Wondering where to buy a SIM card in Tokyo? It’s quite straightforward – you can buy a data-only SIM card just a short walk away from Tokyo Station.
TOKYO Ginza Night © ivva
Most likely, your first stop in Japan will be Tokyo so it makes sense to buy one there as soon as you arrive. A good place to do so is BIC Camera in Yurakucho (although you’ll also find branches of BIC Camera in places like Shinjuku and further afield in Osaka and Kyoto).
For more details on buying a SIM card in Japan and the offerings at BIC Camera, see How to Buy a SIM Card in Tokyo on TrulyTokyo.
Here’s how to get to the BIC Camera in Yurakucho:
By JR Trains (JR Yamanote Loop Line):
Take the JR Yamanote Loop Line and get off at Yurakucho Station. Exit via the Kokusai Forum Exit, and you will see the Yurakucho BIC Camera right in front of you. You’ll find all the SIM cards right near the Kokusai Forum Entrance to the store. Note that you can easily walk here from Tokyo Station in about five minutes.
By Tokyo Subway:
If you’re coming by subway (most likely the Yurakucho Line), get off at Yurakucho Station. Exit the subway station via exit D4, which connects you directly to the BIC Camera. Once you go inside, go to the ground floor and find the Kokusai Forum Entrance, near which you will find all the SIM cards.
An Alternative Way To Get A Japanese SIM Card
If you don’t want to be bothered with buying a SIM card after arriving in Japan, you can buy a SIM card online and have it delivered to your arrival airport or your first night’s lodgings.
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 Suica 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
