Best Long Term eSim vs Sim Card vs Pocket WiFi for Japan

You’re planning to stay in Japan for 4 weeks or longer. Whether you’re visiting for business, on a working holiday, studying abroad, working remotely, or just spending extended time with friends or family. For trips like this, you’ll want a long-term Data Only or Data+Voice phone solution with monthly billing and better value.

Short-term tourist eSims, Sims and Pocket WiFi rentals are not the best option for your stay. Fortunately, there are excellent options for both mobile data and WiFi, including:

  • Long-stay Sim Card or eSim plans, with or without a Japanese phone number
  • Monthly Pocket WiFi rentals, great for groups or plug-and-play simplicity
  • Rental or Buy-and-keep Pocket WiFi devices you can use long term and/or reuse on every visit (also great for frequent visitors to Japan)

We’ve personally used many Sim Cards, eSims and pocket wifi devices ourselves in Japan, and break down below which plans are the best fit depending on how you travel, how long you’re staying, and how tech-comfortable you are.

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TL;DR – Best Phone Options for Longer Stays in Japan (4 Weeks+)

If you’re in Japan for a month or more, for business, study, or an extended visit, here are the most reliable, no fixed contract options:

  • Voice+Data eSim and Sim Card Options: Mobal is better if you want a lower setup cost, smaller data plans, or a basic Voice Lite option with minimal data. Sakura Mobile is more flexible for heavier data use, with data rollover, larger plan options, and cheaper SMS rates.
    • Option 1: Mobal Voice Lite or Data+Voice plans( Sim Card or eSim ). Monthly billing with no contract. Includes a Japanese number. Reuse it for future visits by adding a new plan each time.
    • Option 2: Sakura Mobile Data+Voice Sim or eSim. Flexible voice plans with monthly pricing. Airport pickup or delivery available.
  • Data only eSim and Sim Card Options:
    • Option 3: Sakura Mobile Data Only Sim or eSim. Flexible data-only plans with monthly pricing. Airport pickup or delivery available.
    • Option 4: Saily Ultra eSim. Premium monthly plan with unlimited data, 5GB per day at full speed, then throttled. Works in Japan and 120+ countries. Includes VIP perks such as airport lounge access, fast‑track security, hotel and flight deals, built-in VPN and 24/7 support. Cancel anytime.
    • Option 5: Ubigi Data only eSim. Flexible data-only plans with monthly and annual pricing, instant activation. Minimum 3 months required, then cancel anytime. Works in Japan and 200+ countries.
  • Pocket Wifi Options: Sakura Mobile is ideal if you just want a quick rental with big data plans and don’t plan to keep the device. Mobal’s Pocket WiFi Stick is a better fit if you’re staying longer, want to avoid the return process, or expect to visit Japan more than once. Solis is the most flexible if you’re travelling to multiple countries and want one device that works everywhere, with pay-as-you-go data.

Note, all pricing information is accurate as of December 2025.

Long Term Voice+Data eSim and Sim Cards for Japan

Option 1: Mobal Long Term Sim Card or eSim (Voice+Data or Data Only)

If you’re staying in Japan for four weeks or longer and need a local phone number, Mobal offers long-term Sim card and eSim plans designed specifically for international visitors. You can choose between a physical Sim card or a digital eSim, and both offer identical pricing and features. The main difference is how you want to receive it.

Neither option is fully instant. First, you apply for your Sim card or eSim online. After that, your physical Sim card or eSim setup documentation is either shipped to your home, hotel, or made available for pickup at the airport. Once you’ve received it, you’ll need to complete a one-time identity verification process, as required by Japanese law. Only after your ID is approved will the Sim or eSim be activated. The process is simple, but it does take a bit of planning, especially if you need to be connected as soon as you arrive.

All voice-enabled plans come with a Japanese mobile number. This is essential for many long-term visitors, especially if you need to make local calls, register with services, apply for jobs or housing, or receive SMS verification codes. English support is available, and the same Sim card or eSim can be reactivated for future visits.

Voice+Data Plan (Sim card or eSim)

This plan gives you both mobile data and a Japanese number for calls and texts. It’s a practical option if you’ll be working, studying or just want the convenience of full mobile access while in Japan.

