Japan is a one-of-a-kind destination teeming with culture, food, and respectful locals all across the country. If you plan to embark on a trip to Japan, then it’s in your best interest to make the necessary preparations beforehand to ensure that your adventure pushes through without a hitch.
One matter to consider is the type of Internet connectivity you should opt for. While Japan has many public WiFi networks scattered across cities, train stations, and convenience stores, having your own access to WiFi is the best way to go to ensure that you won’t get lost or find yourself in a predicament while navigating the country.
After all, it’s important to recognise that while Japanese locals are friendly, they’re not terribly good at speaking English to foreigners. You may end up misunderstanding their instructions or waste precious time trying to translate simple concepts. This is especially true the farther away you are from commonly frequented tourist destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto.
As this is the case, securing your own WiFi isn’t just encouraged; it’s critical to ensure that your trip proceeds smoothly. Two of the most popular options that travellers often opt for are the trusty eSIM and a pocket WiFi device. Both options are good, but there are a few key differences that set them apart from one another.
If you want to know which option is best for you, the answer lies in your travel style and general preferences. Differentiating the two will require you to know the ins and outs of these two options—and we’ll get to the root of that in this article below.
Let’s jump straight into it.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is an electronic SIM card that allows users to connect to the Internet directly through their smartphone via QR code activation. Most modern smartphones can run eSIM technology; however, older models may not be able to do so.
In any case, an eSIM is a popular and reliable option to gain an internet connection, as it doesn’t require users to tinker with their phone’s hardware or bring another gadget along as their primary WiFi source.
An eSIM can be activated through a downloadable link or a top-up in a dedicated eSIM app. Moreover, eSIMs also allow users to immediately access the internet the moment they land in the country.
With many eSIM plans Japan providers offer to foreigners and travellers, there’s bound to be one with features and coverage agreements that best fit your needs.
Pros of an eSIM
Let’s look at the benefits of having an eSIM.
- Instant Digital Activation
An eSIM can be set up before you even set foot in Japan. This means that by the time the aircraft lands on the airport tarmac, you’ll already have Internet connectivity as long as the eSIM plan is activated on your phone.
This reduces the steps you’ll need to take to gain access to the Internet, which traditionally would mean no more hunting for SIM card kiosks in airport hubs or Japan convenience stores. The eSIM also works perfectly well by the time it’s activated in your phone, with complete Internet access across the entirety of Japan.
- Allows Light Travel
An eSIM is automatically installed on the smartphone. This means you don’t need to pack, charge, and store separate hardware for your travels—making travel feel much more seamless.
You also won’t be extremely reliant on a single WiFi source for the entire group, as you can each get your own individual eSIM plan to meet your connectivity needs.
Cons of an eSIM
Now, here are the cons of an eSIM over other WiFi connectivity options.
- Requires Compatible Smartphone
Not all smartphones are compatible with eSIM ownership.
You’ll have to review if your phone can run an eSIM—and if the answer is yes, then you can proceed to have it activated on your smartphone.
- Doesn’t Come With Phone Number (in most cases)
Another con of an eSIM is the fact that it mostly just provides internet connectivity. This means that if you need calling or texting features for your upcoming Japan trip, you may be limited, as most eSIMs don’t offer that option.
What is Pocket Wifi?
A pocket WiFi device is a portable, standalone piece of technology that sources the Internet to any gadget that connects to it.
When powered on, topped up, and fully functional, the pocket WiFi device allows multiple devices like smartphones and laptops to connect to it, granting them access to the Internet through a private hotspot.
Pocket WiFis are popular for internet connectivity because they offer straightforward Internet connectivity that entire groups of people can benefit from. Its portable nature allows it to be brought anywhere with ease, making Japan travel a breeze.
Internet connection is vital when you’re travelling across Japan, and when you’re in transit, a pocket WiFi device provides constant connectivity to everyone within range, granted that they know the password.
Pros of Pocket WiFi Device
Here are some advantages of using a pocket Wifi device.
- Connects Multiple Devices
A pocket WiFi device provides Internet to multiple devices at once. This makes it a great option for big groups such as families, friend groups, and business travellers.
Everyone can share a single connection. And even if you’re just a few travellers, you can connect multiple devices at once. This can be convenient as you won’t need to keep turning on your mobile hotspot to stay connected or turn it off to conserve battery.
- Cost-Effective for Groups
For large groups, a pocket WiFi device can be a good way to split the costs and not overspend with multiple SIM plans.
Splitting the rental cost of a pocket WiFi device—either through purchasing one or renting one from the airport hub in Japan—can cut each person’s costs considerably if there are multiple people using it all at once.
- Doesn’t Require Tinkering With Phone Settings
Using a pocket WiFi doesn’t require installing an eSIM or replacing your existing SIM card.
Simply switch on the device, connect to its WiFi network, and you’re ready to browse the Internet. This makes it a convenient option for travellers who prefer not to modify their phone’s mobile settings during their trip.
Cons of Pocket WiFi Device
Here are some cons of using a pocket WiFi device as your primary Internet source.
- Needs to Be Charged
An eSIM doesn’t come with an internal battery, meaning it can be used as long as the smartphone that it’s tied to still has battery juice. This isn’t the case with a portable WiFi device.
With a pocket WiFi, you’ll have to charge it at the end of each day for it to continuously provide WiFi to your devices.
This means you’ll have to set aside a power outlet slot in your accommodation to charge this WiFi device, which can make it logistically tougher to keep all your gadgets at full charge the following day.
And if you do forget to charge—or end up losing juice midway through the day—this can mean spending an entire day without a portable Internet connection. This, in turn, can ruin the entire day or make it significantly worse.
- Extra Item to Carry
Another con of a pocket WiFi device is its added bulk. If you want to keep your daily pack minimalist and free from extra weight, then carrying a pocket WiFi device can be counterproductive to your wishes.
Moreover, you’ll also have to carry a power charger dedicated to this device. These extra considerations will make you have to manage multiple items during your trip, which can be quite troublesome to deal with.
- Must be Within Range
Unlike an eSIM, which gives your smartphone a direct connection to the mobile network, a pocket WiFi device only works when your phone is within its wireless range.
This means that if you accidentally leave the device in your hotel room or lose it, you’ll immediately lose your Internet connection. This can be particularly inconvenient if you’re relying on mobile data for various purposes throughout the day.
The range limitation also means you’ll need to stick with the main holder of the device at all times for Internet connection. This can limit your flexibility, which can be an added inconvenience for groups who may want to experience travel freedom away from their group in Japan.
We hope that this Internet breakdown will help inform you of a better way to plan your trip. All the best in making your decision!
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