Travel

How to Buy a SIM Card in Osaka

How to Buy a SIM Card in Osaka

If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, purchasing a SIM card is recommended for a comfortable communication experience during your travels. SIM cards can be ordered online, but are also available at Kansai International Airport and nearby convenience stores.

This article will guide you through the process of purchasing a SIM card in Osaka and what to check when buying one. Additionally, we will recommend shops in the Umeda area where you can buy SIM cards, so those planning to visit Osaka should find this information particularly useful.

1.What to Check When Buying a SIM Card in Osaka

Before purchasing a SIM card, there are several things you should check to avoid issues such as buying a SIM card that you can’t use. Here are some tips on how to select the right SIM card.

1-1.Ensure Your Device is SIM-Free

Smartphones can be either SIM-free, meaning they can use any SIM card, or locked, meaning they can only use a SIM card from the carrier they are locked to.

If you want to use a purchased SIM card for communication, you can’t immediately use it with a SIM-locked device. Check in advance if your smartphone is a SIM-free model. If it is locked, unlocking will be necessary. You can apply for a SIM unlock at the carrier’s stores, their website, or by phone.

If you’re unsure whether your smartphone is SIM-free, check the device settings or device information in your settings app, or contact your carrier.

1-2. Choose the Right Size SIM Card

There are three sizes of SIM cards: standard SIM, microSIM, and nanoSIM. The size needed varies by smartphone, so choose a SIM card that fits your device. Here are the dimensions for each type of SIM card:

  • Standard SIM: 25mm × 15mm
  • microSIM: 15mm × 12mm
  • nanoSIM: 12.3mm × 8.8mm

Source:QTmobile「標準SIM、microSIM、nanoSIM、SIMカードのサイズを知る」

If you’re not sure which size fits, remove the current SIM card from your smartphone to check, or consult your device’s manual.

Recently, multi-SIMs that can be used with any device have also become popular. These are cut from a perforated card to fit the required size.

Another option is the eSIM, which is built into the phone and can be activated online. If you’re considering an eSIM, make sure your smartphone supports it as eSIM-compatible devices are still relatively uncommon.

1-3.Check the Setup Procedures

To use the purchased SIM card for communication, you’ll need to set up the APN settings on your smartphone. The steps for this setup are included in the manual that comes with the SIM card, so refer to it while setting up.

However, manuals for SIM cards sold in Japan are mostly in Japanese. Some stores where you buy the SIM card will help you with the setup, but this is not always guaranteed. If you don’t understand Japanese, it’s a good idea to research the setup steps in advance.

2.How to Buy a SIM Card in Osaka

There are various ways to purchase a SIM card in Osaka. Here, we introduce the easiest methods to buy a SIM card. Compare the features of each and choose the one that best fits your needs.

2-1.Order Online

You can order a SIM card online without having to visit a mobile shop.

If you’re unfamiliar with Japanese or traveling to Japan for the first time, it can be challenging to find a shop that sells SIM cards in Osaka. However, if you order online, you can arrange to pick it up at the local airport or the hotel where you are staying, so your smartphone will be ready to use upon arrival in Japan.

Additionally, online shops often have a wide variety of SIM cards available, making it easier to find one that suits your needs for price and data allowance.

2-2.Purchase at Kansai International Airport

You can also buy a SIM card at Kansai International Airport. The airport has dedicated counters for companies that handle SIM cards, so you can start using your smartphone right after you arrive in Osaka. One advantage is that staff who speak English can assist you with choosing products and initial setup.

Kansai International Airport also has vending machines that sell prepaid SIM cards. With these machines, you can buy a SIM card at any time, which is convenient for those arriving on early morning or late night flights. You can also purchase eSIMs here.

2-3.Buy at a Convenience Store

You can buy SIM cards at convenience stores throughout Osaka. Convenience stores are open 24/7, 365 days a year, making it easy to buy a SIM card at any time.

However, there are a couple of things to be aware of when buying a SIM card at a convenience store. First, the package sold in the store does not include the SIM card itself; it is only for eSIMs that do not require physical installation. For other types of SIM cards, the actual card will be delivered later.

Second, convenience stores have a limited selection of SIM cards, and it may be difficult to find the product you want. If you need a SIM card immediately or want a wide selection of options, it’s better to buy one at a mobile shop or an electronics store.

3.Recommended Places to Buy a SIM Card in Umeda

Umeda in Osaka is a popular destination for tourists from overseas, and it has a wealth of stores that offer SIM cards. Among these, Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Umeda is highly recommended.

In addition to a wide selection of products, some items at this store have labels in English, making it easier for those who don’t understand Japanese. The store also has English-speaking staff available to help those unsure which SIM card to choose or how to set it up.

The store is conveniently located near JR Osaka Station and Osaka Metro Midosuji Line Umeda Station. It is open from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM, making it easy to visit before or after your other activities.

13 Must-Do Things in Osaka’s Umeda | Fun Ways and Popular Tourist Spots

4.Renting a Wi-Fi Router is Also Recommended

In addition to buying a SIM card, renting a Wi-Fi router is another option for using your smartphone in Japan.

Wi-Fi routers are easy to use; just turn on the device and connect it to your terminal. They are ideal for those who find the initial setup of a SIM card troublesome or who have a SIM-locked device.

Renting a data-unlimited Wi-Fi router allows you to use high-speed data communication anytime, anywhere. If you want a comfortable communication environment while sightseeing in Osaka, consider renting a Wi-Fi router.

Moreover, a Wi-Fi router can connect multiple devices, making it a great option for groups or families traveling together.

Conclusion

A smartphone is essential for many travelers to Osaka, whether for researching or navigating. If you want a convenient communication environment, purchase a SIM card.

SIM cards can be ordered online and are also available at Kansai International Airport, convenience stores, and electronics stores in Japan. If you are buying a SIM card in the Umeda area, Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Umeda is recommended.

When purchasing a SIM card, don’t forget to check whether the card fits your device and whether your device is not SIM-locked.

*This article is based on information available as of April 2024.