Are you thinking about using a T-Mobile international roaming plan during your trip to Japan?
Thankfully, some T-Mobile plans allow you to use your phone in Japan for no extra charge.
However, these plans also have some cons and are not for everyone. The connection speeds may be slow, or you may not have a lot of data to use while on your trip.
In this article, we will be explaining T-Mobile’s roaming plans for Japan in detail. This includes the connection speeds and coverage, pros and cons, and how to use the plans themselves.
After reading, you should be able to know whether or not you want to use a T-Mobile international roaming plan while in Japan.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Details of T-Mobile’s international roaming plans in Japan
- Magenta and Magenta MAX plans in Japan
- T-Mobile data passes in Japan
- For those that want to enjoy web browsing, social media, and YouTube while in Japan
- Things to make sure of
- FAQ about T-Mobile use in Japan
Details of T-Mobile’s international roaming plans in Japan
If you are using one of the Magenta plans or Magenta MAX plans, you will be able to use T-Mobile in Japan at no extra cost.
If you are not under these plans, you will need to buy what are called “data passes” before you can use T-Mobile during your trip.
| Magenta plans | Use in Japan for no extra fees* |
| Magenta MAX plans | Use in Japan for no extra fees* |
| Other plans | Must buy a data pass |
*Extra fees incurred only when making phone calls
Although you may be curious about how much data you will get and how fast the connection speeds are, we will first be going into detail about coverage.
This is the most straightforward aspect to understand because the coverage area of T-Mobile in Japan is the same whether you are on a Magenta/Magenta MAX plan or using a data pass.
T-Mobile’s coverage in Japan
In the areas that are colored dark purple ■, you can connect to 4G/LTE.
Looking at the above map, you can see that most of Japan is covered by T-Mobile’s 4G LTE network.
The Japanese partner network for T-Mobile is not publicly listed, but it is most likely one of Japan’s three biggest carriers: docomo, au, or SoftBank.
With this amount of coverage, you will be able to get connection most anywhere unless you are deep in mountainous areas or out at beaches far into the countryside.
Next, we will break down the amounts of data that you get, connection speeds, and other details of the Magenta/Magenta MAX plans and the data passes.
- Magenta and Magenta MAX plans in Japan
- T-Mobile data passes in Japan
Let’s break down each part.
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Magenta and Magenta MAX plans in Japan
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| Magenta plan | Magenta MAX plan | |
| Data* | Unlimited data at up to 256Kbps No additional fee | 5GB of high-speed data, then unlimited at up to 256Kbps No additional fee |
| Texting | Unlimited No additional fee | Unlimited No additional fee |
| Calling | $0.25/minute | $0.25/minute |
*Tethering is not available.
The following are the details of each plan.
Pricing
If you are under one of the Magenta or Magenta MAX plans, using your mobile data and sending texts will not cost you any extra money.
However, both outgoing and incoming calls will cost $0.25 per minute.
Apps like Facebook Messenger, Skype, or LINE use mobile data to call. For individuals who want to make phone calls, we suggest you use one of these third-party applications so that you can save money.
Connection speeds
Magenta： Unlimited data at up to 256Kbps
Magenta MAX：5GB of high-speed data, then unlimited at up to 256Kbps
The maximum speed that you can get with Magenta plans is 256Kbps, which you may feel is quite slow.
At this speed, Google MAP will most likely take a few seconds to respond and you will not be able to stream videos or load images. This means that watching YouTube or uploading pictures on social media will not be possible.
With Magenta MAX plans, there are 5GB of high-speed data prepared for you to use. However, the exact connection speeds are not listed on the T-Mobile website.
Data amount
Magenta MAX gives you 5GB of high-speed data, but whether or not this is enough depends on how much you use the internet.
For your reference, the following is about how much data you will need to complete different activities on your phone.
- Using Google MAP and sending texts: 500MB ~ 800MB/day
- Browsing the internet and using social media: 800MB ~ 1.5GB/day
- Watching videos: 1GB ~ 3GB/day
So, will T-Mobile Magenta or Magenta MAX plans be enough?