You pay a one-time setup fee of ¥3,960 (around $26 USD), and then choose your monthly data plan:

  • 1GB – ¥1,650 (~$11 USD)
  • 5GB – ¥3,190 (~$21 USD)
  • 10GB – ¥3,630 (~$24 USD)
  • 30GB – ¥4,378 (~$29 USD)

Plans reset on the 1st of each month, and you can change or cancel at any time. All Mobal plans run on the Docomo network, which has excellent coverage across Japan.

Voice Lite Plan (Sim card or eSim)

This option is ideal if you mostly rely on WiFi but still need a Japanese number for calls, reservations, or verification codes. It includes up to 500MB of free data per month, enough for occasional app use or checking maps. If you exceed that, an additional ¥2,500 (around $17 USD) will be charged for data use up to 3GB.

  • One-time setup: ¥3,300 (~$22 USD)
  • Monthly fee: ¥990 (~$7 USD)

Mobal recommends turning off mobile data in your device settings unless you need it, to avoid going over the free limit. Like the Voice+Data plan, there’s no contract, and you can reuse the same Sim card or eSim for future trips.

Call and SMS rates (same for all Mobal plans)

Whether you choose Voice+Data or Voice Lite, and whether you use a Sim card or an eSim, the call and messaging rates are the same:

  • Incoming Domestic and International calls and SMS: Free
  • Domestic calls (Japan): ¥44 per minute (~$0.30 USD)
  • International calls:
    • Direct dial: ¥250 per minute (~$1.65 USD)
    • With prefix 0063: ¥65 per minute (~$0.45 USD)
  • Domestic SMS: ¥33 per message (~$0.22 USD)
  • International SMS: ¥140 per message (~$0.95 USD)

If you’re using messaging apps like WhatsApp, LINE or iMessage, that will count as data usage. This applies even if you’re sending a message or voice note.

The plans are the same. It just depends on whether you prefer a Sim card or an eSim:

Option 2: Sakura Mobile Long Term Sim Card or eSim (Voice+Data)

Sakura Mobile offers flexible long-term Voice+Data plans with a Japanese phone number, data, SMS, and optional discounted international calls . You can choose either a physical Sim card or eSim.

Plans start from ¥2,980/month (about $20 USD) for 5GB of data, with larger plans available up to 100GB/month. There’s no contract, and all plans include data rollover, hotspot/tethering support, and unlimited app-based calls to other Sakura users via the Sakura Dial app.

Here’s a quick look at the monthly data options:

  • 5GB – ¥2,980 (~$20 USD)
  • 30GB – ¥3,980 (~$27 USD)
  • 40GB – ¥4,980 (~$33 USD)
  • 60GB – ¥6,980 (~$46 USD)
  • 80GB – ¥8,980 (~$60 USD)
  • 100GB – ¥10,980 (~$73 USD)

You can receive your Sim card or eSim via hotel delivery, airport pickup, or international shipping before departure. ID verification is required before your service can be activated.

Call and text pricing

  • Incoming Domestic and International calls and SMS: Free
  • Domestic calls (standard): ¥22 per 30 seconds (~¥44/min, same as Mobal)
  • Domestic calls via Sakura Dial app: Free to other Sakura users, or discounted to others
  • International calls via Sakura Dial app: Lower rates to most countries
  • SMS:
    • Domestic: ¥3.3 per message
    • International: ¥100–¥265 per message, depending on destination

App-based calling is the most cost-effective if you’ll make frequent calls. The app is free to download and works on iOS and Android.

Sakura Mobile is a solid pick if you want larger data plans, data rollover, or app-based call options. Activation is fast once ID is verified, and the English support is helpful if you’re new to living in Japan.

Check Sakura Mobile Voice+Data Sim card or eSim plans here →

Long Term Data Only eSim and Sim Card Options for Japan

Option 3: Sakura Mobile Long-Term Sim Card or eSim (Data Only)

If you don’t need voice calls or a Japanese number, Sakura Mobile also offers long-term data-only Sim cards and eSims. These are ideal for tablets, pocket WiFi devices, or second phones, and work well if you just want to stay connected without any need for SMS or calling.

