Landing at Kansai International Airport is the start of your adventure through Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and beyond. But before you explore Japan’s Kansai region, you need to solve one important problem: staying connected.
Unlike many countries, Japan has limited free WiFi coverage, especially outside major tourist areas. While Kansai Airport offers free WiFi in its terminals, that connection disappears the moment you leave. Without internet access, you can’t use Google Maps, translate signs, book tickets, or contact your hotel.
That’s why getting a SIM card at Kansai Airport is one of the smartest moves you can make. In this guide, we’ll show you the best SIM card providers at the airport, where to pick them up in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, and what to look for when choosing a plan.
Table of Contents
- Comparison Table: 3 SIM Card Providers at Kansai Airport
- Pickup & Return Locations
- Top 3 SIM Cards at Kansai Airport
- 3 Things to Look for When Choosing a SIM Card at Kansai Airport
- Things to Be Careful of When Buying a Prepaid SIM Card
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Get Connected at Kansai Airport
Comparison Table: 3 SIM Card Providers at Kansai Airport
Below is a comparison of the best SIM card providers at Kansai Airport. This table shows each company’s prices, data plans, and pickup locations to help you choose the right SIM card for your trip.
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| Sakura Mobile | Ninja WiFi (Shogun SIM) | JTB | |
| Rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Pickup Location | Terminal 1, 1F North (International Arrival Lobby) | Terminal 1, 1F (North & South counters), 3F (North, Central, & South Arrival Vending Machines) Terminal 2, International Departures Check-in (Vending Machine) | Terminal 1, 1F, Vending Machines |
| Operating hours | 06:00-23:00 daily | 06:00-23:00 (1F) | Counter: 09:00-19:00 (Counter pick-up not available) |
| Online Reservation | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| English Support | ✅ 24/7 English support via chat, email, phone | ✅ 24/7 English support | ✅ English support available |
| Network | docomo 4G / au 5G | docomo 4G | Unknown |
| Coverage | 99% of Japan | 99% of Japan | Unknown |
| Data Plan | Unlimited | Unlimited (FUP applies) | 10 GB in total |
| Typical Validity | 4-90 days | 15-30 days | 30 days |
| Prices | From 3,850 yen Unlimited Data | From 7,150 yen Unlimited Data | USD $75.00 |
※All prices listed include tax
※Insurance and other add-on options are not included in the prices listed above
Check out the article below for the best Japanese SIM card and eSIM in 2025!
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Pickup & Return Locations
Getting your SIM card from Sakura Mobile at Kansai Airport is quick and easy. Here’s everything you need to know about where to pick up your order and what to do when you’re done using it.
Where to Pick Up Your SIM Card at Kansai Airport
Sakura Mobile has a dedicated counter at Kansai International Airport, located on the first floor of the International Arrival Lobby in Terminal 1.
When you exit customs and enter the arrival lobby, look for the Sakura Mobile counter along the main corridor. It’s easy to spot and conveniently located near other travel services like currency exchange and baggage delivery.
Sakura Mobile Counter Details:
- Location: Terminal 1, 1st Floor, International Arrival Lobby
- Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m., every day
- Staff: English-speaking staff available.
The counter’s long operating hours mean you can pick up your SIM card even if you arrive on an early morning or late-night flight. This gives you immediate internet access as soon as you leave the airport.
Important: Terminal 2 Passengers
Sakura Mobile does not have a counter in Terminal 2. If your flight arrives at Terminal 2, you’ll need to take the free shuttle bus to Terminal 1 to pick up your SIM card. Free shuttle buses run between Terminal 1 (Aeroplaza building) and Terminal 2, making the transfer simple and quick.
How to Reserve Your SIM Card
You can place your order online in advance through the Sakura Mobile website. Same-day purchases at the counter are available, but it is recommended that you reserve your SIM card at least three days before your pickup date to get free shipping. For urgent needs, express shipping is also available.
When you place your order online, you’ll select “Kansai International Airport” as your pickup location and choose your arrival date. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your order details and pickup instructions.
Pickup Your Order
When you arrive at the Sakura Mobile counter, simply:
- Show your passport for ID verification.
- Provide your order confirmation number (from your email).
- Receive your SIM card and any instructions you need.
The process takes just a few minutes, and the English-speaking staff will help you with any questions.
Returning Your SIM Card
One of the great features of Sakura Mobile is that there’s no need to return the SIM card after your trip. Simply dispose of the SIM card after use. This eliminates the need for any additional steps or a return counter visit, making the process hassle-free.
Other Pickup Options
If picking up at Kansai Airport doesn’t work for your schedule, Sakura Mobile offers several other pickup options throughout Japan:
- Hotel Delivery: Free delivery to any hotel in Japan.
