Essential Item for Japan Travel: Postpaid SIM vs. Prepaid SIM, Which is Right for You?

Beautiful cherry blossoms, vibrant cities, traditional temples, and world-class cuisine—Japan is full of attractions. However, reliable internet connection is the key to a successful trip for sharing wonderful moments or using map applications when lost. Securing local communication is one of the top priorities for many foreign travelers visiting Japan.

Postpaid SIM and prepaid SIM—each has its own advantages and limitations, and the optimal choice varies depending on your travel style.

In this article, we'll introduce the differences, pros and cons of each, and how to choose the SIM card that best suits your needs during your stay in Japan. With proper preparation, you can make your stay in Japan more comfortable and memorable.

Characteristics of Postpaid SIM Cards

Postpaid SIM is a type of SIM card where you pay fees after use. It is an optimal choice for long-term visitors staying more than two weeks or frequent travelers to Japan. Many plans offer fixed rates and stable high-speed communication.

They also offer numerous plans that include voice call services, making them convenient for business use.

On the other hand, identification verification such as passport is required at the time of contract, making the procedure somewhat complicated.

Additional charges may occur if you exceed the data limit, so you need to be careful with budget management. Also, remember to complete cancellation procedures before returning to your country.

For those who need large amounts of data communication during their stay in Japan or need to make calls with a local phone number, we recommend postpaid SIM cards that combine stability and convenience. Choosing according to your travel style and budget will ensure a comfortable stay in Japan.

Advantages of Postpaid SIM

1. 1.Fixed-rate plans
2. 2.Stable communication speed
3. 3.Call options
4. 4.Flexibility in contract period
5.  

Fixed-rate Plans

One of the biggest attractions of postpaid SIM is the fixed-rate plan. During your stay in Japan, the peace of mind of being able to use a fixed amount of data at a fixed price is a major benefit for travelers.

For example, many providers offer 5GB, 10GB, 20GB plans that you can choose according to your usage pattern. Even if you frequently upload high-quality photos and videos to social media, or use map apps and video calls, you can find plans that you can use without worrying about additional charges.

Some postpaid SIMs also offer plans where only the communication speed is limited when exceeding the data amount, without incurring additional charges.

The ability to predict communication costs during travel and ease of budget management are strengths of the fixed-rate system.

Stable Communication Speed

Another major advantage of postpaid SIM is its stable communication speed.

Postpaid SIMs provided by major telecommunications carriers in Japan utilize high-quality communication infrastructure, allowing you to maintain stable connections not only in urban areas but also when traveling to rural areas.

While some prepaid SIMs significantly restrict speed when data usage exceeds a certain amount, postpaid plans often have relatively generous restriction settings.

We offer an environment where you can use data-intensive applications such as high-quality video viewing, video calls, and real-time navigation without stress.

This stability is a very important factor, especially for travelers visiting Japan for business purposes or those who share a lot of online content.

Call Options

An attractive feature of postpaid SIM is the variety of call options.

Having a local phone number during your stay in Japan can be unexpectedly convenient.

In actual travel, there are surprisingly many situations where a phone is needed, such as restaurant or hotel reservations, taxi arrangements, and emergency contacts.

With postpaid SIM, there are plenty of plans available that allow not only data communication but also domestic calls and SMS.

Some plans also offer international call packages, allowing you to stay in touch with family and friends at home at affordable rates.

For travelers who are not confident in Japanese, we introduce means that can quickly solve problems even with brief calls, such as calling a hotel front desk.

This call function is an essential element for business visits to Japan.

Flexibility in Contract Period

An important feature of postpaid SIM is the flexibility of the contract period.

Various contract periods that can be selected according to the duration of your visit to Japan are practical benefits for travelers.

Many telecom companies offer short-term plans such as 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, in addition to traditional long-term contracts.

This allows you to choose the most appropriate plan for your stay in Japan. Some providers also adopt a monthly renewal system, allowing you to extend your contract as needed. We introduce options that can flexibly respond even in case of unplanned extended stays.

This flexibility in contracts is an important factor in optimizing communication costs for visitors with defined periods, such as working holidays, internships, or short-term study abroad.

Disadvantages of Postpaid SIM

1. 1.Identity verification required
2. 2.Possibility of excess charges
3. 3.Cancellation procedure required

Identity Verification Required

A point to consider as a disadvantage of postpaid SIM is the identity verification procedure required at the time of contract.

For foreign travelers, this identity verification and contract procedure may feel somewhat cumbersome.

