IIJ Introduces Expanded Japan Travel SIM Range: 7 New Prepaid Plans from 3GB to 55GB
Internet Initiative Japan Inc., one of Japan’s leading Internet access and comprehensive network solutions providers, announced Japan Travel SIM (eSIM), a selectable gift card supporting eSIM. As the latest addition to the Japan Travel SIM
lineup of prepaid SIM cards, providing mobile data communication service to visitors to Japan and temporary returnees, it will go on sale starting February 6, 2024, at approximately 14,700 Lawson stores throughout Japan, becoming the first prepaid eSIM service in Japan to be sold at convenience stores. IIJ Japan Travel SIM
The lineup consists of seven plans, with communication capacities ranging from 3 GB to 55 GB (each usable for up to 30 days). After purchasing a package at a nearby Lawson convenience store, performing an online procedure, and installing the eSIM in their mobile terminal,(*) customers are immediately able to commence data communication.
- (*)An eSIM is a “digital SIM” embedded in a device. Being programmable rather than physically switched, it is coming to replace the conventional plastic SIM card, as it is now supported in many iPhone and Android models. The eSIM software can be installed on supported terminals by scanning a QR code with the camera to download the necessary information or by copying and pasting an activation code.
As the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel wanes, the number of inbound tourists, temporary returnees, and foreign nationals staying in Japan is increasing. The needs for short-term use of communication services in Japan are therefore expected to continue growing. By expanding the Japan Travel SIM plans, adding eSIM support, and making the products available at all Lawson stores throughout Japan, IIJ is making it easier for customers to purchase the products.
Japan Travel SIM (eSIM) will be on sale in the gift card section of Lawson stores. Customers select and purchase the desired data capacity at the point of sale from the seven available plans. After purchasing a package, the customer accesses the designated website from a location with Wi-Fi or other network access, inputs the entry code printed on the back of the package and other required information, and downloads the eSIM profile. When the necessary procedures are completed, data communication becomes possible anywhere in Japan where NTT Docomo 4G (LTE) or 3G service is available.
A typical Japan Travel SIM (eSIM) package design
Plans
| Data capacity | 3GB | 6GB | 10GB | 15GB | 25GB | 35GB | 55GB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (tax-free) | JPY2,480 | JPY2,980 | JPY3,280 | JPY3,480 | JPY4,580 | JPY4,980 | JPY5,780 |
| Usage period | 30 days from the start of use | ||||||
Flow to start of service IIJ Japan Travel SIM
- Take the Japan Travel SIM (eSIM) package to the point of sale, select the desired capacity plan, and pay for it.
- On the designated website, input the entry code printed on the back of the package and other necessary information.
- Download the eSIM profile from the designated website and install it on the terminal.
- (*)An email address and Wi-Fi or other Internet access are necessary for making an application on the website and downloading the eSIM profile.
- (*)An unlocked terminal with eSIM support is necessary. Settings necessary for communication, including the APN (access point name), must also be made in the terminal.
Here are some indicative prepaid eSIM prices for Japan:
