NTT Docomo SIM Cards and eSIM: a Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Daisy Rodriguez

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Latest update: October 2024

Japan has excellent internet connectivity due to technologically advanced infrastructure. NTT Docomo is the largest mobile network with the fastest LTE speeds and widest coverage nationwide. Renting an NTT Docomo SIM card or eSIM is ideal for traveling tourists to stay connected throughout Japan. This guide covers getting a Docomo SIM/eSIM, including coverage, plans, purchase locations, activation, top-ups, and more.

I. Overview about NTT Docomo – What you need to know

NTT Docomo is Japan’s largest mobile phone carrier, known for its reliable nationwide coverage and high-speed network. Some quick facts:

• Largest mobile network operator in Japan: NTT Docomo has over 78.9 million subscribers, accounting for about 39% of the Japanese mobile market share. 
• A pioneer in mobile technology: Docomo was the first to launch i-mode, a precursor to modern mobile internet, in 1999. They also developed the W-CDMA technology used in 3G networks.
• 5G leader: Docomo was one of the first to launch 5G services in Japan in 2020 and is now the leading provider with over 25 million 5G subscribers.
• Focus on innovation: Docomo is actively involved in the research and development of next-generation technologies, including 6G, AI, and robotics.
• Sustainability efforts: Docomo is committed to reducing its environmental impact and achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

II. NTT Docomo coverage in Japan

NTT Docomo has the best overall coverage in Japan covering over 99% of the Japanese population. Their 4G LTE network reaches extensively throughout the main Japanese islands of Honshu, Kyushu, Hokkaido, and Shikoku.

Based on the October 2023 Opensignal report on Japan’s mobile network experience, NTT Docomo performs well in several key areas. Here’s a breakdown:

• 1st for Overall Coverage Experience: NTT Docomo secured 1st place in Overall Coverage Experience, with users experiencing a 9.1 point out of 10.
• 1st for 5G Coverage Experience: NTT Docomo users enjoyed a smooth and responsive 5G coverage, earning them the 1st spot with a score of 3.4 points out of 10.
• 1st for Availability: Docomo is also the sole winner of the Availability award, with a score of 99.7% – just 0.1 percentage points ahead of au.

Overall, NTT Docomo provides a good mobile network experience in Japan, especially in terms of consistency and coverage.

III. NTT Docomo speed in Japan

The October 2023 Opensignal Mobile Network Experience Report for Japan paints a mixed picture of NTT Docomo’s speed performance. While it doesn’t grab any top awards, it lands in the middle of the pack for several key metrics:

• Joint 3rd place for Consistency: NTT Docomo shares the 3rd spot with au, both scoring 81.2% on Opensignal’s Consistency metric. This indicates that NTT Docomo’s network consistently delivers a “sufficient” level of support for common mobile applications across various demanding tasks.
• 5G Download Speed: NTT Docomo scored 177.4 Mbps, placing them second behind Rakuten Mobile (180.9 Mbps) but ahead of au (115.2 Mbps) and SoftBank (138.7 Mbps).
• 5G Upload Speed: NTT Docomo scored 8.4 Mbps, placing them last behind Rakuten Mobile (30.4 Mbps).
• Download Speed: NTT Docomo scored 44.8 Mbps, placing them first ahead of au (44.7 Mbps), SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile.
• Upload Speed: NTT Docomo scored 6.9 Mbps, placing them last behind Rakuten Mobile (18.7 Mbps), SoftBank, and au.

While not the fastest in any category, NTT Docomo consistently delivers reliable and above-average speeds across all download and upload metrics.

IV. Does NTT Docomo Japan have eSIM?

Yes, NTT Docomo launched eSIM support for compatible iPhone and Android devices. eSIM allows you to activate a mobile data plan digitally without inserting a physical plastic SIM.

• bMobile is offering an eSIM package designed specifically for tourists, which includes the same plans mentioned previously.
• Sakura Mobile also offers eSIMs to tourists visiting Japan with the same plans as prepaid SIMs.

eSIMs are more convenient as you don’t need to bring a SIM card to Japan or go to a store to swap it. You can purchase and activate an eSIM from NTT Docomo completely online before your trip.

V. Top NTT Docomo SIM cards for Tourists & Cost

NTT Docomo does not launch SIM cards under their brand name. Instead, many MVNOs of NTT Docomo operate on the Docomo network and offer prepaid tourist SIMs such as Sakura Mobile, bMobile, IlJmio, or eConnect Japan. Below are some of the best NTT Docomo prepaid data-only SIMs for tourists visiting Japan.

NTT Docomo prepaid SIMs can only be used for the stated validity period while in Japan. Costs may vary slightly depending on the retailer. But overall they provide excellent short-term 4G LTE connectivity in Japan at a reasonable price.

VI. Where to buy NTT Docomo SIM for Japan

You can purchase NTT Docomo SIM cards in several ways, both before you travel to Japan and when you arrive. Here are a few options:

• Online from NTT Docomo: You can purchase NTT Docomo SIM cards directly from their website. However, their website is mainly in Japanese, and you may need a local address to complete the purchase.
• From Amazon: You can find a variety of NTT Docomo SIM cards on Amazon, including prepaid data SIM cards and voice and data SIM cards.
• From travel retailers: Many travel retailers sell NTT Docomo SIM cards, such as Travelex, WorldSIM, and KKday.
• NTT Docomo stores: NTT Docomo has stores in most major cities and airports in Japan. You can purchase a SIM card and activate it at the store.
• Convenience stores: Some convenience stores in Japan sell NTT Docomo SIM cards. However, the selection may be limited.
• Airport kiosks: There are kiosks at some airports in Japan where you can purchase NTT Docomo SIM cards.

VII. A Better Alternatives to NTT Docomo SIM Card – Japan eSIM

While NTT Docomo is the top choice for most travelers, below are some alternative options to consider:

• SoftBank Japan – Second largest network in Japan with good LTE coverage and prepaid SIM cards.
• UQ Mobile – KDDI subsidiary MVNO offering more budget options for data SIMs.
• Rakuten Mobile – One of the major carriers in Japan with cheap data plans.
• Pocket WiFi Rental – Portable WiFi hotspot rental with LTE data on various networks.
• Public WiFi – Free WiFi is available in many cafes, malls, and stations but can be unreliable.
• eSIM provider – A global eSIM provider offers eSIM plans starting at US$7 with no contract required. Works on many international phones.

Evaluate your connectivity needs, but for most tourists visiting Japan, NTT Docomo prepaid SIM cards provide the best experience.

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VIII. How to top-up NTT Docomo Japan SIM/eSIM

There are a few ways to top-up your NTT Docomo prepaid SIM or eSIM:

• Online – Log in to the official website l and use an international credit card to recharge.
• NTT Docomo Stores – Visit any NTT Docomo store in Japan and top up with cash. Staff can assist with language help.
• Convenience Stores – Pay cash at 7Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson stores in Japan to add credit.
• Vending Machines – Recharge using the prepaid barcode at FamiPort vending machines located nationwide.

Once topped up, the credit balance or data allowance will be updated to continue enjoying connectivity on NTT Docomo.

X. FAQs about NTT Docomo in Japan

XI. Conclusion

In summary, NTT Docomo is the best mobile network operator for fast and reliable connectivity across Japan. Their prepaid SIM card plans offer an easy and affordable way for tourists to stay connected. Order an NTT Docomo SIM online and activate it once you arrive in Japan to enjoy seamless 4G LTE data and call connectivity on your Japan trip.