Welcome to Tokyo! Getting a local SIM card should be one of the first things to do when you land at Narita International Airport. This will allow you to have cellular data coverage and make calls during your stay in Japan. Buying a SIM card at the airport is convenient, easy, and cost-effective. Here is a complete guide on how and where to buy a SIM card Narita Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to buy a SIM card Narita Airport?
There are several options for buying a SIM card Narita Airport. You can either order one online in advance and pick it up at the airport or buy one immediately from a vending machine or a counter. Here are some of the providers that offer Tokyo Narita Airport SIM Card:
1. SoftBank Counter
SoftBank Counter is located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Narita Airport, but the only counter in Terminal 1 sells SIM card Narita Airport. Look for signs directing you to the mobile carrier counters.
You can purchase prepaid data-only SIM cards or mobile phone number packages here without needing to show passport or residence card information. Payment is by credit card.
Data-only SIM cards start from around 10 USD for 1GB of data valid for 1 month. There are larger data packages available as well lasting 3-6 months.
Opening hours: 4:30 am – 11:00 pm
Location: Terminal 1: Outside customs and quarantine, before you exit into the arrivals area.
2. Bic Camera
While SIM card Narita Airport sales are not specifically listed on the airport website, the Bic Camera electronics store near Terminal 2 arrivals has a good selection of prepaid data SIM cards you can choose from the major carriers like SoftBank, AU, and Docomo.
Opening hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Location: Terminal 2, Main Building, 4th Floor
3. Narita Travel Service Center
This is located on the 1st floor of Terminal 1 and 3 Station, 1-1 of Terminal 2. They sell SIM cards from major providers like SoftBank, Docomo, and AU. Prices start at around 20 USD for 7 days of coverage.
Opening hours: All Days: 8:30-19:00
Location: There are 2 locations:
- JR EAST Travel Service Center – Narita Airport Terminal 1
- JR EAST Travel Service Center – Narita Airport Terminal 2·3
4. 7-Eleven
There are three 7-Eleven convenience stores at Narita Airport that sell prepaid SIM card Narita Airport – one in Terminal 1, one in Terminal 2, and another in Terminal 3. They are open 24 hours and provide SIMs from SoftBank, Docomo, and AU. A 7-day SIM card costs around 26 USD.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Location:
- Terminal 1: Landside on the 1st floor, near the arrivals exits. Follow signs for “Bus Terminal”.
- Terminal 2: Landside on the 1st floor, near the West exits and bus stop area.
5. Lawson
Purchasing a SIM card Narita Airport from Lawson is very convenient for arriving international travelers as the stores are located right in the airport. Lawson is one of the major convenience store chains in Japan. There is a Lawson store located in both terminals 1 and 2 at Narita Airport.
At the Lawson stores in Narita Airport, you can purchase Tokyo Narita Airport SIM card from the major Japanese carriers. The SIM cards come preloaded with data and are ready to use right out of the box. No registration is required.
Popular options include 1-day data packages with 1-2GB of data for around 13 – 20 USD. There are also longer-term packages available for up to 1 month.
Instructions are available in English at the stores. Staff can also provide basic assistance in English.
Opening hours: 4:30 am – 10:00 pm Daily
Location: There are 2 locations:
- Terminal 1: Outside customs and quarantine, before you exit into the arrivals area.
- Terminal 2: In the basement shopping area, near the food court. Take the elevator or stairs downstairs.
6. Vending Machine
Near the arrivals lobby in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, there are vending machines operated by Bic Camera. These machines have prepaid data SIM card Narita Airport from major carriers like SoftBank, AU, and docomo.
Some convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson also have vending machines outside that stock basic prepaid SIM cards. These are usually located near the stores themselves.
The airport also has standalone SIM vending machines in the arrival areas near the information counters. These will have a good selection of prepaid options from all three carriers.
Vending machines accepting coins and bills can be found scattered throughout the shopping areas and corridors inside the terminals as well.
Vending machine prices are comparable to the storefront prices. Having the vending machines provides a convenient self-service option to purchase a SIM, especially if the store counters have long lines. Just be sure to have Japanese cash on hand to use them.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Location:
- Terminal 1: Central Building, 1st Floor – South Wing, 1st Floor – Central Building, Basement 1
- Terminal 2: Main Building, 1st Floor
- Terminal 3: Main Building, 1st Floor
Most Tokyo Narita Airport SIM card can be activated on the spot. Prices range from around 16 – 33 USD for prepaid data SIMs depending on the data allowance. Make sure to have your passport on hand. Hope this helps you find a SIM easily at Narita Airport!
II. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card Narita Airport
Here are some tips on what to have ready when purchasing your SIM card Narita Airport:
- Passport: This is mandatory to present as proof of identity when buying a SIM card.
- SIM card compatible device: Your phone needs to be unlocked and support the frequencies used in Japan. Most modern smartphones are compatible, including iPhones and Android devices.
- Credit/debit card or cash: Most places accept credit/debit card payments. But it is wise to also carry some cash in Yen in case you encounter any stores that only accept cash. ATMs are available at the airport to withdraw cash.
- Japan travel itinerary: Have an idea of your travel dates within Japan. SIM card plans are available for 1 week, 2 weeks, or even a monthly duration. Pick one that covers your entire trip.
- Activation instructions: Read the activation guide provided with your SIM card properly. You may need to provide personal details or activate the SIM online before it starts working.
Following the above preparations will ensure your SIM card Narita Airport is activated quickly when you land in Tokyo, allowing you to get connected right away.
III. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card Narita Airport
Besides physical SIM card Narita Airport, eSIM (embedded SIM) is a popular digital alternative available at Narita Airport. Here are some benefits of choosing eSIM over regular SIM card Narita Airport when traveling to Japan:
- Convenience: eSIM allows you to activate a data plan digitally on your phone without having to physically insert a SIM card. This saves you time at the airport.
- Flexibility: You can switch eSIM providers easily without having to remove and change SIM cards. This gives the flexibility to find the best rate or switch plans during your trip.
- Dual SIM functionality: eSIM lets you have your existing home SIM and a Japan SIM active simultaneously on your phone. This dual SIM ability is useful for receiving calls/messages from home.
Some recommended eSIM providers at Narita Airport are Airalo, esimjapan.net, and Always Online Wireless. esimjapan.net plans start around $8 USD for 1 week of data. Be sure your phone supports eSIM before choosing this option.
By utilizing an eSIM from esimjapan.net, travelers can avoid roaming charges and access affordable data to help them navigate Japan freely. Visit esimjapan.net to explore options for keeping connected smoothly during your trip. A digital SIM chip provides a convenient cellular solution:
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Get esimjapan.net’s 7-Day plan with 10GB for only $15:
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IV. FAQs on Buying SIM/eSIM at Narita Airport
Can I buy a SIM card late at night or early morning at Narita Airport?
Yes, you can buy SIM cards anytime as some stores like 7-Eleven and the Telephone Card Shop are open 24 hours a day.
Do SIM card shops at Narita Airport accept credit/debit cards or is it cash only?
Most SIM card providers accept major credit cards including Visa and Mastercard, as well as debit cards like Cirrus. However, some smaller resellers may only take cash payments in Japanese Yen.
Which network provider has the best SIM card or eSIM plan for Japan travel?
SoftBank, AU, Docomo, and esimjapan.net are some recommended options. Compare their coverage, speeds, prices, and validity to find one that best fits your trip. SoftBank generally has the widest coverage in Japan.
Can tourists get eSIM plans for Japan or is it only for residents?
Many eSIM providers like esimjapan.net and Always Online Wireless cater specifically to travelers and offer affordable short-term plans. As a tourist, you can definitely get eSIM in Japan, just check the provider’s website beforehand.
What is the average cost of a SIM card or eSIM plan for 2 weeks in Japan?
A 2-week Japan SIM card typically costs around 30 USD. eSIM plans to start at $8 USD and go up depending on the data allowance. For 15 days, an eSIM may cost about $30 USD for 15GB of data.
V. Final Words
In summary, Narita Airport has multiple convenient options to purchase SIM cards or eSIM for your phone. Visit the dedicated SIM card Narita Airport outlets like Narita Travel Service Center or 7-Eleven for guaranteed authentic cards at standard rates. Do some research to find a provider and plan a duration that suits your Japan travel needs. For ultimate flexibility, consider eSIM. Follow the necessary preparation steps outlined earlier for a smooth experience. Enjoy your trip!