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.
NTT Docomo is Japan’s largest mobile phone carrier, known for its reliable nationwide coverage and high-speed network. Some quick facts:
As the leading mobile carrier in Japan, NTT Docomo works to ensure reliable connectivity for its customers through extensive 4G LTE and 5G network coverage nationwide.
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.
NTT Docomo has 3 main connectivity options for foreigners traveling to Japan:
| Option | Availability | Pros | Cons |
| SIM Card | Online purchase, delivered to your address. Widely available at airports, convenience stores, etc. | Unlimited data for extended stays. Connects to Docomo's network. Affordable plans. High-speed data options. Easy setup | Higher cost than some other Japanese tourist SIMs. Requires online purchase and waiting for delivery |
| eSIM | Activate an eSIM profile on your device if it supports eSIM. No need for a physical SIM. Plans and pricing similar to physical SIMs. | No physical SIM needed. Easy activation online. Same plans and coverage as physical SIM | eSIM compatible phone required |
| docomo Wi-Fi Rental | Airport rental counters, online booking | Multiple users can connect. High-speed internet. No SIM unlocking needed | Daily rental fee. May not be suitable for frequent movement |
NTT Docomo prepaid SIM cards are the best option for most tourists visiting Japan short-term. They offer good value, convenience, and flexibility without requiring a long-term contract.
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.
| Docomo Network | Price (USD) | Data | Validity |
| bMobile | ~US$13 | 5GB in LTE/3G | 10 days |
| ~US$20 | 7GB in LTE/3G | 21 days | |
| eConnect Japan | ~US$32 | 5GB in 4G/LTE/3G | 30 days |
| ~US$46 | 10GB in 4G/LTE/3G | 30 days | |
| IlJmio | ~US$13 | 1GB in 4G/LTE | 30 days |
| ~US$20 | 2GB in 4G/lTE | 3 months | |
| Sakura Mobile | ~$33 | Unlimited | 8 days |
| ~US$48 | Unlimited | 15 days | |
| ~US$67 | Unlimited | 30 days | |
| ~US$108 | Unlimited | 45 days | |
| ~US$119 | Unlimited | 60 days | |
| ~US$178 | Unlimited | 90 days |
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.
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.
If you want to purchase an NTT Docomo SIM card or eSIM while visiting Japan, there are a few options available depending on your needs and location.
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.
To get an NTT Docomo Japan eSIM, you need to order online from an eSIM-compatible provider or official website such as:
Recommendation: Using an eSIM provider like GIGAGO you can buy and activate quickly right from your phone before flying to Japan.
Getting set up with a Japanese mobile network is key for using data and phone services while abroad. Here is a rundown of the quick and easy process to activate an NTT Docomo SIM card or eSIM upon arrival in Japan:
Activating an NTT Docomo SIM card is easy. You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready.
Once activated, you can recharge credit or purchase data add-ons as needed by logging in to the online portal or using the NTT Docomo prepaid app.
Getting started with an NTT Docomo eSIM for Japan is quite easy as follows:
eSIM activation is quick and convenient to get connected on NTT Docomo’s network before landing in Japan.
Please check your detailed instructions below:
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.
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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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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