When traveling to Japan, you will need to rent a pocket Wi-Fi device or purchase a SIM card or eSIM to ensure a stable communication environment during your stay. Renting a pocket Wi-Fi is extremely convenient when traveling in a group with family or friends, as it allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously. On the other hand, eSIMs have also been rapidly gaining popularity recently due to their ease of use.
Many people traveling to Japan want to stay in touch with their family and friends back home. In such cases, WhatsApp is one of the most commonly used communication apps.
Some travelers may feel anxious, wondering, "Can I still use WhatsApp even if I use a Japanese eSIM?" In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on using WhatsApp with an eSIM in Japan.
Can I use WhatsApp during my stay in Japan?
The short answer is yes. Since WhatsApp does not require a phone line itself to function (it operates via data communication), you can make free voice and video calls while in Japan.
Important: WhatsApp must already be installed on your smartphone, and your phone number authentication must be completed beforehand. Please make sure to finish the WhatsApp authentication process before departing for Japan.
Once authentication is complete, you can use WhatsApp as long as you have an internet connection (via eSIM or Wi-Fi). Even if you remove your original SIM card or switch to a Japanese eSIM, you can continue using your WhatsApp account tied to your original authenticated phone number.
Why you can communicate using your original number with a Japanese eSIM
[WhatsApp Specifications and Identity Verification]
WhatsApp accounts are linked to a specific device through "Identity Verification (SMS Authentication)" when the app is first set up.
Key Specification Once the activation (identity verification) is completed in your home country, the app retains that "ID (Phone Number)."
How it Works Subsequent messaging and calls are conducted via "IP Communication (Data Communication)" rather than traditional phone lines. Therefore, you can communicate using your original ID (number) through any internet connection, whether it be a Japanese data-only eSIM or local Wi-Fi.
As long as WhatsApp is functioning correctly before you visit Japan, you can switch to a Japanese data-only eSIM and stay in touch with your friends using your original number without the hassle of re-authentication.
Basic Requirements for Using WhatsApp Calls
- WhatsApp App Installation: Both you and the person you are contacting must have WhatsApp installed.
- Internet Connection: Wi-Fi or mobile data communication is required. Using Wi-Fi can help you save on mobile data consumption.
- Contact Registration: You must register the other person's phone number in international format (e.g., starting with +1, +44, etc.).
WhatsApp International Call Charges
Calls between WhatsApp users are free. There are no usage fees for the app itself, whether the calls are domestic or international.
This is because WhatsApp calls utilize VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, meaning calls are made through data transmission over the internet rather than traditional telephone networks.
Receiving Calls in Japan via WhatsApp
With WhatsApp, you can receive calls from anywhere in the world. Even while in Japan, you can receive real-time calls from family or friends abroad. However, the receiver must be connected to the internet, and the caller must also be using WhatsApp.
Important Notes
Since WhatsApp uses VoIP, it cannot connect directly to standard landlines or mobile phone numbers.
Voice and video calls consume a significant amount of data over long periods. Therefore, using a Wi-Fi connection is recommended for long calls.
If you plan on making long calls, we recommend purchasing an eSIM with a high-capacity data plan or renting a pocket Wi-Fi.