cmsdvm

I have a few questions about my first visit to Japan that I can't seem to find answers to.
I will be taking an Ipad with wi fi only- no 3g. Can I skype with that from wi fi areas? Do Facebook and send email? Will it work in Japan if I buy it in the US? Also, will I need an adaptor for my iphone and ipad chargers.

KimJapan

Free wifi spots are not all that common actually, and even places that have them require registration (usually only in Japanese). Perhaps your hotel will have wifi, but commonly internet in hotels is via LAN cable. IF you have wifi access Skype works.

IF you can connect to the internet, Facebook is no problem. Adaptors are not required for iPhone or iPad.

DonTopaz

If any of your chargers have 3-pronged plugs, you will need a 3-prong-to-2-prong adaptor. You can get these very inexpensively in any hardware store in the U.S.

WillJame

The charger for the ipad has a two-prong plug--no adapter needed. Outlets in Japan will accept the plug, and the voltage difference between US and Japan is accommodated with no problem. As for free wi-fi hotspots, there is an app that will locate ones nearby (e.g., McDonalds but not Starbucks). The ipad is the same worldwide--one purchased in the US will work in Japan.

cmsdvm

Thanks everyone!

rkkwan

If your hotel only has LAN/ethernet and not wi-fi, then you need to bring a router to set up a wi-fi network for your iPad to use. Apple's Airport Express is one of the smallest and most portable ones, but any wi-fi router will work.

It's the same situation in China. Many hotels have free internet via LAN/ethernet in each room, but no wi-fi (particularly free wi-fi) in the rooms. Some only have it in the lobby.

WillJame

I'd endorse rkkwan's recommendation of an Airport Express. We had one with us in Japan last year and it proved highly useful.