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Embassy of Japan in Australia

Current procedure of entry into Japan (Requirements & Visit Japan Web)

Once you have registered, you can use the QR codes from the service instead of paper forms as part of the procedures to enter Japan. This service is for both international travelers and Japanese citizens. For any issues using Visit Japan Web, see the  instruction manual  or make an  inquiry directly . To enter Japan from the 29th of April, please enter with a  valid visa  and passport​  OR  a  visa exempt  passport. We recommend the use of Visit Japan Web  to assist with your customs and immigration declaration procedures.  

Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Call Center  ( COVID-19 Border Measures) + 81 3 3595 2176   English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese (9:00-21:00 daily)  

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Travelling from Australia to Japan

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Ready to travel, find flights to japan, find stays in japan, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, netherlands, new zealand, philippines, south korea, united arab emirates, united kingdom, united states, know when to go.

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Can I travel to Japan from Australia?

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Japan.

Can I travel to Japan if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Japan without restrictions.

Can I travel to Japan without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Japan without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Japan?

Visitors from Australia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Japan.

Can I travel to Japan without quarantine?

Travellers from Australia are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Japan?

Mask usage in Japan is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Japan?

Restaurants in Japan are open. Bars in Japan are .

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Visiting Japan is about to get a whole lot easier – here's what you need to know

Our Pacific island neighbour is preparing to loosen its strict travel rules

In June,   Japan announced that it was finally opening its borders   to tourists after a two-year period of restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic. While exciting, it came with a caveat – visitors were only allowed to enter as part of a sponsored tour group, and even that came with additional requirements for testing and quarantining. These requirements left Japan as the only G6 nation not to fully reopen for tourism, but that's all potentially about to change.

According to a   report by NHK , the Japanese government is considering allowing overseas tourists to enter without joining a guided tour, as long as the visit was arranged through a travel agency. This potential change follows a stark decline in foreign tourism – less than 8,000 visitors in July, which is well below pre-pandemic levels and likely due to a desire for an individual style of travel by Westerners. If approved, the move is expected to go into effect in September.

NHK also reports   that the Japanese government has confirmed it will   scrap its current requirements   for pre-arrival PCR tests. This change will go into effect on Wednesday, September 7 and only applies to inbound travellers that have been fully vaccinated and boosted. 

While visitation still isn't a free-for-all, these changes mark a move in that direction and mean Australians will be able to enter Japan with more ease. 

ICYMI:   In response to inflation, Coles is locking or lowering the price of more than 1,600 products.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Search The Latch

Can you travel to japan yes, and it’s finally getting easier.

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In the last year, Japan has slowly been relaxing its international tourist restrictions, with the latest update on September 7 allowing visitors from ‘blue’ category countries to enter the country on non-escorted package tours with set itineraries. Previously, you needed to be accompanied by a tour guide .

So how exactly does that work and once you’re in Japan and what’s the situation like? With the rules constantly changing, we thought we’d answer those questions about Australians travelling to Japan and more below.

Related: 13 New Experiences That Will Draw You Back to Japan Immediately

The very best of The Latch delivered straight to your inbox.

Related: The Borders Are Open, So Why Are Australians Ignoring Japan?

What Are the Current Restrictions for Australians Travelling to Japan?

From September 7, Japan allowed visitors from ‘blue’ category countries, Australia included, to visit if travelling as part of a package tour with a set itinerary – without the requirement to travel accompanied by a tour guide. Return flights, accommodation and the travel itinerary must still all be handled by a registered Japanese tour operator.

Currently, the international visitor number is capped at 50,000 (up from 20,000), though government spokesman Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seiji Kihara said earlier this month they would be looking at removing it in the “not so distant future”.

Do Australians Need a VISA for Japan?

Yes, you do, and you’ll need to submit the required documents to Japan’s overseas establishments in your country. The organisers of the package tour you book will sponsor your application. More info is available on this Japan VISA page .

Do Australians Need to Do a COVID Test Before Travelling to Japan?