Based on Japanese law, telecommunications providers require the presentation of identification documents such as passport or visa when contracting for a postpaid SIM.

Registration of domestic addresses and contact information may also be necessary, and while using a hotel address is possible, the procedure itself can often take time. Some providers have limited English-speaking staff, so you may feel a language barrier.

We introduce providers and plans that can be contracted smoothly, considering the possibility of spending valuable travel time on procedures.

For short-term visitors in particular, this procedure hassle is an important consideration point.

Possibility of Excess Charges

A point to be aware of when using a postpaid SIM is the incurrence of additional fees due to exceeding data communication volume.

If you use more than the data plan you've selected in advance, it may lead to unexpected high bills.

Especially during travel, data usage tends to increase compared to usual due to sharing photos and videos of tourist spots, frequent use of map apps, and live social media streaming.

Many providers adopt a system where fees are incurred for each additional 1GB when exceeding the basic plan. Since notifications may come in Japanese, you might miss warning messages.

We introduce methods to check data usage and prevent overuse. For travelers who want to strictly manage their budget, monitoring usage becomes necessary, or considering a prepaid SIM with clear limits is an important point to consider.

Cancellation Procedure Required

An often overlooked disadvantage of using a postpaid SIM is the cancellation procedure before returning home.

If you forget to complete the required cancellation procedure before leaving Japan, there's a possibility of continued billing.

Many telecom providers require the contract holder to visit a store in person to complete the cancellation procedure. This means additional time and effort during the busy period just before returning home. Some providers support online or phone cancellations, but they may only be available in Japanese or require submission of specific documents.

When canceling, be aware that there may be no partial refund based on days used, or cancellation fees may apply. For a smooth return home, we provide information on how to check the cancellation conditions at the time of contract and plan the procedure accordingly.

This procedural hassle is an important factor for short-term visitors to consider.

Characteristics of Prepaid SIM Cards

Prepaid SIM is a type of SIM card that you pay for in advance, making it an ideal communication solution for short-term travelers to Japan.

They can be easily purchased at airport arrival lobbies, major electronics stores, and convenience stores, with immediate activation possible with just a passport presentation.

There are plenty of time-limited plans such as 7 days, 15 days, 30 days to match your length of stay, making budget management easy.

Being prepaid, there's no unexpected fee occurrence due to overuse, and no special cancellation procedures are required when returning home.

However, the data capacity of the purchased package is limited, and once used up, the communication speed may significantly decrease.

For those planning a trip to Japan, we recommend prepaid SIM plans for those who mainly use light internet such as social media and map applications. It's an ideal choice for 1-2 week travelers who want simple usage.

Advantages of Prepaid SIM

1. 1.Convenience
2. 2.Easy budget management
3. 3.No contract required
4. 4.Various plans
5.  

Convenience

The biggest attraction of prepaid SIM is its convenience.

The convenience of being able to connect to the internet immediately from the day you arrive in Japan after a long flight brings great peace of mind to many travelers.

There are SIM card sales counters for foreign travelers in the arrival lobbies of major international airports such as Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and Chubu, where you can easily purchase with just a passport presentation.

They are also available at large electronics stores in tourist areas such as Akihabara and Shinjuku, as well as convenience stores nationwide.

After purchase, you just need to insert the SIM card according to the package instructions and complete simple initial settings to start using it immediately.

We introduce efficient options that allow you to secure a communication environment without complicated contract procedures or long waiting times.

The fact that multilingual packages and English instructions are available is also a big advantage, especially for travelers who don't understand Japanese.

Easy Budget Management

A major advantage of prepaid SIM is the ease of budget management.

The peace of mind of being able to fix communication costs before travel is a valuable benefit, especially for travelers who are strictly planning their budget.

Prepaid SIM is prepaid, so there's no need to pay more than the cost of the plan you choose, and you don't need to constantly check your usage. For example, if you purchase a 7-day 10GB plan, there's no worry about being billed more than that amount, and you can accurately incorporate it into your overall travel budget plan.

Also, with many providers, when you reach your data limit, there's no additional charge but only a reduction in communication speed.

This provides a communication means that can be used with peace of mind, especially for travelers who have experienced high bills for mobile phone use abroad. Fixed fees that are not affected by exchange rate fluctuations are an important factor in reducing unnecessary stress during travel.

No Contract Required

Another major attraction of prepaid SIM is that no formal contract is required.

The convenience of not having to do any procedures when returning home is a highly valuable benefit for travelers.

