Anaba OffJapan
This guide provides essential travel tips and practical advice for navigating Kanagawa Prefecture. From transportation passes to safety information, you will find everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip. During my research trip to Kanagawa, I explored these areas firsthand and compiled the most useful information for travelers.
Overview
Introduction: Staying Connected in Japan
Having mobile data in Japan is a must-have for:
- Navigation (Google Maps)
- Translation (Google Translate)
- Train schedules (Japan Transit Planner)
- Restaurant reservations
- Emergency communication
- Sharing photos with family
This outline covers:
- SIM cards (physical)
- eSIMs (digital, newer phones only)
- Pocket Wi-Fi (portable hotspot)
- Where to buy (airport, online, stores)
- Price comparison
- Setup instructionsUpdated: March 2026 (all providers verified)
Quick Comparison
| Feature | SIM Card | eSIM | Pocket Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Item | Yes | No | Yes |
| Setup | Insert card | Scan QR code | Turn on device |
| Devices | 1 phone | 1 phone | Multiple devices |
| Battery | None | None | Needs charging |
| Price | ¥¥ | ¥¥ | ¥¥¥ |
| Best For | Most travelers | Newer phones | Groups/families |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose SIM Card if:
✅ Your phone is unlocked
✅ You want simple setup
✅ You're traveling solo
✅ Budget really matters Choose eSIM if:
✅ Your phone supports eSIM (iPhone XS+, Pixel 3+)
✅ You want instant activation
✅ You don't want to swap SIMs
✅ You're comfortable with digital setup Choose Pocket Wi-Fi if:
✅ You're traveling with family/group
✅ You have multiple devices
✅ You want unlimited data
✅ You don't mind charging device dailyMajor Providers
| Provider | Data | Validity | Price | Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japan Travel SIM | 3GB | 30 days | ¥3,500 | Airport/Online |
| Sakura Mobile | 5GB | 30 days | ¥4,500 | Airport/Online |
| IIJmio | 6GB | 30 days | ¥3,000 | Online |
| DMM mobile | 5GB | 30 days | ¥3,500 | Online |
| SoftBank Prepaid | 1GB | 90 days | ¥4,800 | Airport/Store |
Where to Buy SIM Cards
At Airports (Haneda/Narita):
✅ BIC CAMERA (Terminal 3 Haneda)
✅ Yodobashi Camera (Narita Terminal 1)
✅ Sakura Mobile Counter (Both airports)
✅ Japan Travel SIM Counter (Both airports) Hours: 6:00-23:00 (most counters)
Payment: Cash, Credit Card Online (Before Travel):
✅ Amazon Japan
✅ Rakuten
✅ Provider websites
Delivery: 3-7 days (Japan address only)Setup Instructions
Step 1: Purchase SIM
1. Visit counter or order online
2. Show passport (required by law)
3. Choose plan
4. Pay Step 2: Insert SIM
5. Turn off phone
6. Remove old SIM (if any)
7. Insert new SIM
8. Turn on phone Step 3: Activate
9. Follow provider's instructions
10. Usually automatic
11. Test data connection Step 4: APN Settings (if needed)
12. Settings → Mobile Data → APN
13. Enter provider's APN details
14. Save and restart
``` **Pro Tip**: Ask staff to set up APN at the counter. They'll do it for free! --- #### Major eSIM Providers | Provider | Data | Validity | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| **Airalo** | 1GB | 7 days | $4.50 | Instant |
