What Is an eSIM and Why Use One in Japan?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your device. It allows you to activate a mobile data plan without inserting a physical card. For travelers to Japan, this is incredibly convenient – you can purchase and activate a local plan online before or upon arrival. That means no searching for SIM vendors or waiting for delivery.
With eSIM, you can also keep your primary SIM installed (to retain your home number) while using a local data plan on the same phone. This dual-SIM feature keeps you connected for maps, messaging, and more. It’s quick to set up, secure (no physical card to lose), and ideal for travelers.
How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM
Before purchasing, confirm that your device supports eSIM. Most recent smartphones do, but here’s how to be sure:
- Settings: On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular. On Android, check Connections > SIM Card Manager. If you see “Add eSIM” or “Add Mobile Plan,” your phone supports it.
- Dial Code: Dial *#06#. If an EID number appears alongside the IMEI, your device has eSIM capability.
- Model Check: iPhone XR/XS or later, Samsung Galaxy S20 or later, and Pixel 3 or later all support eSIM.
Your phone must also be unlocked to accept an eSIM from a third party.
List of eSIM Compatible Devices
Apple iPhones, iPads, and Watches
Apple introduced eSIM early. All iPhones from XR/XS (2018) onwards are compatible, including the latest iPhone 17 and Air/Pro/Pro Max. Many iPads with cellular capability from 2018 onward also include eSIM, as do Apple Watches with LTE (Series 3+).
Note: iPhones sold in mainland China and some Hong Kong variants don’t include eSIM.
Samsung Galaxy
Most Samsung flagships since the Galaxy S20 (S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, etc.) support eSIM. Foldables (Galaxy Z Fold/Flip) and Note20/Note20 Ultra are also included. Some mid-range devices like the Galaxy A54 5G and successors now support eSIM in certain regions.
Regional differences exist, so always confirm your specific model.
Google Pixel
Pixel phones have strong eSIM support. Starting with Pixel 3, every model up to Pixel 10 includes eSIM. Most also support dual SIM (one physical, one eSIM).
Other Android Brands
- Huawei: P40 and P40 Pro supported eSIM, but later models are limited.
- Xiaomi: Recent 12T Pro, 13/14 series, and some Redmi/Xiaomi 15 series have eSIM.
- Oppo: Select models like Find X3 Pro and X5 series support it.
- Sony: Xperia 10 III Lite, Xperia 10 IV, and certain Xperia 1/5 IV variants include eSIM.
- Motorola: Razr foldables (2019+).
- Other brands: Some niche or regional phones (Rakuten Mini, DOOGEE V30, etc.) also have eSIM.
In 2023, more than 130 smartphone models worldwide included eSIM, and the number keeps growing.
Laptops and Tablets
Certain laptops and tablets also include eSIM, such as Microsoft Surface Pro X/Pro 9 LTE, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 5G, and HP LTE laptops. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ 5G and later models also support eSIM. Windows 10/11 devices with cellular modules can add an eSIM plan directly in settings.
Best eSIM Plans for Tourists in Japan
With compatibility confirmed, here’s why prepaid tourist eSIMs are the best way to stay connected:
- Instant Activation: Purchase online, receive a QR code, and activate in minutes. No physical card or airport pickup.
- Affordable Data Options: Plans start from short 3-day unlimited packages to 30-day options with large data allowances. Expect pricing around $19 USD for 3 days, or ~$21 for a week with high-speed data followed by unlimited low-speed.
- Reliable Coverage: Powered by top Japanese carriers like NTT Docomo and Softbank, you’ll have strong 4G/LTE coverage across major cities and tourist destinations.
- Flexible Durations: Options include 3, 7, 15, and 30 days. Top-up is available if you extend your stay.
- Customer Support: English-language support is available daily via email and chat, with troubleshooting guides provided.
Final Tips
To make your trip seamless:
- Unlock your device before travel, if it’s carrier-locked.
- Save your QR code offline (screenshot or print).
- Follow setup instructions carefully: On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. On Android, check Network & Internet > Add eSIM.
With an eSIM-ready device and a prepaid plan, you’ll be connected the moment you land. No SIM swaps, no queues, just smooth connectivity for maps, translation, and sharing your journey.
