SIM Card or eSIM for the Shikoku Pilgrimage?

‍Many use the Shikoku Pilgrimage as an opportunity to take a break for themselves and from social media. You may have wondered if you even need internet and a phone while being a pilgrim in Japan, or if you can skip getting an extra SIM card for Japan altogether.

For me, the thought of having time for myself and the desire for a break was also the focus during the pilgrimage. However, I still decided to get a SIM card for Japan this time as well. Unlike usual, I didn't just get internet, I also made sure I had a way to make phone calls on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

Why you shouldn't skip getting a SIM card with internet and phone for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, why an extra eSIM or SIM card for Japan is worth it, and which providers and options exist to stay connected and reachable in Japan, you will find out in this post.

Do I need Internet & a SIM Card for the Pilgrimage?

‍The short answer is: Yes, you should buy a SIM card with at least data volume for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. There are three important reasons why you shouldn't skip internet and phone even on a pilgrimage. The first reason is navigation on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Internet on the go is important to navigate safely and efficiently.

Additionally, a SIM card with internet and phone is very helpful for making or canceling reservations on the go. While tourists can book accommodations in Japan through booking platforms, as a pilgrim, you are more or less reliant on being able to make a last-minute phone reservation at an inn if necessary.

Perhaps the most important reason, however, is that as a pilgrim, you should always stay informed about current weather conditions and potential natural disasters. The weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains, and earthquakes are always possible. Therefore, it is important for your own safety to be properly prepared.

Disaster Preparedness on the Shikoku Pilgrimage

‍Japan is a very safe country with a low crime rate. However, Japan is hit by numerous typhoons and earthquakes every year. The good news is that Japan is well-prepared for these and has developed a sophisticated early warning system that includes warnings for earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and extreme weather.

Part of the system involves direct messages to your smartphone, accompanied by a loud alarm tone. However, to receive these messages, you must be connected to the phone network. Unfortunately, I found that I didn't receive notifications via roaming. Therefore, you are on the safe side if you use a Japanese SIM card and install an early warning app. There are several disaster preparedness apps for Japan that can send notifications in English as well. To ensure these apps work correctly, they must be permanently connected to the internet.

Navigation on the Shikoku Pilgrimage

‍The Route Guide* is an excellent tool for navigating the Shikoku Pilgrimage. However, I would always recommend also using GPS maps and Google Maps for navigation.

In the mountains, I found it sometimes challenging to determine the correct path. In addition to the route in the guide, there were sometimes additional trails or turnoffs in reality that were not marked on the map. A quick look at Gaia GPS or a similar GPS app helped me determine whether it was the correct path.

Some apps work entirely offline, but position determination is generally more accurate with an internet connection. Additionally, offline navigation often requires a paid subscription. With an internet connection, you're definitely on the safe side.

Navigating with Google Maps

‍Another important reason for a SIM card with internet is the ability to navigate using Google Maps. The address system in Japan is quite different from here, and even Japanese people find it difficult to find the correct address in a new place. It's much easier to let Google Maps navigate you.

Another plus for Google Maps: Almost all major train and bus schedules (except community buses) can also be researched through Google Maps, including prices and information on quick transfers.

_{Caution: However, Google Maps is only suitable for street navigation. Hiking trails and remote areas are either not listed or not sufficiently detailed on Google Maps. Therefore, you should not rely on Google Maps for these cases. Sometimes Google Maps can't suggest a route, and in other cases, it may lead you astray because it simply doesn't know the fastest, best, and safest path.}

Making Reservations on the Shikoku Pilgrimage

‍There are various accommodation options on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. However, most pilgrims mainly stay in Minshuku or Ryokan, traditional Japanese guesthouses. These are often run by older people and do not have their own websites, nor are they listed on common booking platforms.

Reservations at Minshuku, Ryokan, and temples can usually only be made by phone. Some pilgrims get help with reservations from Japanese pilgrims or their current guesthouse. However, you will be much more flexible and autonomous if you can make reservations using your own SIM card.

If you've gotten lost on the pilgrimage, miscalculated the walking time, or are delayed for any reason, you should definitely call your guesthouse! If you don't check in, your reservation might be canceled at best, and you'll need to find new accommodation. In the worst case, a search might be started for you if you are significantly late.

Another advantage of phone reservations: If you call directly, some accommodations may even be cheaper, as booking platforms usually charge a commission that would otherwise be passed on to you.

Why Get an Extra SIM Card for Japan?

‍While roaming in the EU is fortunately no longer extra, foreign tariffs for Japan are still unreasonably expensive. Prices of €1 per minute for calls or 1 MB of data are not uncommon. If you don't want to throw your money away, you shouldn't choose your normal mobile provider's tariff.

It is much cheaper to get an extra eSIM or SIM card for Japan. There are now many providers of eSIMs and SIM cards in Japan that tourists can also use. However, it is usually not possible to sign a contract that gives you a Japanese phone number without a visa. The Japanese law on this matter is very strict.

