Where can I buy an eSIM with a phone number? Points to check before purchasing.

If you are looking for an eSIM for travel to Japan, temporary return, business trips, or studying abroad, you may be wondering, "Where can I buy an eSIM with a phone number?" and "What should I check compared to a data-only eSIM?"

You can purchase an eSIM with a phone number from the official websites of telecom companies, travel eSIM sales sites, online shops, airports, electronics retailers, and more.

However, depending on the sales location, the available plans, methods of identity verification, time to activation, and support for voice calls and SMS may vary.

Also, just because it is labeled "with a phone number" does not guarantee that a Japanese phone number will be assigned.

There are products that only display a phone number but do not support voice calls or SMS.

In this article, we will clearly explain the main places where you can purchase an eSIM with a phone number, the advantages and points to note for each, and the key points to check before purchasing, such as voice calls, SMS, identity verification, and expiration dates.

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Where can I buy an eSIM with a phone number?

The main places to purchase an eSIM with a phone number are as follows:

• Official websites of telecom companies
• Official sales sites for travel eSIMs
• Online shops specializing in eSIMs
• Stores of telecom companies
• SIM and communication counters at airports
• Electronics retailers
• Some convenience stores and sales agents

For short-term travel, it is common to purchase an eSIM online and set it up using a QR code sent via email.

On the other hand, for plans that come with a Japanese mobile phone number and voice call functionality, identity verification using a passport or residence card may be required.

For plans with a phone number, please check eSIM with a phone number.

Comparison of places to buy an eSIM with a phone number

1. Purchase from the official website of a telecom company

If you prioritize a Japanese mobile phone number and voice calls, checking the official website of a telecom company is an option.

The advantages of the official website include easy access to the following information:

• Type of phone number assigned
• Outgoing and incoming voice calls
• SMS reception and sending
• Call charges
• Methods of identity verification
• Usage period
• Contract renewal and cancellation conditions

However, there may be a focus on monthly contracts rather than short-term plans for travelers.

Conditions such as a Japanese address, payment method, and identity verification documents may be set, so please check before applying.

2. Purchase from the official travel eSIM website

If you are using it for short trips or business trips, purchasing online from the official travel eSIM website is convenient.

You can purchase before departure and set it up in a stable Wi-Fi environment, making it easy to start communication immediately upon arrival in Japan.

However, many travel eSIMs are data-only.

Even if it is labeled as "with a phone number," check the following points:

• Will a Japanese phone number be assigned?
• Is it compatible with voice calls?
• Is it compatible with SMS reception?
• Is it compatible with SMS sending?
• Is the assigned number a temporary number?
• What is the expiration date of the phone number?

For data plans for travel to Japan, please see Japan eSIM products and pricing plans.

3. Purchase from an online eSIM specialty shop

At online eSIM specialty shops, you can compare multiple countries, usage periods, data capacities, and phone number functionalities.

While there are many options, it may be difficult to understand the functions just from the product names and descriptions.

Before purchasing, check not only the seller but also the actual telecom provider and support contact.

In particular, be cautious of the following labels:

• "With a number" but not compatible with voice calls
• "SMS compatible" but only for reception
• "Compatible with Japan" but the phone number is an overseas number
• "Voice calls possible" but only through a dedicated app
• "Unlimited" but with speed limit conditions

4. Purchase from a telecom company store

If you are unsure about setup or identity verification, you can consult at a telecom company store.

The main content you can confirm in person includes:

• Is the device compatible with eSIM?
• Is the SIM lock removed?
• Type of phone number
• Compatibility with voice calls and SMS
• Identity verification documents
• Contract duration and fees

However, some stores may not handle short-term eSIMs for visitors to Japan.

Before visiting, check for plans for foreign travelers and eSIM compatibility.

5. Purchase at the airport

If you want to prepare communication means after arriving in Japan, you may be able to purchase at the airport's communication counters or SIM vending machines.

The advantage of purchasing at the airport is that you can consult with staff immediately after arrival.

On the other hand, there are some points to note:

• Sales hours are limited
• Counters may be closed late at night or early in the morning
• Prices may be higher than online
• There may be limited plans to choose from
• There may be a focus on data-only rather than with a phone number
• Wait times may occur during busy periods

If you want to communicate immediately upon arrival in Japan, it is advisable to purchase and set up the eSIM online before departure.

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6. Purchase at electronics retailers

In Japan, electronics retailers may sell SIM cards and communication services.

The advantage is that it is easy to consult about smartphone compatibility and setup methods.

However, the focus may be on physical SIMs at the store, and the desired eSIM with a phone number may not be available.

If you want an eSIM, please confirm the following points with the staff:

• Will it be issued as an eSIM?
• Will a Japanese phone number be assigned?
• Is it compatible with voice calls?
• Can SMS be used?
• Can travelers apply?
• What documents are needed for identity verification?

7. Purchase from sales agents or convenience stores

Some sales agents and convenience stores may sell SIM cards, purchase codes for eSIMs, and prepaid communication products.

While it is easy to purchase, you may not receive detailed explanations at the store.

Be sure to check the phone number, call, SMS, and how to start using it on the package or purchase page.

