How to Activate a Japan eSIM on Xiaomi and Redmi Phones

Activating a Japan eSIM on your Xiaomi or Redmi phone is a straightforward process handled through the MIUI settings menu. By scanning a QR code and enabling the eSIM feature, you can access 5G networks like NTT docomo and SoftBank immediately upon landing at Narita or Haneda. This guide covers everything from checking device compatibility to troubleshooting your connection while exploring Japan with a JR Pass.

Traveling through Japan requires constant, reliable connectivity. Whether you are navigating the underground labyrinth of Shinjuku Station or checking the next Shinkansen departure for your JR Pass journey, a physical SIM card or a bulky pocket Wi-Fi rental can be a major hassle. For Xiaomi and Redmi users, the built-in eSIM functionality offers a seamless way to get online without the need to visit a kiosk or pay exorbitant roaming fees to carriers like Verizon, AT&T, or Telstra.

Why Choose an eSIM for Your Xiaomi Phone?

Xiaomi and Redmi devices are known for their high-performance hardware, making them excellent companions for tech-savvy travelers. Using a Tokyo eSIM allows you to leverage the dual-SIM capabilities of your device. You can keep your home SIM active for receiving important SMS (like bank OTPs) while using the eSIM for all your high-speed 5G data needs in Japan.

Unlike pocket Wi-Fi, which requires charging and must be returned at the end of your trip, an eSIM is entirely digital. There is no extra hardware to carry. Furthermore, international roaming plans from home carriers often deprioritize your data or charge significant daily rates. With a local Japan eSIM, you get direct access to Japan's premier networks: NTT docomo, Rakuten Mobile, KDDI/au, and SoftBank.

Is Your Xiaomi or Redmi Phone Compatible?

Before you see plans, it is vital to verify that your specific Xiaomi model supports eSIM technology. While most flagship Xiaomi phones released in the last few years include this feature, many budget-friendly Redmi models still rely solely on physical SIM slots.

To check your device, go to Settings > About phone and look for an EID number in the status information. Alternatively, you can dial *#06# on your keypad; if an EID (Embedded Identity Document) appears, your phone is likely eSIM-ready. You can also check our comprehensive list to see if your phone is compatible.

Popular Compatible Xiaomi Models:

• Xiaomi 14, 14 Pro, 14 Ultra
• Xiaomi 13, 13 Pro, 13 Lite, 13 Ultra
• Xiaomi 12T Pro
• Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G (Region dependent)
• Xiaomi 11T Pro (Select markets)

Step-by-Step Activation Guide for MIUI

Once you have purchased your Tokyo eSIM, you will receive a QR code via email. It is best to have this QR code displayed on another device (like a tablet or a friend’s phone) or printed out so you can scan it with your Xiaomi camera. Follow these steps on your MIUI-powered device:

1. Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure you have a stable internet connection (airport Wi-Fi is fine) to download the eSIM profile.
2. Open Settings: Navigate to the SIM cards & mobile networks menu.
3. Enable eSIM: Look for the toggle labeled Use eSIM and switch it on. Note that this may disable one of your physical SIM slots.
4. Manage eSIM: Tap on Manage eSIM to enter the subscription management screen.
5. Add eSIM: Select Add eSIM or the + icon. Your phone will prompt you to scan a QR code.
6. Scan the QR Code: Align the QR code provided by Tokyo eSIM within the camera frame.
7. Download Profile: Wait a moment while the phone downloads the network profile for the Japanese carrier.
8. Enable Data Roaming: This is the most important step. Go back to the settings for your new eSIM and ensure that Data Roaming is turned ON. Since this is a travel eSIM, it must be allowed to roam on the local Japanese infrastructure (Docomo, SoftBank, etc.).

For more visual details on the process, you can visit our guide on how it works.

Network Coverage: From Tokyo to the Japanese Alps

When traveling to Japan, coverage varies depending on your itinerary. Tokyo eSIM provides access to all four major networks, ensuring you stay connected whether you are in the heart of Shibuya or hiking in the Northern Alps.

Network	Coverage Type	Best For
NTT docomo	5G / 4G LTE	Rural areas, hiking trails, and Shinkansen routes.
SoftBank	5G / 4G LTE	Urban centers, major cities, and tourist hotspots.
KDDI (au)	5G / 4G LTE	Excellent overall balance and high-speed urban data.
Rakuten Mobile	5G / 4G LTE	Rapidly expanding urban 5G coverage.

If you are planning a trip to historic sites, such as following our Matsumoto Castle Guide: Visiting the Iconic Black Crow, you will find that NTT docomo offers exceptional reliability in the Nagano region. For those seeking relaxation by the ocean, our Atami Travel Guide: Beachfront Onsens Near Tokyo highlights areas where SoftBank and KDDI provide blazing-fast 5G, perfect for streaming anime while you soak.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Trip

We offer a wide variety of plans to suit different travel styles. All plans are data-only, meaning they do not come with a local phone number, but they fully support VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Line.

For the Casual Tourist

If you are mostly using Google Maps, checking emails, and posting a few photos to Instagram, a fixed plan like 3GB or 5GB for 30 days is often sufficient. These plans are affordable and allow you to see plans that fit a standard two-week vacation.

For the Power User and Anime Fan

Anime fans visiting Akihabara or attending conventions often consume massive amounts of data. If you plan to stream high-definition content or upload 4K vlogs, consider our Daily Passes (1GB, 2GB, or 3GB per day) or the massive 999GB plans for shorter durations. These ensure you never hit a data cap while trying to translate a menu or find a hidden gachapon shop.

For the JR Pass Explorer

Using a JR Pass means you will spend a lot of time on trains. While many Shinkansen trains have Wi-Fi, it is often unreliable. Having a dedicated 5G eSIM ensures you can research your next stop, book hotels on the fly, and stay in touch with family without interruptions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your eSIM is installed but not working, check the following:

• APN Settings: Most Xiaomi phones automatically configure the Access Point Name (APN). If they don't, check your installation email for the specific APN string and enter it manually in SIM card settings > Access Point Names.
• Preferred Network Type: Ensure your phone is set to Prefer 5G or Prefer LTE. If you are in a basement or rural area, switching to LTE can sometimes stabilize a weak 5G signal.
• Primary Data SIM: Make sure the Tokyo eSIM is selected as the primary SIM for Mobile Data in your settings.

The bottom line

Using an eSIM on your Xiaomi or Redmi phone is the most efficient way to stay connected in Japan. By avoiding the high costs of international roaming and the inconvenience of pocket Wi-Fi, you can focus on enjoying the incredible food and culture. With 5G access to NTT docomo and SoftBank, you'll have the speed you need for everything from navigating the Tokyo subway to sharing your journey through the Japanese Alps.