From September 7, pre-arrival PCR tests were scrapped, provided you’re up-to-date with an approved COVID vaccine. Be sure to check your airlines’ requirements for testing, though, before departure as they may differ from Japan’s COVID rules.

Local COVID-19 restrictions may remain in effect in some prefectures, and broader restrictions may be reimposed if the COVID-19 situation deteriorates, according to Smart Traveller’s page on travel to Japan.

Do Australians Need to Quarantine Once in Japan?

Currently, Australian travellers who are up-to-date with an approved COVID vaccine and can present a vaccination certificate proving that do not need to quarantine, isolate or test on arrival.

Do I Need to Wear a Mask in Japan?

Currently, masks are only required if you’re in situations in which you’d stand closer than 2m to others. You can view an infographic on when masks are required in Japan here .

When Are the Travel Restrictions Likely to Be Fully Relaxed?

When sharing that the daily cap on overseas arrivals is likely soon to be scrapped, Kihara added that the government would simultaneously relax other restrictions including the VISA requirement and the requirement to travel on a package tour.

“Japan has seasonal attractions in fall and winter,” said Kihara on Fijian TV, via Nikkei Asia . “We know there are a lot of people overseas who want to come to Japan.”

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Travelling to Japan from Australia: Everything you need to know

Aussies can once again visit Nippon but under one strict condition.

This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. When you click on them, or share this content, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

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It's becoming way easier to travel to Nippon.

Can Australians go to Japan?

Yes. And from October 11, visitors will no longer have to book their flights and hotels through a travel agency. 

Do I need a visa to go to Japan?

Not if you have an Australian passport. Again, this kicks off from October 11.

What sort of identification is required in Japan?

This is not one of those countries where can dump your passport in the hotel room safe after you arrive. It’s advised that you carry it with you at all times. That said, it is one of the safest countries in the world to do so.

What is the best time of year to go to Japan?

It’s a more a case of when is the best time not to go to Japan. Typhoon season is from May to November is the broad warning but it all depends on your planned activities. The cherry blossom blooms from late March to mid April and it’s a skiers paradise from mid January to early April.

Does it get cold in Japan?

The fact that it has hosted a winter Olympics (Nagano 1998) should answer that question. Remember it’s a northern hemisphere nation so the season are opposite to ours and in Tokyo from December to March, the high temps barely nudge double figures celsius. 

How long does it take to fly to Japan?

From Sydney, a flight to Tokyo averages just under 10 hours.

What can’t I take into Japan?

According to Australian government advice site Smart Traveller , “Japan has strict rules about bringing medicine into the country, including some ingredients in ADHD and cold and flu medication. If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal before you travel.” Also be careful about what you ingest in the lead up to travel as authorities can charge you if they find trace amounts of illegal drugs in your blood or urine.

What’s the legal drinking age in Japan?

Twenty. Not 18. While you’re at it’s illegal to drive with any alcohol in your bloodstream and allowing someone who has been drinking to drive is also illegal. 

Do you need to quarantine in Japan from Australia?

Travellers from Australia whose vaccinations are up to date, have received a booster and can present a vaccination certificate don't need to quarantine, isolate or complete additional testing on arrival. That said, requirements are changing constantly, so check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Do you need to have a Covid test before going to Japan?

From September 7, 2002, no pre-arrival PCR tests are required if you have three shots of an approved vaccine.

What Covid documentation is required to get into Japan?

According to Smart Traveller, “You'll be required to make a “Written Pledge” and may be asked to install MySOS, a video call and location-based app, onto your smart phone upon arrival. This will be used for contact tracing purposes. You must also complete a health questionnaire from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare prior to travelling to Japan. The completed questionnaire generates a QR code that you will need to present on arrival.  This is in addition to the aforementioned Covid vaccine certification and valid passport.

Do you need travel insurance for Japan?

Yes, yes and yes. Medical costs can be extremely high for visitors.

Besides Covid are any other vaccinations required?

