Japan guide

Money & phone

Wi-Fi, SIM & charging

Maps, translation and train times all need data. Sorting it out before you land saves a lot of trouble.

5 steps · 3 common mistakes· Show in Japanese (2)

Ways to get online

  • eSIM: buy a data plan online before you fly and switch it on when you land.
  • SIM card: sold at airports and electronics shops.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi: a small router rented at the airport, good for groups.

Common mistakes

  • Leaving data roaming on from home and getting a huge bill.

Free Wi-Fi

Step by step

  1. Many stations, convenience stores and cafés have free Wi-Fi.

  2. The free Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect app logs you in to many spots after one registration.

  3. In a café or your hotel, ask for the password with the line below.

Common mistakes

  • Entering card details on public Wi-Fi.

Phone calls

Data-only plans don't give you a number for normal phone calls. Know how you'd call in an emergency — or ask a shop, station or hotel to call for you.

Charging

Step by step

  1. Japan uses two-pin plugs (type A) at 100 V. Most phone chargers work; check older devices.

  2. Carry a power bank. Convenience stores sell them, and some cafés have outlets.

Common mistakes

  • Charging at a café table outlet without asking — some places don't allow it.

On HAKOBUNE Spot

Cafés and coworking spaces where you can sit down and get online.

See all places

Sources

Sources (checked 2026-11-04). Facts, numbers and prices on this page come from these official pages.

  1. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)Wi-Fi in Japan(opens in a new tab)JNTO: Wi-Fi and staying connected in Japan
  2. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect app(opens in a new tab)JNTO: Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect smartphone app
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