When planning a trip to Japan, picking the right eSIM is a big deal. It keeps you connected without costing a fortune.
In this review, I'm examining three popular options: Airalo, iRoamly, and Holafly. I'll discuss what you get for your money, how good the service is, and which one might be best for your type of trip.
What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing a Travel eSIM Brand?
Types of Data Packages: You gotta think about whether you want a plan with a daily cap or just a chunk of data for your whole trip.
Cost: You need to balance how much data you're getting with how much you’re spending.
Coverage (Operator): Make sure the eSIM uses a network that offers good service all over Japan.
Hotspot Share: If you carry more than one device or travel with buddies, check if you can share your connection.
Customer Service: Good help is hard to find, but you'll need it if something goes wrong. So, pick a provider that's easy to reach.
Top 3 Japan Travel eSIM Brands Recommended
Airalo:
Airalo mainly has a single package, Total. For a consistent network, it cooperates with strong local operators like KDDI and Softbank, getting you connected across Japan. Moreover, its online chatbot can quickly assist when your eSIM goes wrong.
iRoamly:
iRoamly offers diverse options ranging from daily limits, total and unlimited data, including plans from 1 to 30 days. Working with robust Japan operators, such as KDDI, Softbank, and DOCOMO, it brings you smooth internet access no matter where you are. What's more, iRoamly has several easy-touching after-sales channels to help you out if you have some problems with your eSIM.
Holafly:
Different from Airalo and iRoamly, Holafly mainly provides unlimited plans with more selections of days, from 1 to 90 days. It also collaborates with KDDI and Softbank like Airalo to provide fast-speed internet. However, note that it restricts hotspot sharing.
Japan Travel eSIM Package Comparisons
Feature/Brand | Airalo | iRoamly | Holafly |
Types of Data Packages | Total Type | Unlimited / Daily / Total | Unlimited |
Data Range | 1/2/3/5/10/20 GB | 1/5/10/20/Unlimited GB | Only Unlimited |
Validity Period (days) | 7/15/30 | 1/3/5/7/10/15/20/30 | 1 to 90 |
Speed | LTE | 4G | 3G/4G/LTE/5G |
Hotspot/ Tethering | Yes | Yes | No |
Operator | KDDI / Softbank | KDDI / Softbank / DOCOMO | KDDI / Softbank |
Customer Service | Online Chatbot | Online Chatbot / WhatsApp/ Email / INS | Online Chatbot / WhatsApp |
Airalo / iRoamly / Holafly Japan Travel eSIM Price Comparison
Airalo | iRoamly | Holafly | |
7 Days | Total: 1 GB, $4.50 | Unlimited, $19.00 Total: 5 GB, $7.00 Total: 10 GB, $13.00 Daily: 1GB, $9.50 | Unlimited, $29 |
15 Days | Total: 2 GB, $6.50 | Unlimited, $35.00 Total: 5 GB, $8.00 Total: 20 GB, $27.00 Daily: 1GB, $20.00 | Unlimited, $51 |
30 Days | Total: 5 GB, $11.50 Total: 10 GB, $18.00 Total: 20 GB, $26.00 | Unlimited, $63.00 Total: 5 GB, $9.00 Total: 10 GB, $15.50 Daily: 1GB, $38.00 | Unlimited, $75 |
Summary
For Light Data Users:
Airalo is suitable for people whose online purpose is clear. For example, its plan of 1GB for 7 days fulfills the basic needs, such as navigation, searching, and messaging each day. But it may be insufficient for frequent internet access, like sharing photos and watching videos.
For Travelers Who Need Much Data and Flexiblity:
iRoamly's Japan travel eSIM is ideal for heavy data usage. It has three types of packages with various data options, adapting to your arrangement flexibly. For instance, choosing its total plans of 5/10 GB for 7 days can cater to almost all your online activities. If you want a plan with adequate data but costs less, its daily plans( 1 GB/day) are great. Furthermore, its unlimited data plan has the most affordable price.
For long-term travelers:
Holafly only has unlimited plans. But it’s an excellent selection for long trips, especially over a month. It provides the longest durations, ranging from 1 to 90 days, though it's pricer. However, it doesn't work for journeys with multiple devices, as it limits sharing a connection with others.
FAQ
Can I use my eSIM in countries outside of Japan?
Nope, these eSIM plans are just for Japan. If you visit other places, you might want to look at a global or regional eSIM.
Is my phone/tablet compatible with an eSIM?
Most new phones and tablets work with eSIMs. We've provided an eSIM-compatibility list for your reference. You can search for your model there, check your device's details, or contact the manufacturer to confirm.
Can travel eSIM make calls or send text messages?
These Japan travel eSIMs are mostly for internet use. They usually don’t include calls or texts. Always check with your eSIM provider to see what's included.
How do I determine how many GB packages I should buy?
Think about how much you use the internet daily, like checking emails or watching videos. If you're unsure about how much data you require, a data usage calculator can help you make an informed decision.