If you’re going to be in rural areas, get a shot for Japanese encephalitis and ensure your measles and rubella vaccinations are up to date. It’s a small risk but not one worth taking.

What is the currency of Japan?

Japan’s currency is the yen - A$100 equals approximately 9400 yen.

Can you haggle in Japan?

Best not to. Some sections in Osaka are cool with it and if you’re spending massive amounts at department stores but generally no.

For more handy etiquette tips so you don’t make a goose of yourself in Japan click here and here .

See also:  

• A first timer’s guide to onsen etiquette
• Never do this with soy sauce! A Japan food guide
• 9 train travel tips for navigating Japan

David divides his time between travelling and stand up comedy. His favourite destinations encompass both and he has performed in London, New York and Las Vegas. Sometimes even on stage. He chafes in polyester, can handle no more than two martinis and his safe word is degustation.

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JTB Australia specialises in travel arrangements to Japan, and we’ve been sending Australians to Japan since 1962. A part of the wider JTB Group, one of the largest travel agencies in the world, our passionate team of Japan Experts are here to assist you through the entire process of planning, booking and realising your dream trip to Japan! From fully escorted touring options to completely tailormade independent travel, we can arrange absolutely anything for you.

JTB Australia wishes to advise the public that our Sydney and Melbourne walk-in counters and phones are currently closed/not in use. Customers can reach JTB staff by email during business hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 – 5:30pm AEDT (Closed: Saturday, Sunday & NSW, VIC Public Holidays) We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

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Australian tourists are outspending everyone else on one thing overseas

A recent report reveals that australian tourists lead global spending on experiences and nightlife during vacations..

The report found Japan is gaining popularity with Australian travellers due, largely, to the yen being near a 17-year low against the Australian dollar. Source: Getty / Zhang Peng/LightRocket

• Australian tourists spend nearly a fifth of their holiday budget on experiences and nightlife.
• A new report has found that Australian travellers prioritise experiences over retail therapy when abroad.
• Fiji, Bali, Tokyo, Queenstown, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Osaka have experienced tourism booms since the pandemic.

This country has beaten New Zealand to be the top travel destination for Australians

Can Ruby the kangaroo bring Chinese tourists hopping back to Australia?

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Travel Trends: Solo Travel

T ravel insurance comparison site Squaremouth reports solo travel is on the rise. 42% of Americans polled say they plan to take a trip by themselves this year. Younger generations lead the trend. The American Express Global Travel Trends Report finds more than 75% of American millennials and Gen Z say they’ll ditch traditional group travel for solo adventures this year.

Six in ten of those considering solo travel this year intend to take two or more such trips, with 66% doing so as a form of self-indulgence.

Intrepid Travel , a small-group travel company that organizes trips for 75,000 people annually, reports that more than 50% of their bookings are from solo travelers. This trend is mirrored by Overseas Adventure Travel , which has increased its single-space availability by 76% in response to growing demand.

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean now offer solo cabins without charging the typical double occupancy fare seen in the past.

No Longer Lonely

Solo travelers’ digital footprint grows as they build community, share their journeys, and connect with like-minded adventurers. Instagram searches of “#solotravel” yield 7 million results.

Why is solo travel capturing the hearts and minds of so many? For one, it offers unparalleled freedom. Travelers can tailor itineraries to their preferences without compromising or negotiating plans. This level of control can lead to more authentic and immersive experiences.

The rise of the mobile workspace also catapulted solo travel to the forefront. Millennials in remote positions can work anywhere and freely travel while keeping their jobs. Most older generations are settled in and remain in traditional workspaces that offer less travel freedom.

Solo travel often fosters personal growth and self-discovery as individuals independently navigate new environments and cultures.

As a travel advisor and writer, I recently took my first solo trip, and it was the most wonderful experience I’ve had in all my travels. Despite suffering from anxiety, fears of inadequacy, and self-doubt, I set off from Scotland to England via train and stayed in York for five days alone.

