6 Best Pocket WiFi Rentals at Kansai Airport

When you land in a new country, one of the first things you need is a reliable internet connection. Being able to look up directions, check train times, and let your friends and family know you’ve arrived safely makes a huge difference. While Kansai Airport offers free WiFi inside the building, you’ll need a different solution for staying connected once you start exploring Japan.

That’s why a Pocket WiFi is so helpful. It gives you a strong, private internet connection wherever you go. There are many options for renting a Pocket WiFi at Kansai Airport, so we’ve put together a comparison to help you find the best fit for your trip.

Table of contents

• Comparison Table of 6 WiFi Providers at Kansai Airport
• Pickup and Return Locations
• Top 3 Pocket WiFi providers at Kansai Airport
• 3 Things to Look for in a Pocket WiFi: Reservation, Data Plans, English Support
• Things to Be Careful of When Renting a Pocket WiFi
• Long-Term Stays
• FAQ
• The Final Word on Pocket WiFi at Kansai Airport

Comparison Table of 6 WiFi Providers at Kansai Airport

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• A 7-day unlimited data rental with Sakura Mobile costs just 8,558 yen. The daily price depends on the length of your rental.
• Star ratings are based on general reputation and available customer reviews.
• All prices include tax. They are estimates for unlimited data plans and are subject to change. They don’t include optional add-ons, such as insurance or extra batteries.

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Pickup and Return Locations

When you order a Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile, picking it up and sending it back are easy. The simplest way is for travelers to pick it up directly at the airport and then return it by mail.

Pickup at Kansai Airport

To pick up your device, simply head to the Sakura Mobile counter in Terminal 1, located on the first floor (North) of the Arrival Lobby. The counter is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., so it’s easy to get your device even if you arrive on a very early or late flight.

Easy Return by Mail

When your trip is over, returning your Pocket WiFi is simple. Your rental package comes with a prepaid return envelope. All you have to do is put the device and its accessories inside, seal it up, and drop it into any Japanese mailbox before your return date. You can find these mailboxes at airports and in most convenience stores, making the process quick and convenient.

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Top 3 Pocket WiFi Providers at Kansai Airport

To help you narrow down your choices, here are the three providers that stand out for travelers arriving at Kansai Airport.

1. Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile is a great choice for a stress-free trip, offering a balance of affordable prices, reliable service, and dedicated English support. The company’s devices run on the docomo network, which has the widest coverage in Japan.

Order Your Unlimited Data Travel Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile Now

2. Ninja WiFi

Ninja WiFi is a well-known provider and a popular option for budget-conscious travelers. It offers several data plans and has a solid reputation for providing consistent service at a competitive price.

3. WifiBOX

WifiBOX is a modern and unique Pocket WiFi service that is perfect for those who want a quick, automated process. The service uses self-service kiosks at the airport, so there is no need to wait in line at a staffed counter.

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3 Things to Look for in a Pocket WiFi: Reservation, Data Plans, English Support

When you’re ready to choose your Pocket WiFi, there are a few important things to keep in mind to make sure you have a smooth and stress-free trip. Here’s why we tick all these boxes!

1. Online Reservation

While it’s possible to rent a Pocket WiFi at the airport, it’s always a good idea to reserve one online before your trip. Doing so guarantees that a device will be available for your when you land, which is a major convenience, especially during busy seasons. It’s also often cheaper to book online and can save you a lot of money.

2. The Right Data Plan

For most travelers, an unlimited data plan is the best choice. It gives you the freedom to use GPS, stream music, and post photos without worrying about data limits. However, if you’re a light user who only needs the internet for checking emails, a plan with a data cap may be a more cost-effective option.

3. English Customer Support

It’s always a good idea to choose a company that offers reliable English support. This is a huge help if you have a question or a problem with your device. A good provider will have a dedicated, English-speaking team that you can contact by phone, email, or live chat.

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Things to Be Careful of When Renting a Pocket WiFi

While a Pocket WiFi is a fantastic way to stay connected, there are a few potential issues you should be aware of to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.

1. Getting Insurance for Your Device

If you can, you should get insurance for your Pocket WiFi. Accidents can happen, and it’s not unusual for a device to get lost or damaged, especially when you’re traveling a lot. Without insurance, the fees for a lost or broken device can be expensive. For a small daily fee, insurance gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about the device. For this reason, Sakura Mobile offers an affordable insurance option that covers 90% of the replacement cost so you can travel without stress.

2. Understanding “Unlimited” Data Plans

Most providers offer “unlimited” plans, but it’s good to know that these plans are subject to a Fair Use Policy (FUP). This policy helps prevent network slowdowns during the busiest times of the day. For most travelers, using maps and social media won’t be a problem, but very heavy use could result in a temporary speed reduction.

