Docomo SIM Cards and eSIM: Detailed Guides for Tourists

Staying connected while traveling in Japan is essential, and Docomo offers reliable options with both SIM cards and eSIMs. This guide simplifies everything you need to know—from choosing the best option to setting it up—so you can enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your trip.

I. Quick Facts about NTT Docomo

Docomo started up in 1991 and their full name is NTT Docomo – they’re one of the biggest mobile service providers in Japan.

• Name: NTT Docomo, Inc. (abbreviation of “do communications over the mobile network”)
• Founding: 1991 (spun off from NTT)
• Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
• Parent company: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT)
• Industry: Mobile phone operator
• Customers: Over 80 million subscribers in Japan
• Home internet: Fiber optic and 5G home router
• Home phone: Mobile network-based phone service
• Other services: Cloud storage, security, entertainment content

• Technology: Pioneer in mobile technologies like W-CDMA and i-mode. Actively developing 5G and 6G technologies

II. NTT Docomo Speed and Coverage in Japan

As Japan’s largest wireless carrier, Docomo spends a lot of money on infrastructure to ensure country-wide 4G accessibility and user satisfaction. Here is an overview of their coverage map and average data speeds across different areas of Japan.

1. NTT Docomo Coverage in Japan

Here is an analysis of NTT Docomo’s coverage based on Opensignal’s October 2024 Japan Mobile Network Experience report:

• Coverage Experience: Docomo wins the Coverage Experience award outright with a score of 9.1/10. This means that Opensignal users on Docomo’s network have experienced excellent indoor and outdoor coverage across Japan.
• 5G Coverage: Docomo also wins 5G Coverage Experience alone, scoring 4.2/10. This indicates that when within a 5G coverage area, users could reliably remain connected to Docomo’s 5G network.
• Availability: Docomo ranks first overall for Availability at 99.7%. This measures the percentage of time users were able to access any available mobile network technology.
• 5G Availability: Docomo places third for 5G Availability at 8.5%, demonstrating room for expansion of its 5G network coverage footprint relative to leaders SoftBank and au.

Overall, the data shows that NTT Docomo offers industry-leading nationwide coverage across Japan for both overall and 5G networks. However, its 5G network is still expanding relative to competitors. Docomo’s network can be relied on to deliver connectivity across wide areas of the country according to Opensignal users.

2. Docomo Network Speed

Here is an analysis of NTT Docomo’s speeds based on the October 2024 report from Opensignal:

• Download Speed Experience: Docomo ranks second for the Download Speed Experience award with a speed of 44.8 Mbps, following au, which achieved 54.7 Mbps.
• Regional Download Speeds: Docomo wins the Download Speed Experience award outright in two regions – Hokkaido and Shikoku.
• 5G Speed: For 5G Download Speed, Docomo comes third place after au and Rakuten Mobile, with scores of 147.3 Mbps. This represents a drop of around 20 Mbps compared to Docomo’s previous outright win.
• Upload Speed Experience: For overall upload speeds, Docomo comes last, with a score of 7Mbps. This is a decrease of around 1 Mbps from the previous report.

In summary, while NTT Docomo remains highly competitive for speeds in Japan, the latest report shows some declines across key metrics like overall download speeds compared to previous periods. It also lags the frontrunner Rakuten Mobile considerably for upload speeds. Docomo maintains leadership in certain regions however and jointly tops 5G download speeds.

III. NTT Docomo connectivity options for travelers coming to Japan

Here are some options for travelers to Japan through NTT Docomo:

IV. Best Docomo SIM Card for Tourists and Cost

Before Docomo launched the Japan Welcome SIM & Wi-Fi but it was discontinued on September 30th, 2019. While NTT Docomo does not offer prepaid SIMs directly, various SIM cards for tourists work with the NTT Docomo network. Below is a list of tourist SIM options using the Docomo network from bMobile, eConnect, JAL ABC, IlJmio, Sakura Mobile, Japan Wireless, Nippon, and Wi-Ho:

1. bMobile Visitor SIM:

The bMobile Visitor SIM is a well-rounded option for staying connected in Japan, offering flexibility, affordability, and exceptional network coverage.

However, the help desk only responds to inquiries written in English and may take up to three business days to reply. Quick resolutions may not always be possible. While the plans offer enough data for most travelers, heavy data users may find the lack of unlimited options limiting. Activation and setup via telephone is required, which takes time before you can start using the service

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
bMobile Visitor SIM	1,980 yen	~US$13	5GB in 4G/3G	10 days
	2,970 yen	~US$19	7GB in 4G/3G	21 days

2. eConnect Japan Prepaid Data SIM

The eConnect Japan Prepaid Data SIM is an excellent choice for travelers needing large data allowances. With plans offering 50GB or 100GB for up to 31 days, it’s ideal for heavy users who require reliable connectivity for streaming, working, or frequent online use.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
eConnect Japan Prepaid Data SIM	¥5,400	~US$34	50GB in 4G/LTE/3G	31 days
	¥6,400	~US$40	50GB in 5G/4G(LTE)/3G	31 days
	¥7,200	~US$45	100GB in 5G/4G(LTE)/3G	31 days

3. JAL ABC SIM

Flexible plans with unlimited or fixed data options (7–30 days), convenient airport pickup at Narita, Haneda, and Kansai.