I slept in, walked through the streets, ate food, and drank coffee alone. I even went on a tour solo. I never once felt lonely, sad, or scared. Instead, I felt energized, independent, and fulfilled. This personal journey reinforced the benefits of solo travel that I often advocate for clients.

Jessy Hamel, a frequent solo traveler, shares her experience. “I’ve been traveling solo since 2018. I’ve made several solo visits to the following locations: London (x3), Edinburgh (x3), Inverness (x2), Amsterdam, Lisbon (x2), and throughout Italy. I started traveling solo because of a broken heart that woke me up… I decided I couldn’t wait for the right person to travel with me the right time to go, or the right amount of money. I just had to go… so I did. It was scary at first but so worth it. It inspired me to take women to Europe in small groups so they’d be brave enough to get out there.”

Safety remains a priority for independent travelers; many seek destinations known for their security and traveler-friendly infrastructure. Some of the safest and most popular solo travel destinations include:

Japan is a top choice for unaccompanied travelers. The region, particularly Tokyo, boasts low crime rates, efficient public transport, friendly locals, and well-lit streets. Solo travelers can easily explore historic temples, bustling markets, and serene parks.

New Zealand

New Zealand offers a safe and welcoming environment with its stunning landscapes and adventure tourism. Queenstown, the world’s adventure capital, is perfect for solo travelers seeking activities like bungee jumping, hiking, and skydiving. The friendly locals and well-maintained facilities make it an ideal destination.

Iceland’s breathtaking natural beauty and low crime rates make it perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure. The safe capital of Reykjavik offers easy access to stunning landscapes like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle , and Northern Lights tours.

This European gem is praised for its safety, hospitality, and vibrant culture, making it ideal for solo exploration. Lisbon’s safe and welcoming atmosphere draws individuals with its historic neighborhoods, vibrant street art, and delicious cuisine.

Canada provides a safe and varied travel experience with its diverse cities and vast wilderness. Vancouver is a safe city for solo travelers, offering a mix of urban and natural attractions, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, and nearby mountains for outdoor adventures.

Scotland is a great solo travel destination known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals. Edinburgh is particularly safe and offers a blend of historic sites like Edinburgh Castle , the Royal Mile, vibrant festivals, and cultural experiences.

Switzerland

Famous for its pristine landscapes and efficient public transport, Switzerland is perfect for solo travelers. Zurich is a safe city with a rich cultural scene, a picturesque old town, and easy access to the Swiss Alps for hiking and skiing.

Australia  

Australia’s diverse cities and natural wonders appeal to solo travelers. Melbourne is known for its safety, vibrant arts scene, and nearby attractions like the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island. The city’s well-connected public transport makes exploring easy.

Singapore  

Known for its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency, Singapore is an excellent destination for independent travelers. The city-state offers a mix of modern attractions like Marina Bay Sands and historic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India. Its efficient public transport makes getting around easy.

Ireland  

With its friendly locals and picturesque landscapes, Ireland is a welcoming destination for solo travelers. Dublin, the capital, is safe and offers a mix of cultural sites like Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse, lively pubs, and music scenes.

The rising trend of solo travel highlights a broader shift toward individual exploration and personal fulfillment. As more people travel alone, the travel industry evolves, offering more options and support for single adventurers. Whether driven by the desire for freedom, personal growth, or the joy of discovery, solo travel is here to stay.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks .

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• Entertainment

Basketball: Japan's men fall to Australia in Olympic warm-up

June 22, 2024 (Mainichi Japan)

SAPPORO (Kyodo) -- Japan's men wasted an early lead in the first of their two Olympic warm-up games against an inexperienced Australia squad, a 90-89 loss on Saturday.

The Akatsuki Five, ranked 26th in the world, led 27-13 with 33 seconds left in the first quarter on a Keisei Tominaga three-pointer at Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center, a lead that steadily dwindled until the Boomers took a 68-66 lead in the fourth quarter.

The Boomers, ranked fifth but without their NBA players, were led by 26 points from big man Sam Froling.

