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Not just communication, the infrastructure that makes your trip a success

Choosing an eSIM no longer requires gambling. A global eSIM that won't fail, created by mobility professionals and communications professionals.

What is eSIM , anyway?

A digital SIM built into your smartphone. No need to swap out a physical card. Buy and set it up online, and you can get online in Japan straight away.

Purchase a plan

Choose the number of days and the data you need, and buy online any time of day.

Scan the QR code

Scan the received QR code with your smartphone camera. The eSIM profile will be automatically installed.

Start using it in Japan right away

Just turn on mobile data when you arrive in Japan and you are online right away.

No physical card required.
Everything is completed digitally.

eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a small chip that is built into smartphones from the start. Unlike traditional SIM cards, there is no need to swap them out; you can add a data plan simply by scanning a QR code.

Instant online activation

Simply scan the QR code after purchase. You can start using it in as little as 5 minutes.

Dual SIM compatible

Keep the SIM from your home country. Just add the eSIM to get online in Japan.

Covers all of Japan

One eSIM covers the whole of Japan. No need to juggle multiple eSIMs.

Each communication method, explained in detail

There are several ways to stay connected in Japan. Once you know how each one works, Let's make the best choice.

Physical SIM card

A conventional SIM card bought at a Japanese airport or a shop in town. You need to open the SIM tray and swap the card.

Main disadvantages

A SIM pin is required, and there is a risk of loss or damage.
Buying in Japan comes with a language barrier
Because the Japanese SIM card is removed, the Japanese phone number will be temporarily unavailable.
It is not possible to perform operational tests in advance.
1

With NAVITIME eSIM

No need to swap SIM cards

No need to touch a physical card. Simply scan the QR code to complete the process.

Pre-purchase in Japanese

Buy in your own language before you travel. No language barrier.

Japanese SIM cards can remain as they are.

With dual SIMs, you can continue using your Japanese phone number and SMS messages as before.

Testable before you travel

Check the connection before you travel with 100MB of free test data. *Cannot be used in Japan.

Pocket Wi-Fi

This method involves renting a portable Wi-Fi router and connecting smartphones and PCs to the internet via Wi-Fi. While it allows multiple people to share the router, it also involves more effort.

Main disadvantages

You will need to pick up and return the device (at an airport counter, etc.).
You need to carry the device with you at all times (approximately 150-200g).
Risk of battery running out (6-8 hours of continuous use)
There is a slight delay in communication due to Wi-Fi relay.
Risk of compensation in case of loss or damage
2

With NAVITIME eSIM

Zero hassle for receiving and returning.

Purchase online and complete the process by scanning the QR code. No need to queue at the airport.

No extra luggage.

Everything can be done with just one smartphone. No need to carry around heavy devices or cables.

No need to worry about the battery running out.

Since it uses the smartphone's own communication, there's no need to manage the charging of other devices.

Low-latency direct communication

Connects directly to the carrier network. No delay due to Wi-Fi relay.

No risk of loss or compensation.

Since there is no physical device, there is no need to worry about loss or damage.

International roaming

Using the SIM from your home carrier while in Japan. It is easy to set up, but the cost is a major drawback.

Main disadvantages

The fees are expensive (up to 2,980-3,980 yen per day).
Often, there is only one partner carrier, resulting in unstable communication.
When the data limit is reached, the speed will be severely restricted.
Even with a fixed-rate plan, long-term stays can be expensive.
Prior operational testing is not possible.
3

With NAVITIME eSIM

Incredibly reasonable

A flat rate starting from a few hundred yen per day. Significantly cheaper than roaming.

Multi-carrier connection

Partnering with two or more carriers in each country, we automatically connect to the optimal network at all times.

Clear pricing

A fixed price is determined at the time of purchase. No worries about unexpectedly high bills.

Suitable for long-term stays.

We offer 7-day, 14-day, and 30-day plans. Excellent value even for long-term stays.

Testable before you travel

Check the connection before you travel with 100MB of free test data. *Cannot be used in Japan.

Free Wi-Fi

This method involves using free Wi-Fi hotspots provided in hotels, cafes, airports, and other locations. While it's free, it presents significant challenges in terms of security and convenience.

