Make Travel Smarter: The Complete Guide to Mobile Internet in Japan

Text by MOOK Editorial Team, compiled and reported by Ren Xiang

 

1. Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

 

Renting a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot has gradually become a trend among those traveling to Japan. As the name suggests, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is a small device that serves as your personal Wi-Fi signal transmitter. Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots in Japan mainly come from two carriers: DOCOMO and Softbank, with DOCOMO offering more stable reception. In Taiwan, companies such as Yuchuang International Communications act as agents.

The Wi-5 DOMO mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, launched by Yuchuang International Communications, is the latest compact model imported from Japan. It uses DOCOMO’s 4G LTE mobile SIM card, and according to the 2013 official website, the maximum LTE speed in specific areas and conditions can reach up to 100Mbps. It’s simple to use: once powered on, your phone can detect the device in the Wi-Fi list, and you can connect by entering the username and password found on the sticker at the back of the device. Its size is similar to a regular smartphone, and it can be shared among up to 10 users. Additionally, it has a long battery life, lasting up to 12 hours of continuous use, and can also function as a power bank for your phone.

 

Duration	Price	Duration	Price
5–10 days	TWD 299/day	26 days or more	Flat rate TWD 6,600
11–14 days	TWD 279/day	31–60 days	TWD 219/day
15–25 days	TWD 259/day	61 days or more	Special project price

2. NTT FREE Wi-Fi Japan

 

NTT FREE Wi-Fi is a free internet service for overseas travelers launched by NTT in eastern Japan. Foreign visitors can obtain a free Wi-Fi card by presenting their passport at designated locations, with a usage period of 14 days totaling 336 hours. Once the Wi-Fi card account is activated, users can access free Wi-Fi hotspots across eastern Japan (from Tokyo to Hokkaido). Pickup locations include Hokkaido, Tohoku, suburban Tokyo, and within Tokyo Metropolitan area. For detailed pickup locations, please refer to the website.

 

III. B-Mobile SIM Card

 

B-Mobile is a series of communication cards launched by NTT Communications Corporation, available nationwide in Japan. The less convenient aspect is that to use B-Mobile, you must remove the original SIM card from your phone and replace it with a B-Mobile SIM card, which means your Taiwanese phone number will not be usable.

Currently, the most recommended option is the 30-day 3G SIM card b-microSIM U300. After receiving the card, you need to call 186-0120-915-886 from a Japanese phone and enter the card number via voice input. After 5 minutes, you can start using it. This card allows unrestricted internet access for 30 days, with upload and download speeds of 300kbps, which is considered smooth and convenient. The 30-day card is currently only available for online purchase and can be delivered to your hotel before your trip if you specify the date.

 

b-microSIM U300

Note: The SIM card for b-microSIM U300 is a micro SIM. If you need a standard-sized SIM, you can choose the b-mobile SIM U300, which has the same price and features.

 

Since November 2013, B-Mobile has also launched a 5-day flexible-use version called “Taiwan VISITOR SIM,” priced at JPY 2,880. It is valid for 5 days in Japan and allows optional add-on services. Extending for 1 extra day costs only JPY 600. You can apply online and pick up the card in Taiwan, avoiding the hassle of activation in Japan.

 

IV. Public Wi-Fi

 

Because mobile internet in Japan is fast and stable, Wi-Fi infrastructure is relatively less widespread, being more common only in large cities. In Japan’s major urban areas, however, you’ll find Wi-Fi hotspots just about everywhere — though some require payment to use.

 

1. Nationwide in Japan

 

 

To use the Wi-Fi services from 7-11’s “7SPOT”, Starbucks’ “STARBUCKS_Wi2”, and the free hotspot network “FREESPOT”, you need to register as a member. After registration, a confirmation email will be sent to your inbox. However, considering that users may not have internet access on their first try, the service can still be used without clicking to activate the email. You can also register your account in Taiwan beforehand, and when you arrive, simply log in.

 

申请网址：

【7SPOT】https://webapp.7spot.jp/internets/members/register_form?tmst=1371371297

【STARBUCKS_Wi2】http://starbucks.wi2.co.jp/pc/index_en.html

【FREESPOT】https://www.freespot.com/users/register_mail.php

 

The “Famima_Wi-Fi” network from Japan’s FamilyMart also requires advance membership registration. Unlike 7SPOT, it mandates receiving and activating the membership confirmation email before use, and cannot be registered in Taiwan.

【Famima_Wi-Fi】http://www.family.co.jp/services/famimawi-fi/index.html#anc1-8

 

If you hold a VISA card, you can enjoy the Wi2 300 one-day free plan, as well as apply for the “Wi2 300” 3-day plan for ¥1,200 JPY and the 1-week plan for ¥1,600 JPY.