Japan trailed by as many as six points with 1 minute, 32 seconds left, before coming back to tie it 86-86 on a pair of Tominaga free throws with 28 seconds on the clock.

Japan was set to lose by four before Yuki Togashi sank a long-range three at the buzzer.

The teams play again at the same venue on Sunday.

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Foreign tourists in Japan are being charged more than locals at some restaurants and attractions

As a record number of Australians head to Japan, some restaurants and tourist attractions have started implementing two-tiered pricing systems for visitors and locals.

Japan's weak currency is attracting tourists in droves, but it's pushing up costs for local businesses.

All-you-can-eat seafood restaurant Tamatebako, located in one of Tokyo's busiest districts Shibuya, is one of the restaurants charging different prices for residents of Japan and tourists.

A note in Japanese at the bottom of the eatery's menu says Japanese residents receive a 1,000-yen ($9.50) discount.

"Regular" pricing for the all-you-can-eat and drink seafood buffet is 8,778 yen ($83), while those with proof of residency in Japan can have the same meal for 7,678 yen ($73).

Restaurant owner Shogo Yonemitsu told the ABC the influx of tourists had forced him to employ English-speaking staff who were paid a slightly higher wage.

He said the price difference also took into account the "extra labour of teaching foreigners the right manners at Japanese restaurants".

Imposing the extra costs created by tourists onto locals would be unfair, he said.

"We have also experienced many tourists cancelling at the last minute, which very few Japanese people do," he said.

Weak Japanese yen

Dragged down by Japan's low inflation and interest rates, the yen has lost about a third of its value compared to the US dollar since 2021.

The currency's weakness has made Japan an attractive destination for travellers.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation, the number visiting Japan has surpassed pre-pandemic levels of visitors every month since January of this year.

A record 252,900 Australians travelled to Japan between January and March compared to 172,896 during the same period in 2019.

That included 82,000 in March, which was almost double the number in March 2019.

However, the weak yen has also made the price of imports such as food higher, forcing restaurants to either increase prices or cop the costs.

Yonemitsu said the Japanese government had failed to provide any support for restaurants to keep up with demand and increasing costs due to the weakening of the yen.

When asked about the reaction from customers Yonemitsu said, "our customers come knowing our pricing system, so it hasn't caused any issues".

Tourist hotspots' two-tiered pricing

It's not just restaurants that are implementing tiered pricing.

UNESCO World Heritage site Himeji Castle in western Japan is considering quadrupling the entry prices for foreign tourists.

The mayor of Himeji city, Hideyasu Kiyomoto, said in a press conference he supported differential pricing.

"Foreign tourists come here once in their lifetime, but locals enjoy this place regularly," he said.

Japan's iconic Mount Fuji introduced a mandatory 2,000 yen ($19) climbing fee in May, but some have called for the fee to be increased for tourists.

Mountaineer Ken Noguchi said the fee was not high enough to combat over tourism.

"Tourists should pay 30,000 yen ($284), while locals pay 10,000 yen ($95)," Noguchi said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Japanese politicians such as Kenta Izumi also voiced their support for two-tiered pricing.

Stagnant wages

While the weakening of the yen has allowed inbound tourists to be able to spend more in Japan, the country's stagnant wages has meant locals' purchasing power has remained relatively low.

Wages in Japan have barely increased in the past 20 years, with the average minimum wage still only 1,004 yen ($9.52) per hour in 2023, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan.

"The two-tiered pricing system could be a way to keep restaurants accessible for locals instead of being priced out," said Garth Lean, a senior lecturer in tourism and heritage studies at Western Sydney University.

"But it might mean that for tourists it becomes a more expensive experience, and they might feel taken advantage of," said Dr Lean.

The Japanese cabinet has released a white paper on tourism to address the growing concerns about over tourism.

It said the government would support increased efforts to create sustainable solutions to the problem.

The Japan National Tourism Organisation told the ABC that "generally speaking, tourists should pay whatever is deemed an appropriate price during their travels in Japan".

