What Makes the Best Japan eSIM in 2026
Travelers typically look for:
- Strong SoftBank, KDDI, or NTT Docomo network performance
- Transparent unlimited data rules
- Reasonable pricing for both short and long stays
- Clear activation rules
- Hotspot support
- Flexibility to reuse the same eSIM for multiple trips
- Reliable coverage in regional areas
Japan’s telecom environment still favors providers that partner with SoftBank or KDDI because of their dense 4G and expanding 5G networks. Plans that offer rollover or long storage validity are also valuable for repeat trips.
Below is a breakdown of each major eSIM provider for Japan, using your comparison table as the factual foundation.
What Each Japan eSIM Does Best in 2026
Japan’s high-quality network makes it easy to stay connected, and travellers can choose from well-known eSIM providers such as Airalo, Saily, Ubigi, Holafly, and Eskimo. Each provider has its own strengths depending on how and where you travel. Read on for a closer look at what each provider does well and how those strengths translate into real-world use in Japan.
| CATEGORY | AIRALO | SAILY | UBIGI | HOLAFY | ESKIMO |
| Japan fixed plans | 1–20 GB ($4–$25); 7–30 days validity | 1–20 GB ($3.99–$24.99); 7–30 days validity | 1–60 GB ($3.50–$72); 3–30 days validity or annual option | Not offered | 1–10 GB ($4–$25); Valid for 2 years; resets to 2 years with any new purchase |
| Japan unlimited plans | 3–30 days ($9.37–$55.50) | 5–30 days ($18.99–$71.99) | 7–30 days ($25–$55) | 1–90 days ($3.90–$139.90) | 1-30 days ($5-$69) |
| Activation window | Activation is immediate or up to 1 year, depending on the plan | Activate within 30 days | Activate within 6 months | Activate on network connection | Store up to 2 years before use. Reset to 2-year validity upon first usage |
| Reusable eSIM | No, a new eSIM is required for every new country/plan | Yes | Yes | No, eSIM expires with the plan; a reinstall is needed | Yes |
| Data transfer | Not supported | Not supported | Not supported | Not supported | Send paid fixed plan data balance to other Eskimo accounts |
| Networks used (Japan) | SoftBank + KDDI | Roaming partners in Japan | KDDI + NTT Docomo | SoftBank and/or KDDI, depending on plan | SoftBank + KDDI |
| Reinstallation | Not reinstallable | Up to 5 times | Up to 5 times | 1 time only | Up to 5 times |
| Free trial eSIM | No | No | No | No | Yes, 500 MB Global |
Disclaimer: This comparison table is compiled from publicly available information at the time of writing, 24 Nov 2025. Pricing (in USD), network partners, validity periods, activation rules, speed policies, and product features may change without notice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the provider’s official website.
Airalo: Japan eSIM Plans and Daily Unlimited Limits
Airalo offers a straightforward range of Japan eSIM options, including fixed data packages from 1 GB to 20 GB priced $4 to $25. Fixed plans come with validity periods of 7 to 30 days, with expiration depending on how quickly the data is used and the plan’s validity window. Users can top up within the same plan category (such as Moshi Moshi) without reinstalling the eSIM, though switching to a different plan type or region typically requires installing a new eSIM profile. Most Airalo eSIMs can be stored for up to one year before activation, though some plans activate immediately upon purchase, depending on their policy.
Airalo also provides unlimited Japan plans priced $9.37 to $55.50. These follow a simple daily structure: 3 GB of high-speed data per day, after which speeds reduce to 1 Mbps until the next daily reset. The fixed Moshi Moshi series and the unlimited packages cover most common data needs, and the daily limit is easy for travelers to understand.
For travelers visiting multiple countries, Airalo also offers Discover / Discover+, a global eSIM that works across many destinations using a single profile. This provides a convenient option for multi-country trips, although the global plan is separate from Airalo’s Japan-specific offerings and follows different pricing and network rules.
Airalo connects through SoftBank and KDDI for Japan coverage, offering stable 4G/5G performance in major cities and popular travel corridors. However, because eSIM profiles cannot be reused across regions or plan types, users taking multi-country routes often need to install new eSIMs, which may be less convenient for frequent border-crossing trips. Airalo eSIMs are single-device only. Once installed, they cannot be transferred or reinstalled on another device. If deleted, a new eSIM must be purchased.
Best for: Travelers who want simple, quick prepaid access with flexible data sizes, predictable daily unlimited limits, and the option to use Airalo’s global Discover eSIM for multi-country travel.
