eSIM Japan
Best eSIM for Osaka: 9 Providers, Unlimited Data
Feb
Written by Peter Moore – eSIM Content Writer
Best eSIM for Osaka: eSIM4
eSIM4 is our top travel eSIM for Osaka. Plans start at $1.98 for 500MB over 7 days on the SoftBank and KDDI networks. That is the lowest starting price of the 9 providers on this page, before promo codes.
eSIM4 sells Japan-wide plans, so one plan covers Osaka plus a visit to Kyoto, Nara or Tokyo on the same trip. Install it at home, and you get mobile data as soon as you land at Kansai International Airport (KIX).
Why We Chose eSIM4
- Price: From $1.98, up to 59% off the regular price.
- Network: SoftBank and KDDI, with 5G.
- Plans: 500MB to unlimited data, for 3 to 30 days. Every plan allows hotspot use.
- Instant Setup: Sent by email straight away, with no ID check and no store visit.
- Full Features: 24/7 support and optional app for calls and SMS.
Osaka eSIM Plans and Prices: 9 Providers Compared
Of the 9 providers compared here, eSIM4 has the lowest starting price for Osaka at $1.98, before promo codes. GigSky starts at $2.99, aloSIM at $3.50 and Roamless at $3.84. Every plan here is a Japan plan, so it covers Osaka and the rest of the country.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Starting Price | Network |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | * eSIM4 | 4.9/5 | $3.60 $1.98 | SoftBank / KDDI |
| 2 | Saily | 4.7/5 | $3.99 | KDDI / SoftBank |
| 3 | Holafly | 4.6/5 | $3.90 | KDDI / SoftBank |
| 4 | Nomad | 4.5/5 | $4.00 | KDDI / SoftBank |
| 5 | GigSky | 4.4/5 | $2.99 | Not named |
| 6 | Roamless | 4.3/5 | $3.84 | KDDI / SoftBank |
| 7 | aloSIM | 4.2/5 | $3.50 | KDDI |
| 8 | Jetpac | 4.1/5 | $5.00 | KDDI |
| 9 | Airalo | 4.0/5 | $4.00 | SoftBank / KDDI |
Data Plan or Unlimited Data: How Much Do You Need?
Pick an eSIM data plan for maps, messages and photos. Pick unlimited data for video, video calls or a hotspot.
| Your trip | eSIM4 plan | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Stopover or day trip | 500MB, 7 days | $1.98 |
| Long weekend, maps and messages | 1GB, 7 days | $2.98 |
| One week, maps, messages and photos | 5GB, 30 days | $9.98 |
| Two weeks, normal use | 10GB, 30 days | $16.98 |
| Two weeks or more, lots of social media | 20GB, 30 days | $23.98 |
| Video, streaming or hotspot | Unlimited, 3 to 30 days | From $9.98 |
Is 20GB enough for a two-week trip to Japan? For maps, messages and photos, yes. That is about 1.4GB a day. Video drives most data usage. Netflix says HD video can use up to 3GB an hour.
eSIM4 unlimited plans give full speed for the first 3GB each day, then about 1 Mbps until midnight local time. A 15-day plan costs $46.98. Every plan allows hotspot use.
Pick Your eSIM4 Plan for Osaka →
Best eSIMs for Osaka: 9 Providers Ranked
eSIM4 ranks first of the 9 eSIM providers for Osaka, then Saily and Holafly. Each card shows the provider’s network, plans, setup and full price table, in USD.
eSIM4
Top Pick for Osaka
eSIM4 is our top pick for Osaka. It runs on the SoftBank and KDDI networks and has the lowest starting price of the 9 providers here, at $1.98 before promo codes. Install it before you fly, then turn it on when you land at Kansai International Airport.
Coverage
eSIM4’s Japan plans run on SoftBank and KDDI, with 5G. One plan covers Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and the rest of Japan.
Data Plans
Plans run from 500MB for 7 days at $1.98 to 20GB for 30 days at $23.98. Unlimited plans run from 3 to 30 days, from $9.98. They give full speed for the first 3GB each day, then about 1 Mbps until midnight local time. Every plan allows hotspot use.
Activation Process
iPhone owners on a recent iOS can tap a Direct Installation link in eSIM4’s email, and it installs itself. Everyone else scans that email’s QR code or enters its details manually. Do this before flying to Osaka, then switch your eSIM on and enable data roaming when you land. Your plan starts when you activate it. eSIM4 refunds a plan within 30 days if you have not activated it.
