When planning an overseas trip, one inevitable consideration is mobile phone and internet usage. While phone usage might not pose a significant concern, a lack of internet connectivity can indeed cause inconvenience during travel.
Typically, there are three ways to address this concern, and detailed information can be found by clicking the link below:
- How to Use the Internet Abroad: Three Ways to Use the Internet Abroad
“Japan Pocket WiFi – Global WiFi”
Among these options, when traveling to Japan, renting a pocket WiFi device is often preferred. This choice is both simpler and more affordable compared to other methods.
By utilizing pocket WiFi, you can stay connected to the internet, enabling communication through messengers like KakaoTalk and navigation using Google Maps, ensuring a smooth travel experience. Additionally, maintaining your domestic phone number allows you to receive calls from back home when needed.
The cost is also quite reasonable. Opting for a model that provides 3GB of data per day costs only 2,500 won per day. Even for a 7-day stay, it amounts to just 17,500 won, making it a budget-friendly option. In fact, it could be considered more than just affordable.
“Global WiFi Picked up at Kansai Airport”
The service I used for WiFi rental this time is named “Global WiFi.” Renting a pocket WiFi device is straightforward. If you’ve made an online purchase in advance, all you need to do after completing immigration is check and pick up your WiFi device at the airport.
The location is easily accessible, situated around the middle of the arrival floor at Kansai International Airport Terminal 1. Finding the WiFi rental counter is not challenging. After presenting your passport, they verify your name, and you can then rent and receive the WiFi device.
“Pocket WiFi – Slower Speeds Than Domestic”
Internet speed in Japan is notably slower compared to South Korea. This could be because South Korea is known for its fast internet, making the perceived speed in Japan a bit sluggish. However, despite this, it was perfectly adequate for basic activities such as simple searches or using Google Maps. While it might feel a bit frustrating if you’re accustomed to Korea’s high-speed internet, it doesn’t pose a problem for regular use.
Upon renting the WiFi, you not only receive the WiFi device but also a power bank and a charging adapter. The adapter allows you to charge two USB devices simultaneously. In case you didn’t bring a 110V adapter for use in Japan, you can use the one provided in the Global WiFi package.
The power bank is small and has a relatively modest capacity. Since I already had my personal power bank with me, I didn’t use the one provided by Global WiFi.
“After Use, Returning the Device…”
When returning the device after the trip, you can do so either at the same location or at the return counter on the departure floor on the 4th floor. If you’re taking the Bay Shuttle back, it naturally brings you down to the 4th-floor departure floor. Instead of going down to the 1st-floor arrival floor to return, you can conveniently return it at the counter on the 4th floor.
This concludes the process of arriving at Kansai Airport, going through immigration, and renting WiFi. Finally, I’m fully prepared to begin my journey in Japan.
“Kansai International Airport Terminal 1: Global WiFi”
- Address: 1 Senshukukokita, Izumisano, Osaka Prefecture 549-0001, Japan
- Phone Number: +81120510670
- Website: Global WiFi – Kansai
- Operating Hours: 6:30 – 22:30