Networks
Japan's mobile networks: docomo, au and SoftBank, which one suits you?
Every Pinglo plan runs on a major Japanese network at 4G and 5G speeds. The difference is the network and the IP address, and here is a short explanation to help you choose.
The three big networks
- NTT docomo: Japan's largest network with the widest coverage, a good fit if you travel between cities and to quieter areas.
- KDDI au: a strong network with wide coverage in cities and along the main roads.
- SoftBank: a strong presence in the big cities and tourist areas.
In cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto you usually won't notice much difference between them.
Which Pinglo plan runs on which network?
| Plan | Network | IP address | Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pinglo Flex | NTT docomo | Japanese | 1 to 50 GB at full speed |
| Pinglo Go | NTT docomo | Japanese | 2 GB a day, then 256 Kbps |
| Pinglo Plus | KDDI au and SoftBank | Outside Japan (Singapore) | 3 GB a day, then 1 Mbps |
| Pinglo Max | KDDI au and SoftBank | Outside Japan (Singapore) | 5 or 10 GB a day, then 384 Kbps |
What does the IP address mean?
The IP address decides where websites and apps think you are. With a Japanese IP some apps show you Japan's content and settings, and with an IP outside Japan they may show that country's content instead. This is normal technical behaviour and doesn't affect maps, chat or social media.
Speeds to expect
Real speed depends on where you are, how busy the network is and your phone. In cities you usually get excellent speeds, enough for video and calls, and they can drop at peak times inside big stations or indoors. This happens on every network and isn't specific to one eSIM.
Choosing by your route
- Cities only (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto): any plan works. Choose by the amount of data you need.
- Lots of travel between cities and into the countryside: the docomo plans (Flex and Go), for their wider coverage.
- Heavy daily use in cities: Plus or Max, for their larger daily allowances.
If the signal is weak
Try switching airplane mode on and off, or restart the phone. If you're in an area with weak coverage, turn off automatic network selection in the eSIM line's settings and pick another available network. If the problem continues, report it on the site and we'll help you step by step.
Coverage on trains and in remote areas
Coverage is excellent in cities and train stations, and can drop for short stretches in the Shinkansen's long tunnels and some mountain areas. If you can't connect after you arrive, turn on data roaming for the eSIM line and restart the phone, or pick another network manually in the line's settings.
Ready for your trip? Pick a Japan eSIM and get your QR code within minutes, priced in riyals, paid with mada or Apple Pay.
Browse plansFrequently asked questions
Which network is strongest in Japan?
NTT docomo has the widest coverage, and au and SoftBank are strong in cities. In Tokyo and Osaka all three are excellent.
Do Pinglo plans support 5G?
Yes, where 5G coverage is available and your phone supports it. Otherwise they run on 4G.
Why do some apps show Singapore content?
Because the Plus and Max plans connect through an IP address in Singapore. This doesn't affect everyday use.
Can I change the network manually?
Yes. In the eSIM line's settings, turn off automatic selection and pick another available network if the signal is weak.