Recommended Pocket Wi-Fi Services and How to Choose the Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Your Trip to Japan LightPocket

For those planning a trip to Japan, as well as booking accommodations and airfare, don't forget to make sure you have access to the Internet while in Japan.
Since free Wi-Fi is not readily available in Japan, having a stable Internet connection is crucial. You can do this by either purchasing an eSIM or SIM card, or by renting a Pocket Wi-Fi. Among these options, Pocket Wi-Fi is particularly popular due to its good communication quality and large data capacity.
Especially for those traveling with family or friends, a Pocket Wi-Fi device enables seamless communication throughout Japan, making it a more affordable and convenient choice compared to purchasing an eSIM or SIM card.
The pocket Wi-Fi available for rent at airports is expensive and not always available, and the best pocket Wi-Fi to rent depends on the individual. Even Japanese people are not sure which pocket Wi-Fi is the best to rent.
When renting pocket Wi-Fi in Japan, it is a good idea to understand the following points.

Receiving Pocket Wi-Fi

Where can you pick up the rented Pocket Wi-Fi? If you plan to pick it up at the airport, consider that the airport shops may not be open in the late night or early morning when your flight arrives. Therefore, decide on a location for receiving the Pocket Wi-Fi in advance.

Returning Pocket Wi-Fi

Returning the rented Pocket Wi-Fi is necessary. While returning it at the airport is a good choice, having the option to return it from anywhere in Japan can be more convenient. Most online Pocket Wi-Fi rental services allow returns from any location in Japan.

Coverage of Pocket Wi-Fi

The coverage (communication range) of the rented Pocket Wi-Fi is crucial. It's not just about the data capacity; even if you have a large data capacity and high-speed 5G, it's pointless if you can't establish a connection. Especially if you plan to travel to rural or mountainous areas, checking if the Pocket Wi-Fi can connect in those areas is essential. Recommending services that use networks like Softbank or docomo, known for wide coverage and stable communication quality.

Data Capacity

Choose a data plan for the rented Pocket Wi-Fi wisely. Unlimited plans with unlimited communication are often in the spotlight, but be aware that there may be speed restrictions despite being labeled as unlimited. Confirm if the data capacity is sufficient. Considering an average of 1GB per day is good, choose a plan based on your length of stay, such as 50GB or 100GB plans.
How much data usage is needed for a trip to Japan? Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card (eSIM)?

Rental Fees

While renting at the airport is convenient, the fees tend to be high due to airport-related charges. A recommended method is to reserve Pocket Wi-Fi online before coming to Japan and pick it up at the airport post office. Online rentals are cost-effective, and since airport-related fees are not incurred at public service post offices, you can rent Pocket Wi-Fi of the same quality at a lower cost as the airport.

Be mindful of these points and choose the Pocket Wi-Fi that suits you.

Recommended Pocket Wi-Fi Services

Here are recommended services that meet the following criteria.

Available for pickup at airports and anywhere else
Returnable from anywhere in Japan.
docomo or Softbank networks.
Data capacity of 50GB or more.
Affordable rental fees.

LightPocket

LightPocket offers Wi-Fi connectivity on both Docomo and SoftBank networks, ensuring a reliable connection for your journey in Japan. With high-capacity plans like 100GB and 200GB, and affordable rental prices, it's highly recommended. also provide airport delivery for added convenience.
LightPocket Pocket Wi-Fi

econnectjapan

Providing Wi-Fi on the robust SoftBank network, econnectjapan offers airport delivery and features a 50GB high-capacity plan. For those who require even less data, we have a plan with 20GB, catering to users with minimal data needs. Choose us for a worry-free connection during your Japan travels.
eCoonectJapan

Wi-Fi Rental Japan

With the option for airport delivery, Wi-Fi Rental Japan presents Pocket Wi-Fi on the SoftBank network with a 50GB capacity plan.
Wi-Fi Rental Japan

Recommended Pocket Wi-Fi Services and How to Choose the Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Your Trip to Japan