Price
Sale prices are up to 59% below the regular price. The 1GB plan costs $2.98, the lowest 1GB price on this page before promo codes. The 30-day unlimited plan costs $67.98, down from $124.20.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 MB | 7 Days | $3.60 $1.98 | Save 45% |
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $7.20 $2.98 | Save 59% |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $11.70 $4.98 | Save 57% |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $14.40 $6.98 | Save 52% |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $19.80 $9.98 | Save 50% |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $32.40 $16.98 | Save 48% |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $45.00 $23.98 | Save 47% |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $20.70 $9.98 | Save 52% |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $30.60 $15.98 | Save 48% |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $47.70 $24.98 | Save 48% |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $62.10 $32.98 | Save 47% |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $86.40 $46.98 | Save 46% |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $124.20 $67.98 | Save 45% |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lowest 1GB, 3-day unlimited and 5-day unlimited prices on this page before promo codes
- Dual network access (SoftBank + KDDI)
- Refund within 30 days if not activated
- Instant delivery by email, with no ID check
- 24/7 customer support available
- Every plan allows hotspot use
Cons
- No phone number included; add the Yabb app for calls and texts
Saily
Data and Unlimited Plans
Saily sells Japan data plans from 1GB to 20GB, plus unlimited plans for 5 to 30 days. It runs on KDDI and SoftBank, and you install it from the Saily app.
Coverage
Saily operates on Japan’s KDDI and SoftBank networks.
Activation Process
Saily’s app has an Install eSIM button that sets everything up on your phone. Bought on Saily’s website? Use its emailed QR code, or enter SM-DP+ address wbg.prod.ondemandconnectivity.com with your activation code. On landing in Osaka, turn off mobile data switching, and your plan starts on its own.
Price
Saily’s 1GB plan costs $3.99, against $2.98 at eSIM4. Its 5GB / 30-day plan costs $10.99, against $9.98 at eSIM4. A 10-day unlimited plan costs $34.99, against $32.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $3.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $7.99 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $10.99 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $17.99 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $24.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unlimited plans from 5 to 30 days
- KDDI and SoftBank network coverage
- Easy installation and activation process
- Data plans from 1GB to 20GB
Cons
- No unlimited plan shorter than 5 days
- Customer support is not available 24/7
Holafly
Unlimited Data Plans
Holafly sells only unlimited data plans for Japan, in every length from 1 to 90 days. Plans start at $3.90 for 1 day.
Coverage
Holafly lists the KDDI and SoftBank networks in Japan.
Activation Process
No login is needed before purchase, as Holafly’s website asks only for an email address, and its app sells plans too. Manual setup codes come by email and SMS. Activate on landing in Osaka, keeping Allow Mobile Data Switching off. Holafly no longer sells top-ups, so choose enough days up front.
Price
A 3-day plan costs $11.90, against $9.98 at eSIM4. A 7-day plan costs $27.50, against $24.98 at eSIM4. A 15-day plan costs $50.50, against $46.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $20.50 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $27.50 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $36.50 |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $50.50 |
| Unlimited | 20 Days | $60.90 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $73.90 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unlimited plans in every length from 1 to 90 days
- KDDI and SoftBank networks
- 24/7 customer support via chat
- Simple duration-based pricing
Cons
- No fixed-size data plans
- 3-day plan costs $11.90, against $9.98 at eSIM4
Nomad
Data Plans Up to 50GB
Nomad sells Japan data plans from 1GB to 50GB, plus unlimited plans for 3 to 21 days. It runs on KDDI and SoftBank.
Coverage
Nomad lists the KDDI (au) and SoftBank networks in Japan. Its 20GB and 50GB plans use KDDI only.
Activation Process
Install from Nomad’s app, or use a QR code from your purchase email. Do it before flying to Osaka, then switch your eSIM on once you land, with Data Roaming enabled. Need more data later? Buy an add-on in Nomad’s app or on its website, though some plans do not support add-ons.