There's no need for cancellation procedures that are required for postpaid SIMs, and no worry about continued billing due to forgetting to cancel.

Since the service automatically stops when the usage period ends, there's no need to visit a store on the busy final day of your trip. Additionally, there's no need for document filling or providing a contact address in Japan. For travelers who can't read Japanese or are unfamiliar with Japan's contract system, this lack of complexity is a major source of reassurance.

We introduce stress-free communication options that allow you to focus on sightseeing and experiences until the end of your trip.

For short-term visitors, this simplicity of "no contract, no cancellation" is one of the most important selection points.

Various Plans

A notable feature of prepaid SIM is the diverse plan development according to length of stay and needs.

The abundance of options that can be chosen according to your travel style is a major advantage for all types of visitors to Japan.

Common plans include period settings such as 3 days, 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, flexibly accommodating everything from short tours to longer stays.

There are also various choices for data capacity such as 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB. You can find not only data-centric plans but also those with domestic calls and SMS, or social media specialized types where the use of SNS apps doesn't count towards data capacity.

We also introduce geographical options from those usable throughout Japan to those that are more affordable but limited to specific areas. With these diverse plans, travelers can make the most appropriate choice for their stay schedule and internet usage tendencies, securing a communication environment efficiently without waste.

Disadvantages of Prepaid SIM

1. 1.Data capacity limitations
2. 2.Speed restrictions
3. 3.Complexity of additional charging
4. 4.Limitations on certain functions
5.  

Data Capacity Limitations

An important constraint to consider when choosing a prepaid SIM is the limitation on data capacity.

The point that once you've used up the data amount of the plan you purchased, you're forced to either make an additional purchase or use with speed restrictions may be inconvenient for travelers.

For example, if you purchase a 7-day 5GB plan and use up the capacity on the 4th day, you need to either endure extremely slow communication speed for the rest of your trip or purchase an additional SIM card.

Especially for travelers who frequently use map apps, upload photos and videos to social media, or use video calls, you may consume data faster than imagined.

Also, we introduce cases where many prepaid SIMs cannot be recharged with additional data even within the validity period, and you need to purchase a new SIM card.

For first-time visitors to Japan who find it difficult to accurately estimate their communication needs in advance, this fixed constraint on data capacity is an important consideration point.

Speed Restrictions

An important challenge you may face when using a prepaid SIM is the issue of speed restrictions.

The significant decrease in communication speed experienced after consuming the data capacity can be more stressful than expected for many travelers.

With typical prepaid SIMs, once you've used up the set data amount, the communication speed is usually limited to very slow speeds such as 128Kbps or 256Kbps.

At this speed, text messages and simple webpage browsing are barely possible, but real-time navigation with map apps, photo uploads, and video viewing become practically unusable.

Especially when lost at a tourist spot or in situations where information is urgently needed, this speed restriction can cause great inconvenience.

Also, with some providers, delays due to congestion may occur even at normal speeds during peak hours, affecting reliability as an important means of communication.

For those with high internet dependency during travel, this speed restriction can be more limiting to actions than expected.

Complexity of Additional Charging

Another point of caution to consider with prepaid SIM is the complexity of charging methods when additional data is needed.

The non-intuitive way to respond when exceeding the initially purchased data capacity can be difficult, especially for foreign travelers unfamiliar with Japanese.

Many prepaid SIMs either have no system for additional charging, or it's only possible through Japanese websites or dedicated apps.

Some require multiple steps such as purchasing a separate prepaid card at a convenience store and registering it online.

Some providers don't allow additional charging at all, leaving the only option as purchasing a new SIM card. Furthermore, even if charging is possible, it's common that only the data capacity is added, not extending the validity period of the original plan.

For travelers who want to avoid spending valuable travel time securing means of communication, this complexity of additional charging is an important consideration factor.

Limitations on Certain Functions

An important constraint often overlooked when choosing a prepaid SIM is the limitation on the use of certain functions.

The fact that many prepaid SIMs specialize only in data communication and cannot use voice calls or SMS can cause unexpected inconvenience for some travelers.

Especially in Japan, there are surprisingly many situations where a phone number is needed, such as confirming hotel reservations, inquiring at restaurants, arranging taxis.

Also, the increasing use of SMS for security purposes such as two-factor authentication for banks and credit card companies, and identity verification for online shopping means that not being able to use these services is a major constraint.

For those who need both data communication and voice calls, we introduce methods of either choosing a more expensive "voice call-enabled prepaid SIM" or using call apps that can be used in conjunction with data-only SIMs.