Pricing starts at ¥2,480/month (about $17 USD) for 5GB of data. You can go all the way up to 100GB/month for heavier use:

  • 5GB – ¥2,480/month (~$17 USD)
  • 30GB – ¥3,480/month (~$24 USD)
  • 40GB – ¥4,480/month (~$30 USD)
  • 60GB – ¥6,480/month (~$43 USD)
  • 80GB – ¥8,480/month (~$57 USD)
  • 100GB – ¥10,480/month (~$70 USD)

All plans include hotspot/tethering, data rollover, and flexible delivery or pickup options. You’ll still need to complete ID verification before activation, even for data-only services.

This is a solid option for digital nomads, remote workers or anyone who doesn’t need voice or SMS but still wants stable mobile data over a longer stay.

Check Sakura Mobile Data-Only Sim card or eSim plans here →

Option 4: Saily Ultra – All-In-One Monthly Travel Plan (Unlimited Data + Premium Travel Perks)

Saily Ultra isn’t just an eSim plan, it’s a premium monthly subscription designed for frequent or long-term travellers who want simplicity, flexibility and a full suite of global benefits.

The plan includes unlimited data each month (with up to 5GB/day at full 4G/5G speed, then throttled), and works in over 120 countries, including Japan. You can install it instantly via the Saily app, and manage everything from data use to travel benefits in one place.

Where Saily Ultra really stands out is in the extras. You’ll get access to airport lounge passes, fast-track security, hotel and flight deals, a built-in VPN, digital security tools, and 24/7 premium support, all bundled into one price.

  • Monthly cost: $60 USD
  • Unlimited data: 5GB/day at full speed, then throttled
  • Global coverage: Works in 120+ countries, including Japan
  • App-based setup: No physical Sim card needed
  • Premium perks:
    • Airport lounge access & fast-track
    • Exclusive hotel/flight offers and cashback
    • Built-in VPN and digital security tools
    • 24/7 concierge-style support
  • Cancel anytime: No long-term commitment, instant access

Check out the Saily Ultra eSim plan here →

Option 5: Ubigi Long-Term eSim (Data Only, No Japanese Number)

If you’re planning a longer stay in Japan and don’t need a local phone number, Ubigi offers excellent value data-only monthly and annual eSim plans.

Ubigi’s setup is fully digital. You install the eSim via QR code or using their app, and can start using it immediately after purchase. Their monthly plans can be cancelled anytime after the first three months, and annual plans give you discounted rates for longer commitments. You’ll connect to top Japanese networks like KDDI and NTT Docomo, with 5G speeds where available. Hotspot sharing is supported.

A key advantage of Ubigi is that it’s part of a global platform. Once you’ve set up the app, you can buy and manage eSims for over 200 countries directly from your phone, including multi-country regional plans. It’s a great long-term solution if Japan is one stop in a broader travel plan.

Ubigi Monthly eSim Plans for Japan

These plans offer consistent monthly data at a fixed cost, with the option to cancel after three months:

  • 5GB/month – $8 USD
  • 20GB/month – $22 USD
  • Unlimited/month – $49 USD

Ubigi Annual eSim Plans for Japan

Pay once for the year and enjoy steady monthly data:

  • 24GB/year (2GB/month) – $29 USD
  • 60GB/year (5GB/month) – $69 USD

Ubigi eSims are data-only, so they don’t include a Japanese number or voice/text capabilities. However, you can use apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Messenger or LINE for calls and messages over data. The app makes it easy to track your usage and top up anytime without needing WiFi.

Prefer a globally flexible eSIM? → Check Ubigi long-term eSim plans

Long Term Pocket Wifi Options for Japan

Option 6: Sakura Mobile Long-Term Pocket WiFi Rental (Data only)

If you’ll be in Japan for more than four weeks and want reliable internet without fiddling with Sim card swaps or phone settings, Sakura Mobile’s monthly Pocket WiFi rental is a simple, travel-friendly option. It works like a home WiFi router but fits in your bag.

Pricing starts from ¥4,980 per month (about $33 USD) for 100GB of data. You can also choose higher allowances if you expect heavier usage.

Monthly Plans:

  • 100GB – ¥4,980 (approx. $33 USD)
  • 200GB – ¥6,480 (approx. $43 USD)
  • Unlimited (home-use model only) – ¥6,480 (approx. $43 USD)

These devices run on Softbank’s 4G/LTE network, and you can connect up to 15 devices at once. That makes it a good option not just for solo travellers, but also for couples, flatmates or anyone working remotely.