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Julian Assange lands in Australia a free man

Julian Assange has landed back home in his native Australia, after a plea deal allowed him to walk free from a London prison, the BBC reports.

There were emotional scenes at Canberra Airport, as the Wikileaks founder kissed his wife and hugged his father, his lawyers watching on, visibly moved.

“Julian needs time to recover, to get used to freedom,” Stella Assange said at a news conference shortly after her husband arrived.

For the past 14 years, Assange has been in a legal battle with US officials who accused him of leaking classified documents, which they say put lives in danger.

The 52-year-old did not attend the news conference in Canberra, instead letting his lawyer and wife speak for him.

“You have to understand what he’s been through,” Mrs Assange said, adding that they need time to “let our family be a family.”

The couple married in London’s Belmarsh prison in 2022, and have two children together.

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Best eSIMs for Japan in 2024

Customizable options available

• Best overall
• Best for user-friendliness
• Best for affordability
• Best for unlimited data
• Best for data plans
• Best for speed
• eSIMs for international travel FAQs

Japan draws over 25 million foreign visitors annually, making it one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. Those millions of visitors need internet access while they stay in Japan, and an eSIM provides that. You no longer need to get to Japan before registering an eSIM that gives data access. Instead, you can buy and activate the eSIM in your home country. Once you get to Japan, turn on the eSIM profile to get internet access.

We tested different eSIM providers to curate the best ones you can use in Japan. This guide will help foreign visitors make a smart decision and get stellar internet access in Japan.

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• We've also listed the best eSIM for international travel of 2024.

The best eSIM for Japan in 2024 in full:

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Best eSIM overall

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Airalo is the world’s leading eSIM marketplace, offering packages in virtually all countries. It offers a Moshi Moshi data package that gives speedy internet access in Japan. You can choose from various plans, including $4.50 for 1 GB for 7 days, $6.50 for 2 GB for 15 days, $8.50 for 3 GB for 30 days, $11.50 for 5 GB for 30 days, $18 for 10 GB for 30 days, and $26 for 20 GB for 30 days.

Airalo’s Japan plans are pretty affordable compared to its offerings for other countries. For instance, its Bali package costs $40 for 20 GB for 30 days, compared to $26 for Japan. 

Another option is Airalo’s Asialink package, which provides data access in Japan and 17 other Asian countries (China, Hong Kong, India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Macao, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam). Airalo offers 50 GB and 100 GB Asialink plans, unlike the Japan-only plan, which is capped at 20 GB. 

Asialink plans are more expensive than the Japan-only plans, e.g., $20 for 5 GB for 30 days for the former, compared to $11.50 for the latter. However, a higher cost is expected, given the broader coverage. 

Airalo has no unlimited data option, unlike some eSIM providers. However, its excellent speed and network coverage make up for this drawback. 

Read our full Airalo review.

• ^ Back to the top

Best eSIM for user-friendliness

Jetpac offers coverage in 50+ countries, including Japan. You can choose from various plans, including $4 for 1 GB for 4 days, $5 for 3 GB for 7 days, $8.50 for 5 GB for 30 days, $16 for 10 GB for 30 days, $22 for 15 GB for 30 days, $25 for 20 GB for 30 days, $35 for 30 GB for 30 days, and $60 for 40 GB for 30 days.

Jetpac works with KDDI, Japan’s second-largest mobile carrier, to deliver robust internet service in this country. It offers a broad range of reasonably priced plans, although it lacks an unlimited plan.

The intuitive Jetpac mobile app allows you to buy and activate an eSIM, monitor and top up your data on the go, and more. 

Read our full Jetpac review.

Best eSIM for affordability

Saily is another reliable eSIM provider for Japanese visitors. It offers various plans, including $3.99 for 1 GB for 7 days, $6.99 for 3 GB for 30 days, $9.99 for 5 GB for 30 days, $15.99 for 10 GB for 30 days, and $22.99 for 20 GB for 30 days. Saily’s Japan plans are more affordable than those of most rivals.

