HelloRoam offers prepaid eSIM data plans for East Asia from S$5.32. Your eSIM connects to local 4G/5G networks the moment you land, no roaming fees. Activate by QR code in under two minutes, fuss-free. Keep your Singtel, StarHub or M1 number active on dual SIM while your eSIM handles data. HelloRoam covers 185+ countries and destinations.
- networks
212+- network type
5G and 4G LTE- activation
under 2 minutes
Updated
Prepaid eSIM data plans for East Asia covering Japan, South Korea, China and Taiwan
Affordable eSIM for East Asia, starting from S$5.32. Local 4G/5G data on local partner networks in East Asia, with speeds that depend on the local network. Works on any carrier-unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone. Cherry blossom season in Japan, the autumn foliage circuit through South Korea, and Lunar New Year travel across China and Taiwan are peak periods for Singapore travellers. A HelloRoam eSIM for East Asia plan activates via QR code before you fly from Changi. Plans start from S$5.32 per destination on local networks across Japan, South Korea, China, and Taiwan without juggling SIM cards at each border. HelloRoam backs every order with a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
East Asia eSIM with 5G and 4G LTE coverage
HelloRoam East Asia eSIM covers mainland China, Japan, and South Korea on one plan. Singaporean travellers moving between Tokyo, Seoul, and Shanghai stay connected with instant data from the moment they land.
- Plans start at S$5.32 with 5G and 4G LTE speeds
- Coverage from local networks
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs
- East Asia coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G and 4G LTE
- Plans From
- S$5.32
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Refund
- 180 days if unactivated
How to Set Up an eSIM in East Asia
Follow these steps to set up your eSIM on iPhone or Android handphone. Works for any eSIM for international travel from Singapore. No replacement SIM, no store visit.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android handphone with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Select a data plan for your destination and complete checkout.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM straight away.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready on arrival
Your eSIM installs instantly and activates when you land.
4Manage it all from our app
Track usage, top up data, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No worries, we've got you covered!
Plans can change anytime, and that's fine. With HelloRoam, you can request a refund on any unactivated eSIM within 180 days of purchase.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam East Asia eSIM vs a travel SIM card or Singtel, StarHub and M1 roaming
Comparing an eSIM vs a travel SIM card for East Asia? The eSIM skips the airport SIM shop, and you do not need a roaming add-on from Singtel, StarHub or M1. HelloRoam sells a prepaid eSIM for East Asia from S$5.32, with a 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs.
Why Singaporean Travellers Choose an e SIM for East Asia
24/7 live chat support
Need help at 2 am in Tokyo or midnight in Seoul? HelloRoam support is available 24/7. Message us by live chat, WhatsApp or email at help@helloroam.com. Mobile data problems do not wait for business hours, and neither do we.
Best eSIM for East Asia: skip Singtel roaming charges
Get data at 4G/5G speeds the moment you land in East Asia. Skip roaming fees from Singtel, StarHub and M1. HelloRoam connects you to local carrier networks in minutes, whether you are travelling or working. Your connection starts before you clear customs.
Keep your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number
Keep your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam handles your data through a second eSIM line on any dual SIM compatible handphone. Family and colleagues reach you on the same Singapore number while your travel data runs on a separate prepaid eSIM plan.
212+ carrier networks including East Asia
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Fixed data plans are available in every destination, and unlimited plans in most. Your handphone joins a partner 4G/5G network automatically, with no manual carrier selection needed. Speeds depend on the local network, whether you are in a major city, at a highway rest stop or in a rural area.
Data alerts before you run out
HelloRoam emails you as your data runs low on a fixed plan, so you can top up or buy a new plan in time. If your plan supports top-ups, add data from the app before it expires, without reinstalling your eSIM or visiting a store. Adding a fresh prepaid data package takes under a minute from your account dashboard.
Local 4G/5G speeds
Your East Asia eSIM connects to local 4G/5G networks. Your phone joins an available HelloRoam partner network for navigation, streaming and video calls. Speeds depend on the local network and your location, and there is no queue for a SIM card at the airport.
Regional and global eSIM plans
Travelling to multiple destinations? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover many countries across Asia, Europe, the Americas and more in one purchase. Short holiday or long-term stay: choose fixed data or unlimited data plans. One account, no SIM swaps. A single regional plan replaces the hassle of sourcing a new local SIM card at every border crossing.
Hotspot and data sharing at no extra cost in East Asia
Share your East Asia eSIM data with a laptop or tablet using your handphone's built-in hotspot. No extra fees, no setup required. Works on all eSIM compatible devices. This is particularly useful for business travellers who need a consistent mobile broadband connection for their work laptop while abroad.