You can order online and either pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel or apartment in Japan. A one-time activation fee of ¥5,500 (about $36 USD) applies. Battery life is up to 20 hours, depending on the device.

Unlike short-term Pocket WiFi rentals, this plan is billed monthly. There’s no daily cap, no top-ups, and no need to return the device until the end of your stay.

Check Sakura Mobile’s Long Term Pocket WiFi rental options →

Option 7: Mobal Long Term Pocket WiFi Stick (Purchase Once, Use Anytime)

If you’re staying in Japan for an extended period or travel back regularly, Mobal’s new Pocket WiFi Stick is a simple, flexible option that skips the rental process entirely. Instead of renting a unit for each trip, you buy the device outright once and just pay for the data plan you need each time you visit. No returns, no late fees, no post-trip admin.

The unit itself costs ¥6,980 (around $46 USD) and is yours to keep. After that, you only pay for a monthly data plan when you want to use it.

Monthly Mobal Pocket Wifi Data Plans

You can choose from three data plans, depending on your needs. Each plan is valid for 30 days and includes high-speed 4G/LTE data on the SoftBank network:

  • 100GB – ¥4,980 (~$33 USD)
  • 200GB – ¥5,980 (~$40 USD)
  • 300GB – ¥6,980 (~$46 USD)

If you visit Japan frequently or tend to stay longer than a few weeks at a time, this can be much more convenient (and cost-effective) than renting a Pocket WiFi for every trip. You can reactivate the device anytime by purchasing a new plan. There’s no ongoing contract or commitment.

Key Mobal Pocket Wifi features

  • Works across Japan using the SoftBank 4G/LTE network
  • Connects up to 10 devices (phones, tablets, laptops etc)
  • No internal battery. Plugs into your phone or power bank via USB-C
  • Full English setup and support
  • Free shipping within Japan, including hotel delivery
  • Free airport pickup also available

There’s no return process. Once the device is yours, you just connect it to your phone and carry it like any other tech item.

This is a great choice if:

  • You’re in Japan often enough to justify owning your own device
  • You’re staying longer than 4 weeks
  • You want the simplicity of WiFi without setting up individual plans for each device
  • You’ve had enough of forgetting to return rental units on time

Check out the Mobal Pocket WiFi Stick and data plans here →

Option 8: Solis Global Pocket WiFi (Great for Frequent or International Travellers)

The Solis range of hotspots are best for people who travel often and want a device they can reuse across multiple countries. You buy the hotspot outright, then top up with data as needed using day, gigabyte or monthly plans that work in over 130 countries. All models double as power banks.

Solis / SIMO Hotspot Comparison

These are reusable portable WiFi devices that work in 130+ countries, including Japan. You buy the device once, then top up with data passes (daily, monthly, or by GB). Each device includes 1GB of free global data per month. There are four Solis devices to choose from, as detailed below:

  • Solis Go ($201 USD, 4G) – Lightweight, 4G hotspot with built-in power bank, lasts up to 16 hours, connects up to 10 devices.
  • Solis Hero ($263 USD, 4G) – Rugged, water-resistant 4G model with up to 18 hours battery life, for outdoor or field use.
  • Solis Edge ($310 USD, 5G) – Touchscreen 5G hotspot, up to 20 hours battery, easy interface, good for frequent travellers.
  • Solis Pro 5G ($558 USD, 5G) – Fastest option with 5G speed, up to 18 hours battery, supports up to 16 devices, ideal for high data use or business travel.

Learn more about Solis WiFi →

Solis / SIMO Data Plan Summary

All Solis devices include 1GB of free global data each month (resets monthly, unused data rolls over). You can add more data using any of the following prepaid options:

  • Global Daypass – $14 USD per 24-hour unlimited data pass; bundles available (5 for $63 USD, 10 for $109 USD, 20 for $187 USD).
  • Pay-per-GB – One-time data packs with no expiry: 1GB for $19 USD, 5GB for $86 USD, 10GB for $156 USD, or 20GB for $280 USD.
  • Monthly GB Plan – Auto-renews every 30 days: 1GB for $13 USD, 5GB for $47 USD, 10GB for $78 USD, 20GB for $125 USD.
  • Unlimited Monthly Plan – $154 USD/month for 20GB high-speed data (then slowed); longer-term options available (3 months for $415 USD, 6 months for $785 USD, 12 months for $1,385 USD).