This eSIM provider is renowned for its user-friendliness. It offers an intuitive app to monitor usage and buy more data if needed. Purchasing and activating an eSIM is a seamless process using this app.

Saily has only country-specific plans. There’s no regional plan that gives you data access in Japan and other countries simultaneously. There’s also no unlimited data, which is a drawback. Likewise, you must download the Saily iOS or Android app to activate your eSIM, unlike other providers that let you handle it via a website.

Regardless of these drawbacks, Saily stands out for its affordability and user-friendliness. It also provides top-notch customer service. 

Read our full Saily review.

Best eSIM for unlimited data

Holafly is an eSIM provider that offers unlimited data plans. In fact, Holafly has no capped data plans (it’s all unlimited) or fixed periods (you choose precisely how many days you want). Pricing depends on the number of days you choose, and Holafly is noticeably expensive.

For instance, one day costs $6, 10 days costs $37, 25 days costs $68, 50 days costs $96, and the maximum of 90 days costs $139. Holafly has network-sharing agreements with KDDI and SoftBank Telecom, two major Japanese mobile carriers, to give customers excellent speed and coverage.

Holafly lets you share your data with your smartphone as a hotspot, but it’s capped at 500 MB daily. It doesn’t offer a phone number for calls and SMS, but VoIP apps like WhatsApp and Skype fulfill the same role over the internet. Use code TECHRADAR to get 5% off.  

Read our full Holafly review.

Best eSIM for data plans

Ubigi is a well-known eSIM provider offering services in most countries. It’s a relatively new name in the Japanese market but is nonetheless breaking ground in the country. It offers a range of data plans, including $2.50 for 500 MB for 1 day, $4 for 1 GB for 30 days, $8 for 3 GB for 30 days, $10 for 5 GB for 30 days, $17 for 10 GB for 30 days, $29 for 20 GB for 30 days, $38 for 24 GB for 1 year, $69 for 50 GB for 30 days, and $100 for 60 GB for a year.

We like that Ubigi offers plans valid for up to a year, which is ideal for people who plan to stay in Japan for a long time. Ubigi works with Japanese mobile carrier NTT Docomo to provide robust coverage across Japan. This eSIM provider is actually owned by Transatel, a French subsidiary of NTT Docomo.

All Ubigi plans include a 5G connection if you’re in a Japanese region where that’s supported (the number of supported areas is rapidly increasing as time goes on). Buying and activating your eSIM is easy– you’ll pay online and scan the QR code sent to your email address to kickstart the process.

Best eSIM for speed

6. World eSIM

World eSIM is a global eSIM provider that offers both capped and unlimited data plans. The unlimited plan costs $30 for 5 days, $39 for 7 days, $49 for 10 days, and $66 for 15 days. The capped plans include $4 for 500 MB for 3 days, $6 for 1 GB for 3 days, $9 for 1 GB for 5 days, $11 for 500 MB for 10 days, $30 for 3 GB for 10 days, $19 for 10 GB for 30 days, $30 for 20 GB for 30 days, and more. 

As expected, the unlimited plans are costly, while the capped plans are reasonably priced. World eSIM works with SoftBank Telecom as its Japanese network provider, giving users robust coverage. 

You can buy and activate your World eSIM online without formal documentation. After activating it, you can download the World eSIM iOS or Android app to manage your eSIM from anywhere. We like that this provider offers unlimited and capped plans so you can choose the one that suits you best.

World eSIM gave us faster download and upload speeds during our test than other eSIM providers in this guide. It’s the best for video calling and streaming.

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

What is an esim.

eSIM means embedded SIM. As the name implies, it is a type of SIM embedded directly in a smartphone, instead of the typical SIM embedded in plastic and inserted in smartphones. 

