If you are staying in Japan for a long time, rent a pocket Wi-Fi!
When foreigners come to Japan, don't they often have trouble finding Wi-Fi?
Overseas, Wi-Fi is often available in most cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, and other facilities. Although the number of Wi-Fi free facilities is increasing in Japan, I have the impression that Wi-Fi spots are not as widespread.
This time, we will introduce how to stay for a long time while comfortably using Wi-Fi, which is essential for business and sightseeing.
How to use the Internet during a long-term stay in Japan
There are two main methods. The idea is to rent either a SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi (portable Wi-Fi router).
A SIM card is a type that is attached to a smartphone, and a pocket Wi-Fi is a type that has a small Wi-Fi router separate from the smartphone.
There are two types of SIM cards: those that are contracted with au, Docomo, Softbank, etc. and used on a monthly basis, and those that have a limited time limit and can be used once.
Recommended points for pocket Wi-Fi
When using pocket Wi-Fi, you have to carry a Wi-Fi router in addition to your smartphone, which adds to your luggage and feels inconvenient. It might seem like it would be better to rent or buy a SIM card, but there are reasons why pocket Wi-Fi is recommended.
Easy to get started
It's easy to get started. A common problem we hear about when using SIM cards is that depending on the model, the SIM card does not function properly after being installed.
Pocket Wi-Fi, on the other hand, is very easy to start using, as all you have to do is enter the ID and password listed and connect.
Can be used on computers and tablet devices
Isn't it a big advantage that you can use it not only on smartphones but also on computers and tablets by entering your ID and password in the same way?
Even when you are in Japan, you will likely need to use a computer for work or study, so it is highly recommended that you carry a pocket Wi-Fi with you.
About the price range of pocket Wi-Fi that can be rented for a long period of time
If you search for pocket Wi-Fi that can be rented for a long period of time on the Internet, you will find a large amount of information.
In addition to the official Pocket Wi-Fi website, there are also campaigns where rentals are available at low prices, so if you want to keep costs low, one option is to look around on your own.
The average rental fee for a pocket Wi-Fi is approximately 6,500 yen/month for an unlimited plan. For example, if you normally use the Wi-Fi at the hotel or apartment you stay in, but only need some Wi-Fi when you go out, it might be a good idea to choose a plan starting from 5GB for about 4,000 yen/month.
Recommended pocket Wi-Fi information that can be rented for a long period of time
Now, we will introduce information on pocket Wi-Fi that can be rented for a long period of time. In addition to the major providers in Japan, there are also English sites that are easy for foreigners to understand, so please check them out.
Basic information by provider
| provider | plan | speed | monthly fee |
| GTN MOBILE | GTN Wi-Fi | 200Kbps-1Mbps | ¥4,048 |
| mobile | Mobal Wi-Fi | 150Mbps | ¥4,980 |
| Sakura Mobile | Unlimited | 440Mbps | ¥6,480＋Activation fee |
| Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM | Unlimited | 187.5Mbps | ¥5,500 |
| Casimo | WiMax+5G | 2.7Gbps | ¥4,708 |
| UQ WiMax | Speed Wi-Fi 5G | 2.7Gbps | ¥4,818+router fee |
| Rakten Mobile Wi-Fi | Rakten UN-LIMIT Ⅵ | high speed communication | ¥0-¥3,278 (varies depending on usage) |
| Y! mobile | Unlimited | 2.4Gbps | ¥4,818+router fee |
Providers especially recommended for foreigners
① GTN MOBILE
In addition to having sites in foreign languages such as English, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese, this provider also offers customer support, so we can definitely recommend this provider to foreigners. There is a plan for foreigners, and more than 50,000 foreigners are using it.
GTN MOBILE: https://gtn-mobile.com/en/
② mobal
This is also a site where you can choose between English and Chinese. In addition to receiving customer support in English, they also offer a refund policy if you are not satisfied with the service, which shows their confidence in the service.
mobal: https://www.mobal.com/japan-wifi/
③ Sakura Mobile
Sakura Mobile is a well-known provider that is often featured on sites aimed at foreigners. We recommend the unlimited plan, but you can choose from 5GB to unlimited depending on your needs, and there are many price ranges.
Sakura Mobile:https://www.sakuramobile.jp/
④ Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM
This is also very famous as a Wi-Fi rental for foreigners staying for a long time. There is a counter at the airport, so you can pick it up when you arrive and return it when you leave, making it safe and convenient.
Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM:https://wi-firental.com/?ref=tokyocheapo
summary
What did you think?
If you are planning a long-term stay in Japan, why not consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi? Enjoy your daily life in an environment where you can access the Internet anytime, anywhere without stress.
reference:https://tokyocheapo.com/business/long-term-mobile-wifi/