In summary, these are the types of internet users that will do fine in Japan with Magenta or Magenta MAX plans.
Magenta
- Those who barely need the internet
- Those who are fine just opening Google MAP once in a while
Magenta MAX
- Those who can survive off 5GB of high-speed data
(It is safe to assume that your stay in Japan will be at least a week. If this is the case, to make your 5GB last the entire trip, you should expect to only be able to use Google MAP and send texts.)
While both Magenta and Magenta MAX plans do not have extra fees, you will not be able to have very much freedom with your internet usage.
Note that if your data runs out, you can also buy data passes to get high-speed data.
In the next section, we will explain how data passes for those without Magenta or Magenta MAX plans work.
Data passes work the same for those with Magenta/Magenta MAX plans as well, so it may be helpful to read up on regardless.
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T-Mobile data passes in Japan
For those who do not have Magenta or Magenta MAX plans, you will need to purchase data passes in order to use T-Mobile while in Japan.
There are three types of data passes.
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| International 1 Day Pass | 5GB International Pass | 15GB International Pass | |
| Cost | $5 | $35 | $50 |
| Data Cap | 512MB | 5GB | 15GB |
| Usage Period | 24 hours | 10 days | 30 days |
| Data/day | 512MB | 500MB | 500MB |
Information that applies to all three types
- Unlimited calling in 210+ destinations (Japan included) is available.
- Smartphone mobile hotspot is available.
- After you have used up your data, you will still be able to use your phone with connection speeds of up to 128kbps.
You may be wondering if these data passes are actually worth buying.
We will go over the points that you should think about before making a decision.
Allocated data
You’ll notice that all three plans are set to a limit of 500MB of data per day.
This will be enough to get by for those who just want to use Google MAP or send some texts.
However, if any of the following apply to you, this will most likely not be enough data.
- You want to look up places to eat using the internet
- You want to upload pictures onto social media
- You want to watch YouTube videos
After you have used up your 500MB of data for the day, your connection speeds will drop to a maximum of 128kbps, which will not allow you to do much of anything.
Making phone calls
Data passes will allow you to make unlimited phone calls at no extra charge. Thankfully, this means that even if you use up your data, you will be able to stay connected.
Something to note
You may want to consider the fact that the exact connection speeds of the data passes are not listed on the T-Mobile official website.
Even if you are allowed 500MB of data per day, it will be considerably stressful if the connection speeds are slow.
So, should I be looking to buy T-Mobile data passes for Japan?
Taking into account all the above points, these are the types of people to whom we can and cannot recommend T-Mobile data passes.
Data passes recommended for
- Those who are fine with just using Google MAP and sending texts
- Those who want to make phone calls
Data passes NOT recommended for
- Those who want to surf the internet, use social media, or watch YouTube
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For those that want to enjoy web browsing, social media, and YouTube while in Japan
- I want to use my phone in Japan without having to worry about running out of data
- I need a connection speed fast enough to let me watch YouTube videos without any issues
If either of these apply to you, we recommend that you buy a prepaid SIM card meant for traveling in Japan.
One of the popular providers for these is Sakura Mobile.
Key features
- Unlimited data plan starting from 4,500 JPY
- Stable, fast docomo 4G network
- 99% of populated area is covered
- Reliable, year-round English customer support
- Pickup at any international airport in Japan
- Order online, pick up as early as the next day
- Delivery to the hotels across Japan is also available for free
Over the years, Sakura Mobile has provided tens of thousands of travelers with prepaid SIM cards.
When comparing prices to the number of days, you will notice that Sakura Mobile is a bit more expensive. However, Sakura Mobile offers unlimited plans so you will not have to worry about running out of data.
Sakura Mobile is on the docomo network, which is the biggest network in Japan. This means you will get the fastest possible connection speeds during your trip, allowing you to watch YouTube stress-free.
If you are interested, check out the available plans here.
- Sakura Mobile official site
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Things to make sure of
Is your phone compatible with Japanese frequency bands?