An eSIM comprises software installed on a chip embedded into the smartphone. You can’t physically remove the eSIM. Instead, you can reprogram it with new information to add or delete a network profile.

eSIMs are becoming more popular because of their convenience. They eliminate the need to swap SIM cards when switching to another network. Instead, everything works via software configurations, so you can add or remove network profiles without touching any physical component.

A single eSIM can hold up to eight network profiles, but you’ll hardly see a smartphone with eight physical SIM slots. Though less than a decade old, annual sales of eSIM-enabled devices are in the hundreds of millions and are projected to surpass 2 billion by 2025. With this trajectory, most devices could become eSIM-compatible within a few decades. 

Why do I need an eSIM for Japan?

An eSIM makes it easy to retain internet access when visiting Japan. There’s no need to wait until you land in Japan for a physical SIM to last throughout your stay. Instead, you can buy and activate an eSIM in your home country. When you get to Japan, simply turn on the eSIM profile to get data access.

The eSIM providers mentioned in this guide have agreements with Japanese telecom firms like NTT Docomo and SoftBank Telecom. When you buy an eSIM and visit Japan, you’ll tap into the same telecoms infrastructure that locals use.

How to check if your smartphone is eSIM-compatible

Most new smartphones are eSIM-compatible. Some use both eSIMs and physical SIMs, while some have ditched the physical SIM slot and only work with eSIMs. With the current eSIM adoption trajectory, most smartphones could work only with eSIMs in a few decades.

You can check your device’s eSIM compatibility by following the below steps:

For iPhones

• Open the Settings app and click Cellular.
• Look for the Add eSIM button. If you see this button, your iPhone supports eSIMs. If you don’t see this button, your iPhone doesn’t support eSIMs.

For Android phones

• Open the Settings app.
• Select About Phone.
• Look for SIM Status or a similar option.
• Check for any mention of eSIM or Embedded SIM. If you see it, your Android device supports eSIMs. Otherwise, the device likely doesn’t work with eSIMs.

You can also check your smartphone manufacturer’s website for technical specifications. eSIM compatibility will likely be mentioned in your smartphone’s specifications document.

Considerations for choosing an eSIM provider

Cost is the first consideration when looking for an eSIM package. You should compare prices from different eSIM providers to get a fair deal. For instance, if you want a 20 GB plan, World eSIM offers it for $30 and Saily for $23. The latter is better if cost is your primary concern.

However, cost shouldn’t be the only concern. You should weigh pricing against factors like validity, coverage, speed, and customer service.

Unlimited data plans are costlier than capped data plans. The higher the data allocation and validity period, the more you should expect to pay.

2. Coverage

You need an eSIM provider with robust coverage across Japan. Fortunately, all eSIM providers on this list have reliable coverage, although you might be unable to access 5G outside urban centers. You'll enjoy the fastest connection possible in touristy regions like Tokyo and Osaka.

3. Validity

How long is your data plan valid for? Most eSIM providers limit their plans to 30 days, after which you must renew even if your data isn’t exhausted. However, a few, like Sakura and Holafly, offer up to 90 days, and you can choose the exact number of days your data plan remains valid. 

4. Data allocation

Your browsing habits determine the data plan you’ll choose from an eSIM provider. 5 GB to 20 GB is enough for the average foreign visitor. However, an unlimited plan is your best bet if you plan to download or stream lots of content. Holafly, World eSIM, and Sakura Mobile offer unlimited data plans with fast speeds. 

5. Customer service

An ideal eSIM provider should offer excellent customer service. If things go wrong, you should be able to contact its support team via email, live chat, or telephone. It’s not just about having a support team; it’s about having skilled and experienced staff willing to resolve customers’ issues.

You can check user reviews of your desired eSIM provider to see if there are noticeable complaints regarding customer service. 

• We've also listed the best eSIMs for Europe in 2024.

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Stefan has always been a lover of tech. He graduated with an MSc in geological engineering but soon discovered he had a knack for writing instead. So he decided to combine his newfound and life-long passions to become a technology writer. As a freelance content writer, Stefan can break down complex technological topics, making them easily digestible for the lay audience.

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