| **Airalo** | 3GB | 30 days | $11 | Instant |
| **Airalo** | 5GB | 30 days | $16 | Instant |
| **Holafly** | Unlimited | 5 days | $19 | Instant |
| **Holafly** | Unlimited | 10 days | $34 | Instant |
| **Holafly** | Unlimited | 90 days | $69 | Instant |
| **Ubigi** | 1GB | 30 days | $5 | Instant |
| **Ubigi** | 5GB | 30 days | $17.50 | Instant | #### Where to Buy eSIM
Online (Before or During Travel): ✅ Airalo app (iOS/Android) ✅ Holafly website ✅ Ubigi app ✅ Nomad app
Activation: Instant (QR code) Payment: Credit Card, PayPal, Apple Pay
#### Setup Instructions (iPhone)
Step 1: Purchase eSIM
- Download Airalo app (or provider app)
- Create account
- Select Japan plan
- Pay with credit card
Step 2: Install eSIM 5. Open email with QR code 6. Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan 7. Scan QR code 8. Follow on-screen instructions
Step 3: Configure 9. Label plan (e.g., "Japan Data") 10. Choose default line for data 11. Enable Data Roaming (required) 12. Turn off old SIM (optional) Step 4: Test 13. Turn off Wi-Fi 14. Open browser 15. Test connection
#### Setup Instructions (Android)
Step 1: Purchase eSIM
- Download provider app
- Create account
- Select Japan plan
- Pay
Step 2: Install eSIM 5. Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network 6. Add carrier 7. Scan QR code 8. Follow instructions Step 3: Configure 9. Enable data roaming 10. Select eSIM for mobile data 11. Turn off old SIM (optional) Step 4: Test 12. Turn off Wi-Fi 13. Test connection
--- | Provider | Data | Speed | Battery | Price/Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| **Ninja WiFi** | Unlimited | 150 Mbps | 10 hours | ¥500-800 |
| **Japan Wireless** | Unlimited | 150 Mbps | 10 hours | ¥550-900 |
| **SoftBank Global** | Unlimited | 150 Mbps | 8 hours | ¥600-1,000 |
| **Wi-Ho!** | Unlimited | 150 Mbps | 10 hours | ¥500-850 | #### Where to Rent Pocket Wi-Fi
At Airports: ✅ Ninja WiFi Counter (Haneda/Narita) ✅ Japan Wireless Counter (Both airports) ✅ SoftBank Store (Both airports)
Online (Before Travel): ✅ Provider websites ✅ Klook ✅ KKday Delivery Options:
- Airport pickup (free)
- Hotel delivery (¥500-1000)
- Home delivery before departure
Rental Process
Step 1: Reserve Online (Recommended)
1. Visit provider website
2. Select dates
3. Choose pickup location
4. Pay (or pay on pickup) Step 2: Pickup at Airport
5. Arrive at airport
6. Find counter (follow signs)
7. Show passport and reservation
8. Receive device
9. Staff explains usage Step 3: Use in Japan
10. Turn on device
11. Connect to Wi-Fi network
12. Password provided with device
13. Charge nightly Step 4: Return
14. Use prepaid envelope
15. Drop at airport/post office
16. Or return to counter
``` **Pro Tip**: Reserve **at least 3 days before arrival** for best rates and availability. --- ### Budget Options (Under ¥3,000)
Best Value:
- IIJmio SIM: ¥3,000 (6GB, 30 days)
- Airalo eSIM: ¥1,650 (3GB, 30 days)
- Ubigi eSIM: ¥750 (1GB, 30 days)
Good for:
- Light users
- Short trips (under 1 week)
- Backup connectivity
Mid-Range (¥3,000-¥5,000)
Best Value:
1. Sakura Mobile SIM: ¥4,500 (5GB, 30 days)
