Planning a trip to Japan and wondering which eSIM provider to choose? Two major players in the Japan travel eSIM market are Airalo, a globally recognized brand, and Best eSIM Japan, a fast-growing local provider specializing in eSIMs for travelers to Japan.
In Japan, many places still do not speak English. This makes reliable internet access essential — not only for translation apps and maps, but also for constantly searching for travel information during your stay.
While Airalo is well-known for its affordability and easy installation, its limited data plans can become a real headache: Having to constantly monitor your usage, worry about running out of data, and repeatedly top up your plan — especially in a country where getting help in English may be difficult — can quickly become a source of stress.
In contrast, with Best eSIM Japan’s unlimited data, you can stream music, videos, and use all your apps freely without worrying about data limits.
In the end, what looked like a cheap option can turn expensive after multiple purchases.
In this article, we’ll compare Airalo and Best eSIM Japan across three key categories to help you decide which one fits your needs best.
1. Pricing and Plans
Here’s a quick comparison of the pricing and plans offered by Airalo and Best eSIM Japan:
Airalo vs Best eSIM Japan: Price and Data Comparison
| Plan Duration | Airalo (Limited-Data) | Best eSIM Japan (Unlimited + 3-15GB Hotspot) | Airalo Data for the Same Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–4 days | $4.50 (1GB for 7 days) | ¥2,200–¥2,750 (Unlimited + 3GB)~$14–$18 | 3–4GB for $13.50–$18.00 |
| 5–7 days | $6.50 (2GB for 15 days) | ¥3,000–¥4,000 (Unlimited + 6GB)~$19–$26 | 6–8GB for $19.50–$26.00 |
| 8–10 days | $11.50 (5GB for 30 days) | ¥3,600–¥4,400 (Unlimited + 9GB)~$24–$29 | 10–15GB for $23.00–$34.50 |
| 11–15 days | $18.00–$26.00 (10–20GB for 30 days) | ¥4,960–¥6,000 (Unlimited + 15GB)~$33–$40 | 15–25GB for ~$27.00–$65.00 |
Note: Airalo plans are fixed data packages with potential overage costs. Best eSIM Japan offers unlimited daily usage on the main device, with additional shareable data for tethering or other devices. All pricing for Best eSIM Japan is billed in Japanese yen, often making it more affordable due to local rates.
2. Network Coverage and Speed
Airalo – Roaming eSIM
Airalo is a roaming eSIM, meaning it connects to Japanese networks like SoftBank through international agreements, rather than being a native part of the network. While it offers good 4G/LTE coverage in urban and some rural areas, speeds and stability may vary depending on network congestion and location.
Learn the difference between roaming eSIMs and local eSIMs here
Best eSIM Japan – True Local eSIM in Japan
Best eSIM Japan is a true local eSIM using the au network directly. This means users benefit from full native access to Japan’s high-speed infrastructure, including:
- 99.9% national coverage
- Reliable 4G/5G speeds
- Strong performance in subways, bullet trains, and even on Mount Fuji
Compared to roaming eSIMs, local eSIMs typically offer better speed, stability, and prioritization on the network. Best eSIM Japan uses the award-winning au network, offering:
- 99.9% national coverage
- Strong connectivity in subways, bullet trains, rural areas, and even Mount Fuji
Learn more about Best eSIM Japan’s coverage areas here
3. Key Benefits
Here’s how each provider stacks up based on common travel experiences in Japan:
| Situation | Airalo | Best eSIM Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Using maps, translation, and travel info in areas with little English support | May need to monitor data usage; can run out and require top-ups | Unlimited access means no stress using Google Maps, Translate, or travel sites anytime |
| Streaming music or video during downtime (trains, hotels, etc.) | Risk of hitting data cap quickly | Unlimited data allows worry-free streaming |
| Tethering to other devices (laptop, companion’s phone) | Limited by fixed data plan | Includes shareable data for hotspot use |
| Navigating setup for non-tech-savvy users | App required for purchase and setup | Simple QR code activation, no app needed |
| Managing costs in a foreign currency | Prices in USD, potential card conversion fees | Transparent, yen-based pricing — know exactly what you’re paying |
Final Verdict
Airalo: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers like students who rely on free Wi-Fi
Airalo is a solid choice for travelers who are hopping between multiple countries and want a simple, app-based solution. It’s best suited for users who only need a small amount of data, rely heavily on Wi-Fi, and don’t mind keeping an eye on their usage or topping up occasionally. Its global reputation and app convenience make it appealing to frequent flyers who prioritize ease over capacity.
Best eSIM Japan: Perfect for stress-free, reliable travel in Japan
Best eSIM Japan is ideal for travelers who want to explore Japan worry-free. With unlimited high-speed data, it’s perfect for navigating unfamiliar cities, using translation apps, streaming media, or sharing data with other devices. It’s especially recommended for first-time visitors, digital nomads, or those staying more than a few days who need consistent, reliable internet — all at local yen-based prices without surprises.
Ready to connect instantly on arrival? Explore Best eSIM Japan today.