Price
Nomad’s 1GB plan costs $4.00, against $2.98 at eSIM4. Its 3GB and 5GB plans cost $7.00 and $10.00, against $6.98 and $9.98 at eSIM4. A 3-day unlimited plan costs $11.00, against $9.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $7.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $10.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $23.00 |
| 50 GB | 30 Days | $35.00 |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $11.00 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $25.00 |
| Unlimited | 14 Days | $41.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Wide variety of plan sizes to choose from
- Dual network coverage (KDDI + SoftBank)
- Mobile app to manage your plan
- Regional Asia plans available for multi-country trips
Cons
- 20GB and 50GB plans use KDDI only
- 3-day unlimited plan costs $11.00, against $9.98 at eSIM4
GigSky
Data and Unlimited Plans
GigSky sells Japan data plans from 1GB to 10GB, valid for 7 to 30 days, plus unlimited plans from 1 to 30 days. Prices start at $2.99 for 1GB.
Coverage
GigSky does not name its network in Japan.
Activation Process
GigSky gives you a full year to install after purchase. Buy in its app or web app, then choose Install on this device in GigSky’s app. For most plans, days start when your phone first connects to a supported network in Japan. Pick GigSky as your mobile data line with Data Roaming on.
Price
GigSky’s 1GB plan costs $2.99, against $2.98 at eSIM4. Its 5GB / 30-day plan costs $10.29, against $9.98 at eSIM4. A 3-day unlimited plan costs $10.49, against $9.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $2.99 |
| 3 GB | 15 Days | $7.49 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $10.29 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $16.79 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 1GB plan from $2.99
- 24/7 customer support available
- Unlimited plans from 1 to 30 days
Cons
- No plans valid longer than 30 days
- 10GB is the largest data plan
Roamless
30-Day Data Plans
Roamless sells Japan data plans from 1GB to 50GB, all valid for 30 days, plus unlimited plans from 1 to 30 days.
Coverage
Roamless lists the KDDI and SoftBank networks in Japan.
Activation Process
Buy a Roamless plan on its website, web app or mobile app, then install from that mobile app. A QR code or manual SM-DP+ address, consumer.rsp.world, is also available. Enable data roaming for your Roamless eSIM. Plan days count from your first data use in Japan.
Price
Roamless sells 1GB for 30 days at $3.95, against $2.98 for 7 days at eSIM4. Its 3GB plan costs $7.95, against $6.98 at eSIM4. A 5-day unlimited plan costs $16.80, against $15.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 30 Days | $3.95 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $7.95 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $9.95 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $14.95 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $22.95 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Simple, consistent 30-day validity on all capped plans
- Unlimited plans from 1 to 30 days
- KDDI and SoftBank networks
- Easy to understand plan structure
Cons
- Plans under 30 days are unlimited only
- No 24/7 customer support
aloSIM
Plans From 1 Day
aloSIM sells Japan data plans and unlimited plans, each from 1 to 30 days. It runs on KDDI.
Coverage
aloSIM operates on the KDDI network in Japan.
Activation Process
On travel day, turn on your aloSIM eSIM and its Data Roaming, make it your cellular data line and switch off Allow Cellular Data Switching. Its APN should read alosim. Install from aloSIM’s app days earlier. If your iPhone is already in Japan, wait to install until you want data to start.
Price
aloSIM’s 1GB / 7-day plan costs $4.50, against $2.98 at eSIM4. Its 5GB / 30-day plan costs $11.00, against $9.98 at eSIM4. A 5-day unlimited plan costs $19.50, against $15.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $6.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $8.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $11.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $18.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $25.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unlimited plans from 1 to 30 days
- User-friendly mobile app for management
- KDDI network coverage
- Data plans from 1 to 30 days
Cons
- 3-day and 5-day unlimited plans cost more than eSIM4’s
- App needed to install the eSIM
Jetpac
Daily and Weekly Plans
Jetpac sells Japan data plans from 1 to 30 days, plus unlimited plans from 3 to 30 days. Plans start at $5.00 for 3GB over 1 day.
Coverage
Jetpac’s help centre table lists KDDI Corporation for Japan.
Activation Process
Install Jetpac’s eSIM straight from its app, or enter SM-DP+ details from your email. Your pack starts on its first connection to a network abroad, such as in Osaka. If unused, it stays in your account for 3 months. Later packs load onto that same eSIM.
