Can you Use eSIM on iPhone in Japan?

Is your iPhone compatible for eSIM?

Can you Use eSIM on iPhone in Japan

eSIM is the new way to get internet connection when traveling overseas. It is a popular way to do so because of its simplicity, which is something you couldn’t say about other ways of getting internet connection.

Getting internet connection with eSIM is not only simple but also relatively cheap and time-consuming is almost non-existent.

The only thing that people are usually concerned about eSIM is the compatibility with their mobile phone. This is especially due to the fact that this method of internet connection is relatively new and people are not very familiar with it yet. But do not worry. If you happen to own an iPhone, then this article will help you with that question you are having.

In this article, I will provide some information that should be helpful for you to know 1) if your iPhone is compatible with eSIM and 2) in the case it is compatible, how to set the eSIM to your iPhone.


What is eSIM?

eSIM sign

eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a built-in digital SIM card that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card in compatible devices. Instead of inserting and removing a physical card, eSIM allows you to remotely download and activate a carrier’s profile on your device.

This brings convenience, especially for travelers, as you can easily switch between networks without handling physical SIM cards. By scanning a QR code or entering an activation code, you can connect to a local network while abroad, enjoy voice, data, and messaging services seamlessly, and avoid the limitations and complexities associated with physical SIM card management.

Can you Use eSIM on iPhone in Japan?

mt fuji and temple

The short answer is YES. But let me elaborate on this.

If your iPhone version is anything after iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, or iPhone XR, then it is compatible with eSIM. You can install over 8 eSIMs in a single iPhone and install 2 phone numbers simultaneously.

*note: eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. If you’re planning on visiting China and want to use eSIM, you will need to use a prepaid data plan from a worldwide service provider.

How to set up eSIM on your iPhone

esim install

When it comes to setting up eSIM on your iPhone, there are a few choices that you have. The main two methods are “eSIM Carrier Activation” and “eSIM Quick Transfer”. The following are the details.

eSIM Carrier Activation

eSIM Carrier Activation refers to the process of activating a new eSIM with a specific carrier to your new iPhone. It allows iPhone users to set up and switch to a carrier’s network directly through their device settings without the need for a physical SIM card. This feature simplifies the process of connecting to a carrier by scanning a QR code or entering an activation code provided by the carrier.

eSIM Quick Transfer

eSIM Quick Transfer refers to the process of transporting your SIM from your old iPhone to your new iPhone without the need of contacting the carrier. It is also possible for you to convert your physical SIM to an eSIM (both from an old iPhone to a new iPhone, or within the same iPhone device).

Other methods

Besides “eSIM Carrier Activation” and “eSIM Quick Transfer”, there are other ways of installing eSIM to your iPhone. These other methods include: using a QR code, using the app provided by the service, and manual installation.

For more information regarding how to install eSIM with these other methods, be sure to check out the following article.


I hope this article was helpful to you and cleared up any questions you had. Internet connection is one of the most important things when traveling now. Securing how you’re going to get this internet connection will be just one less thing to worry about when you’re traveling to, say, Japan.

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Written by

Born and raised in Costa Rica, I started living in Tokyo from college. I love traveling within Japan & around the world. Since I wasn’t born in Japan, I know the cultural impact that you can get when visiting Japan for the first time and what you might be worried about before your trip. And I’ve lived long enough to somewhat understand the nuances of the Japanese culture that make this country such an attractive place to visit. Hopefully I can provide to you both the information you’re looking for and the information you didn’t know you needed to know.