For travelers visiting Japan for business purposes or planning to communicate directly with local people, this functional limitation is an important point to carefully consider before travel.

Which Should You Choose?

The optimal SIM card for your Japan trip varies greatly depending on your length of stay, budget, and usage needs.

The optimal choice is closely related to your travel style, so it's important to accurately understand your own needs.

Both postpaid and prepaid SIM cards have their own strengths and weaknesses. Next, we'll introduce with specific examples which types of travelers are suited to which type.

By making the choice that best fits your situation, you can minimize stress related to internet connection during your stay in Japan and maximize your travel experience.

People Suited for Postpaid SIM

1. 2.People who need large amounts of data communication, such as video conferences for work
2. 3.People who need to make calls with a local phone number
3. 4.People who frequently visit Japan
4.  

Travelers Staying in Japan for More Than 2 Weeks

For travelers staying in Japan for more than 2 weeks, there are reasons why postpaid SIM is more suitable.

For long-term stays, even considering the initial setup hassle, postpaid is advantageous in terms of total cost and performance.

For stays of more than 2 weeks, contracting one postpaid plan is often more economical than purchasing multiple prepaid SIMs.

For example, a typical 1-month fixed-rate plan offers around 20GB of data, which is more cost-effective than combining multiple short-term prepaid SIMs.

Additionally, unexpected communication needs often arise during long-term stays, and the peace of mind of having consistently stable high-speed communication secured with a postpaid SIM is significant.

Furthermore, we introduce scenarios where the call function with a local phone number can be unexpectedly useful when touring various parts of Japan.

For those planning a stay of more than 2 weeks, we recommend postpaid SIM which, despite taking a little time for contract procedures, offers greater long-term benefits.

People Who Need Large Amounts of Data Communication, Such as Video Conferences for Work

For visitors to Japan for business purposes or those requiring large amounts of data communication, postpaid SIM is the optimal choice.

For online meetings and cloud service use, stable high-speed communication environment without restrictions is essential.

Video conferences consume about 1GB to 2.5GB of data per hour, so if you need to handle multiple meetings, the data amount of prepaid SIMs is often insufficient.

With postpaid SIM, you can choose large-capacity data plans or unlimited plans, allowing you to focus on your work without worrying about speed restrictions.

We also introduce plans that allow stable handling of high-load communications needed in business scenes, such as downloading and uploading large files and using remote desktop.

Furthermore, having a local phone number for contact with Japanese business partners is a big advantage.

For business visits to Japan where data consumption is difficult to predict, postpaid SIM is a reliable choice to avoid the risk of losing business opportunities due to communication restrictions.

People Who Need to Make Calls with a Local Phone Number

For visitors who need to make calls with a local phone number during their stay in Japan, postpaid SIM is an overwhelmingly advantageous choice.

Having a Japanese phone number enables smooth communication in business and daily life. Most prepaid SIMs are data-only, with either no voice call function or requiring additional fees or separate settings.

On the other hand, with postpaid SIM, you're assigned a Japanese mobile phone number, which can be used in various situations such as hotel and restaurant reservations, taxi arrangements, and emergency contacts.

Especially in Japan, a phone number is often required when using online reservation systems or registering for services, and having a local number makes these procedures go smoothly.

We also introduce how having a local phone number can improve reliability and ease of contact as a means of communication with Japanese business partners or clients.

In situations with language barriers, direct dialogue by phone is often more effective in problem-solving than email, and in such cases, this function plays a very important role.

People Who Frequently Visit Japan

For repeat visitors who frequently come to Japan, postpaid SIM is the most rational choice in the long term.

The continuity of being able to maintain the same SIM card and phone number is a highly valuable benefit in building business or personal relationships.

Many telecom providers offer services to temporarily suspend contracts, allowing you to maintain your contract at a minimal fee while away from Japan and resume communication services with the same number and account upon return.

This saves time and effort by eliminating the need to purchase and set up a new SIM card every time you visit Japan.

We also introduce the convenience of not having to provide new contact information to Japanese acquaintances or business partners each time, maintaining a consistent means of communication.

Furthermore, the ability to utilize loyalty programs and discount services based on long-term use is also attractive. For those who visit Japan multiple times a year, this continuity and convenience are major advantages not available with prepaid SIMs.

For those planning future visits to Japan, we recommend contracting a postpaid SIM from a long-term perspective.