- Residence: If you are staying with a friend, you can have it sent to their place.
For complete details about all pickup locations and hours, visit the Sakura Mobile Pickup & Return page.
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Top 3 SIM Cards at Kansai Airport
After comparing all the SIM card options at Kansai Airport, we’ve ranked the top three providers based on price, network quality, customer support, and overall value. Here are our recommendations.
👑 #1. Sakura Mobile
Sakura Mobile has served thousands of visitors to Japan over the years, building a strong reputation for reliable service and excellent customer support. What sets Sakura Mobile apart is the combination of unlimited data on Japan’s most reliable network, easy online ordering, and comprehensive English support throughout your trip. Whether you’re staying for a week or three months, Sakura Mobile offers plans that give you worry-free connectivity without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Unlimited data plan starting from 3,850 yen (incl. tax)
- Uses the reliable docomo 4G LTE and au 5G networks
- 99% of the populated area is covered
- English support available every day
- Order online and pick up as early as the next day with expedited shipping.
- Pickup counters in all major international airports.
🥈 #2. Ninja WiFi (Shogun SIM)
Ninja WiFi is a convenient and affordable option for travelers arriving at Kansai Airport. With 24/7 vending machine access and physical counter service, Ninja WiFi offers quick, hassle-free SIM card rentals. Known for its easy availability and competitive pricing, it’s perfect for travelers who need a reliable data plan without the hassle.
Key Features:
- Unlimited data with the fair usage policy
- Counter service is available in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2
- Flexible rental periods
- Same-day SIM card pickup
🥉 #3. JTB
JTB is another choice for travelers seeking prepaid SIM cards at Kansai Airport. With a focus on ease of use and competitive pricing, JTB offers data-only SIM cards that deliver strong coverage and reliable speeds for tourists. JTB’s counters are located at Terminal 1, making it convenient for travelers arriving at Kansai airport.
Key Features:
- Data-only SIM cards for short-term stays
- Competitive pricing
- Counter in the Tourist Information Center, but they do not distribute SIM cards there
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3 Things to Look for When Choosing a SIM Card at Kansai Airport
When you’re comparing SIM card options at Kansai Airport, three factors will make the biggest difference in your experience. Get these right, and you’ll have worry-free connectivity throughout your trip to Japan.
1. Advance Reservations are Available
Buying your SIM card directly at the airport might seem easier, but reserving online saves you time, money, and stress.
Why online reservations matter:
You’ll save some money by ordering online instead of at the counter. You’ll also guarantee availability, especially during busy seasons like cherry blossom season (March-April) or fall foliage season (October-November). Airport counters have limited stock, and if they run out, you’re stuck without internet.
Sakura Mobile reservation details:
Sakura Mobile recommends that orders be placed at least 3 days before your pickup date to ensure you can get a SIM upon arrival. Simply order online, select Kansai Airport as your pickup location, and your SIM card will be ready when you arrive. However, walk-in orders are available at KIX. Pickup takes just a few minutes—show your confirmation and passport, and you’re done.
Some providers don’t offer online ordering at all, meaning you’re taking a chance on availability. Others require orders by 4:00 p.m. Japan time the next day before pickup.
Bottom line: Reserve online before you fly to Japan. It’s cheaper, more reliable, and faster.
2. Availability of Unlimited Data Plans
Japan’s free WiFi options are limited, especially outside major tourist areas, so having unlimited data means you won’t worry about running out at the wrong time.
How much data do you need?
The average traveler to Japan uses about 1 GB of data per day. Here’s how common activities break down:
|
Travel Style |
Data Needed Per Week |
Example Activities |
|
Light User |
~3–5 GB |
Google Maps, messaging, light browsing |
|
Medium User |
~10–15 GB |
Social media, some video streaming, emails |
|
Heavy User |
20+ GB |
YouTube, video calls, remote work |
Why unlimited plans are worth it:
You can’t predict every situation. Unexpected train changes, finding restaurants, translating menus, video calling home—these add up quickly. Streaming video uses 300-700 MB per hour, and video calling apps, like WhatsApp use about 3 MB per minute.
Sakura Mobile offers truly unlimited data plans (4G LTE plan is still subject to FUP) starting at 3,850 yen for 4 days, so you can stay connected without worrying about your data meter.
Network coverage and speed:
Sakura Mobile uses both the docomo network for 4G LTE and the au network for a 5G experience. docomo covers 99.7% of Japan and offers average 4G LTE download speeds of 131 Mbps. docomo scores 9.7 to 10/10 for rural and urban coverage experience. The 5G plan with au also offers excellent coverage with truly unlimited data, so when you choose Sakura Mobile SIMs, you know you’ve got excellent indoor and outdoor coverage across Japan, including rural areas like mountain temples and countryside towns.
