Free public WiFi in Japan is limited, often slow, and frequently requires re-login—making it unreliable for travelers. For fast, secure, and consistent internet anywhere in Japan, renting a pocket WiFi is the best option. However, finding the best pocket WiFi in Japan can be overwhelming—especially when options like Ninja WiFi, Sakura Mobile, and Japan Wireless all promise fast speeds, wide coverage, and affordable rental prices.
We compared them side by side so you can quickly see which is the best portable WiFi service in Japan.
Japan Wireless
With 15 years of history and over 1 million users, Japan Wireless is the go-to option for travelers venturing into rural areas or needing heavy data usage. top choice for many travelers, Japan Wireless is praised for its high-speed, nationwide coverage and the inclusion of a free power bank with rentals.
Ninja Wifi
Ninja WiFi is perfect for short trips and group travel. It provides fast, stable connections in major cities, supports multiple devices simultaneously, and offers simple airport pickup at major terminals. It offers many plans to choose from, ranging from 1GB/day to truly unlimited data, making it easy to match your budget and usage needs.
Sakura Mobile
Sakura Mobile is ideal for long-term visitors and those who need flexible connectivity. It offers reliable nationwide coverage, options for both pocket WiFi and SIM cards, and flexible rental plans that suit short-term or extended stays. Services include airport pickup and hotel delivery, making it easy to get connected right after arrival.
Japan WiFi Providers: Comparison Table
Feature | Ninja Wifi | Japan Wireless | Sakura Mobile |
Coverage | 99% nationwide (Softbank/Docomo) | 99% nationwide (Softbank/Docomo) | 99% nationwide (Docomo) |
Download Speed | 187.5Mbps | 187.5Mbps | N/A |
Data Usage | Depending on the selected plan | Truly Unlimited (No throttle, no Fair Usage Policy*) | Unlimited Data |
Battery Life | Unknown | 20 hours | 20 hours |
Daily Price | ¥440/day (1Gb/day) | ¥623/day (Unlimited Data) | ¥750/day |
Pickup Options | Airport counters, Partner counter, Shinjuku office, Hotel delivery | Airport counters, Shimbashi office, Hotel delivery | Airport counters, Hotel delivery, Shinjuku office |
Return | Yes | No | No |
Customer Support | WhatsApp, email or phone call | Multilingual Support via phone call or email | Contact form |
Separate Power Bank | Add-on option (¥110/day) | Included (free of charge) | Add-on option (¥200/day) |
*Fair Usage Policy (FUP): High-speed data may be capped or speeds may be throttled after a certain daily or monthly limit to ensure fair and equitable access to services for all users.
Final Takeaway
Relying on free WiFi in Japan is risky if you need reliable access for navigation, streaming, or work. Renting a pocket WiFi from Ninja WiFi, Sakura Mobile, or Japan Wireless ensures fast, secure, and consistent internet. For most travelers, Japan Wireless is best for heavy data use and long battery life, Sakura Mobile is ideal for long-term stays with flexible SIM and WiFi options, and Ninja WiFi offers the most plan variety.