Which is recommended, online or in-store?

For those who want to compare plans before departure and set up calmly, online purchase is suitable.

For those who are unsure about device setup or identity verification and want to consult in person, in-store purchase is suitable.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 1 | Will a Japanese phone number be assigned?

When choosing an eSIM with a phone number, check the country and type of the assigned phone number.

Even eSIMs usable in Japan may be assigned the following types of numbers:

• Japanese mobile phone numbers such as 070, 080, 090
• IP phone numbers starting with 050
• Phone numbers from countries other than Japan
• Numbers for line management that cannot be used for calls

If you want to register a contact for a hotel, workplace, or delivery service in Japan, confirm whether a Japanese phone number will be assigned.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 2 | Is it compatible with outgoing and incoming calls?

Even if it has a phone number, it does not guarantee that you can make and receive regular calls.

If you need voice calls, check the following items:

• Outgoing calls to Japan
• Incoming calls from Japan
• Outgoing international calls
• Incoming calls while abroad
• Call charges
• Free call time
• Is a dedicated app required?

If it is only labeled "call compatible," check whether it refers to regular calls using the standard phone app or internet calls using a dedicated app.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 3 | Is it compatible with SMS reception and sending?

If you want to use SMS authentication or regular SMS, you need to choose an eSIM with a phone number that supports SMS reception.

Depending on the plan, there may be differences such as:

• SMS reception only
• Domestic SMS sending and receiving
• International SMS sending and receiving
• Short code SMS not included
• No SMS functionality

Even if you can receive SMS, it does not guarantee that you can use it for all SMS authentication, such as for banks or payment services.

Check the phone number requirements for the services you plan to use.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 4 | Is identity verification required?

For eSIMs with a Japanese phone number or voice call functionality, identity verification may be required.

The following may be required for identity verification:

• Passport
• Residence card
• Driver's license
• Photo of the person
• Name
• Date of birth
• Address in Japan

For traveler products, it may be possible to apply with just a passport, but conditions vary by product.

Since identity verification may take time, apply well in advance rather than just before use.

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Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 5 | Is the device compatible with eSIM?

To use an eSIM, your smartphone must be compatible with eSIM.

Even with the same model name, it may not be compatible with eSIM depending on the country of sale or model.

Before purchasing, check the following:

• Is the device compatible with eSIM?
• Is the SIM lock removed?
• How many SIMs can be used simultaneously?
• Is there space to add a travel eSIM?
• What communication frequencies are supported?

For compatible devices, please see List of eSIM compatible devices.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 6 | Timing of usage start

The timing for the validity period of the eSIM to begin varies by product.

• Starts from the date of purchase
• Starts from the time the QR code is scanned
• Starts from the time the eSIM is added to the device
• Starts from the time connected to the Japanese network
• Starts from the specified start date

Some products may have reduced usage days if set up before departure, so check the usage start conditions before setting up.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 7 | Validity period of the phone number

For short-term eSIMs with a phone number, the phone number may become unusable at the same time as the data plan ends.

Items to check include:

• Duration for which the phone number can be used
• Is it the same expiration as data communication?
• Is extension or renewal possible?
• Can the same number be used after renewal?
• Can SMS be received after expiration?

If you register a temporary number with banks, SNS, or payment services, you may not receive authentication codes after the expiration date.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 8 | What is included in the fees?

The displayed fees do not necessarily include all functionalities.

Check the following costs:

• eSIM purchase fee
• Data communication fee
• Domestic call fee
• International call fee
• SMS sending fee
• Incoming call fee
• Identity verification fee
• Additional charge fee
• Extension/renewal fee

Even if it supports voice calls, outgoing calls may be charged on a pay-per-use basis.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 9 | Data capacity and communication speed

In addition to the phone number, check the data capacity you will use during your trip.

For detailed estimates of data usage, please check Estimated data usage.

Pre-Purchase Checkpoint 10 | Support system

An eSIM with a phone number has more verification items than a data-only eSIM, including identity verification, activation, voice calls, and SMS.

Before purchasing, check the following support details:

• Contact methods
• Supported languages
• Support hours
• Availability of chat support
• Availability of setup support
• Refund and cancellation conditions
• Conditions for reissuing

For inquiries regarding purchases and setup, please see Japan eSIM Support.

Is it okay to choose a cheap eSIM with a phone number?

If you choose based solely on price, there is a possibility that necessary functions are not included.

When comparing cheaper products, check the following points:

• Is it not data-only?
• Will a Japanese number be assigned?
• Is it compatible with outgoing and incoming calls?
• Is it compatible with SMS reception?
• Are there additional charges for call fees?
• Are there no additional identity verification costs?
• Are there speed limit restrictions?
• Is support available?

Even if the base price is low, it may become expensive when including call, SMS, and extension fees.

Who should consider an eSIM with a phone number?

• Those who want to make regular calls to hotels or stores in Japan
• Those who want to receive calls with a Japanese phone number
• Those who want to register a Japanese phone number as a contact
• Those who want to receive SMS
• Those who want to use SMS authentication for some services
• Those who will use a work phone during a business trip to Japan
• Those who will study abroad or stay long-term
• Those who want to receive contact from delivery services

Who should consider a data-only eSIM?

