eSIM from World eSIM
15% offA digital SIM installed on your phone in seconds. Your own personal connection with no device to carry and no pickup needed.
Internet in Japan: eSIM or pocket WiFi?
Fast mobile data makes every day with your Japan Rail Pass easier. Check timetables, find platforms, translate menus and share the view from the Shinkansen in real time. There are two great ways to stay connected in Japan, an eSIM and a pocket WiFi. Both work brilliantly, and the right choice simply depends on how you travel.
Exclusive discounts for JR Pass Go customers
Pocket WiFi from Ninja WiFi
10% offA small rental router that connects up to five devices at once. Pick it up at the airport and share fast internet with your whole group.
eSIM and pocket WiFi side by side
| Feature | eSIM | Pocket WiFi |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Scan a QR code, ready in seconds | Pick up at the airport, hotel or office |
| Devices | One phone per eSIM | Up to five devices at once |
| Something to carry | Nothing, it lives in your phone | A pocket sized device |
| Battery | Uses your phone battery | Own battery that lasts a full day |
| Own number for calls and texts | Yes, with dual SIM | Yes, your phone SIM stays untouched |
| Coverage | All of Japan, including the Shinkansen | All of Japan, including the Shinkansen |
| Return | Nothing to return | Prepaid envelope at the airport or a post box |
| Ideal for | Solo travelers and couples | Families and groups |
When an eSIM is a great fit
- You travel solo or as a couple who like to split up now and then
- You want to be online the moment you land, with no pickup
- You prefer having nothing extra to carry or charge
- Your phone supports eSIM and is carrier unlocked
When a pocket WiFi is a great fit
- You travel as a family or group and stay together
- You want to connect phones, tablets and laptops at the same time
- Your phone does not support eSIM
- You like a dedicated battery so your phone lasts longer
Both work perfectly with your Japan Rail Pass
Whichever you choose, you get fast and reliable data across Japan, from Tokyo and Kyoto to remote mountain towns, and even on the Shinkansen at full speed. Combine it with unlimited JR travel and you have everything you need to explore Japan with total freedom.
Learn more from the providers
Want all the details on plans, data sizes and pickup locations? Visit the providers directly through our partner links to get your discount.
Internet in Japan questions
Which is better in Japan, an eSIM or a pocket WiFi?
Both are excellent. An eSIM is ideal for solo travelers and couples who want a personal connection, while a pocket WiFi is ideal for families and groups who share one connection.
Do both work on the Shinkansen?
Yes. Both an eSIM and a pocket WiFi give you fast data on the Shinkansen and across the JR network.
Can I keep my own phone number?
Yes. With an eSIM you use dual SIM, and with a pocket WiFi your own SIM stays active, so you can still receive calls and texts.
How do I get the discounts?
Use the links on this page. You get 15% off at World eSIM and 10% off at Ninja WiFi as a JR Pass Go customer.
Can a group use one eSIM?
An eSIM is linked to one phone. For a group that stays together, a pocket WiFi connecting up to five devices is often the easiest choice.
Stay connected on every JR journey
Pick the connection that suits your trip and pair it with a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel across Japan.