Data Only SIM Cards for Japan

‍For this reason, so-called Data Only SIM cards are standard for tourists in Japan who are only traveling through Japan for a short time but still want to stay connected. With Data Only SIM cards, you can access the internet, but you don't get a phone number. You can't make calls, and you can't receive calls or text messages.

For most tourists, Data Only SIM cards are usually the best solution. However, this is impractical for the pilgrimage since you can't make calls. Therefore, I want to introduce you to two options for staying reachable on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

eSIM or SIM Card: What's the Difference?

‍Before I explain how I stayed reachable on the Shikoku Pilgrimage and what other options I can recommend, here's a quick overview of eSIMs. If you're already familiar with eSIMs, just skip this section and read on below.

Difference Between SIM Card and eSIM

‍A regular SIM card is what you're already familiar with: A small piece of plastic that you insert into your phone to connect it to the mobile network. Without this card, you can't make calls or access the internet.

An eSIM works similarly but is not physically present. Instead, it is already built into your phone and can be activated digitally. To use the eSIM, you simply download your provider's network settings by scanning a QR code or using an app. The installation is quick and is done purely via software, so you don't need to insert or switch out a card.

eSIM or SIM Card: Which is Better?

‍Generally, an eSIM is more convenient than a regular SIM card. With an eSIM, you can quickly and easily switch mobile providers without having to buy or insert a new card. eSIMs for Japan are often cheaper than physical SIM cards.

In most cases, you can install and activate the eSIM before your trip to Japan, so you don't have to worry about it after a 12-hour flight and with annoying jet lag. You'll be connected to the internet as soon as you land.

Additionally, with an eSIM, you avoid the risk of losing the small SIM card if you switch between SIM cards on the go. It's especially handy that many modern phones can use both an eSIM and a physical SIM card simultaneously.

This way, you can keep your home SIM card to stay reachable in emergencies while using a Japanese eSIM for local calls and internet. This keeps you as flexible as possible. That's why I recommend an eSIM for your trip to Japan.

Does My Phone Support eSIM?

‍Most newer smartphones from the iPhone XS, Google Pixel 3, and Galaxy S20 onwards support eSIMs without any issues. If your phone was manufactured in 2018 or later, it's very likely that it is eSIM-compatible. You can find an extensive list of compatible smartphones here.

If your phone doesn't support eSIM, you can easily use a traditional SIM card for your stay in Japan.

Internet & Phone: Mobal SIM Card

To stay connected on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I want to introduce you to two options with their respective pros and cons. The first option is particularly simple and reliable, while the second option requires more effort but can save you some money.

If you prefer minimal hassle and reliable connectivity, the Mobal SIM card or eSIM is a great choice. Even as a tourist, you can get a proper Japanese phone number with Mobal, allowing you to make calls and access the internet. A Mobal SIM card* is one of the few options that allow you to call and receive calls in Japan without a residence card, making it a convenient choice for pilgrims.

Mobal offers various plans for eSIMs and SIM cards, allowing you to choose between a one-time purchase or a monthly plan. Mobal also offers Data Only SIM cards and WiFi routers*, but the combination of voice and data is most practical for pilgrims in Japan.

SIM Cards for Short Stays

For short stays, you can choose between SIM cards valid for 30, 60, or 90 days. Whether you opt for an eSIM or a physical SIM card, the price is the same for Voice+Data. All plans include 7 GB of data per month with 4G LTE speed. After using up the high-speed data, the speed drops to 200 kbps, but you remain connected to the internet.

Your data resets on the first day of each month, regardless of when you activated your SIM card. For example, if you travel from February 20th to March 20th, you’ll have a total of 14 GB of high-speed data available. You can find all the eSIM plans from Mobal* here and all the regular SIM cards from Mobal* for short stays.

The great advantage of Mobal is the genuine Japanese phone number you receive with your SIM card. You can make cheap calls within Japan, send SMS messages, and use the phone number to register for services that require a Japanese phone number. Incoming calls and SMS are free, while outgoing calls are charged at 44 yen per minute (approximately 25 cents).

Monthly Plans from Mobal

Mobal also offers a monthly plan that is ideal for longer stays or if you need more data. You can choose between 1 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, and 30 GB per month. The high-speed data resets on the first of each month, but you remain connected to the internet even if you exceed your data limit. This plan is available as both an eSIM* or a regular SIM card*.

There is no minimum contract length or cancellation fee for the monthly plan, unlike most contracts in Japan. The monthly plan provides more data for less money, making it a more cost-effective option than purchasing a one-time SIM card, and is therefore generally recommended.

Conclusion: Mobal eSIM or SIM Card

Mobal SIM cards are a simple and practical way to stay connected to the internet in Japan, offering the unique advantage of providing a proper Japanese phone number even to tourists. You can choose between an eSIM or a physical SIM card. Mobal guarantees 99% network coverage in Japan and works reliably even in Shikoku.