Check out the Solis Pocket WiFi Devices and data plans here →

How to Check Whether Your Mobile Phone is eSim Capable and Unlocked

You can easily check whether your phone is eSim capable by dialling *#06# on your mobile phone. Do this before paying for an eSim to ensure you have eSim capability. Many older phones and cheaper versions of newer mobile phones are not eSim capable. If the EID barcode appears, it means your mobile phone is eSim capable.

  • On a non-eSim capable phone, you will most likely see only the IMEI and SN barcodes.
  • On an eSim-enabled phone, you will see the IMEI1 and/or IMEI2, EID and SN barcodes.
  • Note that IMEI is your unique phone identification number and the SN is your unique phone Serial Number – every mobile phone in the world has these two numbers.
  • On a Windows laptop computer, open the bottom right corner menu. If Cellular settings are visible, then your laptop supports eSim.

You can easily check whether your phone is unlocked by:

  • iPhone: Go to Settings -> General -> About, scroll to Carrier Lock. If it says “No Sim Restrictions” then your device is unlocked.
  • Andoid: Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> Mobile Network, turn off Auto network selection. If you see multiple available networks, then your device is unlocked. If only one shows or you get an error, your phone may be locked.

If you do these actions and find that your mobile phone is NOT eSim capable, or is network LOCKED, then your best options are to either purchase a Sim Card (unlocked phones only), rent a Pocket WiFi or contact your provider to see whether you can get your phone unlocked. Our recommended options are:

Why a Japanese Phone Number Still Matters

Even if most of your communication happens through apps like WhatsApp, LINE, or Messenger, having a Japanese phone number can still be essential for longer stays. Many local services, from restaurant bookings to delivery apps, require a domestic number for verification or contact.

This is especially true if you’re working, renting a place, applying for services, or registering with any system that relies on SMS or phone call confirmations. Mobal and Sakura Mobile both offer Sim cards and eSims with Japanese numbers, and these can make your stay smoother and more flexible, especially if you don’t speak much Japanese and need to communicate with businesses that aren’t app-based.

eSim vs Sim card vs Pocket WiFi. Which Is Better for Long Stays?

It depends on your priorities. If you’re travelling alone and have an unlocked phone, a Sim card or eSim is usually the simplest and most cost-effective choice. If you want the ability to make voice calls, look for a plan that includes a Japanese number.

On the other hand, if you’re travelling with someone else, staying in shared housing, or want to avoid changing your phone settings, Pocket WiFi can be a better fit. It allows you to connect multiple devices at once, and with unlimited data, you don’t have to worry about going over your usage limit.

Buy-and-keep options like the Mobal Pocket WiFi Stick or Solis Global WiFi are especially appealing if you plan to come back to Japan or travel internationally. They give you long-term flexibility with no recurring rentals.

Why Not Just Use Free WiFi?

Free WiFi in Japan has improved in recent years, but it’s still not something you want to rely on for day-to-day use, especially if you’re here for several weeks or more. You’ll often need to log in repeatedly, connections can be slow or unstable, and public WiFi is not secure enough for things like banking, booking flights, or handling personal data.

Having your own secure, always-on connection is simply more practical and far more reliable if you’re working remotely or doing anything important online.

Final Thoughts: Best Option for Long-Term Stays in Japan

If you’re staying in Japan for a month or longer, your internet solution should be built to last, with predictable billing, solid coverage, and minimal stress.

  • If you need a Japanese phone number, go with a long-term Sim card or eSim from Mobal (Sim card or eSim) or Sakura Mobile.
  • If you just want a long-term data-only eSim or Sim card, go with Sakura Mobile, Saily (eSim only) or Ubigi (eSim only).
  • If you’re travelling with multiple devices or don’t want to touch phone settings, rent a long-term Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile.
  • If you want something more permanent that works across multiple trips or countries, consider buying a Pocket WiFi device from Mobal or Solis.

These plans give you reliable, fast internet from the day you arrive until the day you leave, without the hassle of recharging, managing short-term plans, or relying on free WiFi.

eSim vs Sim Card vs Pocket WiFi for Japan Quiz Results

We have created dedicated articles for each of the traveller profile resulting from the quiz, you can check them out below:

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