Hotspots are very useful for WiFi environment in Japan. You can use WiFi for free. However, using hotspots without knowing anything about them can be dangerous.
In this article, I would like to ask what it is like to actually use a hotspot in Japan. We will show you where you can use WiFi at hotspots, the good and the bad. We will also introduce the dangers of using hotspots and what other ways there are to connect to WiFi from various perspectives.
If you plan to use a hotspot before you go to Japan, please read through it once.
Troubles in Japan
Many times, the most common problem faced by foreign visitors to Japan is the “lack of WiFi access. Recently, WiFi environment is often cited more than language barriers.
In fact, there are not a few free WiFi spots in Japan, but the number of spots that are truly free and do not require registration procedures is very small, about 10% of the total.
Where are the hot spots located in Japan?
Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi hotspots are available nationwide. After installing the application and registering for use, you can automatically connect to free WiFi spots nationwide. I tried Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi because I was told that it was available to Japanese, but it was not possible to connect anywhere.
Since it connected automatically, I could not select a WiFi, and sometimes I was connected to a WiFi with very slow connection speed. I was curious and looked into it and found many recent reviews that were not good. Also, the service is scheduled for final shutdown on March 31, 2026.
Thoughts on using the Internet at a hotspot
Earlier, we touched briefly on Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi, but here we introduce our impressions of using hotspots, including Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi.
Good thing about the hotspot
- No fees are charged.
By using free WiFi, you can save your own mobile data traffic and reduce communication costs. - Available on the move (as long as you are within hotspot range)
Available in many public facilities, cafes, restaurants, and other places, the system allows users to access the Internet on the go and quickly get the information they need. - Ease of connection
In many cases, the connection is simple and requires no special configuration, so the Internet is available immediately.
What was wrong with the hotspot
- Security Risks
Public WiFi networks often lack encryption, increasing the risk of hacking and data eavesdropping. Personal and confidential information may be compromised. - Connection instability
Public WiFi networks have many users connecting at the same time, which can result in slow or unstable connection speeds. - Language Barriers
In many cases, instructions on how to use and set up free WiFi are provided in Japanese, and language barriers can make it difficult to use. - lack of support
In case of trouble, free WiFi support may not be sufficient. Support may not be available, especially if you speak a different language.
Hazards of Hot Spots
As mentioned somewhat in the disadvantages of hotspots above, here are some of the risks. If you are going to use a hotspot, it can be dangerous if you don’t understand it.
- Security vulnerabilities
Public WiFi networks often lack encryption, which puts data at risk of being intercepted. This can result in passwords and personal information being compromised. - Privacy risks
Public WiFi may allow third parties to monitor your location and online activities. This risks invasion of privacy. - Lack of understanding of Terms of Use
If the terms of use of free WiFi are unclear, personal information may be used in ways for which it was not intended. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions when agreeing to them.
How to use WiFi outside of hotspots
Here are some ways to use WiFi in addition to hotspots. All of those introduced below are safe in terms of security. Basically, we recommend that you choose one of the following options when you go to Japan.
| Pocket WiFi Rental | SIM Cards | eSIM | International Roaming | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Internet Connection | Connect to the network provided by Pocket WiFi | Insert directly into your smartphone and connect to the network | Set up an eSIM in your smartphone and connect to the network | Connect to local carrier network |
| Portability | Lightweight and portable, battery required | Simply insert into smartphone, no additional equipment required | No additional equipment required as it is built into the smartphone | No additional equipment required |
| Setup | Pocket WiFi is activated and connection settings are required | Insert SIM card and APN settings may be required | Scan the QR code of eSIM, and then setup is required. | Usually no setup is required, but you may need to check your communication settings. |
| Rates | Usually daily rental rates or monthly plans | Varies depending on SIM card rate plan | Varies depending on eSIM rate plan | Often high, depends on plan |
Pocket WiFi Rental
Pocket WiFi is available throughout Japan and can connect multiple devices simultaneously. However, the battery needs to be recharged and cannot be used when the charge runs out.
Also, it needs to be carried with you, which can increase your luggage and make it cumbersome to carry. With these points in mind, you can use the Internet conveniently.
Ninja WiFi
Ninja WiFi provides high-speed Internet throughout Japan, allowing connection of multiple devices. Featuring easy reservation and pickup, a clear pricing structure, and reliable support, you can comfortably use the Internet while traveling.
Recommended points
- Most common pick-up and return locations
- Fees can be kept low
- Available anywhere in Japan
SIM Cards
The SIM card can be inserted directly into the smartphone, eliminating the need to carry a pocket WiFi. They are also relatively inexpensive, keeping costs down. However, for short-term use, the contracting process can be difficult. In addition, APN settings may be required, which can be a hassle.
eSIM
The eSIM is built into the smartphone, eliminating the need for an additional device and allowing for quick setup. However, it requires an eSIM-compatible device and cannot be used with unsupported models.
In addition, eSIM plan options may be limited, and you may not find a plan that matches your desired data capacity or contract length. These points should be taken into consideration while maximizing convenience.
International Roaming
International roaming is a convenient way to immediately connect to a local carrier’s network, without the need for an additional device or SIM card.
However, usage fees are often high and rates fluctuate based on data volume, which can make it difficult to manage a budget. It is important to understand the high and fluctuating fees and to keep track of usage.
Summary
How was it? Here is a summary of hot spots in Japan.
- The advantage of hotspots is that they are free of charge and can be used to connect while on the move. Available in many public facilities and cafes, it is easy to connect and requires no special setup.
- The disadvantages of hotspots are high security risks and sometimes unstable communications. Many instructions are provided in Japanese, and support may be lacking.
- Alternatives include pocket WiFi, SIM cards, eSIM, and international roaming. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