Price
Jetpac’s 5GB / 30-day plan costs $10.00, against $9.98 at eSIM4. Its 10GB / 30-day plan costs $23.00, against $16.98 at eSIM4. A 10-day unlimited plan costs $55.00, against $32.98 at eSIM4.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 Days | $7.00 |
| 3 GB | 7 Days | $7.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $10.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $23.00 |
| 15 GB | 30 Days | $30.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $40.00 |
| 30 GB | 30 Days | $60.00 |
| 40 GB | 30 Days | $80.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $55.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- KDDI Corporation network coverage
- Data plans up to 40GB
- Simple, straightforward pricing
Cons
- Limited customer support options
- 10-day unlimited plan costs $55.00, against $32.98 at eSIM4
Airalo
Moshi Moshi Japan Plans
Airalo sells Japan plans under its Moshi Moshi name: data plans from 1GB to 20GB, plus unlimited plans for 3 to 30 days.
Coverage
Airalo lists the SoftBank and KDDI networks in Japan, with 5G.
Activation Process
Tap Start installation in Airalo’s app for a direct install on iPhone and some Android models. Your delivery email also carries an instructions PDF. Toggle Data Roaming as Airalo’s app instructs once you reach Osaka. If your eSIM is rechargeable, top up under My eSIMs, or set Renewals to buy again at 10% data left.
Price
A week with 5 GB costs $10.00, or $11.00 for 30 days, where eSIM4 charges $9.98. Airalo’s 20 GB / 30-day plan is $25.00, against $23.98 at eSIM4. For unlimited data, 3 days cost $11.50 and 7 days cost $26.50, against eSIM4’s $24.98 for a week.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 3 Days | $4.00 |
| 3 GB | 3 Days | $7.50 |
| 3 GB | 7 Days | $8.00 |
| 5 GB | 7 Days | $10.00 |
| 5 GB | 15 Days | $10.50 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $11.00 |
| 10 GB | 7 Days | $17.00 |
| 10 GB | 15 Days | $17.50 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $18.00 |
| 20 GB | 15 Days | $24.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $25.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 5G on SoftBank and KDDI
- User-friendly mobile app for management
- Wide variety of plan combinations
- Loyalty program (Airmoney) for returning customers
Cons
- 5GB / 30-day plan costs $11.00, against $9.98 at eSIM4
- 1GB plan lasts only 3 days
Do You Need a SIM Card for Japan or Pocket WiFi?
You do not need a SIM card for Japan or a pocket WiFi. An eSIM is simpler. You set it up at home, and there is nothing to pick up or return at the airport.
Japanese SIM Cards
Prepaid SIM cards are sold from vending machines on the first floor of both Kansai Airport terminals (Kansai Airport’s Wi-Fi and SIM page). Electronics stores such as Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera sell them too (JNTO). Your phone must be unlocked, and the physical SIM card takes the place of your home SIM in the tray.
Pocket WiFi
Pocket WiFi is a small router you rent. At KIX you collect it from a counter or a locker, and you drop it in a return box when you fly home. You also need to keep it charged and carry it with you all day.
Japanese eSIMs for Tourists
KDDI Corporation’s povo sells an Osaka eSIM for tourists as a local data option. It does not support voice calls or SMS. You sign up online with a phone number that can receive SMS codes for verification.
Why eSIM4 Is Easier
eSIM4 has no ID check and no physical SIM to swap. It arrives by email straight away, you install it at home, and it works as soon as you land. Every plan allows hotspot use, so you can share data with a laptop or a travel partner, like a pocket WiFi.
Get eSIM4 for Osaka →Stay Connected in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara
One eSIM4 Japan plan keeps you connected in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and at Universal Studios Japan.
Which Networks Work in Osaka?
eSIM4 connects to a local network, SoftBank or KDDI (au), with 5G. Japan has four mobile networks: NTT Docomo, KDDI, SoftBank and Rakuten Mobile. KDDI and SoftBank are the second and third largest by contracts (Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, December 2024). Every provider on this page uses KDDI, SoftBank or both, apart from GigSky, which does not name its network.
At Kansai Airport (KIX)
Install the eSIM at home over Wi-Fi. When you land at KIX, turn on the eSIM line and data roaming for it. Still need to buy? KIX has free Wi-Fi called #AirportFreeWiFi-Kansai in both terminals, with no sign-up. The airport says data on it is not encrypted, so do not use it for banking (KIX free Wi-Fi page).
From the airport, the Nankai rapi:t reaches Namba in as little as 34 minutes (Nankai). The JR Haruka runs direct to Tennoji, Osaka, Shin-Osaka and Kyoto (JR West). Your eSIM lets you check train times on the way.
Around the City
Use your eSIM for maps, train times and translation in Namba, Dotonbori and Umeda. Before you fly, save an offline Osaka map in Google Maps and download Japanese in Google Translate. Use hotel Wi-Fi for video and big downloads.
