Planning to visit the Land of the Rising Sun? Don’t forget the best eSIM for Japan to avoid roaming charges and stay connected. Pretty much all eSIM providers offer plans for Japan, but finding the best ones can be daunting. We took it upon ourselves and tested dozens in multiple Japanese cities in 2026.
After a lengthy analysis, we settled for the five best eSIMs for Japan. However, we didn’t pick them randomly. Unlimited data, nationwide coverage, ease-of-use, and value for money were our driving forces. The five below tick all the right boxes, and more, so take a peek, choose one, and enjoy your Japan vacation or business trip.
Best eSIM for Japan Ranked
Ubigi – The best-rated eSIM for Japan in all aspects
Saily – The best eSIM for Japan for security features
Holafly – Best for Japan eSIM plans with unlimited data
Airalo – Best for flexible plans
Jetpac – Free data for Uber, WhatsApp, and Google Maps
Best eSIM for Japan in 2026: Detailed Comparison
If the list of our top five doesn’t satisfy you, we’ll conduct a deeper analysis. We tested all five in Japan and used them extensively for the past couple of weeks. Here’s what we found in our real-world tests in 2026:
1. Ubigi (Starts at $3.50 for 1 GB of data for 3 days)
© ubigi.com
Pros
Cheap eSIM plans for Japan
Unlimited data
Great 5G coverage
Unlimited tethering
Avoid roaming fees altogether with Ubigi, with 10% off on the first purchase with GIZMODO, our promo code. This is the best eSIM for Japan, at only $3.50 for a gigabyte of data for a short, 3-day trip. Want more? Ubigi offers weekly, monthly, annual, and one-off plans to satisfy even the most hardcore travelers.
The 25 GB plan for 30 days at $32 is the best seller. However, many people also buy Ubigi’s unlimited data for 15 days for $39; for a month, it’s only $66, one of the lowest prices, and 10Go for 7 days for $14. So, how does Ubigi perform? We tested in Tokyo and Osaka, and 5G coverage was exemplary, with top-tier speeds for all activities.
We streamed Netflix and played games without lag. Simultaneously, we could share internet data without limits. Ubigi is easy to install and activate: Scan the QR code, follow the steps, and you’re set. Plus, if you run out of data and have no Wi-Fi connection, Ubigi also sponsors the connection for the time it takes to make your data top-up so you are never caught stranded. To learn more about this provider, you can check our Ubigi 2026 review here.
See Ubigi eSIM
It’s also worth noting that Transatel’s parent company, NTT, which operates Japan’s largest network, powers Ubigi, which even offers 5G on the country’s two top networks for maximum coverage
The only downside is the lack of Japanese phone numbers. But, having been there often, we know that the Japanese mostly rely on their mobile data for communication and calling. That said, Ubigi is the best eSIM for Japan in all aspects.
2. Saily (Starts at $3.99 for 1 GB of data for 7 days)
© saily.com
Pros
Security extras
One-click setup
30-day activation period
24/7 chat support
Cons
No phone number
Rare speed issues
Saily lets you remain anonymous online with its security features. We refer to its ad blocker and a virtual location. However, the Ultra plan also includes NordVPN and NordPass, and it works in 120+ locations, including Japan. Even the regular plan includes some security tools, and costs only $3.99 for the cheapest deal.
Saily’s unlimited data is 48.99 for 15 days, with the entire month being $71.99. The best one, according to Saily, is the 20 GB plan for a month for $24.99. Saily isn’t as fast as Ubigi, but its 5G and 4G coverage means a lot. Occasional speed drops won’t ruin your sessions, and Saily will remain strong for the most part.
We love its easy-to-use app, one-click activation, and a 30-day activation period, which lets you purchase it at home and activate it once you arrive in Japan. Data tethering is standard, and Saily even throws in 24/7 chat support for quick help whenever needed. You can also explore Saily’s Asian eSIM plans.
They cover nearly all major Asian countries, and are useful if you’re leaving Japan to explore other Asian cities and their monuments and narrow passageways.
3. Holafly (Starts at $3.90 for unlimited data for a day)
© holafly.com
Pros
Cheap unlimited data
Buttery-smooth connections
24/7 customer service
Intuitive eSIM app
Cons
Limited tethering (500 MB)
No SMS or calling
The best eSIM for Japan for limitless data is here, and it costs pennies (or dollars). $3.90 per day sounds ridiculously good, but the more you go, the less you pay. A good example is the 7-day offer at $27.30, or the 30-day deal at $74.90. Holafly has zero roaming charges and is one of the fastest eSIMs for Japan.
Superb 4G and 5G coverage follows you everywhere, as Holafly relies on Softbank and KDDI networks. Gaming, streaming, chatting, and casual browsing are buttery-smooth. If needed, you can share your data, albeit only up to 500 MB per day. Holafly compensates for that with its famous 24/7 customer support.
