Traveling to Japan and wondering how to get WiFi in Japan? Public WiFi in Japan is often limited, spotty, or tricky to use. Especially if you don’t speak Japanese or aren’t tech-savvy. Luckily, Pocket WiFi offers a simple, reliable solution for tourists and short-term visitors.
This guide explains how to get WiFi in Japan using Pocket WiFi, what Pocket WiFi is, how it works, and how you can easily rent one for your trip to Japan
Table of Contents
- Why You Need Reliable WiFi in Japan
- What is Pocket WiFi (And Why It’s Perfect for Travelers)
- How Does Pocket WiFi Work in Japan?
- Connect Multiple Devices with One Rental
- Benefits of Pocket WiFi vs. SIM Cards in Japan
- How to Rent Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile
- Final Tips for Pocket WiFi in Japan
Why You Need Reliable WiFi in Japan
Japan may be famous for its tech, but getting WiFi is surprisingly rare, unreliable—and potentially risky. When it’s available, it often comes with frustrating limitations: complicated sign-ups in Japanese, short connection times, or unstable performance.
Even more concerning, many of these networks lack basic security. Unencrypted connections can leave your data—like passwords, emails, and payment information—vulnerable to cyberattacks or snooping. For travelers relying on maps, translation apps, or logging into accounts, those risks add up quickly.
That’s why many travelers prefer Pocket WiFi—a portable, easy-to-use hotspot that gives you fast, private internet access anywhere in Japan without the stress or security concerns.
Want to understand the risk in more detail? Check out our full guide to see why public WiFi in Japan isn’t just inconvenient—it could be dangerous.
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What is Pocket WiFi (And Why It’s Perfect for Travelers)?
Pocket WiFi goes by several names:
- Mobile WiFi
- Mobile Router
- MiFi
- And many more!
But it’s all essentially the same: a small, portable router that connects to Japan’s 4G or 5G mobile networks and creates a personal WiFi hotspot for your devices.
It works with any WiFi-enabled device—smartphones, tablets, laptops—without needing to swap SIM cards or unlock phones.
Why Travelers Love Pocket WiFi:
- Compatible with all devices: iPhones, Androids, laptops, tablets, and more!
- Keeps your personal SM active: receive texts and calls from your normal number while on WiFi.
- Provides secure, private internet access wherever you go.
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How Does Pocket WiFi Work in Japan?
Inside the Pocket WiFi device is a SIM card that connects to major Japanese networks like docomo and SoftBank, ensuring excellent coverage not just in cities, but also in rural and tourist-favorite areas.
Inside Tip: Still unsure how to get WiFi in Japan easily? Renting Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile is a reliable option trusted by thousands of travelers.
Here’s a simple flow of how it works:
Mobile network (docomo/SoftBank)→Pocket WiFi device→ Your Devices (phone, laptop, tablet)
How to Connect:
- Power on the Pocket WiFi device.
- Enter its SSID (Network Name) and Password (this is usually provided with the device) into your device.
- You’re connected!
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Connect Multiple Devices with One Rental
Pocket WiFi devices usually allow up to 10 devices to connect simultaneously (Sakura Mobile devices can support up to 15). This makes it perfect for:
✅Families or groups traveling together.
✅Business trips where you need to connect laptops and phones.
✅Solo travelers carrying multiple gadgets.
One device covers everyone’s internet needs—a big cost and convenience advantage.
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Benefits of Pocket WiFi vs. eSIM/SIM Cards in Japan
When planning how to get WiFi in Japan, most travelers choose between Pocket WiFi, SIM cards, or eSIMs. Each option has its advantages depending on your travel style, device compatibility, and how many people or gadgets you’ll be connecting to it.
Why Pocket WiFi?
✨No Setup Required: Pocket WiFi is ready to go, straight out of the box. Just turn it on and connect—no need to change settings or install anything.
📱No Phone Compatibility Issues: Since Pocket WiFi connects devices via WiFi, it works with any device—smartphones, tablets, or laptops—without worrying about SIM slot sizes, eSIM support, or carrier locks.
📶Keep Your Original SIM Card: With Pocket WiFi, you don’t have to remove your regular SIM. This means you can still receive text or calls on your home number while connecting to the internet—perfect if your mobile plan supports roaming or incoming messages during your stay in Japan.
🔗Instant Connectivity for Multiple Devices: Once powered on, your pocket WiFi provides internet access for all your devices—no waiting, no confirmation. Ideal for travelers using phones, laptops, or sharing with others.
Get More Data: Pocket WiFi devices tend to provide more data than your typical eSIM or SIM card. This means you can do more and stay connected for longer.
Bottom Line
eSIM and SIM cards are also great options—especially for solo travelers who only need data on one phone. But if you want a hassle-free, shareable option with zero setup, Pocket Wifi is the way to go. It offers maximum flexibility and ease. Just connect and go!
Check out our full guide:
Prepaid SIM Cards or Pocket WiFi in Japan—Which Device is Best?
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How to Rent Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile
Wondering exactly how to get WiFi in Japan before you land? Here’s how to rent Pocket WiFi with Sakura Mobile:
- Order Online: Visit the Sakura Mobile website to place your order.
- Choose Your Pickup Location: Pick it up at the airport, your hotel, or Sakura Mobile’s Shinjuku office.
- Receive the device when you arrive in Japan.
- Use unlimited data options with full English support.
- Return Via Prepaid Envelope: When you’re done, simply return the device using the provided prepaid envelop.
Additional Perks:
- No deposit required.
- Flexible Rental Periods: Choose a rental length that fits your trip, with options to extend if your plans change.
- Reliable, high-speed connection backed by Japan’s top networks.
- Long Batter Life: Up to 20 hours of battery life.
- 10+ years in the industry, trusted by over 400,000 users.
- Rated 4.5; stars across Trustpilot, Google, Yotpo, and more!
Reserve your Sakura Mobile Travel Pocket WiFi and stay connected in Japan hassle-free!
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Final Tips for Pocket WiFi in Japan
📅Book in Advance: During peak travel season, availability may be limited. Reserve your Pocket WiFi device early to guarantee seamless internet access.
🌏Ideal for All Types of Travelers: Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family or on a business trip, Pocket WiFi is the perfect solution for staying connected.
🔋Stay Powered Up: For those long sightseeing days, don’t forget to bring a portable charger to keep both your Pocket WiFi and your devices powered up.
Ready to Stay Connected?
Reserve your Sakura Mobile Pocket WiFi device now to make your Japan trip hassle-free!
Check out Rent Pocket WiFi in Japan: Key Questions Answered—everything from questions about battery life to data speed are answered!