Saily: Japan eSIM Unlimited Data and Multi-Country Use
Saily is an eSIM service developed by the team behind NordVPN. The app supports simple setup and multi-country travel, using a single eSIM profile across more than 200 destinations. Users can add new plans without reinstalling the eSIM, and the app supports auto top-up and manual data add-ons when needed.
Fixed data packages range from 1 GB to 20 GB and cost $3.99 to $24.99, with validity options of 7 or 30 days depending on the plan. Unused data expires at the end of the validity period.
Unlimited plans run 5 to 30 days, priced $18.99 to $71.99, and include 5 GB of high-speed data per day before speeds reduce to 1 Mbps. Some plans include a complimentary NordVPN subscription, with the tier depending on the data package.
Frequent travelers can opt for Saily Ultra, a monthly subscription offering unlimited global data, priority support, 8 percent cashback in Saily credits, and a monthly NordVPN subscription. The app also includes browsing protections such as virtual location, an ad blocker, and malicious-site detection.
All plans must be activated within 30 days of purchase; otherwise, the plan activates automatically. Saily also allows you to reinstall your eSIM up to five times, so if you replace or upgrade your phone, you can delete the eSIM from the old device and reinstall it on the new one. Also read: How to Transfer eSIM from Android to iPhone
Best for: Travelers who prefer a reusable eSIM for multiple destinations and want predictable daily high-speed allowances on unlimited plans, plus built-in security features.
Ubigi: Japan eSIM Large Fixed Plans and Nationwide Coverage
Ubigi offers one of the widest data plan selections for Japan, covering fixed, unlimited, monthly, and annual options. Fixed plans range from 1 GB to 60 GB, priced $3.50 to $72, making Ubigi suitable for short trips as well as longer stays. Validity varies by package, typically from 3 to 30 days, with extended options available for monthly and annual plans.
Unlimited one-off plans are also available, with a weekly-based Fair Use Policy that allows 15.36 GB of high-speed data every 7 days before speeds reduce to 1 Mbps. This structure may appeal to users who prefer spreading their usage over a longer interval rather than dealing with daily resets.
Ubigi uses KDDI and NTT Docomo, two major Japanese networks known for strong nationwide coverage, including regional towns, rural areas, Shinkansen routes, and island regions.
The Ubigi app allows users to recharge or purchase new plans without Wi-Fi, even if the existing plan has expired. Because the eSIM profile stays active once installed, users can test network connectivity upon arrival before committing to a plan. Ubigi also supports local, regional, and global data packages for more than 200 destinations. Ubigi also allows you to reinstall your eSIM up to five times. If you change phones, you can delete the eSIM and reinstall it on another supported device. Also read: How to Transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android
Best for: Long-stay travelers who need very large fixed-data allowances. Ubigi provides plans up to 60 GB and uses KDDI and NTT Docomo networks for strong nationwide coverage, including rural regions.
Holafly Japan eSIM Unlimited Data and Hotspot Restrictions
Holafly provides Japan eSIMs focused on unlimited data, with day-based plans from 1 to 90 days priced between $3.90 and $139.90. These Japanese prepaid plans activate automatically on connection and include hotspot support, with tethering typically limited to up to 500 MB of shared data per day. Although marketed as unlimited, usage is still subject to Fair Use Policies set by local carriers (SoftBank, KDDI), which may reduce speeds after heavy consumption. When a prepaid plan expires, the eSIM profile usually expires as well, and a new plan requires installing a new eSIM.
Holafly also offers monthly global subscription plans, which function differently from the Japan prepaid options:
- Always On – 1 GB per month, refreshed automatically, valid indefinitely, usable in 70+ countries, hotspot available.
- Unlimited Plan (subscription) – unlimited data, unlimited hotspot, global coverage, cancel anytime. Includes the option to activate a local phone number (US, UK, or Canada) that remains active while the subscription is active.
- Light Plan – 25 GB monthly, hotspot available, global coverage.
Best for: Travelers who prefer simple, day-based unlimited plans for Japan, or users who want ongoing global subscriptions with features like unlimited hotspot and an optional local phone number.
Eskimo Japan eSIM Long Validity, Rollover, and Reusable Profile
Eskimo’s Japan eSIM is built around long-term flexibility rather than short-trip limits. Every plan can be activated anytime within two years, and once activated, fixed data remains valid for another two years. Buying a new plan automatically refreshes the validity of any leftover data, so nothing goes to waste across future trips. The eSIM profile itself doesn’t expire either. Once installed, it can be reused indefinitely without reinstalling for each new plan or destination.
Key features
- Full-speed fixed data plans with no throttling.