Before leaving for Japan, you must ensure your phone is compatible with Japan’s frequency bands. This is something that you need to check regardless of whether you are using T-Mobile or Sakura Mobile.
The devices that will work with Sakura Mobile SIM cards can be found here.
- Sakura Mobile SIM card device compatibility
If you cannot find your device on the above page, please feel free to contact us with any questions. Our customer support team will get back to you by the next day.
Even if you have a device that is not compatible or do not have the time to figure it out before your trip, there are still ways to get connection while in Japan.
One of these is Pocket WiFi, a portable router that you can carry around with you during your trip.
Sakura Mobile also offers plans for Pocket WiFi, which can be viewed here.
- Sakura Mobile Pocket WiFi plans for travel
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FAQ about T-Mobile use in Japan
Can I use T-Mobile in Okinawa?
Connection with T-Mobile is available in Okinawa.
Below is the coverage map for the area; you can see that 4G LTE is available on most of the island.
In the areas that are colored dark purple ■, you can connect to 4G/LTE.
However, there are places such as deep in the mountains or areas near the ocean like the US military base that have been said to not have connection. If you want more information, we recommend that you check directly with T-Mobile.
Are there T-Mobile stores in Japan?
Unfortunately, there are no physical T-Mobile stores in Japan. This means that even if you have problems with your device or plan, you will not be able to receive direct support.
With time differences, it may also be difficult to get a hold of customer support when you need it.
With year-round English support, Sakura Mobile can help you through any issues that you may have with your SIM card through email, phone, or live chat.
If you are worried about dealing with potential connection issues during your trip, we recommend getting a Sakura Mobile SIM card.
- Sakura Mobile official site
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FAQs
Is T-Mobile roaming free in Japan? ›
Details of T-Mobile's international roaming plans in Japan
If you are using one of the Magenta plans or Magenta MAX plans, you will be able to use T-Mobile in Japan at no extra cost. If you are not under these plans, you will need to buy what are called “data passes” before you can use T-Mobile during your trip.
T-Mobile and Sprint are your best bets for roaming in Japan. Both T-Mobile and Sprint offer cheap calls (20c/min), unlimited texting and unlimited data (but the download speeds may be slow). Verizon and ATT&T's roaming rates are significantly higher than T-Mobile or Sprint.
How do I get data roaming in Japan? ›It may sound like obvious advice, but once you land in Japan, check whether your roaming is turned on. While the location of this setting depends on your phone model, it is usually found in settings under “cellular data” and then “roaming”.
Do you need to turn on roaming for T-Mobile International Pass? ›Your device must register on T-Mobile's U.S. network and make a call before it can be used internationally. You may need to turn on Data Roaming on your device. Choose your device in our tutorials and check out the Connections & Network section for steps.
How can I avoid roaming charges in Japan? ›Go to your phone Settings > General / Network > Cellular > Turn Data Roaming Off. If you need internet access, simply connect to a free Wi-Fi network without worrying about the future charges. But this is not the only option you have! You can also shop roaming plans with your carrier.
Can you use your mobile phone in Japan? ›These days, thanks to the advancements in technology, most modern mobile phone models from other countries are compatible, so there is a very high likelihood that your iPhone or Android phone will work in Japan without any hassle.
Does T-Mobile charge for data roaming? ›T-Mobile does not charge for domestic roaming data. You will receive a free usage alert via text message to notify you when you're approaching the end of domestic roaming data available for that area, and a second alert when you reach it.
Do I need a SIM card in Japan? ›A Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card is a standard part of any cellular mobile device and allows said device to connect to a network for usage. Oftentimes, visitors to Japan will look into purchasing a temporary SIM card for using international phone data prior to their trip.
Does T-Mobile give free international data? ›Roaming with T-Mobile
Go5G Plus, Go5G, MAX, Plus, Magenta, ONE, and Simple Choice plans give you unlimited texting and data at up to 256kpbs in more than 215 countries and destinations at no extra charge, while voice calls are $0.25/minute.
