Mobal Japan SIMs and eSIMs have long been among our top recommendations for anyone coming to Japan, and they’ve just upgraded their lineup. But are they the best choice for you in 2026?
Tourists
If you’re heading to Japan for vacation, you’ll need a SIM card or eSIM – otherwise, you could be staring down the barrel of a hefty roaming bill. Mobal is one of the longest-running providers of Japan SIMs and eSIMs, and has regularly topped our comparison charts over the years.
Unlimited 5G eSIM
For 2026, Mobal have introduced their first truly unlimited 5G data eSIM. You can choose plan lengths from 3–31 days, so you’ll only pay for what you use. There are no usage limits or speed throttling for data use on your phone, and you also get a generous allowance for personal hotspot use. The unlimited 5G eSIM runs locally to the KDDI AU network, one of Japan’s big four, which means fast, reliable speed and connectivity.
Voice + data SIM/eSIM
You might also find yourself needing a real Japanese phone number on your trip. Thanks to the quirks of certain apps and services in Japan, you often need a Japanese phone number to receive texts for sign-up and verification. Mobal’s Voice+Data service, available as a SIM Card or eSIM, makes it easy for tourists to get a real local phone number and up to 30GB of data per calendar month of their stay, and there’s no minimum contract.
If you already have a data-only package but need a phone number while you’re in Japan, you can also get a Voice Lite eSIM and combine it with your existing data eSIM. You can pick it up the same day at Mobal’s pick-up points around Japan. Incoming texts are free, so if you need to receive an SMS code, it’s an easy fix.
Students, Digital Nomads, and Long-Term Residents
If you’re planning an extended stay in Japan, we’ve recommended Mobal’s Voice+Data SIM for a long time. They’ve also recently introduced a Pocket WiFi device that offers huge data allowances.
Voice+Data SIMs & eSIMs
Mobal’s Voice+Data service gives you up to 30GB of superfast data each month, plus a real Japanese phone number. You also get incoming SMS for free, and no contracts or minimum usage periods. You can switch data plans month-to-month, and you can speak with an English-speaking support agent if needed.
Pocket WiFi
Mobal’s Japan Pocket WiFi has been upgraded for this year – and at just 32g in weight, it’s more pocket-friendly than ever. It’s not a rental product – the device is yours to keep, which means no extra admin at the end of your stay, and no complicated return process. There’s also no minimum contract, and you can pause your service if you leave Japan and easily restart it when you return.
You can get up to 300GB of data each calendar month, and you’ll always get the best connection available as the device automatically connects to the best available Docomo, AU, Softbank, or Rakuten network. It’s powered by USB-C, so you can either plug it straight into your device or use a power bank while you’re on the go.
Did we mention that all Mobal’s profits go to charity?
Mobal is 100% owned by a charity that feeds hungry kids and builds schools in Malawi, Africa. All of their profits go straight towards making the world a better place.
