How can you access the internet in Japan? Here are the solutions you absolutely need to know about!

When you arrive at Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Fukuoka (and almost all major airports in the country), you will have access to free Wi-Fi. Generally, all you have to do is open your browser, register (often with an email address), and you're connected.

The same applies to major stations, such as those on the Yamanote line in Tokyo: they all offer free access. Subways and buses in large cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto also have Wi-Fi hotspots. However, be aware that the quality may vary if many people are connected at the same time.

💡 Tip: There is even an official Japanese government app that allows you to easily locate all free Wi-Fi hotspots in the country and connect to them directly.

Large chains are your allies:

Starbucks → Free Wi-Fi, but you must register in advance on their official website.

McDonald's → almost immediate connection, without too many formalities.

Doutor Coffee and other major chains → same thing, you can connect easily.

On the other hand, in small local cafés, it's still hit or miss. If you plan to work or upload photos, check before you sit down.

This is a fairly popular solution: you arrive in Japan, go to a store (at the airport or in the city center) and buy a local SIM card.

The advantages:

• You have Internet directly on your phone, without any additional box.
• Packages can be worthwhile if you are staying for a long time (several weeks).

But it comes with quite a few drawbacks:

In short, it works, but it's less convenient than an eSIM.

• ❌ You have to find a store (and after a 15-hour flight, that's not exactly what we want to do).
• ❌ You may need to show your passport when making a purchase.
• ❌ You temporarily lose your French number → inconvenient if you are expecting text messages (bank, 2FA, etc.).
• ❌ Prices at airports are often higher than online.

The Pocket Wi-Fi is a small portable device that acts as a router. You turn it on, and you can connect your phone, computer, tablet... and even share it with other travelers.

The advantages:

• Ideal if you are traveling with others → a single device to connect everyone.
• Good network coverage, equivalent to a local SIM card.

But here too, be aware of the limitations:

In short: Pocket Wi-Fi can be a good option if you're traveling with friends or family and want to share the connection. But for solo travelers, eSIMs are 100 times easier.

• ❌ It's one more thing to carry around (and recharge every day).
• ❌ If you lose it or damage it, the costs are enormous.
• ❌ You often have to pick it up and return it (airport or hotel delivery).
• ❌ The price goes up quickly if you travel alone.