• Pros: Reliable nationwide coverage, multi-type SIMs, and no activation hassle for SIM cards.
• Cons: APN setup required, no refunds or exchanges, and limited to 30-day plans.
• Best For: Travelers who prefer physical SIMs and reliable connectivity with flexible data options.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
JAL ABC Data & Voice SIM 10 minutes/1 call (Domestic outgoing calls only)	8,900JPY	~US$56	5GB in 4G/LTE	15 days
	9,900JPY	~US$62	5GB in 4G/LTE	30 days
JAL ABC Unlimited Japan Prepaid SIM	4,500JPY	~US$28	Unlimited	7 days
	6,000JPY	~US$37	Unlimited	15 days
	7,000JPY	~US$44	Unlimited	30 days

4. IlJmio Travel SIM

Features: Data plans from 3GB to 55GB with nationwide coverage via NTT Docomo. Rechargeable and compatible with most devices.

• Pros: Rechargeable, flexible data plans, and multilingual support.
• Cons: No unlimited data or voice/SMS service; APN setup required.
• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers who need flexible, rechargeable plans.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
IlJmio Japan Travel SIM	Set by the retailer	Set by the retailer	3GB in 4G/LTE	30 days
			6GB in 4G/lTE	30 days
			10GB in 4G/lTE	30 days
			15GB in 4G/lTE	30 days
			25GB in 4G/lTE	30 days
			35GB in 4G/lTE	30 days
			55GB in 4G/lTE	30 days

5. Sakura Mobile

Features: Truly unlimited data with no cut-offs, available for 5–90 days. Delivered to airports, hotels, or residences.

• Pros: Unlimited data, tethering supported, and convenient pickup options.
• Cons: Data-only service, slightly higher cost for short-term plans.
• Best For: Travelers seeking unlimited data with flexible delivery options.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
Sakura Mobile	3,850 JPY	~US$24	Unlimited	5 days
	4,950 JPY	~US$32	Unlimited	8 days
	6,270 JPY	~US$39	Unlimited	12 days
	7,150 JPY	~US$45	Unlimited	15 days
	8,415 JPY	~US$53	Unlimited	21 days
	9,900 JPY	~US$62	Unlimited	30 days
	15,950 JPY	~US$100	Unlimited	45 days
	17,600 JPY	~US$111	Unlimited	60 days
	26,400 JPY	~US$166	Unlimited	90 days

6. Japan Wireless

Features: Unlimited data with multi-fit SIM cards and nationwide coverage via NTT Docomo. Plans for 7–30 days.

• Pros: Affordable unlimited data, no activation needed, and reliable coverage.
• Cons: Data-only service, limited speeds (150Mbps max), and manual APN setup required.
• Best For: Travelers who want affordable unlimited plans for short stays.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
Japan Wireless	¥2,760	~US$18	Unlimited	7 days
	¥4,200	~US$27	Unlimited	10 days
	¥3,840	~US$24	Unlimited	15 days
	¥5,040	~US$32	Unlimited	15 days
	¥4,800	~US$31	Unlimited	30 days

7. Wi-Ho

Features: Unlimited data with download speeds up to 788 Mbps, plans for 7–30 days, and pickup at airports.

• Pros: Fast speeds, convenient airport pickup, and easy APN setup.
• Cons: Data-only, no refunds or replacements for lost SIMs, and manual APN setup for iOS.
• Best For: Travelers who prioritize speed and convenient airport pickup options.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
Wi-Ho SIM Card free for first day	¥6,000	~US$38	Unlimited	7+1 days
	¥7,000	~US$44	Unlimited	15+1 days
	¥8,000	~US$50	Unlimited	30+1 days

8. Nippon SIM for Japan

Features: Flexible data-only plans powered by NTT Docomo with multi-size SIMs. No contracts or commitments.

• Pros: Affordable pricing, flexible plans, and reliable nationwide coverage.
• Cons: Data-only, limited retail availability, and APN setup required.
• Best For: Budget travelers who need simple, no-frills connectivity.

Docomo Network	Price (JPY)	Price (USD)	Data	Validity
Standard Plan	¥2,480 – ¥7,980	~US$15 – $50	3-50GB	30 to 180 days
Large Capacity Plan	¥3,280 – ¥12,980	~US$20 – $82	50-135GB	30 to 90 days
Unlimited Plan	¥1,980 – ¥4,980	~US$12 – $31	2+GB/Day	3 to 33 days

V. Does Japan NTT Docomo support SIM?

Yes, Docomo began offering eSIMs in 2020 for compatible devices but requires a 12 or 24-month contract with a Japanese residency card. For short trips, consider eSIMs from other carriers, as they allow you to set up a phone plan digitally without a physical SIM card.

• bMobile offers an eSIM package made just for visitors to Japan. It has the same price as the prepaid SIM cards mentioned above.
• Sakura Mobile provides eSIMs for tourists coming to Japan. Their eSIM plans are identical to their prepaid SIM card plans.

eSIM is more convenient since you don’t need to bring a SIM card to Japan or visit a store to swap cards. You can purchase and activate an eSIM from NTT Docomo entirely online before your trip begins.

