Arrival通信
SIM, eSIM, pocket Wi-Fi and IC cards (Suica, ICOCA)
How to stay connected and pay for trains with one tap from day one.
Last reviewed · Sep 2026
Staying connected
| Option | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| eSIM (data only) | Solo travellers with a recent phone | Buy and install before you fly; no Japanese phone number |
| Physical tourist SIM | Older phones that support it | Airport counters close at night |
| Pocket Wi-Fi | Groups and families sharing one connection | Another device to charge and return |
| Home roaming | Very short trips | Often expensive — check your plan |
IC cards: your transport wallet
Suica (JR East, Tokyo), PASMO (Tokyo) and ICOCA (JR West, Osaka/Kyoto) are rechargeable tap cards. They work interchangeably on nearly every train, subway and bus in Japan's major cities — and in convenience stores, vending machines and many shops.
- iPhone and Apple Watch users can add Suica, PASMO or ICOCA to Apple Wallet and top up with a foreign card — often the easiest option
- Physical cards are sold at station machines and airport counters; tourist versions such as Welcome Suica need no deposit
- Top up with cash at any station machine; ¥3,000–5,000 is a good start
- Tap in and out — fares are deducted automatically