Photo: Nomad

A Comprehensive Guide to Nomad’s Japan eSIM

The simple process of purchasing, installing, and activating a Nomad eSIM

Photo: Nomad
Veronica Carnevale   - 6 min read

Nomad’s Japan eSIM is an easy-to-use product from start to finish and offers exceptional service for everyone’s travel needs.

This data-only eSim comes equipped with 4G/5G speed and has wide coverage through Japan’s two largest networks, Softbank and KDDI. The product has one- to seven-day plans, as well as 30- and 45-day ones, making it suitable for any traveler. Nomad eSIM starts at only $0.98/GB, saving you from expensive roaming charges without breaking the bank.

Japan Travel’s introductory article about Nomad’s Japan eSIM goes into more details about its features and pricing.

Interested in Nomad’s eSIM?

Travelers can receive a 5% discount by using the code ‘JAPANTRAVEL’ at checkout.

Photo: Nomad

Pre-purchasing steps

Before purchasing Nomad’s Japan eSIM, buyers must confirm that their phones are eSIM-compatible and unlocked. Nomad has compiled a list of eSIM-compatible devices to help buyers determine if their phones are eligible.

Next, customers need to ensure that their phones are unlocked. This information can be found in the phone’s settings. If an individual’s phone is locked, they need to contact their carrier to unlock it.

Purchasing

Travelers can purchase Nomad’s eSIM online or through Nomad’s app (Apple Store and Google Play). Both options require customers to set up accounts. After users select their desired plans, they simply need to add their payment information.

For smooth purchasing, installation, and activation, Japan Travel recommends that customers use Nomad’s app.

Installation

Nomad highly recommends that users install their eSIMs directly after purchasing. Installing the eSIM in advance does not start the plan—the plan only starts after activation. However, after installation, users must activate the eSIM within 60 days.

A good internet connection is crucial during the installation process.

Installation through Nomad’s app

After users purchase Nomad’s eSIM through the app, it will prompt them to install the eSIM. The easy-to-follow on-screen instructions make the installation process effortless, and after carefully reading the instructions, users simply need to click “Install eSIM Now.”

Important: Users should select their Primary lines as the default line for calling and messaging.

Installation through the confirmation email

After purchasing the eSIM online, users will receive an email with a QR code for installation. The installation process will roughly be as follows, with slight discrepancies between devices.

Settings → Network/Internet/Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR code

Users can either scan the QR code directly from a second device or print it out.

Though not recommended, customers can also add the eSIM manually by entering the eSIM details from the confirmation email.

Detailed installation instructions from Nomad:

For more information refer to this blog post.

Photo: Nomad

Activation

After installation, the eSIM is now on the user’s device and will automatically activate once they arrive at their destination.

Connection

The eSIM is ready to connect once users arrive at their destination. To connect to Japan’s network, users need to go to Settings → Network/Internet/Cellular. Then, they must:

  • Turn on the eSIM labeled “Nomad”
  • Make sure the Nomad eSIM is selected for Cellular Data
  • Turn on “Data Roaming”

Then, Nomad’s eSIM will automatically connect to the best network in the surrounding area.

Overview of eSIM timeline

  • Purchase and installation: No more than 60 days before the trip
  • Activation and connection: Occur automatically upon arrival in Japan

Key takeaways

Nomad’s eSIM installation process typically takes about three minutes to complete and is extremely straightforward with step-by-step instructions. Activating the eSIM and connecting to Japan’s networks are also remarkably simple and fast.

Of course, if there are any issues during installation, activation, or connection, customers can review tips from Nomad’s Help Center or directly contact its 24/7 customer support.

With Nomad’s Japan eSIM, travelers can spend less time worrying about internet setup and connectivity and more time embracing their Japan dream trip!

Veronica Carnevale

Veronica Carnevale @veronica.carnevale

Fulfilling my traveler's soul!