Foreigners entering Japan can only use data-only SIM cards and must register their passports based on Japan's SIM card registration regulations. You can check the registration requirements on the carrier's individual websites for further details.
Does US data work in Japan? ›
Most phones purchased as unlocked in the USA or any other country will work in Japan. Those purchased under contract with a local carrier such as T-Mobile, AT&T, or others will not work unless you have an international plan which can be very expensive.
Can I use my American iPhone in Japan? ›Almost every iPhone works perfectly in Japan, the only exception being the iPhone 5 which has some limitations in the countryside. Otherwise, either using a Japan SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi, and even the home carrier roaming services, the iPhone will be flawlessly connected to the network.
Is international roaming automatically activated? ›On the day of travel, your International Roaming service is activated automatically and data, SMS and Voice will be made available for your use.
How do I know if international roaming is activated? ›Go to Settings –> Carriers –> and select “Automatic” Go to Settings –> Mobile Data –> and select Data Roaming as "ON"
How do I activate international roaming plan? ›- Dial *100#
- Select Intl Roaming;
- Select any Country;
- Select Activate Intl Roaming;
- Select ON; if your roaming is activated, you will be informed that your roaming is activated otherwise, it will activate international roaming for you.
| Rank | Country | Average price of 1GB (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 108 | Japan | $3.91 |
| 109 | Germany | $4.06 |
| 110 | Qatar | $4.12 |
| 111 | Guinea-Bissau | $4.12 |
Just text ROAM ON (country name) to 333 before your departure to activate the prepaid voice roaming.
Does turning on airplane mode stop roaming charges? ›You can use airplane mode to avoid roaming charges when travelling. You won't be able to send or receive text messages or phone calls, or use data services, but you could connect to a Wi-Fi network to check your email or browse the internet.
How much data do I need per day in Japan? ›For medium users, who do a bit more, having 4GB to 8GB will suffice. For heavy users, who also stream videos and music several hours a week, 9GB to 12GB of data a month will probably do.
Does Japan allow WiFi calling? ›If you have an internet connection, you can use Line or Skype to make phone calls directly to someone using the same application. This is a convenient option if you just need a phone to talk to friends and family while in Japan.
Can I use my phone WiFi in Japan? ›
Those who wish to use their own mobile phones or tablets to access the internet in Japan can get SIM cards or eSIM plans that allow for internet access via the cellular phone network. A wide array of plans are available to foreign tourists, most of them data-only.
What is the difference between mobile data and data roaming? ›What is the Difference Between Mobile Data and Data Roaming? Your phone uses “mobile data” when connected to your provider's network in your “home” country. When you travel and leave the “home” network, data roaming takes over, which allows you to access the internet in other countries.
Does turning off cellular data stop roaming charges? ›No, you will not be charged if you turn off cellular data but do not turn on airplane mode for an hour abroad. However, it is always a good idea to make sure that your phone is in airplane mode when traveling internationally as this will prevent any unexpected roaming charges from occurring.
What 11 countries are included in T-Mobile International plan? ›Plus, customers get the same experience of 5GB of high-speed data in 11 European countries — Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania and Slovakia — on Magenta, most business plans and equivalent Sprint plans thanks to T-Mobile's partnership with Deutsche ...
What do I need to use my phone in Japan? ›SIM cards in Japan
Your phone also needs to be able to work with Japanese networks: fortunately, most newer phones do. A mobile phone that is still "locked" by an overseas mobile provider will not accommodate a prepaid SIM card. You may purchase SIM cards for specific time periods or a specific amount of mobile data.
- Holafly eSIM, the best SIM card for Japan with unlimited data. ...
- SimOptions, another one of the best SIM cards for Japan. ...
- SoftBank SIM, another Japanese SIM card with data. ...
- IIJmio, an alternative SIM card for Japan. ...
- B-mobile, a popular Japanese SIM card for tourists.
You can purchase a Japan SIM card, eSIM or pocket wifi to pick up on arrival at Narita, Haneda or Osaka airports. Staff at the pickup point will help you configure your device.