Main disadvantages

Unencrypted communications pose a high risk of eavesdropping and hacking.
Its availability is limited (it cannot be used while traveling).
The connection speed is often unstable and slow.
Login and authentication are required each time you connect.
Maps and navigation are unusable in situations where they are most needed while traveling.
4

With NAVITIME eSIM

Secure via dedicated line

Uses the carrier's encrypted network. Your personal information and passwords are safe.

Connect anytime, anywhere

Always connected, no matter your location. Use maps and navigation while on the go.

Stable high-speed communication

Enjoy stable speeds with 4G/5G connections. Watch videos without any lag.

No login required

Once set up, it connects automatically. No need to enter your password every time.

Excellent value, almost like free

Unlimited use for a fixed daily rate starting from just a few hundred yen. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of free Wi-Fi.

Options for overseas communication, thorough comparison

You can see at a glance which communication method is best for you.

NAVITIME eSIM vs. Other Communication Methods
Pre-connection test
NAVITIME eSIM
100MB free in Japan
Physical SIM
Not possible
Pocket Wi-Fi
Not possible
Roaming
Not possible
Free Wi-Fi
Not possible
Ease of procedure
NAVITIME eSIM
Instant online activation
Physical SIM
SIM card replacement required.
Pocket Wi-Fi
Collection and return required
Roaming
Settings only
Free Wi-Fi
Connection required each time
Network quality
NAVITIME eSIM
Multi-carrier high speed
Physical SIM
Direct from a Japanese carrier
Pocket Wi-Fi
Slight delay due to WiFi relay
Roaming
Only one partner company
Free Wi-Fi
Unstable/low speed
Pricing transparency
NAVITIME eSIM
Fixed price, no additional charges.
Physical SIM
Sometimes unclear because it is written in Japanese
Pocket Wi-Fi
Rental fee + insurance
Roaming
There are also flat-rate plans, but they are expensive.
Free Wi-Fi
Free
Security
NAVITIME eSIM
Secure via dedicated line
Physical SIM
Dedicated line
Pocket Wi-Fi
Dedicated line
Roaming
Dedicated line
Free Wi-Fi
There is a risk of eavesdropping.
Portability
NAVITIME eSIM
It can all be done with just one smartphone.
Physical SIM
A SIM pin is required.
Pocket Wi-Fi
Carrying the device around
Roaming
Smartphone only
Free Wi-Fi
Smartphone only
Support System
NAVITIME eSIM
24-hour Japanese language support
Physical SIM
Varies by vendor
Pocket Wi-Fi
Varies depending on the provider.
Roaming
Varies by carrier
Free Wi-Fi
No support

The unique strengths of NAVITIME eSIM that other eSIMs don't have

Choosing based solely on price is not recommended. Four key points that set NAVITIME eSIM apart from other companies.

01

A 100MB connection test is available beforehand.

Use 100MB of free data in your home country to confirm the connection before you travel, so there is no risk of not connecting in Japan. *Test data can only be used in your home country and cannot be used in Japan.

  • You can test its functionality in Japan immediately after purchase.
  • If you have any problems, Japanese support will resolve them immediately.
  • The 100MB test data is separate from the production data.
02

In any country, you can connect to more than two carriers.

We partner with at least two major carriers in each country, ensuring you're always automatically connected to the strongest network while on the go.

  • Stable communication in both urban and suburban areas.
  • Automatically switches to an alternative line in the event of a carrier failure.
  • High-speed 4G/LTE across Japan
03

Refunds are available before communication or in case of problems.

Full refunds are available if you cancel your purchased data plan before starting to use it. Even after starting to use it, refunds will be provided if you experience connection problems.

  • Full refund is possible if the service has not yet started.
  • Refunds will be provided even if connection problems occur.
  • Simple procedure, prompt refund.
04

24/7/365 Support

Multilingual support wherever you are in Japan, late at night or early in the morning. Help is always available.

  • 24/7 Japanese language support
  • Supported via WhatsApp and email.
  • Fast response

Your smartphone too, very likely compatible.

iPhones from the iPhone XR onwards, as well as many Android devices, support eSIM.