- Unlimited option with 3 GB of high-speed data per day, then 1 Mbps until reset.
- Hotspot support for both fixed and unlimited data plans.
- SoftBank + KDDI coverage, giving strong performance in cities, rural areas, and along Shinkansen routes.
- Unique data transfer feature: send your balance to any other Eskimo account, from 500 MB up to your full remaining balance.
- Instant delivery, app-based installation, and a free trial + money-back guarantee.
- Up to five eSIM reinstallations, ideal if you switch or reset phones often.
Best for: Travelers who want long-term validity, reliable 5G coverage, full-speed fixed plans, and the ability to save or share data across multiple trips or people.
Final Verdict: The Best Japan eSIM in 2026
The best Japan eSIM ultimately depends on what kind of traveler you are, since each provider offers different strengths. Ubigi works well for those who want large fixed data allocations. Saily and Airalo provide predictable, unlimited structures with generous daily high-speed allowances. Holafly keeps things simple with duration-based unlimited plans and monthly options for longer stays.
Where Eskimo stands out is in long-term value and how it handles unused data. It’s the only Japan eSIM that gives travelers a two-year activation window, two-year validity on fixed plans, and automatic two-year rollover of unused paid data. Install the eSIM once and reuse the same profile for every future trip, without needing to scan a new QR code or risk losing leftover data between visits.
Why is Eskimo the top Japan eSIM in 2026
- 2-year activation + 2-year validity + automatic 2-year rollover upon any purchase
- Full-speed fixed plans and 3 GB/day high-speed on unlimited plans
- Fixed paid data transfers starting from 500 MB for easy sharing
- One-time eSIM installation that can be reused indefinitely, reinstallation up to 5 times
- Free 500MB Global eSIM trial for new signups
Eskimo also offers an APAC option for broader Asia coverage and a Global Plan covering more than 100 countries, all using the same reusable profile. New users receive 500 MB of free global data, making it easy to test the service before committing to a Japan plan.
If you’re visiting Japan just once, most eSIMs will get the job done. But if you want flexibility, long-term savings, and the ability to reuse, roll over, and share data across future trips, Eskimo is the clear winner for 2026.
FAQs
Which eSIM has the best coverage in Japan?
Coverage depends on the underlying Japanese network. eSIMs using SoftBank 5G, KDDI 5G, or NTT Docomo generally provide the strongest national performance. Eskimo uses SoftBank and KDDI, while Ubigi uses KDDI and NTT Docomo, both combinations offer a broad reach across cities, regional towns, and major rail lines.
What is the best eSIM for short-term travel in Japan?
For short trips, travelers often choose simple prepaid or unlimited plans. Airalo offers straightforward prepaid options, while Saily provides generous daily high-speed allowances, making it suitable for heavy users. Eskimo’s unlimited day pass (3 GB/day high-speed with hotspot support) is also practical for shorter stays.
What is the best eSIM for long-term stays in Japan?
Ubigi is strong for long stays due to its large fixed data plans (up to 60 GB) and extensive nationwide coverage. Holafly offers long-duration unlimited plans up to 90 days. Eskimo is especially more suitable for travelers who take multiple trips, as its two-year validity and rollover system allow unused paid data to stay active across future visits to Japan.
Can I buy a Japan eSIM before traveling?
Yes. Most providers allow pre-purchase, but activation rules vary. Some plans start counting down immediately after installation or connection. Eskimo offers the most flexibility: users can activate at any time within two years, and plan validity begins only upon first connection in Japan.
Does the Japan eSIM support hotspot and tethering?
Hotspot support depends on the provider. Eskimo fully supports hotspot on fixed plans, with unlimited-plan speeds following the daily FUP. Saily and Ubigi allow hotspot use on most devices. Airalo supports hotspot if the device and network allow it. Holafly permits hotspot on Japan prepaid plans but limits sharing to 500 MB/day, while its subscription plans include unlimited hotspot (still subject to general FUP).
Which Japan eSIM offers the most flexible data management?
Eskimo offers the greatest flexibility with a two-year activation window, two-year plan validity, automatic rollover of unused paid data, a reusable eSIM profile, and fixed paid-data transfers starting from 500 MB.
Is unlimited data truly unlimited in Japan?
All providers apply Fair Use Policies. High-speed data is capped before speeds are reduced. Examples include:
- Eskimo: 3 GB/day high-speed
- Saily: 5 GB/day
- Airalo: 3 GB/day
- Ubigi: 15.36 GB per 7 days
- Holafly: Reductions may occur after extended heavy use; exact thresholds not disclosed