East Asia eSIM Prices in 2026
Compare HelloRoam eSIM plans for East Asia. Plans start from S$5.32 with local 4G/5G access. No Singtel or StarHub roaming surcharges.
| Number of days | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 1 day | S$9.94 |
| 3 days | S$28.34 |
| 7 days | S$61.25 |
| 15 days | S$119.32 |
| 22 days | S$161.88 |
| 30 days | S$202.85 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for East Asia
See how HelloRoam compares with Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, Saily and Ubigi for East Asia. The table covers a 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs, data overage charges and instant QR code delivery.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund (unactivated eSIMs) |  Feature available |  Feature not available |  Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
e SIM Explained: Setting Up eSIM for East Asia
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built directly into your handphone. There is no physical chip and no SIM tray to deal with. Scan a QR code to activate your e SIM in under 2 minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. An eSIM for East Asia works as a prepaid data plan with no airport SIM counter, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Changi. guide
eSIM Coverage Guide for Singaporean Travellers in East Asia
Japan and South Korea top global mobile network benchmarks. A HelloRoam East Asia regional eSIM covers both, plus mainland China, on one plan for the Tokyo and Seoul trips that Singaporeans take year-round.
Japan has near-universal network coverage including on the Shinkansen bullet train, all Tokyo subway lines, and in rural mountain areas. NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au operate 5G in all major cities. Japan is consistently Singapore's most searched and booked East Asia destination.
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 Incheon. Coverage on the Seoul Metro is excellent throughout all lines. Jeju Island has strong 4G.
Mainland China is on this plan's country list. Mainland China has restricted internet access, so check the apps you need before you go. Hong Kong and Taiwan are not on this plan's list, but the Asia plan covers both.
- Japan and South Korea rank among the world's top fastest mobile networks
- All Tokyo and Seoul subway lines have full coverage including underground
- Japan's Shinkansen has in-train 4G and 5G throughout the route
- Mainland China is on the East Asia plan's country list
- Jeju Island has strong 4G coverage
- Check app access in mainland China before you go
- Ookla Global Speedtest Index 2025;
- GSMA 2026
eSIM Travel Tips for East Asia
Japan and South Korea Top the Singapore Travel Charts
Japan and South Korea are the most booked East Asia destinations by Singaporean travellers. Both countries deliver premium connectivity that matches or exceeds what you experience in Singapore. The Tokyo-Seoul combination on one trip is a popular Singaporean travel circuit.
Japan's Shinkansen Has Full Coverage Throughout
Japan's Shinkansen bullet train has 4G and 5G coverage throughout the route. You can stream video, work, or video call from Tokyo to Osaka without interruption. Japan's indoor coverage in shopping malls, arcades, and underground stations is exceptional.
Check Phone Band Compatibility for Japan
Japan uses some LTE frequencies not found in all phones. Most modern iPhones and flagship Android devices support Japanese network bands. Older or budget devices may not fully connect to all Japanese bands. Check your phone's LTE band compatibility before travel.
Network Coverage Across East Asia
Japan: NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au operate nationwide 5G with 4G LTE virtually everywhere including rural Japan. Japan's network quality is consistently a global benchmark.
South Korea: SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus have deployed some of the world's densest 5G networks. Seoul's 5G penetration is among the highest globally.
- NTT Docomo (Japan)
- SK Telecom (South Korea)
- KT (South Korea)
Regional eSIM vs Local SIMs vs Singapore Carrier Roaming for East Asia Travel
East Asia is a premium travel destination for Singaporeans. Singapore carrier day passes for Japan and South Korea carry high daily charges. A HelloRoam East Asia regional eSIM offers better value for trips of 5 or more days.
| Category | HelloRoam Regional East Asia eSIM Recommended | Airport SIMs in Japan or South Korea | Roaming with your carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From SGD 5.32 total | — | — |
| Details | One plan covers mainland China, Japan, and South Korea. Buy before departing Changi. No airport SIM queues in Tokyo or Seoul. Better value than Singtel, StarHub, M1, or Simba daily roaming passes for Japan. | Airport SIM counters in Tokyo and Seoul have queues. Tourist SIMs require passport registration. Separate SIMs needed for each country. Total cost across Japan and South Korea is significant. | Singtel, StarHub, M1, and Simba day passes for Japan and South Korea carry high daily charges. A 7-day Japan trip at day pass rates adds up quickly. A HelloRoam East Asia regional eSIM is typically more cost-effective. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best Times for Singaporean Travellers to Visit East Asia
Japan's spring cherry blossom season (late March to early May) and autumn foliage (October to November) are the most popular periods. Both are heavily booked by Singaporeans and hotels sell out months in advance. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid. Winter is mild in Tokyo by northern hemisphere standards.
