When choosing an eSIM for your trip to Japan, many may wonder, "Which network is better, Docomo, au, or SoftBank?"
In Japan, the three major telecommunications companies providing mobile communication networks nationwide are Docomo (NTT Docomo), au (KDDI), SoftBank.
Many travel-oriented eSIMs utilize the networks of these telecommunications companies. Therefore, depending on the network you use, the communication area, speed, and connectivity may vary.
In this article, we will explain in detail the differences between Docomo, au, and SoftBank, recommend networks for traveling in Japan, and points to consider when choosing an eSIM.
If you want to know the basics of eSIM in Japan, please also check the Complete Guide to Japan eSIM .
What are the three major telecommunications companies in Japan?
In Japan, NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank provide mobile communication services on a national scale.
| Telecommunications Company | Features | Recommendation Level for Travelers |
|---|---|---|
| Docomo | Easy to use nationwide and strong in rural areas | ★★★★★ |
| au | Stable in both urban and rural areas | ★★★★☆ |
| SoftBank | High-speed communication expected in urban areas | ★★★★☆ |
For travel-oriented eSIMs, there are products that connect to one or multiple of these networks for roaming.
Features of the Docomo Network
Docomo is one of the largest telecommunications companies in terms of communication area in Japan.
- Easy to use nationwide
- Relatively strong in mountainous and rural areas
- Stable even on Shinkansen and in rural cities
- Highly popular among travelers
It is a network that is easy to use even when traveling to areas outside urban centers such as Hokkaido, Tohoku, Hokuriku, and Kyushu.
Features of the au Network
au provides stable communication quality not only in urban areas but also in rural cities.
- Stable communication quality nationwide
- Wide coverage of 5G areas
- Easy to use for rural tourism
- Relatively stable speed
It is recommended not only for Tokyo and Osaka but also for travelers planning rural tourism.
Features of the SoftBank Network
SoftBank is a telecommunications company where high-speed communication is expected in urban areas.
- Strong in urban areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya
- Easy to use in shopping areas
- 5G coverage is expanding
- Often adopted for travel-oriented eSIMs
If your travel is centered around urban areas, there are many cases where you can use it comfortably.
Comparison of Communication Areas
| Location | Docomo | au | SoftBank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Osaka | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Kyoto | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Hokkaido | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Okinawa | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Mountainous Areas | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
For general sightseeing trips, you can usually use any of the networks without major issues.
On the other hand, if you are traveling to rural or mountainous areas, the Docomo network tends to be easier to use.
Comparison of Communication Speeds
Communication speed varies depending on the location, time of day, congestion, and the eSIM plan used.
| Comparison Item | Docomo | au | SoftBank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Rural Areas | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| During Congestion | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Overall Rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
In normal travel situations, you can usually use Google Maps, LINE, social media, and video streaming comfortably on any of the networks.
Which network is recommended for traveling in Japan?
If you are traveling to major tourist destinations such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, you can usually use any of the networks comfortably.
On the other hand, if you are also traveling to Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kyushu, or mountainous areas, the Docomo network, which has a wide communication area, is reassuring.
| Travel Style | Recommended Network |
|---|---|
| Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto | Docomo, au, SoftBank |
| Traveling around Japan | Docomo |
| Rural Tourism | Docomo, au |
| Urban-Centric | SoftBank |
In practice, the available networks may vary depending on the eSIM service you use, so be sure to check the compatible networks before purchasing.
Can you choose a network with eSIM?
With travel-oriented eSIMs, the telecommunications companies available depend on the product.
- Docomo network compatible
- au network compatible
- SoftBank network compatible
- Type that automatically connects to multiple networks
With eSIMs that support multiple networks, you may be able to connect to the optimal network depending on your location.
Please check the product page for the available networks.
Points to Consider When Choosing an eSIM for Traveling in Japan
Don't Choose Based Only on the Telecommunications Company
In addition to the network, data capacity, duration of use, and support system are also important.
Choose a Plan That Matches Your Travel Duration
Choose a plan that matches your stay duration, such as 3 days, 7 days, 15 days, or 30 days.
Check the Usage Area
If you plan to travel to remote islands or mountainous areas, it is reassuring to check the supported areas.
Check Compatible Devices
Before purchasing, please check the List of eSIM Compatible Devices .
Also Check the Setup Method
For first-time users, the eSIM Setup Guide is also helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Docomo network the best recommendation for traveling in Japan?
If you are traveling to rural or mountainous areas, the Docomo network is reassuring. If you are only in urban areas, there is not much difference between the networks.
Which network is recommended in Tokyo?
In Tokyo, you can use Docomo, au, and SoftBank comfortably.
Can I use it without any issues in Kyoto and Osaka?
In major tourist destinations, stable communication is expected from all three companies.
Which network is recommended for rural travel?
If you are traveling to Hokkaido, Tohoku, or Kyushu, the Docomo network is recommended.
Can I specify a telecommunications company with eSIM?
It varies by product. Please check the product page for the available telecommunications companies.
Can I use 5G?
There are products that allow 5G communication if you have a compatible device and are in a supported area.
What should I do if I cannot connect?
Please check the eSIM connection, mobile data communication, data roaming, and APN settings in order.
Which eSIM is recommended for traveling in Japan?
It is important to choose based on your travel duration and required data capacity.
Conclusion
In Japan, you can use Docomo, au, and SoftBank comfortably at major tourist destinations.
- For nationwide travel, choose Docomo
- For a balance between urban and rural, choose au
- For urban-centric travel, choose SoftBank
In addition to the network, compare the duration of use, data capacity, and support content to choose the Japan eSIM that suits you best.
