How to install a Japanese eSIM in minutes: comprehensive guide

eSIM sounds technical, but installation actually only takes a few minutes. This article gives you an overview of the steps, common to both iPhone and Android, and then points to detailed instructions for each model if you need each specific operation.

What do you need before starting?

• Devices that support eSIM: iPhone XR, XS and above and most high-end Android from 2019.
• Connect to Wi-Fi when installing, because the eSIM profile download step requires internet.
• eSIM QR code: appears on the shibaSIM application page immediately after payment, and is also sent via email or Zalo.

General installation steps

Regardless of which device you use, the installation flow is the same in three steps:

1. Open the eSIM QR code on another screen, or print it out, so your device can scan it.
2. Go to the device's mobile settings, select add eSIM and scan the QR code.
3. Give the eSIM an easy-to-remember name like "Japan Travel" to distinguish it from the Vietnamese SIM.

After these three steps, the eSIM is in the device but there is no need to turn it on yet if you are still in Vietnam.

Details according to each model

The menu paths on iPhone and Android are slightly different. If you want step by step with specific menu names, see:

• How to install Japanese eSIM on iPhone
• How to install Japanese eSIM on Android

When I first arrived in Japan

This is the step to decide whether to have network or not, do it immediately after turning off airplane mode:

1. Set eSIM shibaSIM as the mobile data line.
2. Turn on data roaming (Data Roaming) for that eSIM itself, because the package runs on the Japanese carrier network.
3. Turn off data roaming of your Vietnam SIM to avoid incurring unwanted fees, but keep that SIM turned on to receive calls and OTP.

Some frequently asked questions

• Is it possible to pre-install in Vietnam: yes, you should pre-install while there is Wi-Fi, just don't turn on roaming until you land.
• Do you lose your Vietnamese number: no, eSIM runs in parallel so you still keep the number to receive OTP and calls.
• What if you get there and still have no network: see how to fix when Japanese eSIM cannot access the network.

Tip: Take a screenshot of the instructions and save the email containing the QR code in an easy-to-find folder before flying, so you don't have to struggle to find it when you need it at the Japanese airport.

Closing

Installing an eSIM is not difficult, mostly it's just a matter of scanning a QR code and then turning on the correct data stream when you arrive at your destination. If you haven't purchased a plan yet, see shibaSIM Japanese eSIM plans to receive a QR code immediately after payment. If you have trouble, just text Zalo or LINE, someone will support you in Vietnamese.