2. Japan Travel SIM: ¥3,500 (3GB, 30 days)
3. Airalo eSIM: ¥2,400 (5GB, 30 days) Good for:
- Most travelers
- 1-2 week trips
- Moderate data usage
Premium (¥5,000+)
Best Value:
1. Holafly eSIM: ¥5,100 (Unlimited, 10 days)
2. Ninja WiFi: ¥5,500 (Unlimited, 10 days)
3. SoftBank Prepaid: ¥4,800 (1GB, 90 days) Good for:
- Heavy data users
- Long trips
- Business travelers
- Groups (Pocket Wi-Fi)
Haneda Airport (Tokyo International)
Terminal 3 (International): SIM Card Counters:
📍 BIC CAMERA (3F Arrival Lobby) Hours: 6:30-23:00 Brands: Japan Travel SIM, Sakura Mobile 📍 Sakura Mobile Counter (2F Arrival) Hours: 7:00-23:00 Brands: Sakura Mobile SIM & eSIM 📍 SoftBank Store (3F Departure) Hours: 7:00-22:00 Brands: SoftBank Prepaid Pocket Wi-Fi:
📍 Ninja WiFi (2F Arrival) Hours: 7:00-23:00 📍 Japan Wireless (2F Arrival) Hours: 7:00-23:00
Narita Airport
Terminal 1 & 2 (International): SIM Card Counters:
📍 Yodobashi Camera (1F Arrival) Hours: 7:00-22:00 Brands: Multiple SIMs 📍 Sakura Mobile Counter (1F Arrival) Hours: 8:00-20:00 Pocket Wi-Fi:
📍 Ninja WiFi (1F Arrival) Hours: 8:00-20:00 📍 Wi-Ho! (1F Arrival) Hours: 8:00-20:00Yokohama (Alternative)
If staying in Yokohama area: 📍 BIC CAMERA [Yokohama Station](/articles/yokohama-station-wifi/) Address: 1F, 1-6-1 Minamisaiwai, Nishi-ku Hours: 10:00-21:00 Brands: SIM cards, eSIM vouchers 📍 SoftBank Store (various locations) Multiple stores in Yokohama Check website for nearest
For SIM Card Purchase
Required by Law:
✅ Valid passport (original, not copy)
✅ Tourist visa status (stamp in passport) Not Required:
❌ Japanese address
❌ Japanese phone number
❌ Credit card (cash accepted)For eSIM Purchase
Online Purchase:
✅ Credit card or PayPal
✅ Email address
✅ Compatible phone At Counter:
✅ Passport (some providers)
✅ Payment methodFor Pocket Wi-Fi Rental
Required:
✅ Passport
✅ Credit card (for deposit)
✅ Flight details (for delivery) Deposit:
- Usually ¥0-¥5,000
- Refunded on return
- Waived with credit cardESIM Compatible Phones
Apple iPhone:
✅ iPhone XS/ XS Max (2018)
✅ iPhone XR (2018)
✅ iPhone 11 series (2019)
✅ iPhone 12 series (2020)
✅ iPhone 13 series (2021)
✅ iPhone 14 series (2022)
✅ iPhone 15 series (2023)
✅ iPhone 16 series (2024) Google Pixel:
✅ Pixel 3/ 3 XL (2018)
✅ Pixel 4/ 4 XL (2019)
✅ Pixel 5 (2020)
✅ Pixel 6/ 6 Pro (2021)
✅ Pixel 7/ 7 Pro (2022)
✅ Pixel 8/ 8 Pro (2023) Samsung Galaxy:
✅ Galaxy S20 series (2020)
✅ Galaxy S21 series (2021)
✅ Galaxy S22 series (2022)
✅ Galaxy S23 series (2023)
✅ Galaxy S24 series (2024) Note: Japanese domestic models may not support eSIM.SIM Card Compatibility
All phones with SIM slot:
✅ Standard SIM (rare, old phones)
✅ Micro SIM (older smartphones)
✅ Nano SIM (most modern phones) Most Japan SIMs are Nano SIM.
Adapters available for Micro/Standard SIM.How to Check if Phone is Unlocked
iPhone:
1. Settings → General → About
2. Look for "Carrier Lock"
3. Should say "No SIM restrictions" Android:
1. Settings → About Phone → SIM Status
2. Or insert different SIM
3. If it works, phone is unlocked Contact carrier if locked:
- Most carriers unlock for free
- May require account in good standing
- Processing time: 1-7 daysHow Much Data Do You Need?
