Whether you're a tourist or a foreigner working in Japan, having a reliable mobile internet connection is essential. While the major carriers (docomo, au, Softbank) dominate the market, alternative providers like Ubigi offer cheaper, more flexible, and hassle-free solutions, especially with its eSIM technology.
Ubigi: Overview
Ubigi is a global mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) under Transatel, a subsidiary of the NTT Group. Since partnering with Apple and Microsoft for eSIM support in iOS and Windows devices, UBigi has led the way in eSIM technology. Their services expanded to Android in 2020, making them a go-to option for travelers and expats.
Who Should Use Ubigi?
- Tourists & Business Travelers: Get instant connectivity upon arrival without store visits.
- Expats & Long-Term Residents: Enjoy a no-contract, pay-as-you-go option.
- Frequent Travelers: Stay connected globally without switching SIM cards.
Why Ubigi Stands Out
- No physical SIM required – Get connected instantly.
- Flexible data plans – Choose from daily, weekly, or monthly options.
- No long-term contracts – Pay only for what you use.
- Available in 200+ destinations – Great for international travelers.
- High-speed 4G/LTE – Reliable internet across Japan.
- Pre-order before travel – No waiting, no hassle.
Ubigi Japan eSIM Plans & Pricing
| Data | Validity | Price (JPY) |
|---|
| Plan Name | Data Allowance | Validity | Price (JPY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan Plan | 10GB | 30 Days | ¥2,400 |
| Japan Plan | 25GB | 30 Days | ¥4,700 |
| Japan Plan | Unlimited Data | 7 Days | ¥3,700 |
| Japan Plan | Unlimited Data | 30 Days | ¥9,300 |
| Japan Monthly Plan | 5GB | Monthly | ¥1,100/month |
*Prices are subject to change. Visit the UBigi website for the latest updates.
Note that Ubigi provides not only plans for Japan but also offers plans for Asia in general, making them very useful for those traveling to multiple countries on their Asia tour. These plans are also ideal for digital nomads in Asia.
Here is a summary of the different plans:
| Plan Name | Data Allowance | Validity | Price (JPY) | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asia Plan | 1GB | 30 Days | ¥1,200 | Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more |
| Asia Plan | 10GB | 30 Days | ¥3,700 | Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more |
| Asia Monthly Plan | 5GB | Monthly | ¥2,900/month | Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more |
| Japan & South Korea Plan | 5GB | Monthly | ¥1,600/month | Japan, South Korea |
Setting Up Ubigi eSIM in Japan
- Check if your phone supports eSIM – Most modern iPhones and Androids do.
- Download the Ubigi app – Available on iOS and Android (or just visit the website)
- Purchase a data plan – Pick the best option for your needs.
- Activate instantly – No need for store visits or SIM swaps.
How user-friendly is Ubigi for English speakers in Japan?
Ubigi is one of the solution available not only in Japan but around the word. The process doesn't differ too much from country to another country. The interface is clear, everything is in English which make the purchase of an esim very easy.
Is English customer support available?
Yes. Ubigi provides full customer support and technical support in English. You can visit their FAQ page to see if there is a quick answer to your question.
Ubigi as a Home Internet Alternative
For digital nomads or short-term residents, Ubigi can be a cost-effective alternative to home WiFi:
- No installation fees – Unlike fiber-optic providers.
- Fast LTE speeds – Great for streaming, video calls, and remote work.
- Pay-as-you-go – No long-term contracts required.
Ubigi: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Instant activation with eSIM
- No contracts or cancellation fees
- Works in 200+ countries
- Budget-friendly short-term data plans
- No Japanese credit card required
- Reliable, backed by the NTT Group
- Pre-order available for instant connectivity
❌ Cons:
- No Japanese phone number (data-only service)
- Not ideal for heavy data users who need unlimited plans
- Requires an eSIM-compatible phone
Final Verdict: Is Ubigi Right for You?
If you’re looking for a hassle-free, budget-friendly way to stay connected in Japan, UBigi is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for tourists, expats, and frequent travelers who want a simple, contract-free data plan.
However, if you need a Japanese phone number or unlimited data, traditional carriers like Rakuten Mobile or GTN Mobile might be a better option.
