Let's look into the world of roaming charges in Japan and explore smart solutions to keep you connected and your wallet happy.

Are There Roaming Charges in Japan?

Yes, roaming charges do exist in Japan for international visitors using their home country's mobile plans. When you use your regular SIM card from your home country in Japan, you're essentially borrowing the networks of Japanese carriers. This convenience comes at a price, often in the form of hefty roaming fees. These charges can quickly add up, especially if you're streaming videos, using map applications, or making frequent calls back home.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Japan?

Roaming charges typically kick in as soon as your phone connects to a Japanese network. This happens automatically when you land in Japan and turn on your phone, unless you've disabled data roaming. These charges apply to various services:

• Making or receiving calls

• Sending or receiving text messages

• Using mobile data for internet browsing, email, or apps

Even if you're not actively using your phone, some apps running in the background might use data, incurring charges without your knowledge. It's a situation that can lead to an unpleasant surprise when you return home and see your phone bill.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Japan

Let's break down the potential costs of traditional roaming in Japan.

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Japan:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Japan package limited to 14 days for €24.99:

• 5 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.5 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

These figures give you a ballpark idea of what to expect, but remember, they're approximate and can fluctuate based on your home carrier's specific agreements with Japanese networks. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Japan?

Here's how to stay connected:

• Disable data roaming: Before takeoff, turn off data roaming in your phone settings.

• Get an eSIM: Download a digital SIM app like Roamless eSIM for travel internet. Check our eSIM for Japan page before you plan your travel.

• Use a local SIM card: Pick one up at the airport for a temporary Japanese number.

• Leverage free Wi-Fi hotspots: Japan's cities are full of them – cafes, trains, and public spaces.

You can read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more detailed information.

Roamless eSIM for Japan

Roamless eSIM isn't just another connectivity solution - it's your passport to hassle-free, high-speed internet wherever your adventures take you. Here's what sets Roamless apart:

• Unrestricted speed: Enjoy full-speed data without any throttling. Stream, video call, and navigate with confidence.

• Pay as you go: Only pay for what you use. No more overpriced plans or unused data.

• Global freedom: Our plans work across multiple countries. No need to juggle different SIMs or plans as you travel.

• Local network speeds: Experience the same zippy internet speeds as the locals do.

• Flexible data packages: Choose the perfect amount of data for your trip.

You can check our post on the best eSIM for Japan to get more information.

As you can see, traditional roaming can add up quickly, especially if you're a heavy data user or need to make frequent calls. This is where alternatives like Roamless eSIM really shine, offering you the connectivity you need without the shock of a hefty bill at the end of your trip.

Visit our eSIM Japan page before planning your trip. By choosing a solution tailored for international travel, you can focus on enjoying your Japanese adventure rather than worrying about your phone usage.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/japan

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/japan

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Japón

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass