When you arrive at New Chitose Airport, many people head straight to Sapporo or Otaru, or travel around Hokkaido by rental car. In such cases, many may wonder, "Can I buy an eSIM at New Chitose Airport?" or "Can I use the internet right after arriving at the airport?"
You can purchase and set up an eSIM for Japan online even after arriving at New Chitose Airport. However, since the distances in Hokkaido are long and many travelers head directly to tourist spots from the airport, it is advisable to prepare your eSIM before your trip for peace of mind.
In this article, we will explain in detail how to purchase an eSIM at New Chitose Airport, recommended data capacities, and the benefits of preparing in advance for your trip.
Can I buy an eSIM at New Chitose Airport?
Yes. You can purchase an eSIM for Japan online even after arriving at New Chitose Airport.
By connecting to the airport's free Wi-Fi and purchasing the eSIM to scan the QR code, most products can be set up on the spot.
However, since many travelers move by JR or rental car immediately after arriving at the airport, if you want to use it with some time to spare, it is recommended to purchase and set it up before your trip.
How to purchase an eSIM at New Chitose Airport
- Connect to the free Wi-Fi at New Chitose Airport
- Purchase an eSIM for Japan online
- Receive the QR code via email
- Add the eSIM to your smartphone
- Switch mobile data to the eSIM
Once the setup is complete, you can use it immediately for Google Maps and searching for tourist information while traveling to Sapporo and Otaru, as well as during your rental car use.
Large capacity plans are recommended for Hokkaido travel
Hokkaido has long distances between cities, and many travelers also visit Otaru, Furano, Biei, Noboribetsu, and Niseko. Since there are many opportunities to use Google Maps, car navigation, and search for tourist spots, the data usage tends to be higher compared to city trips in Honshu.
| Travel Style | Recommended Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2-3 days in Sapporo | 3GB |
| 4-5 days in Sapporo and Otaru | 5GB |
| Traveling around Furano, Biei, Noboribetsu, etc. | 10GB |
| Traveling around Hokkaido or long-term stay | Unlimited |
It is important to choose a data capacity that suits you, considering not only the number of travel days but also the distance traveled and the apps you will use.
Benefits of purchasing before your trip
- You can start communication immediately after arriving at New Chitose Airport
- You can use Google Maps and car navigation right away when using a rental car
- You can communicate comfortably while traveling to Sapporo and Otaru
- You can shorten the time spent setting up at the airport
- You can set it up with peace of mind in a Wi-Fi environment before your trip
In Hokkaido, it is not uncommon to head directly to sightseeing spots by rental car from the airport. By preparing your eSIM in advance, you can use map apps and tourist information immediately after arrival, allowing you to enjoy your Hokkaido trip more smoothly.
Points to note when purchasing an eSIM at New Chitose Airport
If you are purchasing an eSIM at New Chitose Airport, make sure to check the following points in advance so that you can use it immediately after arrival.
- Check if your smartphone supports eSIM
- Confirm that the SIM lock is unlocked
- Use an email address where you can receive the QR code after purchase
- Install the eSIM before your trip
- Check the usage conditions and expiration date in advance
In Hokkaido, it is common to head to tourist spots by rental car from the airport. If you complete the setup before departure, you can use Google Maps and car navigation immediately after arriving at New Chitose Airport, allowing you to start your trip smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy an eSIM at New Chitose Airport?
Yes. You can purchase an eSIM for Japan online even after arriving at New Chitose Airport and set it up.
Can I set up the eSIM using the free Wi-Fi at New Chitose Airport?
Yes. By connecting to the airport's free Wi-Fi, you can purchase the eSIM and set it up by scanning the QR code.
Can I use the internet right after arriving at New Chitose Airport?
If you set up the eSIM before your trip, many products allow you to start communication simply by activating the eSIM after arrival.
How many GB do I need for a trip to Hokkaido?
For a short trip focusing only on Sapporo, 3-5GB is a good estimate. If you are traveling around Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, and Biei, 10GB or more is recommended, and for long trips or if you want to use data without worry, an unlimited plan is advisable.
Is eSIM convenient for rental car travel?
Yes. It is particularly convenient for traveling around Hokkaido by rental car, as you can use Google Maps, car navigation, search for tourist spots, and check parking information.
Should I purchase it before my trip?
Yes. If you purchase and set it up before your trip, you can start communication immediately after arriving at New Chitose Airport and shorten the time spent setting it up at the airport.
Is eSIM recommended over a SIM card?
If you have an eSIM-compatible device, you do not need to receive or swap SIM cards. You can complete the purchase and setup online, making preparations before your trip smoother.
Conclusion
You can purchase an eSIM for Japan at New Chitose Airport, but it is more convenient to purchase and set it up online before your trip. Hokkaido has long distances between cities, and many travelers explore widely by rental car or JR, so it is reassuring to have a communication environment ready to go immediately after arrival.
- You can purchase an eSIM even after arriving at New Chitose Airport
- If you set it up before your trip, you can use it immediately after arrival
- 10GB or more is recommended for traveling around Hokkaido
- It is convenient for Google Maps and car navigation during rental car travel
- Choose a data capacity that suits your travel style
By preparing your eSIM before departure, you can use Google Maps and car navigation immediately after arriving at New Chitose Airport, allowing you to comfortably explore various places in Hokkaido, such as Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, and Biei.