How do I add international plans to T-Mobile? ›- Access the T-Mobile app on your device.
- Select ACCOUNT, then select ADD-ONS next to the Primary Account Holder's line.
- Choose Manage Data & Add-ons.
- Select the check box next to the pass you want to add.
If you have a Go5G, Magenta or ONE Plan (or most plans activated after Nov. 2015), you automatically have the Stateside International Unlimited Text Messaging feature. This feature is included at no additional charge.
How do I set up international data on T-Mobile? ›Access the T-Mobile app on your device. Select ACCOUNT, then select ADD-ONS next to the Primary Account Holder's line. Choose Manage Data & Add-ons. Select the check box next to the pass you want to add.
What is the cost of 1 GB data in Japan? ›
According to a 2022 report by Statista, the average cost of 1GB of mobile data in Japan was ₹317.4. These prices in Japan are about 32 times higher than in India. In 2020, ₹ 244 had to be paid for one GB of data in Japan. Japan has been ranked 137 out of 233 countries in the ranking of 1 GB mobile data prices.
Why is data so expensive in Japan? ›While phone plans and payments are complicated and difficult to understand, the reasons why they are so expensive are fairly simple. According to Hosei University Professor Akio Makabe, part of the reason why data plans are expensive lies in the oligopoly that the “Big Three” telecommunications companies have in Japan.
Will my SIM card work in Japan? ›Buying a SIM card in Japan
Local SIM cards can be used on most unlocked phones from Europe, Asia and Australia, and on some unlocked phones from North America. The vast majority of prepaid SIM cards in Japan provide data only, meaning you can't make or receive calls or texts while using them.
Most major credit cards are accepted for purchases in larger stores and restaurants. However, be aware that shrines and other locations in rural areas might only take cash.
Which network is best in Japan? ›The most consistent experience is with SoftBank
This means our SoftBank users now have indisputably the most consistent mobile network experience in Japan.
If you use a local SIM card while you are traveling, you can still use WhatsApp with your home number.
Do US iPhone Chargers work in Japan? ›Most North American electronics will work without an adaptor in Japan. Phone chargers and computer plugs have AC adaptors that handle a range of 100V to 240V.
Do you need pocket WiFi in Japan? ›If you take a trip to Japan in the short or long term, you should take a pocket WiFi rental. It will help you to search, use online maps and check information about transfer of trains outside. In the unfamiliar country, you will get lots of benefits from the portable WiFi router.
How do I change my iPhone to Japan? ›- Open the Settings app.
- Tap your name, then tap Media & Purchases.
- Tap View Account. ...
- Tap Country/Region.
- Tap Change Country or Region.
- Tap your new country or region, then review the Terms & Conditions.
- Tap Agree in the upper-right corner, then tap Agree again to confirm.
Roaming covers all mobile communications made directly from a foreign country. In other words, SMS, MMS, calls and mobile data use made via a foreign mobile network at the time you are in that country. International, on the other hand, is the sending of SMS, MMS or calls from Luxembourg to other countries.
How do I avoid roaming charges? ›
Check your Cellular Data options and turn off Data Roaming. In the Settings app, tap Cellular, or Cellular Data, or Mobile Data. Turn on Cellular Data, then tap Cellular Data Options. Turn off Data Roaming.
Do I need to turn roaming on for international plan? ›Before you travel internationally, make sure your device's roaming is turned on so your device can connect to cellular networks in your destination country.
What should I do with my cell phone when traveling internationally? ›- Put your phone in airplane mode. Only use it (besides features such as the camera) when you can connect to Wi-Fi. ...
- Get an international plan. Every phone carrier offers its customers international plans, which vary. ...
- Buy a prepaid SIM card.
If you're relying on Wi-Fi, it's important that you turn off cellular data on your phone, otherwise you may inadvertently rack up international roaming charges. Skype, Google Hangouts and other apps also let you make free video calls with other users over an internet connection.
