Launching Convenient SIM Card Vending Machines at Fukuoka Airport
In a significant move to facilitate inbound tourism, Parrot Beak Co., Ltd. has announced its plan to install vending machines for SIM cards at Fukuoka Airport from August 1, 2025. This initiative aims to offer the 'GLOBAL PREPAID SIM' mobile data service to foreign visitors arriving in Japan.
The Context of the Installation
According to data released by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) on July 16, 2025, the number of inbound tourists reached approximately 3,377,800 in June of the same year. This figure marks a record-breaking milestone, as the total number of foreign visitors exceeded 20 million for the first time. This is 7.6% higher than the same month the previous year, making it the highest number recorded not just for June, but for the first half of the year as well. The increased capacity for receiving international passengers at Fukuoka Airport, bolstered by the terminal's expansion in March 2025, positions the airport as a pivotal entry point for tourists, suggesting continued growth in inbound tourism in the near future.
Overview of the GLOBAL PREPAID SIM
The vending machines will allow travelers to easily purchase SIM cards upon their arrival, available every day of the week from 5:00 AM to 10:40 PM, aligning with the terminal's hours of operation. Not only does the touch-panel interface simplify the purchasing process for first-time visitors, but it also caters to temporary residents returning to Japan. Accepted payment methods include cash in Japanese yen, credit cards, and electronic money.
Location: The vending machines will be strategically placed on the first floor of the international terminal, specifically at the left side of the international arrival gate.
SIM Card Plans Offered
Parrot Beak will offer various inbound-oriented SIM card plans, which come along with a BIC Camera coupon:
- - GLOBAL SIM For JAPAN: Comes with a manual available in multiple languages, including Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Thai.
The following plans are available for use:
- - 5G/4G Unlimited plans for 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, and 33 days
- - 4G data plans with specified data allowances (2GB for 3 days, 5GB for 4 and 5 days)
Multilingual Support Services
The service is primed for multilingual support via a dedicated phone line, offering assistance in multiple languages—Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Thai—every day from 7:00 AM to midnight, with specific hours for Thai support. Additionally, a Qlick Link service, which will commence on May 7, 2024, will provide users with setting instructions for the prepaid SIM via QR code access.
Email Support
For the convenience of our users, email support will also be available in these languages with the same operational hours.
For more information, you can visit Parrot Beak's official website:
Parrot Beak Services.
Network Compatibility
It is vital to note that this service is tailored for devices compatible with NTT Docomo and Rakuten Mobile’s 5G and 4G networks. Customers will need to provide devices that comply with Japanese technical standards and have the requisite technology certification marks. Be mindful that if using a SIM-locked device, you will need to unlock it beforehand.
Overall, the introduction of these SIM card vending machines at Fukuoka Airport represents a strategic step toward enhancing the travel experience for international visitors. As Japan positions itself as a welcoming destination for travelers, such innovations are essential in accommodating the needs of a growing tourist demographic.