Its live chat support always pops up, as if it beckons you to come. Holafly made our stay in Japan incredible. The activation was instant, and we had coverage wherever we were at the moment. Holafly lets you preserve your phone number on WhatsApp and other VoIP apps, so it’s easy to stay in touch with everyone abroad.
4. Airalo (Starts at $4 for 1 GB of data for 3 days)
© airalo.com
Pros
Very affordable
Data consumption tracking
Reliable connections
Cons
Limited to 4G in Japan
No Japanese phone numbers
Airalo is a flexible eSIM for Japan, with only one glaring weakness: a 4G LTE limit. You can’t switch to 5G, but that doesn’t hurt the experience, as 4G LTE is still fast and reliable when done right; it is here. Airalo’s seamless setup lets you get into it immediately and start for $4 for 1 GB of data for three days.
Plans go up to 30 days, and are pretty affordable. 20 GB costs $22.50, for instance. But then, when you switch to unlimited data, three days are only $10.50, while the entire month costs $66, like Ubigi. Airalo isn’t as fast, but it does offer unlimited data sharing and apps for iOS and Android for data consumption tracking.
You won’t need it if you go unlimited. Airalo has 24/7 live chat support, too, and the best Asian coverage in its regional Asian plan. If you’re going abroad, to Hong Kong, Thailand, or somewhere else, you’ll enjoy the same treatment.
5. Jetpac (Starts at $1 for 1 GB of data for 4 days)
© jetpacglobal.com
Pros
The cheapest Japan eSIM
Subscriptions for travelers
Free data for WhatsApp & Uber
Cons
Some expensive plans
No phone calls/SMS
Easily the best eSIM for Japan for a dollar in 2026. But if you have more to spend, we advise the 30 GB plan, at only $29.99 for 30 days, if you’re staying for a while. Want to go limitless right away? In that case, you’ll spend $65.99 for 30 days for a long haul. Jetpac also has two convenient plans: JetFlex and JetPro.
They’re subscription-based travel packages with worldwide coverage and data if you often roam abroad. Regional plans are also there, and Asian variants offer superb 4G and 5G speed and reliability. Jetpac’s standout feature is free data for WhatsApp, Uber, Grab, and Google Maps to help you navigate foreign lands.
Optionally, you can get lounge access for canceled or rescheduled flights. However, there’s also free lounge access as part of its JetPro plan. Jetpac lacks phone calls and SMS, and it can be expensive in some regions; two forgivable nitpicks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an eSIM for Japan
The best eSIM provider for you may not be the best option for us. It’s all individual, so when picking an eSIM for Japan, consider these vital aspects:
Data allowance. The provider should offer limited and unlimited plans, allowing you to pick a plan with the amount of data that matches your daily consumption.
Duration of your trip. How long will you be in Japan? If you’re there for three days, don’t get a 7-day or a 30-day plan.
Coverage. The best eSIM for Japan should have extensive coverage and support 4G and 5G connections. Our top five offer both, granting superb performance.
Data tethering. If you have multiple devices or travel with friends, pick an eSIM with a data sharing allowance. We recommend Ubigi for unlimited tethering.
Price. Most importantly, choose an eSIM for Japan that fits your budget. Our top picks still cost less than roaming, so you’ll have no trouble picking one.
The Final Verdict
At the end of the day, whenever you venture abroad, you need an eSIM. Whether it’s the best eSIM for Japan or any other country, it’s the only reliable way to stay connected and use the internet, while slashing roaming fees to zero. Ubigi tops the list as the best overall pick, but don’t be afraid to test others.
Saily is perfect for security, Holafly is an exemplary choice for unlimited data, Airalo is very flexible, and Nomad is perfect for business users. Don’t forget to get an eSIM for Japan before you get there. This will allow you to activate your data on time and immediately enjoy it once the plane lands.
See Ubigi eSIM
Frequently Asked Questions
How to set up an eSIM in Japan?
It begins by confirming your phone is supported, which you can do on the chosen eSIM provider’s site. After that, download the app and follow the steps. Most providers are set up from the app, while others send a QR code that you scan and perform the required steps. Either way, it’s always straightforward.
Do I really need an eSIM when traveling to Japan?
Yes, you really need one if you want to stay connected and avoid roaming fees. Roaming is very expensive in Japan, and purchasing a local SIM card isn’t an option for many, mostly due to the language barrier and the need to swap out their old SIM card. With an eSIM, you don’t need to touch your original physical SIM.
What’s the cheapest eSIM for Japan?
Based on our analysis, Jetpac is the cheapest option, starting at $1 for 1 GB of data for four days. Ubigi follows, with a price of $3.50 for the same data amount for three days. All five are generally inexpensive and a great option for budget users in Japan. In fact, they’re also great eSIMs for Asian countries in [year].
AloJapan.com