People Suited for Prepaid SIM

1. 1.Short-term (1-2 week) travelers
2. 2.People who want to strictly manage their budget
3. 3.People who mainly use light internet such as social media and map apps
4. 4.People who prioritize simplicity of procedures

Short-term (1-2 Week) Travelers

For those planning a short-term (1-2 week) trip to Japan, prepaid SIM is often the ideal choice.

The convenience of being able to use it immediately upon arrival and not requiring procedures at departure is a major attraction for travelers who want to maximize their limited travel period.

For short stays, the time spent on postpaid SIM contract and cancellation procedures is rarely worth it compared to the actual usage period.

With prepaid SIM that can be purchased immediately at the airport arrival lobby, you can connect to the internet right away when looking up transportation to your accommodation.

We also introduce options with abundant data plans specifically designed for short periods such as 1 week or 10 days, allowing you to choose a plan that perfectly matches your stay duration.

Furthermore, upon returning home, you only need to discard the used SIM card, eliminating the need to allocate time for cancellation procedures on the busy final day of your trip.

For short-term travelers who want to focus on sightseeing and experiences during their limited stay in Japan, this simplicity is a very valuable element.

People Who Want to Strictly Manage Their Budget

For visitors to Japan who want to strictly manage their travel budget, prepaid SIM is an ideal choice.

The peace of mind that no communication costs above the predetermined amount will occur is a big advantage for those who prefer planned travel.

It's especially recommended for those who plan their travel budget down to the yen or budget-conscious travelers like backpackers.

Being prepaid, prepaid SIM doesn't automatically incur additional fees even if you exceed your data usage. Instead, only the communication speed decreases, so there's no worry about unexpected expenses, and you can certainly keep within your set budget.

Also, being able to know the exact communication cost before travel allows you to accurately estimate your total budget along with accommodation, food, and transportation costs.

Furthermore, we introduce the peace of mind of being able to complete your trip without financial anxiety, as there's no risk of unexpected bills arriving after returning home.

This simple fee structure is very attractive, especially for those sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations or those who want to keep their credit card usage records concise.

People Who Mainly Use Light Internet Such as Social Media and Map Apps

For travelers planning a short-term stay in Japan, prepaid SIM is the optimal choice.

For short stays of 1-2 weeks, prepaid SIM is convenient as it has no contractual obligations and can be used only for the necessary period.

Prepaid SIM can be purchased immediately at airport arrival lobbies or electronics stores and can be set up easily on the spot. For short-term visitors, long-term contracts and complex procedures are unnecessary, saving time and effort.

Since you purchase plans with predetermined capacity and period, there's no worry about unexpected additional charges. This is a big advantage for those who want to manage their travel budget as planned.

There are numerous plans available that provide sufficient communication volume for basic internet use during travel, such as searching for tourist spots, sharing memories on social media, and moving around with map apps.

People Who Prioritize Simplicity of Procedures

For those who prioritize simplicity of procedures, prepaid SIM is an ideal choice.

It saves time and effort as it doesn't require cumbersome contract procedures or document creation.

Prepaid SIM can be easily purchased at airport arrival lobbies, urban electronics stores, convenience stores, etc. With just a passport presentation, you can complete everything from purchase to start of use on the spot.

No cancellation procedure is required for the contract. When the set period ends, the service automatically terminates. Since there's no need to visit a store for cancellation procedures before returning home, you can comfortably use the communication service until the last day.

Online purchase is also possible, and if you pre-order before arriving in Japan, you can use airport pickup or hotel delivery services. For those worried about language barriers, many providers offer multilingual support, allowing for peace of mind.

With a simple fee structure, you can connect to the internet immediately by just choosing the period and capacity you want to use, allowing you to enjoy your stay in Japan without feeling stress about securing a communication environment.

Choose According to Your Travel Purpose

To make your trip to Japan more comfortable, we recommend choosing between postpaid SIM and prepaid SIM according to your travel purpose.

Choose the optimal option according to your stay style and communication needs.

For short-term travelers, prepaid SIM is convenient as it can be used for a limited period without contractual obligations.

It's also suitable for those who want to strictly manage their budget or those who mainly use basic services such as social media and map apps.

On the other hand, the flexibility of postpaid SIM might be helpful for those planning long-term stays or those who need large amounts of data communication.

For those who prioritize simplicity of procedures, prepaid SIM is optimal with everything from purchase to activation to cancellation being simple. They can be easily obtained at airports or in town and can be used immediately.

Considering your travel purpose and style and setting up the optimal communication environment can make your stay in Japan more fulfilling. Choose the SIM that's optimal for your travel plan and enjoy a comfortable trip to Japan.