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.
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NTT Docomo is Japan’s largest mobile phone carrier, known for its reliable nationwide coverage and high-speed network. Some quick facts:
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:
Overall, NTT Docomo provides a good mobile network experience in Japan, especially in terms of consistency and coverage.
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:
While not the fastest in any category, NTT Docomo consistently delivers reliable and above-average speeds across all download and upload metrics.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Recommendation: Order online before your trip for convenience and to ensure you get the right NTT Docomo SIM card plan for your needs. Some reliable websites are Japan Wireless, Mobal, and NinjaWiFi.
While NTT Docomo is the top choice for most travelers, below are some alternative options to consider:
Evaluate your connectivity needs, but for most tourists visiting Japan, NTT Docomo prepaid SIM cards provide the best experience.
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There are a few ways to top-up your NTT Docomo prepaid SIM or eSIM:
Once topped up, the credit balance or data allowance will be updated to continue enjoying connectivity on NTT Docomo.
NTT Docomo has excellent nationwide 4G LTE coverage across Japan, including rural regions and smaller cities. Over 99% of the population is covered.
No, NTT Docomo’s data-only SIMs support data connectivity. To make calls and texts, you need to get a voice & text enabled SIM card plan from NTT Docomo.
No, NTT Docomo SIM cards only provide service within Japan. To roam in other countries, you need an international roaming SIM or local SIM card.
NTT Docomo’s average 4G LTE download speed is around 37Mbps across Japan with maximum speeds up to 80Mbps depending on location. It has the fastest mobile data experience in Japan.
You can top-up your NTT Docomo prepaid SIM by payment online, at an NTT Docomo store, convenience stores, vending machines, or via the prepaid app.
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.
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