• Those traveling to Japan for a short period
• Those whose main usage is maps, SNS, and translation
• Those who can communicate via LINE or WhatsApp
• Those who do not need a Japanese phone number
• Those who want to keep costs down
• Those who want to purchase easily without identity verification
• Those who can receive SMS on their regular main line

From purchasing to using an eSIM with a phone number

1. Determine if a Japanese phone number is needed
2. Check the necessity of voice calls and SMS
3. Confirm if the device is eSIM compatible
4. Decide on the usage period and data capacity
5. Compare multiple sales sites and plans
6. Check the specifications for phone numbers, calls, and SMS
7. Check the conditions for identity verification
8. Purchase online or in-store
9. Confirm the purchase completion email and QR code
10. Set up the eSIM in a stable Wi-Fi environment

For detailed setup instructions, please check eSIM Setup Guide.

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What to check after purchase

After purchasing and setting up an eSIM with a phone number, please check the following items:

• Is the eSIM line ON?
• Are you connected to the Japanese network?
• The assigned phone number
• Start date and expiration date
• The line used for outgoing calls
• Can you receive calls?
• Can you receive SMS?
• Can you use data communication?

There may be charges for test calls or SMS sending.

Check the plan conditions before conducting a short test.

What to do if you cannot use calls or SMS

If you cannot use calls or SMS after purchase, check the following points:

• Is the purchased product compatible with voice calls and SMS?
• Is the eSIM line ON?
• Is it the start date?
• Have identity verification and activation procedures been completed?
• Are you connected to the network?
• Is the outgoing line correct?
• Is the phone number input method correct?
• Do you have call balance?
• Are there any call blocking or spam SMS settings?

If there are communication issues, try turning airplane mode ON and then OFF, or restart your smartphone.

Even if the problem is not resolved, do not delete the eSIM immediately.

You may not be able to reuse the QR code and reconfigure the same line or phone number.

For methods to check connection issues, please see Troubleshooting when Japan eSIM does not connect.

Frequently Asked Questions about Purchasing an eSIM with a Phone Number

Can I buy an eSIM with a phone number online?

There are products available for online purchase.

However, for Japanese phone numbers with voice call functionality, identity verification may be required.

Can I buy an eSIM with a phone number at the airport?

It may be available at communication counters at the airport.

However, many products may be data-only, so check for voice call and SMS compatibility.

Can I buy one at a convenience store?

Some stores may sell prepaid communication products or eSIM purchase codes.

However, not all convenience stores will have them available.

Can I definitely get a Japanese phone number?

It is not guaranteed that you will receive a Japanese number.

There are products that may assign overseas numbers or 050 numbers.

If it has a phone number, can I definitely make calls?

It is not guaranteed that you can make calls.

Check for compatibility with outgoing and incoming voice calls.

If it has a phone number, can I use SMS authentication?

If it is an SMS-compatible plan, it may be possible to use it.

However, the service provider may not accept temporary or prepaid numbers.

Can I use it immediately after purchase?

Products that do not require identity verification may be usable shortly after purchase.

For products that require identity verification, it may take time before you can use it.

Is it okay to purchase before traveling?

You can purchase before departure.

However, for some products, the validity period begins when the QR code is scanned or installed, so check the usage start conditions.

Can I extend the phone number?

It varies by product.

If you want to continue using the same number, check the extension and renewal conditions before purchasing.

What is required for identity verification?

You may be asked for a passport, residence card, photo ID, address information, etc.

Can I reconfigure it after deleting the eSIM?

You may not be able to reuse the QR code.

Please check with the seller's support before deleting.

For other questions, please see Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM.

Conclusion | Check the conditions for phone numbers, calls, and SMS rather than just the sales location

You can purchase an eSIM with a phone number from the official websites of telecom companies, travel eSIM sales sites, online shops, telecom company stores, airports, electronics retailers, and more.

For those who want to compare multiple plans before departure and set up in a stable Wi-Fi environment, online purchase is convenient.

For those who want to consult in person about identity verification and device setup, telecom company stores or airport counters are suitable.

However, in addition to the purchase location, be sure to check the following items:

• Will a Japanese phone number be assigned?
• Is it compatible with outgoing and incoming voice calls?
• Is it compatible with SMS reception and sending?
• Is it possible to use it for SMS authentication?
• Is identity verification required?
• Is the device compatible with eSIM?
• What is the timing for starting usage?
• What is the validity period of the phone number?
• What are the fees for calls, SMS, and extensions?
• Is there a support system in place?

For short trips to Japan, if your main uses are maps, SNS, translation, and LINE, a data-only eSIM may be sufficient.

For those who want to make regular calls to Japan, receive calls, or use SMS, choose an eSIM with a phone number that clearly states the necessary functions.

For plans with a phone number, please see eSIM with a phone number.

For data communication plans for travel to Japan, please check Japan eSIM products and pricing plans.

For those who want to compare usage periods and data capacities, please see Japan eSIM pricing and plan comparison.