Day Trips to Kyoto and Nara
Kyoto and Nara are in Japan, so your plan works there at no extra cost. Our Kyoto eSIM guide covers the city in more detail.
Universal Studios Japan
The official USJ app shows attraction wait times and gives out Timed Entry eTickets. USJ says “Internet access is required for this app.” (USJ app page). Keep your eSIM data on in the park.
How to Install and Activate Your eSIM
Install the eSIM by QR code before your flight, then turn it on when you land in Japan.
- Check your phone: Before buying, make sure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Our list of eSIM-compatible devices includes iPhone XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer.
- Buy: Buy your eSIM plan for Japan before you travel. eSIM4 emails the eSIM QR code straight away. You do not need an eSIM app.
- Install: Scan the QR code over Wi-Fi. On iPhone, go to Settings, then Cellular, then Add eSIM. On Samsung, go to Settings, then Connections, then SIM manager. On Google Pixel, go to Settings, then Network & internet, then SIMs.
- Activate: When you land at KIX, turn on your eSIM and turn on data roaming for that line. Your plan starts when you activate it.
- Home SIM: Turn off data roaming on your home SIM, so your home carrier cannot add roaming charges for data. Our roaming guide explains more.
Changed your plans? eSIM4 refunds a plan within 30 days if you have not activated it.
How to Make Calls and Send Texts with an eSIM in Japan
To make calls and send texts with an eSIM in Japan, use the Yabb app over your eSIM4 data. eSIM4’s Japan plans are data plans, so they do not include a phone number.
Calls
WhatsApp and FaceTime calls work over your data if the other person has the app. Yabb calls any mobile or landline, such as a hotel, a restaurant in Namba or a tour desk. The person you call does not need an app.
Texts
Yabb sends real SMS to any mobile phone, and replies come back to the app.
- Call standard numbers, not just app users.
- Send and receive SMS.
- Pay as you go with credits.
Osaka eSIM FAQs
Does eSIM work in Osaka?
Yes. eSIM4 works in Osaka on the SoftBank and KDDI networks, with 5G. Your phone must be unlocked and support eSIM.
What is the best eSIM for Osaka?
eSIM4. It has the lowest starting price on this page before promo codes, $1.98 for 500MB over 7 days. It runs on SoftBank and KDDI, and every plan allows hotspot use.
Where can I buy an eSIM for Osaka?
Buy it online before you fly. eSIM4 sends it by email straight away. If you have already landed, join the free Wi-Fi at Kansai Airport, then buy and install your eSIM there.
Does an Osaka eSIM work in Kyoto, Nara and Tokyo?
Yes. eSIM4 sells Japan plans, so one plan works in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Tokyo and the rest of Japan.
Is 20GB enough for 2 weeks in Japan?
Yes, for maps, messages and photos. 20GB over 14 days is about 1.4GB a day. Video uses much more, so heavy streamers should pick an unlimited plan.
Can I get unlimited data in Osaka?
Yes. eSIM4 unlimited plans run from 3 to 30 days, from $9.98. A 15-day plan costs $46.98. You get full speed for the first 3GB each day, then about 1 Mbps until midnight.
Can I use my phone as a WiFi hotspot in Osaka?
Yes. Every eSIM4 plan allows hotspot use, so you can share data with a laptop or a travel partner. You do not need to rent a pocket WiFi.
Can I get a Japan eSIM with a phone number?
Not with eSIM4’s Japan plans. They are data plans, so they do not include a phone number. Use the Yabb app over your data to call and text real numbers.
Does Airalo work in Osaka?
Yes. Airalo’s Japan eSIM lists the SoftBank and KDDI networks. eSIM4 uses the same two networks. Airalo starts at $4.00, against $1.98 at eSIM4.
Should I turn off roaming if I have an eSIM?
Turn it off on your home SIM, so your carrier cannot charge you for data. Turn data roaming on for the eSIM line only, or it will not connect in Japan.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number?
Yes. WhatsApp keeps your home number and uses your eSIM data to send messages.
About the author: Peter Moore
eSIM Content Writer at eSIM4
Peter Moore has spent more than seven years in telecommunications marketing, working across mobile apps, SMS services, international calling, and eSIM technology. He now writes about eSIMs and travel connectivity full-time, sharing what he’s learned to help travellers cut through provider marketing and pick what actually works.