How do I avoid phone charges when traveling internationally? ›- Before You Go, Talk to Your Provider. First things first. ...
- Turn off Roaming. In order to stop cellular data use, you should turn off roaming. ...
- Set Email to Fetch. ...
- Shut Down Non-Vital Apps. ...
- Deactivate Texting. ...
- Check Your Usage.
If there is a roaming agreement between the home network and one of the mobile networks in the visited country, the call is routed by the visited network towards an international transit network (Figure 1.1). The international transit network carrier is responsible for the call delivery to the destination network.
What are international roaming plans? ›International roaming is a service that enables mobile users to make and receive voice calls or text messages while visiting another country. Roaming service extends the operator's coverage to allow usage of the home operator's mobile number and network services within a foreign country.
Does T-Mobile provide free roaming? ›T-Mobile does not charge for domestic roaming data. You will receive a free usage alert via text message to notify you when you're approaching the end of domestic roaming data available for that area, and a second alert when you reach it.
What 11 countries are included in T-Mobile International Plan? ›Plus, customers get the same experience of 5GB of high-speed data in 11 European countries — Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania and Slovakia — on Magenta, most business plans and equivalent Sprint plans thanks to T-Mobile's partnership with Deutsche ...
Does T-Mobile charge international fees? ›Roaming with T-Mobile
Go5G Plus, Go5G, MAX, Plus, Magenta, ONE, and Simple Choice plans give you unlimited texting and data at up to 256kpbs in more than 215 countries and destinations at no extra charge, while voice calls are $0.25/minute.
Does T-Mobile charge for calls to Japan? ›
No. Your T-Mobile phone will allow you to make calls from the US to any country, but remember that per-minute calling rates can vary by country.
How can I avoid mobile roaming charges? ›Some travellers prefer to avoid roaming charges by switching off their Primary SIM card entirely, so it can't be used for data, calling, or texting until they're back home and they switch it back on.
How do I activate international roaming? ›Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Roaming.
Will I get charged if roaming is on? ›Roaming allows you to make calls, send texts, and use wireless data even when you're outside of your network's boundaries. The downside, of course, is that roaming data usually comes with extra charges to your account.
Is it free to text internationally with T-Mobile? ›Stateside International Unlimited Text Messaging
This feature is included at no additional charge. You can send and receive unlimited texts to any country in the world where texting is available (except Cuba or Wallis & Futuna).
T-Mobile customers with qualifying plans (including Go5G, Magenta, ONE, Essentials and Simple Choice) can add an International Pass while roaming in 215+ countries and destinations. These passes include increased high-speed data options and unlimited voice calling.
How do I avoid international transaction fees? ›Many international travelers encounter foreign transaction fees while making purchases or withdrawing cash from an ATM in a foreign country. The easiest way to avoid a foreign transaction fee is to use a debit or credit card that waives foreign transaction fees while traveling abroad.
Does international roaming cost money? ›Rates may be much higher because of additional roaming fees on foreign mobile networks and may vary from country to country and network to network. Higher rates may apply to all of your phone's functions, including voice calls, voice mail, text messages, and internet access.
Do I want data roaming on or off? ›If you want to stay connected to mobile phone service even if you travel away from your cell carrier's network, data roaming should be switched “on.” But if you want to avoid fees and you're aware of the risks of losing connectivity, then you can turn data roaming to “off.”
Does WhatsApp charge for international texts? ›You can use WhatsApp internationally for free with Wi-Fi; depending on your cellular plan, you may incur international charges for using cellular data on WhatsApp.
Does WhatsApp charge for international calls? ›
Voice calling lets you call your contacts using WhatsApp for free, even if they're in another country. Voice calling uses your phone's internet connection rather than your mobile plan's minutes. Data charges may apply.
How can I make free international calls on T-Mobile? ›Call T-Mobile Customer Service from another country
From your mobile device, dial +1-505-998-3793. We won't charge you anything for this call, no matter where you are. Go ahead and store this number in your phone's contact list for easy and quick dialing while you're away.