Planning a trip to Japan? You probably want to use maps, check train times, send messages, and maybe even call your family back home. Staying connected isn’t just nice, it’s a must.

Many travelers reach for ‘Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan.’ A tiny device you rent for a few days or weeks. Turn it on, connect your phone or laptop, and voilà, internet everywhere. Easy, right?

Well, almost. Renting a pocket Wi-Fi comes with a few annoyances. You have to carry another gadget, charge it, remember to pick it up, and return it. And here’s the kicker: it only gives you the internet. No direct calls.

That’s why more and more travelers are looking for something better. Apps like Slick give you data, international calling, and mobile recharge, all in one app.

Before you decide, let’s take a closer look at pocket Wi-Fi: how it works, its upsides, and its downsides.

What is Pocket Wi-Fi?

Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan is a small mobile device that gives you the internet. You rent it from a company for a short time, usually a few days or a couple of weeks. The device already has a data plan. You do not need to buy a local SIM or change your phone settings. You just turn it on and connect your devices.

You can usually pick it up at the airport when you arrive. Some companies deliver it to your hotel. When you leave Japan, you return it at the airport. One great thing about pocket Wi-Fi is that it can connect to more than one device. You can share it with your phone, laptop, and tablet. This is useful if you travel with friends or family.

It sounds simple, but there are many things to think about before you rent one. First, let’s look at the benefits.

Pros of Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan

Pocket Wi-Fi has some clear advantages for travelers.

1. Strong and Reliable Coverage

Japan has very good mobile networks. Pocket Wi-Fi uses these networks, so you can have internet in the city, in small towns, and even on trains. You can check maps, translation apps, and schedules without worry.

2. Multiple Devices can Connect

One pocket Wi-Fi can connect 5–10 devices at the same time. This is great if you travel in a group. Everyone can use their phone or tablet without extra costs.

3. Predictable Data Plans

You can choose daily, weekly, or unlimited plans. You know the cost in advance, so there are no surprises on your bill.

4. Easy Setup

You do not need to change your phone SIM or learn complicated settings. Turn on the device, enter the password, and you are online.

5. Airport Pickup and Return

Most companies let you pick up your device at the airport when you arrive and return it before you leave. Some have drop boxes or hotel delivery. This makes short trips easy.

Practical example: Imagine you arrive in Tokyo after a long flight. You pick up your pocket Wi-Fi at the airport, connect your phone, and check your hotel map. No stress, no roaming charges, and no extra SIM card.

While these benefits sound good, there are also several drawbacks that travelers need to know.

Cons of Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan

Pocket Wi-Fi is not perfect. Here are the main problems.

1. Not ideal for Solo Travelers

If you travel alone or with one other person, a pocket Wi-Fi can feel expensive. The cost per person is higher than using an eSIM or a local plan on your phone.

2. Extra Device to Carry

A pocket Wi-Fi is another gadget. You have to carry it in your bag all day. For sightseeing, long walks, or moving between hotels, it can be inconvenient.

3. Pick-up and Return Hassle

You must pick up the device at the airport or hotel and remember to return it. If you forget, companies may charge extra fees.

4. Separate Charging Required

Pocket Wi-Fi has its own battery. You need to charge it separately. If it runs out, you lose the internet on all your devices. Besides charging your phone or laptop, you also need to charge the pocket Wi-Fi.

5. Only Internet, No Phone Calls

Pocket Wi-Fi gives you internet only. You cannot call any number in or out of Japan. You must use separate apps to make calls.

Real-life scenario: For many travelers, managing a pocket Wi-Fi device in Japan can be stressful. You move from city to city, your phone and Wi-Fi need charging, and you have to remember to return it before leaving the country.

If these problems sound familiar, there is a better solution that can make your travel simpler and stress-free.

Slick App: All-in-One Connectivity Solution

Slick is an app that gives travelers everything they need without renting a separate device. It offers eSIM data plans, international calling, and mobile recharge.

1. eSIM Data Plans

With Slick, you can buy eSIM data plans for Japan instantly on your phone. You get fast internet across Japan and other countries. Install SlickeSIM on your phone before flying and land connected without swapping any SIM card. No extra device is needed. 

Pick Your eSIM Plan No

2. International Calling

Slick lets you call mobiles and landlines around the world. If you subscribe to a Japan calling plan, you can easily call local mobiles and landlines during your stay. Want to call home? That’s simple too. Slick offers calling plans for 200+ countries, so you stay close to family no matter where they are.

And here’s a nice bonus: need free calls? No problem. You can make free Slick-to-Slick calls anytime.

3. International Mobile Recharge

And it doesn’t stop at data and calls. With Slick, you can also send mobile recharges. You can add credit to your own account or top up the phones of your loved ones in just a few taps. It’s quick, simple, and stress-free. No store visits. No waiting in lines. Just done.

Practical scenario: A solo traveler in Osaka can use Slick for the internet, call home, and even top up a family member’s phone, all from their own phone. No extra device, no charging problems, and no pick-up or return worries.

Now, you might be wondering which option is better for you. Pocket Wi-Fi or Slick. Let’s compare.

Pocket Wi-Fi vs Slick: Which One Should You Choose?

Here is a simple guide:

• Solo traveler or small group: Slick is easier. You only need your phone. It is cheaper and more convenient.
• Families or groups of 3–4+: Pocket Wi-Fi can still be useful because you can share the internet with multiple devices. But you can’t make calls or send a recharge with it.
• Long trips: Slick’s flexible eSIM and calling plans may save more money than daily pocket Wi-Fi rentals.

Mini comparison table:

Both options can work, but Slick gives more freedom and less hassle.

Conclusion

Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan is reliable and gives fast internet access. But it has problems. You must carry it, charge it, pick it up, and return it. You cannot make real phone calls or send mobile recharge.

Slick app is a modern solution. It gives data, international calls, and mobile recharge all in one app. You only need your phone. No extra device, no pick-up lines, no charging worries.

Download the app and enjoy your trip without carrying extra gadgets or worrying about returns.

FAQs

What is pocket Wi-Fi?

Pocket Wi-Fi is a small device that gives you the internet in Japan. You rent it for a few days or weeks. It has a data plan already inside. You turn it on and connect your phone or laptop using Wi-Fi. No SIM card is needed.

Is pocket Wi-Fi worth it in Japan?

Pocket Wi-Fi can be worth it if you travel in a group and want to share one internet connection. It offers good coverage in Japan. However, for solo travelers or small groups, it can feel expensive and inconvenient because you must carry, charge, and return the device. And you can use it only for the internet. 

Why use Slick instead of pocket Wi-Fi in Japan?

Slick is easier and more flexible. You don’t need to carry or return any device. With one app, you get eSIM data, international calling, and mobile recharges. It works directly on your phone, which makes travel lighter and stress-free.

Can I use Slick app for calls?

Yes. Slick lets you call mobiles and landlines worldwide. You can also make free Slick-to-Slick calls. If you subscribe to a calling plan, you can stay in touch with family, friends, or local numbers at affordable rates.