Like this post? Help us by sharing it!
In today’s wired world a question that we get asked frequently is, “will we be able to access the Internet during our vacation”. Whether it be for work, play or a bit of both, being connected on a daily basis is of utmost importance to many. Most western style hotels in Japan do offer connection to the Internet via a wired LAN cable, but Wi-Fi, surprisingly, is still not the widespread norm. This causes an issue for those who prefer the portability of a smartphone or tablet to a laptop.
The answer to this problem is simple; rent pocket Wi-Fi! This is a small, cigarette packet sized device that envelops your vicinity in a bubble of wireless Internet. It allows you to connect throughout most of the major areas of the country, and as well as giving you access in your hotel, ryokan or minshuku, you can also log on whilst out and about, on the train, wherever you need or want it. Our website gives further details of the options available, as well as links to the provider’s websites, but as I have just landed in Japan and picked up my PuPuRu device here is a simple guide of what it entailed:
1) After filling in the on-line form, and sending a scan of my passport page I received a confirmation email, including my booking number and details of where in the airport to pick up my device (at Narita there is a pick up point in both the North and South Terminal).
2) I exited into the arrivals lobby and found the booth. This was a little tricky at first as you pick up the device from the QL Liner baggage delivery counter.
3) Once the friendly staff has checked your passport they hand your kit. As they know when you should be arriving they are ready and waiting! The contents are nice and simple: Wi-Fi device, charger, travel case, pre-paid addressed envelope and instructions (in English).
4) The instructions are easy to follow. You look up the available Wi-Fi connections on your computer/tablet/phone. You select the designated connection as stated, pop in the provided password (just once) and Bob’s your uncle, you are off and running!
You do need to remember to charge the Wi-Fi device each night as it suffers from battery drain but if Wi-Fi is important to you then it is an excellent investment. Once your vacation has come to an end you simply pop it all back into the case, slip that into the pre-paid envelope and hand it in to your final hotel to drop in the mail.
Easy!