Pocket Wifi in Japan Internet in Japan

Always stay online while traveling? No problem! Although free Wifi in Japan is currently rather scarce, you don't have to go without your connection to the web for long. You can either get a tourist SIM card or - and this option is much more practical - a Pocket Wifi. Pocket Wifis are practical little devices that provide you with WLan on any number of devices - no matter where you are! We tell you where you can get the useful device, how much it costs, and what advantages it has!

How much does a Pocket Wifi cost?

There are many different providers, and accordingly the prices naturally also differ. You pay an average of between 5 and 10 euros per day, depending on the features of the device.

How do you get a Pocket Wifi?

You don't have to buy the handy device to stay online during your Japan trip. You can also simply rent Pocket Wifis! You can reserve a device before your arrival and then either pick it up directly at the airport or have it sent to your accommodation. The device is ready to use immediately. During your trip, you can use it at your leisure, and before you leave, you can either throw it in a pre-paid return envelope and put it in the mailbox, or simply return it at the airport. 

Which providers are recommended?

There are countless different Pocket Wifi providers, all offering different service packages. It is therefore all the more important that you find the provider that combines the best services for you at the best price. That's why we took a close look at a total of 12 service providers and data packages. Below you will find our results at a glance. Attention: Many providers describe their data package as "unlimited". But that's not always true. In addition, the data speed is often throttled when a certain data volume is reached. It is also important whether you can easily pick up your device at the airport and whether additional costs apply for shipping.  We especially recommend the providers Japan Wireless - Premium Wifi at a price of around € 49 for 7 days and Sushi Wifi for around € 55 for 7 days. 

What are the advantages of Pocket Wifi compared to a regular tourist SIM card?

• It is much easier to use. SIM cards often have to be activated first - and of course that has to be done in Japanese and is quite complicated.
• You can connect multiple devices. Most Pocket Wifis provide Wifi for up to 10 smartphones, laptops or tablets. This is especially useful if you are traveling with other companions.
• You can reserve the Pocket Wifi before your arrival and are immediately connected to the internet as soon as you have it in your hand.
• You usually get a larger data package than with regular SIM cards.

What should you look out for when renting a Pocket Wifi?

Data limit

Many providers offer unlimited internet access. But especially cheap landlords limit the data volume per day or the total data volume.

Up- and download speed

This is one of the most important points! Choose a device with a rate between 75 MBps and 187 MBps for a pleasantly fast connection. 

Number of devices to be connected

This is also an important point. Cheaper Pocket Wifis can often only be connected to 5 devices, but more expensive ones can be connected to up to 15. 

Delivery/Return

If a device is particularly cheap, then delivery and return are often not included in the price. Ideally, you can have the Pocket Wifi delivered to your hotel. A pre-paid envelope should be available for return. 

How do I use a Pocket Wifi?

Very simple: Switch on the device, connect your smartphone or tablet to it (you will of course get the password immediately) and you can start surfing! Tip: If you use the Pocket Wifi all the time, it may make sense to have an external battery with you. With this you can recharge it immediately if necessary.