Is pocket wifi still worth it in Japan or should I just get an eSim?

Short answer: for most people, eSim has replaced pocket wifi. But it depends on your situation.

eSim is the move if you're travelling solo or your group is happy to use their own phones separately. Buy before you leave, activate on arrival, no queues, no picking anything up at the airport. Just check your phone is unlocked and eSim compatible first. Catches a lot of people out.

Pocket wifi is still worth it if you're travelling as a family or group and want one device everyone can connect to. No messing with individual phone settings, genuinely plug and play. You do need to pick it up and return it, usually at the airport.

Most people don't need a Japanese phone number, but there are situations where it really matters. If your child gets sick and you need to call your travel insurance or a local hospital, a local number is essential. Same if you are staying in an Airbnb, private apartment or an unmanned hotel with no reception desk. Check-in instructions, key codes and sorting any issues during your stay often requires a local number. Both eSim and physical Sim card options are available, which include a Japanese number if you need one.

A couple of other things worth knowing. Data only eSims cover everything most people need. WhatsApp, Google Maps and booking restaurants all run on data. Also, check that your phone is unlocked before you leave home, and iPhone users can add a Suica card to Apple Wallet instead of buying a physical IC card. Android users can't do this yet.

If you're still not sure which option fits your trip, we put together a quick quiz that asks about your phone, group size, trip length and whether you need a local number, and gives you our personalised recommendation:

japantravelplanning.com/esim-vs-sim-card-vs-pocket-wifi-japan-quiz/

What are you using for your trip?