If you are planning to stay in Japan for a long period of time, rent a pocket Wi-Fi!
When foreigners come to Japan, they often have a hard time finding Wi-Fi.
Overseas, it is not uncommon to find Wi-Fi available in most cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, and other facilities. In Japan, the number of Wi-Fi-free facilities is increasing, but I have the impression that Wi-Fi spots are not that widespread.
In this issue, we will show you how to stay longer while comfortably using Wi-Fi, which is indispensable for business and sightseeing.
How to use the Internet when staying in Japan for an extended period of time
There are two main methods: renting either a SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi (portable Wi-Fi router).
A SIM card is attached to a smartphone, while pocket Wi-Fi is a type of Wi-Fi router that is small and separate from the smartphone.
There are two types of SIM cards: those contracted with au, docomo, Softbank, etc. to be used on a monthly basis, and those with a time-limited SIM card to be used on a use-by basis.
Pocket Wi-Fi Recommendations
When using pocket Wi-Fi, you have to carry a Wi-Fi router in addition to your smartphone, which seems like an inconvenience and adds to your luggage.
Easy to start using
One of the most common problems we hear about with SIM cards is that some models do not operate properly after installation.
Pocket Wi-Fi, on the other hand, is very easy to start using because all you have to do is enter the ID and password provided and connect.
Can be used on PCs and tablet devices.
The big advantage is that you can use the same ID and password not only on your smartphone, but also on your PC or tablet device by entering the same ID and password.
I think that even during your stay in Japan, you will often need to use a computer for work or study, so carrying a pocket Wi-Fi is highly recommended.
The price range of pocket Wi-Fi that can be rented on a long-term basis
There is currently a fairly large amount of information available on the Internet about pocket Wi-Fi that can be rented for long periods of time.
In addition to the official Pocket Wi-Fi sites, there are also some promotional campaigns that offer low-cost rentals, so if you want to keep costs low, you can also search around on your own.
The rental fee for pocket Wi-Fi is about 6,500 yen / month for an unlimited use plan. For example, if you normally use the Wi-Fi at the hotel or apartment where you are staying and need a little when you are out and about, you may want to choose a plan starting at 5 GB for about 4,000 / month.
Recommended pocket Wi-Fi information for long-term rental
Now, we will introduce information on pocket Wi-Fi that can be rented long-term. In addition to major providers in Japan, there are also sites in English that are easy for foreigners to understand, so please take a look.
Basic Information by Provider
| ISP | plan | speed | monthly amount (sum) |
| GTN MOBILE | GTN Wi-Fi | 200Kbps-1Mbps | ¥4,048 |
| mobal | Mobal Wi-Fi | 150Mbps | ¥4,980 |
| Sakura Mobile | Unlimited | 440Mbps | 6,480 yen + activation fee |
| Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM | Unlimited | 187.5Mbps | ¥5,500 |
| acorn flour | WiMax+5G | 2.7Gbps | ¥4,708 |
| UQ WiMax | Speed Wi-Fi 5G | 2.7Gbps | 4,818 yen + router fee |
| Rakten Mobile Wi-Fi | Rakten UN-LIMIT VI | high speed communication | 0-¥3,278 (varies depending on the amount used) |
| Y! mobile | Unlimited | 2.4Gbps | 4,818 yen + router fee |
Providers especially recommended for foreigners
GTN MOBILE
The provider is unquestionably recommended for foreigners, with a website in foreign languages such as English, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese, as well as customer support. Plans for foreigners are available, and more than 50,000 foreigners use the service.
GTN MOBILE:https://gtn-mobile.com/en/
2) mobal
This is another site with English and Chinese language options. Customer support is available in English, and there is a compensation program that offers a refund if the customer is not satisfied with the service, indicating confidence in the service.
Mobal: https://www.mobal.com/japan-wifi/
Sakura Mobile
Sakura Mobile is a well-known provider often featured on foreign websites. The unlimited plan is recommended, but you can choose from 5GB to unlimited depending on your needs, and there is a wide range of prices.
Sakura Mobile:https://www.sakuramobile.jp/
4) Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM
This is another very well-known Wi-Fi rental for foreigners staying in Japan for a long period of time. There is a counter at the airport, so you can pick up the Wi-Fi upon arrival and return it upon departure.
Wi-Fi RENTAL.COM:https://wi-firental.com/?ref=tokyocheapo
summary
How was it?
When you stay in Japan for an extended period of time, you should definitely consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi. Enjoy stress-free Internet access anytime, anywhere, and spend your days in comfort.
Reference:https://tokyocheapo.com/business/long-term-mobile-wifi/
