Best eSIM for Japan in 2025: Airalo vs Local SIM vs Pocket WiFi

My 2025 eSIM picks: costs, speeds, and when I still rent pocket WiFi.

TL;DR Picks

• Overall: Ubigi (Docomo network, easy app)
• Value: Airalo (cheap per GB)
• Unlimited-ish: Holafly (watch throttling)
• Long stays: Sakura Mobile (month+ options)

Costs (Approx.)

• 5GB/15 days: ~$12-18 (Airalo/Ubigi)
• Unlimited: ~$19-99 (Holafly, throttled after heavy use)
• Pocket WiFi: ~$7-10/day; good for groups/heavy uploaders

What I Do

• Install 24-48 hours before departure
• Keep physical SIM/eSIM as backup; switch data line on landing
• Turn off background app refresh to save data
• Use offline maps + download playlists