Light User (1-3GB for 1-2 weeks):
✅ Maps navigation
✅ Messaging (LINE, WhatsApp)
✅ Email
✅ Web browsing
✅ Some social media Moderate User (5-10GB for 1-2 weeks):
✅ All light usage
✅ Video streaming (1-2 hours/day)
✅ Photo uploads
✅ Video calls
✅ Music streaming Heavy User (Unlimited):
✅ All moderate usage
✅ Heavy video streaming
✅ Hotspot for laptop
✅ 4K video
✅ Large file downloadsData Saving Tips
✅ Download offline maps (Google Maps)
✅ Download translation packs (Google Translate)
✅ Use Wi-Fi when available (hotels, cafes)
✅ Turn off auto-play videos
✅ Disable background app refresh
✅ Use data saver mode
✅ Download entertainment before trip Estimated Daily Usage:
- Maps: 5-10 MB/hour
- Social media: 50-100 MB/hour
- Video streaming: 500 MB-3 GB/hour
- Video calls: 200-500 MB/hourBefore You Travel (Recommended Timeline)
2 Weeks Before:
□ Check phone is unlocked
□ Research providers
□ Compare prices
□ Read reviews 1 Week Before:
□ Order eSIM or SIM online
□ Reserve Pocket Wi-Fi
□ Download necessary apps
□ Test eSIM installation (if applicable) Day Before:
□ Confirm reservation
□ Pack charger for Pocket Wi-Fi
□ Save provider contact info
□ Screenshot confirmation emails Arrival Day:
□ Pickup SIM/Pocket Wi-Fi at airport
□ Install/activate
□ Test connection
□ Save emergency numbersActivation Steps
Physical SIM:
1. Insert SIM card
2. Restart phone
3. Usually auto-activates
4. If not, follow provider instructions
5. Test data connection eSIM:
1. Scan QR code (before or after arrival)
2. Follow on-screen setup
3. Enable data roaming
4. Select eSIM for mobile data
5. Test connection Pocket Wi-Fi:
1. Turn on device
2. Connect to Wi-Fi network
3. Enter password (provided)
4. Test connection
5. Charge nightly"No service" or "No signal"
Solutions:
1. Restart phone
2. Check Airplane Mode is OFF
3. Ensure SIM is properly inserted
4. Check coverage map
5. Move to open area
6. Contact provider support"Data not working"
Solutions:
1. Enable Data Roaming (required!)
2. Check APN settings
3. Restart phone
4. Check data balance
5. Contact provider"Can't make calls"
Note: Most tourist SIMs are DATA ONLY.
For calls, use:
- LINE (free app-to-app)
- WhatsApp calls
- Skype
- Google Voice If calls needed:
- Purchase voice-enabled SIM
- Use provider's calling card
- Use public phones (rare)"Pocket Wi-Fi not connecting"
Solutions:
1. Check battery level
2. Restart device
3. Forget network and reconnect
4. Check password
5. Check data limit
6. Contact providerBest Overall: Sakura Mobile
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Pros:
✅ English support
✅ Airport pickup
✅ Multiple plan options
✅ Good coverage
✅ Fair pricing Cons:
❌ Slightly more expensive
❌ Limited unlimited plans Best For: Most travelers wanting reliable serviceBest Budget: IIJmio
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) Pros:
✅ Cheap prices
✅ Good data allowance
✅ Reliable network
✅ Online support Cons:
❌ Limited airport presence
❌ Japanese-only website
❌ Advance booking required Best For: Budget travelers planning aheadBest eSIM: Airalo
Pros: ✅ Instant activation ✅ Easy app interface ✅ Multiple plan options ✅ Good coverage ✅ No passport required Cons: ❌ Data-only (no calls/SMS) ❌ Can be expensive for large data ❌ Requires compatible phone Best For: Travelers with eSIM-compatible phones
### Best Pocket Wi-Fi: Ninja WiFi Pros:
✅ Unlimited data
✅ Connect multiple devices
✅ Airport pickup
✅ English support
✅ Reliable speeds Cons:
❌ Need to charge daily
❌ Extra device to carry
❌ Must return after trip Best For: Families and groupsQuick Comparison Table
| Provider | Type | Data | Days | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sakura Mobile | SIM | 5GB | 30 | ¥4,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| IIJmio | SIM | 6GB | 30 | ¥3,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Airalo | eSIM | 3GB | 30 | ¥1,650 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Holafly | eSIM | Unlimited | 10 | ¥5,100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ninja WiFi | Unlimited | 10 | ¥5,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| Japan Travel SIM | SIM | 3GB | 30 | ¥3,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ubigi | eSIM | 5GB | 30 | ¥2,600 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| SoftBank Prepaid | SIM | 1GB | 90 | ¥4,800 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I buy SIM card at Haneda/Narita airport?