The only downside is that Mobal's Voice+Data plan is slightly more expensive than a Data Only SIM card. A small consolation: As a reader of Inaka Japan, you get a 20% discount on the purchase of an eSIM* or SIM card* with the monthly plan when you place your order through my links.

• Make and receive calls normally
• Official Japanese phone number
• Unlimited data volume (with speed restrictions)
• Easy setup
• Discount for Inaka Japan readers

• More expensive than a Data Only SIM card

eSIM from Ubigi & Skype for Calls

The second option for staying connected and making calls on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is particularly suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Instead of purchasing a SIM card with a Japanese phone number, you can opt for an affordable Data Only eSIM and pair it with Skype or another VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service.

My Experience with Ubigi

For my last trip to Japan, I opted for an eSIM from Ubigi, which I extensively tested in Shikoku, Okinawa, and Kansai. It was my first time not using a physical SIM card, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the installation process was.

After registering and installing the app, I was ready to go. I simply set up the eSIM while waiting at the airport. All you need to do is select a data plan*, and pay using PayPal, credit card, or Apple Pay. You’ll be connected to the internet immediately.

Always Connected with Ubigi eSIM

Initially, I was concerned that network coverage might be poor in the mountains or remote areas of Shikoku. However, I almost always had excellent reception, not only in Shikoku but also during my days in Osaka, Himeji, Koya, Tokyo, and even in the southern islands of Okinawa.

I initially opted for just 3 GB per month, but quickly realized that wasn’t enough. Fortunately, you can easily purchase additional data even during the active period of your plan. I found that 10 GB was sufficient for my needs.

• Affordable internet
• Flexible durations
• Additional data can be purchased anytime
  

• No official Japanese phone number
• Cannot receive calls
• Requires Skype or similar service for calls

Calling via Skype

I made my reservations via Skype, reactivating my old Skype account before the trip and loading €10 in credit. I ended up making more calls than I expected and was glad I had the option.

For instance, I was able to call my accommodation in Katsuura during heavy rain and arrange for an early pickup. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as successful in tracking down my lost scarf but was able to call the owner of a Henro House when no one was available for check-in.

The only downside to Skype was that, despite good internet reception, the connection was sometimes unstable, and conversations were choppy. I also had to keep my German SIM card active, as accommodations could only reach me via my German number. Due to roaming charges, I avoided answering those calls and instead called back via Skype.

Of course, there are other VoIP providers besides Skype. Skype is convenient because most people already have an account. You can easily top up your Skype credit via the app and only pay for what you use. Skype-to-Phone is also available as a subscription, but this is usually not worth it for a short stay.

• Cheap calls
• Prepaid: only top up as much credit as you need

• Sometimes unstable connection
• No official Japanese phone number
• Cannot receive calls
• Internet connection required for calls
• Consumes additional data

Conclusion: Ubigi eSIM & Skype

Overall, I was satisfied with the combination of eSIM and Skype for calls. However, for a longer stay, I would opt for a proper phone number via Mobal. Over time, it became inconvenient to receive every call on my German number, decline it, and then call back using Skype.

One downside is that I once ran out of data because I missed the notification. In that instance, it was more annoying than anything else, but it’s far from ideal in an emergency. Another drawback is that calling via Skype consumes data, so it’s a good idea to purchase extra data in advance.

How Much Data Do You Need for the Shikoku Pilgrimage?

How much data you need on the Shikoku Pilgrimage depends heavily on your personal usage. I’m always cautious with my data usage and found 10 GB per month to be sufficient. However, I didn’t stream videos, listen to music, or frequently shared pictures, barely used Facebook or Instagram.

The best approach is to monitor your usage beforehand and add a 25% buffer to be safe. You can also check your data usage in your mobile settings to see how much data you use over a given period.

How to Save Data on the Pilgrimage

Many apps have a data-saving mode that reduces data usage when connected to a mobile network. Alternatively, you can completely restrict certain apps from using data in your mobile settings—especially those you won’t need while on the pilgrimage.

However, avoid enabling flight mode or completely disabling mobile data, as you won’t receive early warnings for weather or earthquakes.

Conclusion: eSIM or SIM Card for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

A SIM card or eSIM is essential on the Shikoku Pilgrimage to stay safe and flexible. Efficient navigation, weather and earthquake warnings, and the ability to make or cancel reservations on short notice are all crucial reasons not to go without internet and a phone.

My personal recommendation is to use an eSIM with a Japanese phone number so you can stay connected to the internet and make calls easily. This option offers maximum flexibility and security, especially in emergencies.

If you’re trying to save money, combining a Data Only eSIM with a VoIP service like Skype is also a good alternative, even if it’s a bit more cumbersome. Make sure you have enough data to avoid any unpleasant surprises on the road.

Whichever option you choose, proper preparation is key to enjoying your pilgrimage in Shikoku safely and worry-free. Here you’ll find comprehensive information about the Shikoku Pilgrimage, the best time to travel to Shikoku, stages & duration of the pilgrimage, important details about the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and a complete gear list for walking the pilgrimage.