Japan has the 6th fastest Internet speed in the world with an average of 30 Mbps compared to the US average of 10 Mbps, fantastic news for anyone coming to the country for a visit. The portable WiFi in Japan is royally awesome! Here are ten reasons why you simply can’t live without it.
1. Japanese Train System got you Down? Japan WiFi to the Rescue!
Tokyo is said to have the most amazing subway system in the world; amazingly confusing, that is. Even more confounding are Japanese trains and buses, which actually work wonderfully once you get used to them. Until then why not simply log into a foreigner’s guide to traveling in Japan or even find an English timetable online? Having portable WiFi in Japan cuts travel time and saves energy—you don’t need to waste any on trying to communicate in sign language, or worse yet, missing your train.
2. Lost In Tokyo? Fear No More!
Even if you master the train and subway system, you can still get lost every day in Japan. The addresses and street names are in Japanese characters and follow a confusingly snaky, non-grid system. With Google Maps and other GPS-enabled apps, you’ll never have to worry about losing your way. Problem solved! Of course, you may still get lost in translation. For example, a revolving sushi restaurant explains itself as “sushi thrown on the lane.” And the wise proverb, “Do not touch doubtful things” is among one of the more amusing nuggets I’ve seen. An online translation service is essential for the more heavy-duty stuff; just keep it short and simple (like “coffee shop” or museum Tokyo”) and you’re good to go.
3. International Call from Japan? Try the Online Alternative!
In rapidly aging Japan, charge-by-the-minute land lines remain very popular. You can still find payphones—just don’t count on making an international call with one! Some payphones will only accept coins, and what’s more the cost can be much higher than simply sending email, chatting online, or using one of the many VoIP options you have with data. Bottom line: You can expect faster results from your Japan WiFi than from on outdated phone box.
4. Want to Stay Connected on Social Media? As easy as 1, 2, Twitter!
If you are one of the millions of people who have to touch base with networks on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter at least once a day, portable WiFi in Japan will be non-negotiable. The fact is that social media is more than just social — it’s used for business, homework, emergency “calls,” and to let the rest of your world know that you are OK.
5. Miss your Apps? Not a problem!
Just because you’re in the Land of the Rising Sun shouldn’t mean you have to take a vacation from your apps. WiFi in Japan allows downloads in seconds rather than minutes or (GASP!) hours. You can go wild searching for new apps, from cute games to practical weather guides. With apps like LINE, not only can you chat and talk for free with other LINE users worldwide, but you can also save a ton of travel funds with free coupons for restaurants around Japan.
6. Love Online Booking? It’s Easy with Portable WiFi in Japan!
The Japanese know how to make life simpler, and online booking is part of that. This goes beyond air, sea, and land travel—you can also make restaurant reservations, reserve accommodations, book beauty salons, and sign up for social events such as book clubs, golf events, and seminars—you can even try dating online! One of the best all-round travel booking sites is Kayak.com—it’s relatively cheap, easy to use, and most importantly, has an English interface.
7. Homesick? Your remedy is just a click away!
It’s very easy to get captured and enamored by the beauty and classic traditions of Japan, but it’s just as easy to get homesick. WiFi allows you access to news and views in your own country so you don’t have to miss out on important developments even as you are enjoying your tako-yaki.
8. Want to try Japan’s Online Gaming Scene? Now’s your Chance!
While in Japan, you must try online gaming! Smartphone gaming has consistently breached sales and subscription records. The reason is the same as everywhere else in the world it’s easily accessible and fun! Japanese gaming may be different than you are used to, but once you see so many people (including foreigners) playing their favorite mobile games, you’ll want to get in on the action!
9. Catch an Online Shopping Bug? So much the Better!
Online shopping is huge in Japan. Aside from the top online shops like Rakuten, there are hundreds of small and unique Japan-based online shops like iQon, Locondo (which delivers 3 sizes of the shoes you order so you can be sure to find the perfect fit!), Enoteca, and Mercari which is a local online flea market.
10. What to do in case of Emergency? Use an app, of Course!
So far we’ve focused on all the fun things about having portable WiFi in Japan, but for everything that could go wrong—from bad weather, train delays or accidents, earthquakes, even emergencies at home—there is probably a WiFi app that can help. Thinking of it that way, you should be asking yourself one question: Can I really afford NOT to have WiFi?
Conclusion: Data is Definitely King!
Whether you are exploring Tokyo’s nooks and crannies or hiking to Fuji’s tallest peak, it’s all part of the Asian adventure. And it gets better with the fabulously fast Internet speed and being able to access the World Wide Web almost anywhere you go. Get Japan WiFi for your trip and don’t miss out!