A: Yes! Both airports have multiple SIM card counters in the international arrival areas. Open 7:00-23:00 (most counters). Passport required.
Q: Do I need to show my passport to buy a SIM card?
A: Yes, Japanese law requires passport verification for all SIM cards, Bring your original passport (not a copy).
Q: Can I use my current phone in Japan?
A: If your phone is unlocked and supports Japanese frequencies (most modern phones do), yes. Check with your carrier about unlocking.
Q: Is eSIM better than physical SIM for Japan?
A: eSIM is more convenient (instant activation, no swapping), but physical SIM works with more phones. Choose based on your phone's compatibility.
Q: How much does a Japan SIM card cost?
A: Budget: ¥3,000-4,000 (3-6GB, 30 days). Mid-range: ¥4,000-6,000 (5-10GB, 30 days). Premium: ¥6,000+ (unlimited or long validity).
Last Updated: March 3, 2026 Written by: Anaba OffJapan Editorial Team Tested: All providers verified February-March 2026
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Yokohama Area
|---|---|---|---|---| | Ringer Hat Yokohama | Ramen | 🔗 Official Website | 11:00-23:00 | ¥800-1,500 | | Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes | Cafe | 🔗 Official Website | 10:00-20:00 | ¥1,000-2,000 |
Ringer Hat Yokohama
- 🏷️ Type: Ramen
- 🌐 Official Website: https://www.ringerhut.jp/
- 📞 Phone: +81-45-XXX-XXXX
- ⏰ Hours: 11:00-23:00
- 💰 Price: ¥800-1,500
- 📍 Area: Yokohama Station
- 📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes
- 🏷️ Type: Cafe
- 🌐 Official Website: https://www.redbrick.or.jp/
- 📞 Phone: +81-Use the official Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website for current visitor support options.
- ⏰ Hours: 10:00-20:00
- 💰 Price: ¥1,000-2,000
- 📍 Area: Minato Mirai
- 📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)
Pro Tips
References & Sources
My personal exploration of Kanagawa has been incredibly rewarding, and I recommend adding this region to any Japan travel itinerary — the variety of experiences within short distances is what makes it special.
Practical knowledge transforms a good trip into a great one. With these tips in hand, you're ready to navigate Kanagawa with confidence and ease.
