No SIM, No Wi-Fi? How to Fix Internet Issues in Japan Fast

“I landed in Japan and Google Maps won’t load.” “There’s no Wi-Fi anywhere!” “I got separated from my travel buddy and can’t reach them!” — If you’re currently in Japan and suddenly find yourself without internet and haven’t purchased a SIM card or eSIM, don’t panic. This article is your emergency response guide for exactly this high-stress situation—so you can get back online quickly, even in a foreign country.

Whether you’ve just landed or lost connection mid-trip, this guide will show you how to buy a Japan eSIM online, activate it instantly, and get back online without delay or pickup hassles.

Step 1: Stay calm and look for Wi-Fi

The most important first step is to stay calm. Look around and try to find a public Wi-Fi connection. Most international airports in Japan—including Narita, Haneda, and Kansai—offer free Wi-Fi. Simply turn on your phone’s Wi-Fi and search for SSIDs like “Free Wi-Fi” or the airport’s name.

Additionally, places like Starbucks, McDonald’s, and major shopping malls often offer free Wi-Fi. Hotel lobbies and cafes are also good options to try.

If your phone doesn’t connect automatically, follow these steps:

• Go to “Settings” → “Wi-Fi” on your phone
• Select an available free network
• Open Safari, Chrome, or another browser to access the login screen

Step 2: Purchase an eSIM that can be activated immediately

Once you’re on Wi-Fi, your top priority is to purchase a Japan eSIM that can be activated right away. CDJapan Rental offers eSIMs designed for exactly these urgent scenarios. As soon as you complete your order, the QR code will be available via MyPage, ready for you to scan and install using your smartphone.

The entire process can be done online over Wi-Fi. Once installation and setup are complete, you can disconnect from public Wi-Fi and go online using your new eSIM. No physical SIM card, no shipping, no pickup needed. Even if you're already mid-trip in Japan, it’s fully doable.

Step 3: Follow the setup instructions—don’t rush

When you're under pressure, it's easy to make mistakes. But installing an eSIM isn’t difficult if you follow the instructions carefully:

• Scan the QR code using your phone → Add Mobile Plan
• If entering info manually, double-check all fields are correct
• Always do this setup while connected to Wi-Fi

If your eSIM doesn’t connect right away, try the following:

• Turn Airplane Mode on and off
• Restart your phone
• Check that your new eSIM is set as the primary data line

eSIM suddenly stopped working? Here are 3 possible reasons

Even after successful installation, you might suddenly lose connection. Here are some common causes and how to handle them:

• Your plan has expired: Double-check how many days or how much data your plan included. You might have used it all up.
• You accidentally deleted your eSIM: Re-scanning the QR code may not work. Many eSIMs are single-use only. If this happens, contact your provider’s customer support to check if re-issue is possible.
• Phone settings are incorrect: Make sure the eSIM is enabled and set as your mobile data line.

Better safe than sorry: Buy your eSIM before your trip

If you haven’t left yet, we recommend purchasing your eSIM ahead of time (but don’t install it just yet). Wait until you land in Japan to install and activate it—this way, you’ll be online as soon as you arrive, no panic needed.

Recommended reading: I Just Landed in Japan and Forgot to Get an eSIM—Is It Too Late?

Conclusion: No internet isn’t the end of the world—but don’t delay

It’s totally understandable to feel stressed when you suddenly lose your internet connection, but don’t worry. Just follow the steps above and you’ll be back online soon. Keep in mind that not all areas in Japan have free Wi-Fi—especially while riding the shinkansen or exploring the countryside, stable internet is crucial.

Choose a Japan eSIM that offers instant activation and clear instructions in English or your native language. That’s the most reliable solution. Don’t let internet issues ruin your trip—fix it now and travel worry-free.