East Asia is one of the most popular long-haul destinations for Kiwi travellers, with Japan topping the charts. The region hosts three of the world's top five fastest mobile networks.
A HelloRoam East Asia regional eSIM connects you to these world-class networks for the popular Tokyo-Seoul-Taipei circuit.
Japan has near-universal network coverage including on the Shinkansen bullet train network, subway systems in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Sapporo, and in rural mountain areas. NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au operate 5G in all major cities.
Japan's indoor coverage is exceptional, including shopping malls, underground arcades, and department stores.
South Korea has one of the world's highest 5G penetration rates. SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus operate dense 5G networks in Seoul, Busan, and across the country. Seoul Metro coverage is excellent throughout all lines. Jeju Island and coastal areas have strong 4G.
Taiwan connects to Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone. Taipei's MRT system has full underground coverage. The east coast (Taroko Gorge, Hualien), Sun Moon Lake, and Kenting are all well-served. Mountain roads through the Central Mountain Range can have brief gaps.
Hong Kong has some of the world's densest mobile coverage. All MTR lines, major buildings, and outdoor areas have excellent 4G and 5G. PCCW, HKT, and CSL operate competitive networks across this compact territory.
Mongolia covers a vast country with coverage primarily in Ulaanbaatar and along main highways. The steppe and Gobi Desert have no mobile coverage. Adventure travellers to remote steppe areas should plan for entirely offline operation.