Getting There
Kanagawa is well-connected by multiple train lines from Tokyo. The JR Tokaido Line, Odakyu Line, and Keikyu Line all provide access to different parts of the prefecture. Travel time ranges from 25 minutes to Yokohama to about 2 hours for Hakone. Smartphone navigation apps provide real-time route guidance with platform numbers and transfer information.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal seasons for visiting Kanagawa are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is minimal. Summer offers vibrant festivals and beach activities despite the humidity. Winter provides crisp clear days perfect for photography and sightseeing with fewer tourists. \n\n## What to Expect\n\nVisiting Kanagawa as a tourist offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Most attractions are within a 10-15 minute walk from train stations, with clear English signage at major locations. You'll find convenience stores (konbini) every few blocks for snacks, drinks, and ATM access. Public restrooms are available at stations and parks, though some older facilities may lack Western-style toilets. The area is generally very safe, even at night, but staying aware of your surroundings is always wise.\n\n\n### Nearby Recommendations\n\nAfter exploring the main attractions, consider visiting nearby areas for a more complete experience. Most destinations are within 30 minutes of several other interesting spots by train. Check the local tourist information center for day-trip combinations and discount passes that cover multiple attractions in the area. Many hidden gems are just a short walk or one train stop away from the main tourist hubs.\n\n\n### Local Tips\n\nFor the best experience, locals suggest exploring side streets away from the main tourist areas. Some of the best restaurants and shops are hidden down narrow alleys. Ask your accommodation staff for their personal recommendations - they often know the best local spots not found in guidebooks. If you see a line of locals waiting outside a restaurant, join it - it's usually worth the wait.\n\n\n## What to Bring\n\nSmart travelers to Kanagawa pack light and bring layers. The weather can shift from warm to cool within a day, especially in spring and autumn. A portable WiFi device or SIM card is essential for navigation and translation. Bring a small notebook and pen for jotting down recommendations or addresses. Hand sanitizer and tissues are useful as some public restrooms lack soap and paper towels. Consider packing a foldable tote bag for souvenirs and grocery shopping.\n\n\n## Budget Planning\n\nA daily budget of ¥8,000-12,000 covers mid-range meals, local transport, and one paid attraction. For budget travelers, ¥5,000-7,000 per day is feasible using convenience store meals and focusing on free attractions like parks and temples. Set aside extra cash for unexpected discoveries - some of the best experiences are unplanned. Use IC cards for seamless payment across trains, buses, and convenience stores. Exchange money at banks or post offices for better rates than airport counters.\n
Suggested Route
Morning: Arrive early (before 10 AM) to enjoy the main attraction with fewer crowds. Stop at a local cafe for coffee and a light breakfast.
Midday: Explore the area's key sights on foot. Have lunch at a recommended restaurant - look for lunch sets for the best value.
Afternoon: Visit any remaining attractions or museums. Walk through local neighborhoods to discover hidden shops and cafes.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Check if there are evening illuminations or sunset viewpoints nearby before heading back.
Photo Tips
For the best travel photos in Kanagawa, visit popular spots early morning (7:00-9:00 AM) when the light is soft and crowds are minimal. Golden hour (just before sunset) provides warm, dramatic lighting perfect for landscapes. Many temples and gardens are designed to be photographed from specific viewpoints - look for the intended composition. A polarizing filter helps reduce glare when shooting through glass or water. Respect no-photography signs inside temple buildings and museums.
Dos and Don'ts
Do carry cash as many smaller establishments are cash-only. Do be punctual for any scheduled activities or meetings. Do use the designated smoking areas rather than smoking on the street. Don't talk loudly on trains or buses - keep phone calls brief. Don't enter restricted areas at temples and shrines. Don't take photos where signs prohibit it, especially inside temples and museums.
Practical Tips
3 main options: Physical SIM, eSIM, Pocket Wi-Fi
Data plans: 1GB to unlimited
Price range: ¥2,000-¥8,000 depending on plan
🏷️ Type: Ramen
🌐 Official Website: https://www.ringerhut.jp/
📞 Phone: +81-45-XXX-XXXX
⏰ Hours: 11:00-23:00
💰 Price: ¥800-1,500
If you are planning a trip, Lost Passport in Kanagawa Guide 2026 — Step-by-Step... offers practical tips and insights.
Nearby Recommendations
If you have extra time, the surrounding area offers several worthwhile additions. Local tourist information centers can provide maps and suggestions. Many areas offer combination tickets. Consider extending your stay to explore neighboring towns.
Packing Essentials
For a trip to Kanagawa, pack comfortable walking shoes as you will be on your feet exploring temples, shrines, and neighborhoods. A reusable water bottle is essential - tap water is safe to drink. A small umbrella or light rain jacket is useful year-round. Power banks are recommended since you will rely on your phone for maps. A small daypack for daily essentials makes sightseeing more convenient.
Conclusion
Japan Sim Esim - Complete Guide is an incredible destination that offers something for every traveler. With the practical tips and insights in this guide, you are well-prepared to explore confidently. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and enjoy everything this remarkable part of Kanagawa has to offer. Safe travels!
