Confused about which SIM card to get in Japan? This real Japan SIM card comparison breaks down the top options for foreign visitors—covering Mobal, Sakura Mobile, Nippon SIM, IIJMio, and Softbank. Find out which provider offers the best value, English support, and real Japanese phone numbers for a hassle-free stay.
Choosing the right SIM card in Japan can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. That’s why I decided to do a real Japan SIM card comparison to help you find the best option for your needs.
Before making my choice, I looked into several well-known providers, including:
Mobal
Sakura Mobile
Nippon SIM
IIJMio
Softbank Prepaid SIMs
This Japan SIM card comparison covers the most popular options for travelers.
Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so I focused on the factors that matter most to travelers and new residents:
Ease of purchase, English support, data speed, call/SMS options, and overall value.
For anyone needing a Japan SIM card comparison, here are the key differences.
| Feature | Mobal | Sakura Mobile | Nippon SIM | IIJMio/Softbank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese Phone Number | Yes (Voice & SMS) | No (data only) | No (data only) | No (data only) |
| Data + Voice Plans | Yes | No | No | No |
| English Support | Yes | Limited | Limited | Limited |
| Worldwide Shipping | Yes (free) | Sometimes | Sometimes | No |
| No Contract | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Activation Fee | No | Sometimes | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Network | Softbank/NTT docomo | NTT docomo | NTT docomo | Multiple |
These are popular among tourists for their straightforward data-only plans. Ordering was easy, and pick-up at the airport was convenient. However, I quickly realized that not having a Japanese phone number was a real limitation. Many local services, apps, and even some Wi-Fi rentals required a Japanese number for verification.
These options are widely available, but most plans are data-only and the application process is often in Japanese. Customer support in English is hit-or-miss, and I found myself wishing for a bit more guidance.
What surprised me most about Mobal was how “foreigner-friendly” the whole process felt. The website is in clear English, customer support was responsive, and—most importantly—I received a real Japanese phone number. This made it much easier to book restaurants, register for local services, and use Japanese apps. The free worldwide shipping meant I could set everything up before I even landed in Japan.
After my Japan SIM card comparison, I found that Mobal offers unique advantages.
After trying different providers, here’s what I learned:
A real Japanese phone number is a game-changer for daily life, from app verification to making reservations.
English-language support saves time and frustration, especially if you’re new to Japan.
No hidden fees or contracts make it easy to manage your stay, whether short-term or long-term.
In addition to choosing the right SIM card, finding comfortable accommodation is another key to enjoying your time in Japan.
If you’re also looking for a place to stay during your time in Japan, check out Tokyo Room Finder for a wide selection of apartments and share houses for foreigners.
While every provider has its own merits, Mobal stood out for its flexibility, ease of use, and the peace of mind that comes with having a Japanese phone number and English support. It’s not the cheapest data-only SIM, but the extra features and convenience made a real difference in my experience.
If you want to compare more options or check the latest prices, I recommend visiting simcardgeek.com for a side-by-side comparison of the best SIM cards for Japan.
If you’re coming to Japan and want a hassle-free, reliable SIM card that truly supports foreign visitors, Mobal is hard to beat. But don’t just take my word for it—explore your options and choose what fits your needs best!
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