Though Wi-Fi spots in Tokyo and other Japanese cities are on the rise, there are many instances when travelers to are unable to access networks, especially when on the go.

Considering this, one of the best things any visitor to Japan can do it equip themselves with their own portable Wi-Fi. Learn how to get connected and make the most of your device.

How to rent:

Place a reservation on the rentalwifi website at least two days prior to when you hope to obtain the Wi-Fi device. Payment can then be made via credit card or PayPal. Should you want to extend the rental period once you begin using the device, you will need to email a minimum of 48 hours in advance of the return date. You are able to select the location from which you wish to collect the device at the time of reservation. This could be an airport, a hotel, or a private residence – you will just need to provide the desired delivery address in full.

Once you have finished using the device, it is to be returned via the mail. You will have been provided with a pre-paid envelope in which to package it. Simply drop the package it into any post box or post office in Japan (including though at the airport).

Price Guide:

Standard Wi-Fi by Y!Mobile:
Running at a maximum speed of 75Mbps for downloads and 25Mbps for uploads, this option offers 10G of data plus 128kpbs unlimited access thereafter. It costs ¥790 per day for the first 7 days and ¥300 for each additional day thereafter.
Premium Wi-Fi by Docomo: Running at a maximum speed of 150Mbps for downloads and 50Mbps for uploads, this option offers 7G of data plus 300kpbs unlimited access thereafter. It costs ¥990 per day for the first 7 days and ¥450 for each additional day thereafter.
*Both options have a minimum rental period of four days.
*Insurance is optional.
*Early bird specials apply if reservations are made up to 5 days (save 5%) or 14 days (save 8%) in advance.

How to use your Wi-Fi:

Your device will arrive with you fully charged so you may connect to the Wi-Fi right away. A number of user devices can be connected at any one time, making this ideal when traveling in a group. Also convenient is the fact that both Wi-Fi devices offered by rentalwifi carry 12-hours of non-stop usage, meaning they should last throughout the entire day. However, if you need to recharge while out and about, you shouldn’t struggle to find a cafe with easily accessible AC power outlets. The rental package also comes with a compact USB cable, so you have the option of charging from your computer, or even inside a taxi.

Both the standard and premium Wi-Fi offer widespread national coverage (95% or over), meaning that you can stay connected whether in the city, up in the mountains, or out exploring one of Japan’s many islands. This includes on the metro, too, allowing you to check train schedules and do travel research while on the move.

Why choose rentalwifi:

Rentalwifi responds promptly to customer enquires, typically replying within just 15 minutes during office hours. Furthermore, for those requiring immediate access to a Wi-Fi device, urgent delivery can be arranged upon special request to locations including Narita. Though standard reservations are made online two days in advance, in exceptional cases delivery can be scheduled for the day after the request is received.