VI. Where To Buy a Docomo SIM Card & eSIM?

There are several options available for purchasing a Docomo SIM card or eSIM if you need mobile data during a visit to Japan.

1. Where to Buy Docomo SIM card for Japan

You can buy Docomo prepaid voice & data SIM cards at the following locations across Japan:

• BIC Camera / Yodobashi Camera Stores: Two leading electronic retail chains that offer Docomo SIM cards at outlets across Japan.
• Docomo Shops: Official Docomo postpaid and prepaid SIM cards available at their stores in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other major tourist cities.
• Don Quijote Stores: Shopping chain with over 160 stores across Japan selling Docomo prepaid SIMs.
• Online: Rakuten Global Market, Amazon Japan, Japan Experience, and other websites ship Docomo visitor SIM cards worldwide.

2. Where to Buy Japan Docomo eSIM

Several options exist for acquiring an NTT Docomo Japan eSIM, including:

• Official Website: Visit the bMobile website or Sakura Mobile website where you can purchase an eSIM for the NTT Docomo network.
• eSIM Provider: Purchase from an online eSIM retailer like esimjapan.net. They offer various data plans and can email you the eSIM for activation right from your phone.

Ditch the hassle of physical SIM cards and switch to eSIM Japan—the ultimate solution for seamless connectivity.

Why Choose eSIM Over Physical SIM?

• Instant Activation: Install and activate your eSIM in minutes—no airport lines or stores needed.
• No Physical Card: Manage everything digitally, no risk of losing a SIM.
• Affordable Plans: Starting at just $5 for 3 days, with options up to 30 days.
• Nationwide Coverage: Reliable 4G LTE from Tokyo to Kyoto.
• Hotspot Sharing: Share your connection with friends and family.
• Save Up to 70%: Avoid expensive roaming fees.

Don’t get stuck in the past. Upgrade to eSIM Japan today! Visit esimjapan.net and experience the future of connectivity.

VII. How to Activate NTT Docomo Japan eSIM/SIM

Whether you purchased a physical SIM or eSIM plan from NTT Docomo, below are the activation instructions you’ll need to get connected while visiting Japan.

1. How to Use NTT Docomo Japan SIM Card

Activating your Docomo SIM is simple. Just follow these steps:

• Insert SIM. Remove your phone’s SIM slot and insert the NTT Docomo SIM card.
• Power your device. Allow it to detect the new Docomo SIM.
• Complete the SIM activation by following any on-screen instructions or using the provided activation method.
• Configure APN settings. Head to your phone’s mobile network settings and configure the APN (access point name) using the details provided with your SIM kit.
• Test connectivity. Make a test call or use some data to verify your services have been properly set up.

Following activation, credit and data can be added effortlessly through the NTT Docomo site or app anytime. Everything functions smoothly.

2. How to Activate Japan NTT Docomo eSIM

Follow these simple steps to get started with your Docomo eSIM:

• Download and install the eSIM profile from the provided QR code or link.
• Open the eSIM activation menu on your device and follow the prompts.
• Configure Network Settings. Go to your cellular network settings and select the NTT Docomo eSIM.
• Test Connectivity. Send a test message, make a call, or browse online to verify your connection.

Once activated, you can immediately begin using services like messaging, calls, and data on NTT Docomo’s cellular network. The eSIM activation workflow is swift and straightforward, allowing you to get connected to the local network even before you arrive in Japan. You’ll be all set up and ready to go for your trip at your convenience from anywhere.

VIII. Japan NTT Docomo Call and SMS Rates

While MVNOs provide flexible short-term options, you may still want a traditional long-term contract if visiting Japan for an extended period. Once activated, your Docomo SIM Card lets you make calls and send texts in Japan at the following rates:

IX. How to Top-up Docomo SIM Card/eSIM

Topping up your prepaid SIM card for more data is easy once you know the basic process, which can differ a bit depending on your Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) on the Docomo network in Japan.

• Online Portal: Most MVNOs offer an online portal where you can log in and purchase additional data. You’ll need a Japanese credit card or bank account linked to complete the transaction.
• Convenience Store Cards: Top-up data cards are widely available at convenience stores across Japan. Simply purchase a card with the desired amount, then enter the card’s code on your MVNO’s website or app.
• Automated Phone Service: Some MVNOs provide an automated phone service for topping up data. You would call a dedicated number and follow the voice prompts to add funds over the phone.

Check your carrier’s website or contact support for the exact top-up process, as steps may vary. Prepaid SIMs often have data limits per purchase and expiration dates. Top up only the estimated amount needed to avoid waste.

XI. FAQs about Docomo

XII. Final Words

We hope this detailed guide has provided you with all the necessary information to make the right decision for your connectivity needs in Japan. Docomo SIM cards offer reliable coverage, speeds, and good prepaid plans for travelers exploring Japan. Buy the Docomo prepaid plan that best matches your data usage, trip duration, and budget needs for smooth connectivity throughout your visit. Enjoy your travels in Japan!