Japan is at the forefront of 5G technology, offering some of the fastest mobile internet speeds in the world. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, working remotely, or just browsing, having a reliable 5G connection is crucial. With expanding networks and increasing speeds, choosing the best provider can make all the difference in your experience. In this guide, we rank the top 5G providers in Japan based on speed, coverage, and reliability, helping you make an informed decision.
1. NTT Docomo
Why Choose NTT Docomo?
- Japan’s largest mobile carrier with the most extensive 5G coverage.
- Provides download speeds of up to 6.6 Gbps with 5G Standalone (SA) technology.
- Strong presence in urban and rural areas, making it ideal for both city and countryside users.
- Offers multiple pricing plans to fit different needs.
- Provides some of the lowest latency rates, making it great for online gaming and video conferencing.
- Advanced carrier aggregation technology enhances speed and stability for uninterrupted browsing.
- Offers a 5G home broadband option for users who need ultra-fast internet beyond mobile data.
Best For: Users who need the widest coverage and ultra-fast speeds.
Visit NTT Docomo’s official website
2. Rakuten Mobile
Why Choose Rakuten Mobile?
- Recognized for having the fastest average download speed (214.5 Mbps) and upload speed (29.5 Mbps) in Japan.
- Offers some of the most affordable 5G plans compared to competitors.
- Expanding coverage rapidly, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama.
- Uses a cloud-native network for improved performance and reliability.
- Provides unlimited data plans, making it a great option for heavy data users.
- Integration with Rakuten ecosystem offers additional benefits, including discounts and cashback opportunities.
- Has one of the most transparent pricing structures, making it easy to understand your monthly bill.
Best For: Budget-conscious users who want high-speed 5G at a lower cost.
Visit Rakuten Mobile’s official website
3. SoftBank
Why Choose SoftBank?
- Provides high-speed 5G connections with reliable performance.
- Well-established network with strong customer service and support.
- Ideal for mobile gaming and HD video streaming.
- Expanding its 5G network to cover more suburban and rural areas.
- Advanced AI-based traffic management ensures consistent speeds even during peak hours.
- SoftBank Air offers a fixed 5G home broadband service, providing high-speed internet without a wired connection.
- Multi-device support with affordable family plans makes it a great option for households.
Best For: Users who need a balance of speed, reliability, and customer support.
Visit SoftBank’s official website
4. au by KDDI
Why Choose au by KDDI?
- One of the most consistent networks for stable 5G connections.
- Strong coverage in metropolitan areas like Tokyo and Kyoto.
- Good for business users and professionals needing reliable internet for remote work.
- Known for its “Unlimited MAX 5G” plan, which offers unlimited high-speed data without speed caps.
- Provides one of the best networks for IoT (Internet of Things) devices, making it great for smart home integration.
- Offers competitive international roaming packages, ideal for frequent travelers.
- KDDI’s partnership with SpaceX aims to bring satellite-based 5G services to remote areas in the near future.
Best For: Professionals and business users who need stability over extreme speeds.
Visit au by KDDI’s official website
How to Choose the Right 5G Provider in Japan
To get the best 5G experience, consider these factors:
- Speed Needs: If you’re a heavy gamer or streamer, go for providers with the highest speeds (NTT Docomo or Rakuten Mobile).
- Coverage Area: Check if the provider has strong 5G reception in your city, especially if you live outside major metropolitan areas.
- Budget: Rakuten Mobile offers cheaper plans, while NTT Docomo provides premium speeds at higher rates.
- Data Limits: If you require unlimited high-speed data, consider SoftBank’s or au’s unlimited plans.
- Customer Support: SoftBank is known for excellent customer service, which is important if you face technical issues.
- Future-proofing: NTT Docomo and KDDI are leading in next-gen 5G innovations, ensuring long-term sustainability of their networks.
Upcoming 5G Trends in Japan
The future of 5G in Japan is rapidly evolving, with key advancements expected in:
- 6G Development: NTT Docomo and KDDI are already investing in research for next-generation 6G networks, aiming for nationwide implementation by 2030.
- AI-powered Networks: More providers are integrating AI to optimize bandwidth usage and prevent network congestion.
- 5G for Smart Cities: Expanded 5G infrastructure is driving the development of smart city applications, improving transportation, healthcare, and energy management.
- Private 5G Networks: Enterprises in Japan are adopting private 5G solutions for enhanced security and operational efficiency in industries like manufacturing and logistics.
Final Thoughts
If you need the absolute fastest speeds, NTT Docomo is your best bet. If you want a budget-friendly option with great performance, Rakuten Mobile is a solid choice. SoftBank and au by KDDI offer a great mix of reliability and expanding coverage. With new advancements in 5G and upcoming 6G developments, Japan continues to lead in mobile network innovation. Choose the provider that fits your needs, and enjoy Japan’s world-class 5G experience!
