I recently tested the B-Mobile Visitor 1GB Prepaid Sim Card – it’s great if you want a data only sim card in Japan for use in your iPhone, iPad or any smartphone and tablet
You don’t need a long-term visa to get one: You can get one with an ordinary tourist visa. Nor do you need a fixed address: You can have the SIM card mailed to the hotel where you will spend your first night in Japan. You can also arrange to have it sent to a post office in the airport where you arrive. Finally, you don’t need to call in to register the card (this step used to be necessary but is no longer).
Alternatively, and perhaps easier, you can also purchase a SIM card online and pick it up on arrival at Kansai International Airport or in downtown Osaka.
I can’t give specific download speeds, but when I tested the card with a smartphone I found that it was fast enough to use Skype, YouTube and, of course, email. The card is available in both micro-SIM and regular-SIM sizes. Note that the card is for data only. You cannot use it to make phone calls, but, of course, you can make voice calls with Skype.
For more information and to order the SIM card online, check the B-Mobile Site.
For a thorough discussion of phone and data options for Japan, check out my earlier post on this topic – How to buy a prepaid iPhone sim in Japan. You can also check out the page on Kyoto Hotels With Free Wifi if you’re in need of connected accommodation.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass – here's my explanation of why it's worth it
- A prepaid Icoca card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