Thankfully, Sakura Mobile is upfront about their unlimited plan’s FUP. Our service guarantees a minimum of 3 GB of high-speed data every day, which is more than enough for most travelers’ needs. If you use more, the speed will be managed to ensure a stable network for all users, and the full high-speed allocation resets every midnight. This way, you can be sure of what to expect and still have a seamless experience.

3. Be Aware of Battery Life

Pocket WiFi devices have a battery life of several hours, but heavy usage can drain them faster than you might think. Be sure to check how long the battery is expected to last and consider carrying a portable battery pack if you plan to be out all day without access to an outlet. You won’t have to worry about that with Sakura Mobile’s Pocket WiFi, as its battery can last up to 20 hours, allowing you to use it all day long.

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Long-Term Stays

It’s important for those staying in Japan for an extended period to choose the right connectivity option. While Pocket WiFi is great for short trips, it’s not always the most practical or cost-effective solution for long-term stays (over 90 days).

For long-term residents and visitors, a dedicated monthly eSIM or SIM card is often a better choice. An eSIM or SIM card gives you internet access right from your phone, so you don’t have to worry about carrying and charging an extra device. It can also be more affordable than renting a Pocket WiFi for many months.

• View long-term eSIM or SIM card deals

Sakura Mobile offers a range of monthly eSIM or SIM card plans designed specifically for those staying in Japan long-term. These plans provide a stable, reliable connection on the large docomo network, ensuring you stay connected whether you’re in the city or exploring more remote areas.

If you’re a student, expatriate, or a business traveler on a long assignment, a monthly SIM card is the most convenient option. It provides a more permanent solution for your connectivity needs.

Also, if you’re interested in comparing the best long-term SIM cards available in Japan, check out the article below.

• 5 Best SIM Cards in Japan | Cell Phone Plans for Long-Term Stays

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FAQ

Here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers have about Pocket WiFi and staying connected in Japan.

Who is Pocket WiFi for?

Pocket WiFi is an excellent option for most travelers. It’s especially good for:

• Groups and Families: One Pocket WiFi can connect up to 15 devices at once (although 5 is recommended), making it a cost-effective way to keep everyone in your group online without needing to buy multiple SIM cards.
• Heavy Data Users: If you plan to use a lot of data for streaming, video calls, or work, a Pocket WiFi with an unlimited plan gives you the freedom to do so.
• Users with Multiple Devices: If you want to connect a latpop, tablet, and smartphone at the same time, a Pocket WiFi is the easiest way to do it.
• Travelers with SIM-locked Phones: Some phones are locked to a specific carrier in your home country. In this case, a Pocket WiFi is the only option, as a SIM card or eSIM won’t work.

Who is Pocket WiFi not for?

While Pocket WiFi is a great solution for most people, it may not be the best choice for:

• Solo Travelers with Light Data Needs: If you’re traveling alone and only need to check email or use social media, a prepaid SIM or eSIM might be a cheaper and more convenient option.
• Long-Term Residents: For those planning to stay in Japan for several months or more, a long-term SIM card plan is a more practical and cost-effective option than renting a Pocket WiFi.
• Travelers Who Need to Separate: Since a Pocket WiFi connects all devices to one central unit, the whole group must stay together to use the internet. If you and your travel companions plan to split up often, a Pocket WiFi might not be ideal.

Is there free WiFi at Kansai Airport?

Yes, Kansai Airport offers free WiFi, The service is available in all areas of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 and is a good option for a quick connection after you land. However, this WiFi is not secure, and the signal doesn’t reach beyond the airport. You should get your own Pocket WiFi or eSIM or SIM card for a reliable and private connection once you leave the airport.

Is it better to get a Pocket WiFi or a SIM card?

For most international visitors, the choice between a Pocket WiFi and a SIM card depeneds on your travel style.

• Pocket WiFi is better for groups, heavy data users, and those with multiple devices. The convenience of a single, shareable device with unlimited data makes it a popular choice.
• A SIM card is a great option for solo travelers who don’t want to carry an extra device. It’s often cheaper for single-person use, but it only provides internet to one device at a time.

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The Final Word on Pocket WiFi at Kansai Airport

Finding a reliable internet connection is one of the first things you’ll want to do when you arrive in Japan. As this article shows, a Pocket WiFi is one of the best ways to get that connection. It makes your trip easier by providing a secure, high-speed, and portable WiFi hotspot that you can share with your travel companions or other devices.

By choosing the right provider and being aware of a few key details like booking ahead and getting insurance, you can set yourself up for a stress-free trip. With a strong connection, you’ll be able to navigate cities, find train schedules, translate menus, and share your experiences with friends and family back home.

If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use Pocket WiFi from a company with a great reputation and dedicated English support, Sakura Mobile is here to help.

Ready to Stay Connected in Japan?

Get your Unlimited Data Travel Pocket WiFi from Sakura Mobile and enjoy your trip without worrying about your connection.

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