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Name:
Marsha

Message:
Do I need a Sim Card in Japan? Or is there free WiFi on the street?

Answer

Thanks for your question! While there is some free WiFi available on the streets in Japan, it’s not reliable enough to depend on for your entire trip. You can find free WiFi in places like major train stations (e.g., Tokyo, Osaka, or Hakata), some convenience stores like 7-Eleven, and tourist-friendly spots like Starbucks or McDonald’s, often through networks like “Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi.” However, these networks often require registration, have time limits (e.g., 30 minutes per session), and can be spotty or unavailable in less touristy areas, rural regions, or smaller cities. Plus, you’ll need a stable connection for navigation, translation apps, or sharing your adventures on the go, which free WiFi often can’t guarantee.

You’ll also find free WiFi on many Shinkansen trains, especially on major routes like the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu lines (e.g., Tokyo to Osaka or Hakata to Kagoshima). Look for the “Shinkansen Free Wi-Fi” network, register with your email, and enjoy 30-minute sessions with unlimited reconnections. However, the signal can drop in tunnels or rural areas, and not all trains offer it, so it’s not a full solution.

To stay connected seamlessly across Japan, I strongly recommend getting a SIM card. It gives you the freedom to explore without worrying about finding WiFi. We use Sakura Mobile for our travels—it offers unlimited data plans at great prices, with easy pickup at the airport or delivery to your hotel. By using our affiliate link, you pay the same price, but a small commission supports NipponPulse at no extra cost to you! Stay connected and help us keep exploring Japan. 📱 Sakura Mobile