South Korea follows similar seasonal patterns. Spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) are the most popular. Summer is hot with a monsoon season. Winter in Seoul is cold but manageable for urban travel.
Singapore's school holidays in June and November-December drive peak bookings to all East Asia destinations.
Explore Countries in East Asia
Japan
From $3
HelloRoam covers Japan with 4G/5G plans across Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Stay connected without swapping SIM cards.
Activate before landing. NTT docomo 5G covers cities. Airport WiFi has 30-minute limits.
China
From $3
Get HelloRoam data in China covering Shanghai, Beijing, and more. Skip the hassle of local SIM cards.
China Mobile and Unicom run 5G in major cities. Download WeChat and maps offline before crossing.
South Korea
From $3
HelloRoam offers South Korea eSIM plans for Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island. Connect on landing.
LG U+ and SKTelecom run 5G across South Korea. Seoul Metro has full underground coverage.
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Reviews
Trusted by Singaporean Travellers
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
FAQs About eSIM in East Asia
How much does an e-sim East Asia cost for a Japan and South Korea trip from Singapore?
e-sim East Asia plans from HelloRoam for Japan and South Korea start at S$5.32 per country, with data volume options for each destination. Activate each plan before you fly from Changi. No physical SIM card needed and no contract.
Which East Asia e SIM card suits Singaporean travellers visiting Tokyo, Seoul, and Taipei?
An East Asia e SIM card for a Tokyo, Seoul, and Taipei trip uses per-country plans on local networks from S$5.32 per destination. Set up takes two minutes before you depart Singapore so data is ready from the moment you land at Narita, Incheon, or Taipei Taoyuan Airport. No contract.
Which eSIM is best for Singaporeans travelling to East Asia?
For trips to East Asia, HelloRoam is a simple eSIM choice. Plans start from S$5.32 in SGD with access to local 4G/5G networks across 212+ carrier networks. Activate via QR code in under 2 minutes before departing from Changi Airport. Your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number stays active through dual SIM while HelloRoam handles data abroad. You get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days and 24/7 live chat support.
How much does a East Asia eSIM cost compared to Singtel and StarHub roaming?
A East Asia eSIM from HelloRoam costs from S$5.32 for the full plan. On most trips, that costs less than a roaming pass from Singtel or StarHub. HelloRoam connects to local networks in East Asia for one prepaid HelloRoam price, with no roaming fees from your home carrier and no carrier contract. All plans include local 4G/5G access with no overage charges.
Which local mobile networks does an eSIM use in East Asia for Singapore travellers?
An eSIM for East Asia from HelloRoam connects to local 4G/5G partner networks. Your handphone joins a partner network when you land. Coverage and speeds depend on the local network and your signal, just as they do with Singtel, StarHub, or M1 at home.
How do I set up a HelloRoam eSIM before departing Changi Airport?
Buy your East Asia eSIM before you leave Singapore in three steps. First, select your plan at helloroam.com and complete checkout in SGD. Second, open your handphone Settings, tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan, and scan the QR code from your email. Third, your eSIM installs in under 2 minutes. Set it up the night before your flight from Changi and land connected.
Does my iPhone or Android handphone support a East Asia eSIM?
iPhone XS and all newer models support HelloRoam eSIM in East Asia. iPhone 13 and later models support dual eSIM, so your Singtel or StarHub line stays active for calls while HelloRoam handles travel data. For Android, most Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer models, Google Pixel 4 and newer, and many recent Android handphones support eSIM. Check your handphone Settings for an Add eSIM option to confirm compatibility.
Does the East Asia eSIM cover Japan and South Korea?
Japan and South Korea are both covered on the HelloRoam East Asia regional plan. NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au in Japan, and SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus in South Korea all deliver world-class 5G speeds. The HelloRoam East Asia eSIM connects to local networks across major tourist and urban areas, with 5G where available. Plans start from S$5.32. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Is there coverage in Tokyo?
Tokyo has near-total 4G and 5G coverage from NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au. All Tokyo subway lines have coverage including underground stations. Shopping malls, train stations, and outdoor areas are all covered. The HelloRoam East Asia eSIM connects to local networks across major tourist and urban areas, with 5G where available. Plans start from S$5.32. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does the East Asia eSIM work in Seoul?
Seoul has excellent 5G coverage throughout the city from SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus. Seoul's entire metropolitan subway has 5G coverage. Busan and Jeju Island are also well-served. The HelloRoam East Asia eSIM connects to local networks across major tourist and urban areas, with 5G where available. Plans start from S$5.32. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
