. Additionally, the desired capacity or plan may be sold out.
For this reason, recently, more travelers are preparing eSIMs before their trip instead of searching for SIM cards at the airport.
Differences between SIM cards and eSIMs
| Comparison Item | SIM Card | eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Method | Airport, store, online | Online |
| Receipt | Required | Not required |
| Setup Method | Insert SIM card | Scan QR code |
| Start of Use | After SIM exchange | Can be set up in minutes |
| Risk of Loss | Yes | No |
If you are using a device that supports eSIM, there is no need to swap SIM cards, which makes it easier to prepare before your trip.
Reasons to recommend eSIM for traveling in Japan
- You can purchase it online before your trip
- No need to search for a SIM card at the airport
- No hassle of swapping SIM cards
- You can use the internet immediately after arrival
- No worries about loss or damage
Especially for short trips, many people want to use Google Maps or transit guides immediately after arrival, so eSIMs that can be set up before the trip are a convenient option.
Cases where a SIM card is recommended
On the other hand, there are cases where a SIM card may be more suitable, such as the following.
- Your smartphone does not support eSIM
- You are more accustomed to using a physical SIM
- You are using a device from your company or school that cannot add eSIMs
After checking the compatibility of your device, choose whether a SIM card or eSIM is better for you.
Which should you choose, eSIM or SIM card?
Which is more suitable depends on the smartphone you use and your travel style.
| Recommended for | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Want to use the internet immediately after arrival | eSIM |
| Want to prepare communication before the trip | eSIM |
| Using a smartphone that does not support eSIM | SIM card |
| Not resistant to swapping SIM cards | SIM card |
| Want to use without swapping SIM cards | eSIM |
If you are using a device that supports eSIM, the eSIM, which can be purchased and set up online, is smoother for preparation before your trip and use after arriving at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you buy a SIM card at Japanese airports 24 hours a day?
It varies by airport. You may not be able to make a purchase outside of store hours, so it is advisable to check in advance.
Can you purchase an eSIM after arriving in Japan?
Yes. If you can connect to free Wi-Fi, you can purchase and set up an eSIM online.
Is there a difference in communication quality between eSIM and SIM cards?
Communication quality varies depending on the service provider and plan you use. The difference between SIM card and eSIM does not solely determine the communication speed.
Which is more convenient to purchase before traveling, a SIM card or eSIM?
If you have a device that supports eSIM, the eSIM, which can be purchased and set up before your trip, is more convenient. It reduces the hassle of searching for or swapping SIM cards at the airport.
What happens to your regular SIM when you swap SIM cards?
If you are using a physical SIM, you will need to remove and store your current SIM card. Be careful not to lose it.
Do you need to remove the SIM card if you use eSIM?
Usually not. eSIM is added digitally to the device, so you can use it without swapping the physical SIM.
Which is better for short trips, eSIM or SIM card?
If you are using a device that supports eSIM, the eSIM, which can be set up before your trip and allows you to start communication immediately after arrival, is recommended.
Conclusion
You can purchase a SIM card at Japanese airports, but it may take time to find a store or swap SIM cards. On the other hand, with eSIM, you can purchase and set it up online before your trip, allowing you to start communication immediately after arriving in Japan, which is why its use is increasing, especially for short trips.
- You can purchase a SIM card at major airports in Japan
- With eSIM, you can purchase and set it up online
- eSIM does not require swapping SIM cards
- If you prepare in advance, you can use it immediately after arrival
- It is important to choose based on the compatibility of your smartphone
Based on the number of travel days and the smartphone you will use, choose the communication method that suits you, and enjoy a comfortable trip to Japan.
