Spilling the eSIM Secrets
Airalo Japan eSIM: Pros, Cons & Better Alternative
Airalo offers popular Japan eSIMs, but they’re not your only option. With more affordable options like ZenSim who are based in Australia, and have a track record of excellent customer service - let's compare.
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Japan eSIM Airalo Overview
Airalo is a well-known global eSIM brand with a huge user base, and a popular choice for Japan travel. ZenSim, meanwhile, is an Australian company offering cheaper unlimited plans (A$105 vs A$116.50), stronger customer support, and a higher 4.9/5 rating on ProductReview. While both brands work well for basic usage, Airalo often relies on lower-tier network routes in Japan, which can lead to slower real-world performance.
Airalo vs ZenSim features
| Feature | ZenSim | Airalo |
|---|---|---|
| Headquarters | Australia | Singapore |
| Review score | ⭐ 4.9/5 | ⭐ 3.9/5 |
| Hotspotting | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| 30 Day Unlimited Plan | A$105 | A$116.50 |
| 10 Day Unlimited Plan | A$50 | A$55.50 |
| 30 Day 20GB Plan | A$38 | A$38.50 |
| Unlimited Daily Cap | 3GB/day | 3GB/day |
Check out the goods
Japan eSIM Plans
Set up in a few minutes
Unlimited hotspotting
Add more data with top ups
Install before travel
How to use travel esims
How it works
If you haven't used a travel eSIM before, you're in for a treat. It only takes a few minutes to setup and it's a fraction of the cost of roaming! See WTF is eSIM.
1. Quick phone check
Let's make sure your phone's on board. Our eSIM compatibility checker has all of the answers.
2. Choose a plan, enter your details
Choose a plan for your destination, enter your details and your payment information.
4. Auto-activated on arrival
Update settings on arrival (we'll email these to you) and boom, you're connected. Check your usage in the ZenSim app.
Say whaaaaat
All pros, no cons
100% money back guarantee
Plans changed, device incompatible or locked, can't get it working, we've got you covered - see our .
Data-only eSIM - no phone number
Use internet based apps like WhatsApp and Messenger as normal. Note: you can't make traditional calls or SMS (yet).
Reliable 4G/5G connection
Powered by the best networks in Japan including .
Multiple data options
Including unlimited data for 5, 15 or 30 days and plans starting at only 1GB.
Unlimited hotspotting (tethering)
Hotspot to your laptop, tablet, to your friends, to whoever with our limitless hotspotting.
Auto-activates on arrival
Automatically activates when you arrive in Japan. Just update settings (we'll send instructions), and you're connected.
Install up to 90 days before travel
Install your Japan eSIM anytime within 90 days before you travel, the plan won't start until you arrive in Japan.
Keep your current number
You can have multiple eSIMs installed and switch them on and off as you like.
The nitty gritty
FAQs
Airalo does not offer Australia-based customer support rather they are global. All support is handled through its global ticketing system inside the app. ZenSim, on the other hand, is an Australian company with local support and more responsive help channels including WhatsApp and Messenger which makes resolving issues before or during your trip a bloody breeze.
Yep! Both Airalo and ZenSim allow unlimited hotspotting on their Japan eSIMs. Keep in mind on unlimited plans there are daily limits in place of 3GB/day, and obviously on a capped plan ie. 10GB if you use up the 10GB your data and hotspotting will no longer work.
Airalo is a well-known global eSIM brand, but its rating sits at 3.9/5 on Trustpilot. ZenSim has significantly stronger customer satisfaction, with a 4.9/5 rating on ProductReview.com.au, reflecting consistently good feedback on speed, reliability and support - in other words we're very Zen.
Airalo often routes its Japan traffic through lower-tier network paths, which can lead to congestion during busy times. This can cause slower speeds or less stable performance in crowded areas. We have tested better real-world speeds in Japan with ZenSim because it connects through higher-quality network routes.
Both brands make installation simple with QR codes and in-app guidance which is great. The main difference is that if you have an issue the ZenSim’s customer service is very highly rated, they also provide refunds for failed installations or if you're unable to use the eSIM.
ZenSim is generally more affordable for Japan data. Airalo’s 10GB plan is A$28.50, while ZenSim’s equivalent is A$28 and Airalo’s unlimited 30-day plan costs A$116.50, whereas ZenSim offers the same length unlimited plan for A$105.
Yes. Airalo’s “unlimited” Japan plans include 3GB of high-speed data per day. After that, speeds are reduced. ZenSim follows a similar 3GB/day structure which is common among unlimited plans. Most providers have the caps, but some choose not to disclose it which is not great as you don't know what you're buying.
No - Airalo doesn’t work on every device. Both ZenSim and Airalo use eSIMs and only support phones that are eSIM-compatible and fully unlocked. Most newer iPhones, Google Pixels and Samsung Galaxy models work fine, but older devices or phones purchased through certain carriers may not support eSIM. Best to check our eSIM Compatability Checker in the main navigation at the top of the screen. Also, if your phone is not compatible ZenSim will offer you a full refund!