3. English Support
Problems can happen with any SIM card—your phone might not recognize it, APN settings might need adjustment, or mobile data might accidentally turn off. When this happens, in a foreign country, English-speaking customer support makes all the difference.
What Sakura Mobile offers:
Sakura Mobile provides full English support 7 days a week through email, an online contact form, their counter staff, and phone. Whether you have issues during setup at the airport or run into problems during your trip, help is available in English whenever you need it.
What to look for in customer support:
- Multiple contact methods: Contact form for urgent issues, email for detailed questions, phone for complex troubleshooting.
- Extended hours: Support available beyond standard business hours (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).
- Clear instructions: English-speaking staff who can walk you through technical fixes.
Some providers offer limited English support or only operate in Japanese. Before you buy, confirm the provider has English support and save their contact information in your phone. You probably won’t need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad to have it.
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Things to Be Careful of When Buying a Prepaid SIM Card
Before you reserve a prepaid SIM card, check a few important compatibility and setup details. If your device isn’t compatible with Japanese SIM cards, you might need to look for other options like eSIM or Pocket WiFi.
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
If your phone is locked, it cannot take SIM cards from other carriers, meaning you cannot use a SIM card from Japan or any other provider in different countries. You must contact your cellphone carrier if you’re unsure whether your device is unlocked (SIM-free).
You may need to visit or contact the carrier directly in your home country to unlock your phone, so confirm this before you travel to Japan. If your phone is locked, your only option for internet in Japan is a Pocket WiFi device.
What Size SIM Card Does Your Phone Hold?
If you’ve never changed the SIM card in your phone, you might not know there are three sizes: regular, nano, and micro.
When you buy a prepaid SIM card, choose the right size. Sakura Mobile’s SIM cards all come with a free adjuster for any device, so you don’t have to worry about ordering the wrong size.
Is Your Phone Compatible with Japanese Frequency Bands?
Certain network signals used in Japan may not be compatible with your device. Make sure your phone supports the frequency bands used by Japanese carriers:
docomo network (used by Sakura Mobile):
- 4G LTE: Band 1 and Band 19
au (KDDI) network (used by Sakura Mobile):
- 4G LTE: Band 1 and Band 18
- 5G: n77/n78 (main), n3/n8
Network compatibility is likely a new concept to many travelers, so if you have any questions, contact Sakura Mobile’s customer support team. For more information and to check whether your device is compatible, visit the Sakura Mobile device compatibility page.
If you cannot figure out any of the above points before coming to Japan, we recommend purchasing a Pocket WiFi device instead of a SIM card. This allows you to stay connected even if your phone is not unlocked, the SIM card doesn’t fit, or your device is incompatible.
Traveling with friends/family to Japan? Sharing a Pocket WiFi might be a good fit for you!
Check out our blog below for more information on Pocket WiFi rentals!
Lost or Damaged SIM Cards
Here’s good news: Sakura Mobile’s travel SIM cards do not need to be returned. You can simply dispose of your SIM card when you’re done using it.
The insurance fee is typically 500 yen per SIM card, and covers compatibility issues. If you insert the SIM card and find that your device is incompatible, you can request a refund or upgrade to a Pocket WiFi. Be sure to report a lost SIM to Customer Service as soon as possible to avoid any issues.
If you do experience any issues with your SIM card during your trip, Sakura Mobile’s English-speaking customer support team is available to help. Simply contact them through the online contact form at any time.
Physical SIM Card vs. eSIM: Which Should You Choose?
Sakura Mobile offers both physical SIM cards and eSIMs for travelers to Japan, giving you flexibility to choose whichever option works best for your device and travel style. Here’s how they compare:
| Physical SIM Card | eSIM | |
| Availability | Available at KIX from most providers | Available for selected plans |
| Activation | Requires manual insertion of SIM card | Activates digitally, no need to swap SIM cards |
| Convenience | Requires a physical swap when switching networks | No need to swap SIM cards |
| When Data Starts | Immediately after insertion and setup | Immediately upon arrival in Japan (for those who setup in advance) |
| Device Support | Supported by all phones with a SIM slot | Must be eSIM-capable (newer smartphones) |
| Installation | Physical SIM can be removed and reinserted if needed. | eSIM can only be installed once. Do not delete or remove the eSIM from your device after successful installation. |
| Return/Disposal | Discard after use | No physical SIM to dispose of |
Who benefits from each option?
