For · arrival day
Free SIM at Airport
Verdict A bridge for your first hours
- Free, at some airports
- Limited data
- Not everywhere: check the arrival counter
住Chapter 03 · Get set up
Mobile & SIM Guide
Everything you need to get a phone and SIM card in Japan
The Problem
Getting a phone contract in Japan as a foreigner can feel like an impossible loop — you need a bank account to get a phone, but many services need a phone number to open a bank account.
You arrive in Japan and need a phoneCarriers require a Japanese bank accountBanks require a phone number for verification
An endless loop that leaves newcomers stranded.
The easiest way for foreigners to get connected in Japan
Sakura Mobile
Sakura Mobile specializes in providing SIM cards and mobile plans to foreign residents — no Japanese bank account required.
They accept international credit cards, provide English support, and offer plans that start from day one — even before you have a residence card.
Sakura Mobile also offers home internet plans — same easy setup, no Japanese bank account needed.
Visit Sakura Mobile
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Other Options
For · short stays
Prepaid SIM
Verdict Fine for a short stay
- Sold at airports and electronics stores
- Limited features
For · tourists
Pocket WiFi
Verdict Travel, not living
- Portable WiFi router
- Shares one connection with several devices
- Not practical long-term
Just visiting? Sakura Mobile also sells 5G travel SIMs and eSIMs: data only (no phone number), 1 to 93 days, foreign cards accepted, SIM pickup at major airports.
Settling in? None of the options above is a long-term plan: Sakura Mobile's monthly plans (above) are.
See Sakura Mobile's travel SIMs and eSIMs