Why Can't Tourists Get a Japanese Phone Number? SIM and eSIM Rules in Japan

Short answer: tourists in Japan can't easily get a SIM or eSIM with a Japanese phone number because Japanese law requires carriers to verify the identity of anyone buying a line with voice calling, usually with a Japanese document proving a residential address in Japan. A hotel address doesn't count. That's why almost all tourist plans are data-only, which is all most visitors actually need.

Anyone planning a trip to Japan quickly discovers something surprising: nearly every SIM and eSIM plan for tourists is data-only, without a Japanese phone number. It isn't a coincidence, and it isn't stingy providers. It's the law.

The Japanese law behind the restriction

Since 2006, Japan has had a law to prevent the misuse of mobile phones. It requires mobile carriers to verify the identity of everyone who buys a line with voice calling capability. The goal is to stop anonymous phone numbers from being used for fraud.

The problem for tourists is that identity verification usually requires a Japanese document showing a residential address in Japan, such as a residence card for foreign residents. A hotel address doesn't count. A tourist entering Japan for a short visit simply doesn't hold such a document, so most voice lines aren't available to them.

Why is Japan so strict?

Japan is dealing with a huge wave of phone scams. According to the Japanese government, losses from this kind of fraud reached a record of around 325.7 billion yen in 2025. So the authorities aren't just keeping the existing law, they're tightening it: an amendment was recently approved that extends identity verification to data-only SIM cards as well, and limits the number of lines one person can open.

So what can you do?

The good news: most tourists don't need a Japanese number at all. WhatsApp, video calls, maps, translation apps, taxi apps and payments all work perfectly on a data plan. Your home SIM can stay in your phone, so you keep receiving SMS codes from your bank and other services back home. We explain how running two lines works in eSIM with two numbers at the same time.

If you genuinely need a Japanese number (for example for a long stay, opening a bank account or signing a rental contract), there are providers that specialize in foreigners, but the process includes in-person identity verification and the price is significantly higher than a data plan.

Why an eSIM is the easiest option for a trip to Japan

• Install it at home by scanning a QR code, with no need to hunt for an airport counter.
• Your data starts working the moment you land.
• Your home SIM stays active at the same time.
• No surprises on your bill like with roaming.

Before you buy, make sure: your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked for all networks (not locked to a specific carrier). You can check your device here, then see our eSIM plans for Japan.

Frequently asked questions

Can I call Japanese numbers with a data-only eSIM?

Yes, through apps like WhatsApp or other internet calling apps. A regular cellular call from a Japanese number won't be available.

Can I receive SMS in Japan?

On your home SIM, yes, depending on your roaming plan. A data-only eSIM doesn't include a phone number, so it can't receive SMS.

Does the law apply to eSIMs too?

Yes. The law covers the mobile line, not the type of card, so there's no difference between a physical SIM and an eSIM.

Do I need a Japanese phone number as a tourist?

Usually not. Restaurants, trains, maps, translation and messaging all work over data. A Japanese number mainly matters for long stays, bank accounts or rental contracts.