How to Get a SIM Card in Japan
Step-by-step SIM setup for foreigners — MVNO vs carrier, eSIM vs physical, contract vs prepaid
日本 SIMカード 外国人 | 格安SIM | eSIM 開通 | 2026年版
Looking to compare SIM prices and data plans?
This guide covers how to buy and set up a SIM. To find the cheapest plan for your usage, use the
JUST ARRIVEDNeed data today? Buy this at the airport
IIJmio Travel SIM
Sold at major airports · 15-day data SIM · No residence card needed
Prepaid SIM at Yodobashi / BIC Camera
Available in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya · Multiple data options · Data-only
After you register your residence card at city hall, switch to a monthly voice SIM for a phone number and cheaper rates.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Quick pick by situation
No residence card needed. Data-only. Works at any convenience store or airport shop.
povo has 0 yen base, pay only for what you use. LINEMO Mini is 990 yen/month for 3 GB.
English staff available at major store locations. Bring residence card and credit card.
These accept foreign Visa/Mastercard. You can switch payment to bank account later.
Add a Japanese eSIM while keeping your home country physical SIM in the phone.
3,278 yen/month for truly unlimited data on Rakuten and docomo roaming (1 Mbps after 30 GB on non-Rakuten areas).
FAQ — 日本 SIMカード よくある質問
Which plan saves you the most money?
Enter your data usage and current bill — get a personalized recommendation.
日本 SIMカード 外国人 · 格安SIM 在留カード · eSIM 外国人 日本 · 日本 携帯 外国人 · SIMフリー · 格安SIM おすすめ 外国人 · 2026