Physical SIM cards work well for travelers who:
- Have older phones that don’t support eSIM technology
- Feel more comfortable managing something physical
- Want the flexibility to remove and reinsert the SIM if needed
eSIMs work well for travelers who:
- Have newer smartphones or US iPhones that no longer support SIM cards
- Want to get set up before leaving home for instant connectivity upon landing
- Like the convenience of a digital-only setup with no physical card to manage.
Both Sakura Mobile options provide reliable, unlimited data throughout Japan. All travel plans are data-only (no phone number), but you can use internet connection-based calls and messages like WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, LINE, iMessage, and FaceTime.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to the most common questions travelers have about buying and using SIM cards at Kansai Airport.
Can I get a SIM card with a phone number?
In Japan, prepaid SIM cards are generally not sold with a phone number because the ID verification process for getting a phone number is very strict. Due to these regulations, selling SIM cards with phone numbers to travelers is difficult. However, you can use internet-based services such as WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, LINE, iMessage, and FaceTime.
How do I know if my phone is unlocked?
Your device must be unlocked (SIM-free) to use Sakura Mobile’s SIM cards. Phones from most European and Asian countries are usually unlocked, but phones from the United States may be locked by your carrier.
If you’re unsure whether your phone is unlocked, contact your mobile carrier before traveling to Japan. You cannot use a SIM card if you have not paid off your phone yet. Most carriers can unlock your phone remotely or guide you through the unlocking process.
If your phone is carrier-locked and you cannot unlock it before your trip, Sakura Mobile’s Pocket WiFi devices will still work with it.
Can I use tethering/hotspot with the travel SIM card?
Yes, Sakura Mobile’s travel SIM cards support tethering and personal hotspot features on both iPhone and Android devices. This means you can share your mobile data connection with other devices like laptops, tablets, or your travel companions’ phones.
What does “unlimited data” mean?
“Unlimited” means you pay a single flat rate that includes wireless data service regardless of how much data you use during your rental period. You won’t be charged extra for using more data, and your service won’t be disconnected based on your usage.
Most unlimited plans are subject to a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), which ensures a stable network for all users by restricting data transmissions for users who use excessive amounts of data and hinder network usage for others. For Sakura Mobile’s docomo 4G LTE SIM, it means your data speed may slow down temporarily during peak usage, but you’ll still have internet access. With their au 5G SIM card, however, these limits do not apply, so you can enjoy FUP-free truly unlimited data with no slow-downs.
For typical travel activities like navigation, social media, email, and occasional video calls, this is more than enough data.
Can I use a VPN with the travel SIM card?
Yes, Sakura Mobile’s Travel SIM cards support VPN services including PPTP, OpenVPN, and L2TP/IPsec. You can use your VPN to access services that may be restricted or to maintain privacy while browsing.
What if I need to change my pickup date or location?
You can update your shipping address and delivery date at any time before it ships (usually 5 days before your scheduled pickup). If you need to make changes, contact Sakura Mobile as soon as possible through their Contact Form.
What is the cancellation and refund policy for physical SIM cards?
You can get a refund if you cancel your order before shipment. Sakura Mobile usually ships orders 5 days before your pickup date (this may vary during busy seasons). Contact Sakura Mobile as soon as possible if you would like to cancel your order. In principle, refunds are not provided after the product has shipped.
If you’re in a special circumstance, contact customer support to discuss your situation.
Can I extend my travel SIM card if I stay longer?
For SIM cards, customers will not be able to extend the rental period, as they will expire after the relevant number of usage days. Customers who wish to extend their stay or rental should order a new SIM card.
What should I do if my SIM card stops working during my trip?
First, check the basic troubleshooting steps:
- Make sure mobile data is turned ON in your phone settings
- Verify that you’ve selected the correct SIM for mobile data (if you have dual SIM)
- Make sure that the APN settings are entered correctly
- Restart your phone
- Check that the SIM card is inserted correctly
If these steps don’t solve the problem, contact Sakura Mobile’s English-speaking customer support team using the Contact Form. Include details about your device model, screenshots of your settings, and a description of the issue. The support team will help troubleshoot and solve your problem quickly.
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Get Connected at Kansai Airport
Choosing the right SIM card at Kansai Airport makes all the difference for your trip to Japan. With reliable internet from the moment you land, you can navigate confidently, stay connected, and explore without stress.
Sakura Mobile offers unlimited data on Japan’s most reliable docomo and au networks, straightforward pricing, 7-day-a-week English support, and no return hassles. Reserve your SIM card online before you arrive to save money and guarantee availability.
Ready to stay connected in Japan?