Internet Access Guide for Japan | SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 Complete Preparation Manual for International Guests [Exclusive SusHi Tech Deal Inside
SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 takes place April 27–29 at Tokyo Big Sight — Asia's largest global innovation conference, welcoming around 60,000 attendees from across the world. Between navigating Tokyo's train system, running translation apps, exchanging digital business cards, and sharing your experience on social media, you're going to need a reliable internet connection throughout the event.
The good news: Japan has world-class mobile infrastructure. The challenge: your home SIM card may not work as expected — or could rack up steep roaming charges. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to stay connected during your visit.
Internet in Japan — What You Need to Know
Japan's mobile network is among the best in the world, with 5G coverage expanding rapidly across Tokyo, including the area around Tokyo Big Sight. However, international visitors should be aware that using your home SIM abroad can be unreliable or expensive.
Free public WiFi exists across the city, but it can be slow and inconsistent — especially during large-scale events. The best approach is to arrange your own connection before you arrive in Japan. Read on for your four main options.
4 Ways to Stay Connected
① Public WiFi
Free WiFi is available at stations near Tokyo Big Sight (Kokusai-Tenjijo Station, Tokyo Big Sight Station), major airports (Narita, Haneda), and convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson. However, many networks require email registration to connect, and speeds can be unreliable. Public WiFi is fine for quick checks, but don't rely on it as your primary connection during a packed 3-day event with tens of thousands of attendees.
② Hotel & Venue WiFi
Most hotels in Tokyo provide complimentary WiFi in rooms and common areas. The venue (Tokyo Big Sight) also has WiFi access. That said, with 60,000 people in attendance, venue WiFi can get heavily congested, particularly during keynotes and peak networking hours. Use it as a backup, not your main line of connectivity.
③ eSIM — Top Recommendation 🌟 (PR)
The most convenient option for international visitors is a Japan eSIM. Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is installed digitally on your smartphone — no hardware swap needed. You can purchase and set it up before you leave home, and be fully connected the moment you land.
Airalo is one of the world's leading eSIM providers, covering 200+ countries including Japan. Their Japan plans are affordable, easy to activate, and work on most modern smartphones.
🎁 PR: Exclusive Offer for SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 Attendees Use the link below to receive 15% OFF your Airalo Japan eSIM — coupon code "SUSHIT" is automatically applied at checkout. 👉 Get your Japan eSIM — 15% OFF via Airalo ✅ Compatible with: iPhone XS and later, most modern Android devices ✅ Tip: Set up your eSIM before departure for instant connectivity on arrival
④ Pocket WiFi (PR)
Traveling with a team, or need to connect multiple devices including a laptop? A pocket WiFi router might be the right fit. Sakura Mobile offers unlimited pocket WiFi rental for travelers in Japan.
Key features of Sakura Mobile Pocket WiFi:
📶 Powered by docomo's 4G/LTE network — Japan's largest and most reliable
♾️ Truly unlimited data — no speed throttling or extra charges
🔋 Up to 20-hour battery life
📱 Connect up to 15 devices simultaneously
💰 From approx. ¥329/day (tax included)
✈️ Pickup available at Narita, Haneda, Kansai & Fukuoka airports, hotels, or delivery to your address
📦 Prepaid return envelope included — just drop in any Japan Post mailbox
🔧 Zero setup required — turn it on and connect instantly
👉 Check Sakura Mobile Pocket WiFi plans (PR)
International Roaming — Check Before You Rely On It
Many carriers offer Japan roaming packages, but costs add up fast. Here's a quick overview by region:
US carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon): International day passes typically run $10–$15/day
European carriers: EU free roaming does not apply outside the EU — Japan rates vary and can be high
Southeast Asian carriers: Roaming packages exist but may come with speed restrictions
For a 3-day event, a Japan-specific eSIM or pocket WiFi rental almost always works out cheaper and more reliable than roaming. Check your carrier's Japan rates before departure, and consider switching to an eSIM if costs are high.
Event Overview
Event: SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026
Dates: April 27 (Mon) & 28 (Tue) — Business Days / April 29 (Wed, Public Holiday) — Public Day
Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, West Halls 1–4, Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Access: Rinkai Line → Kokusai-Tenjijo Station (7 min walk) / Yurikamome → Tokyo Big Sight Station (3 min walk)
Expected Attendees: ~60,000
Official Site: sushitech-startup.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/
Event Guide: bizintokyo.com/posts/eventguide/sushitech2026
eSIM 15% OFF (PR): Airalo — code SUSHIT auto-applied
Pocket WiFi (PR): Sakura Mobile
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