What is Rakuten Mobile? We recommend it to foreigners living in Japan.
- 楽天モバイルの体験を語る社員
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 8
Rakuten Mobile is recommended for foreigners who want to reduce the contract fees for SIM cards, mobile phones, and smartphones used in Japan, or for foreigners who want to continue using their current iPhone.
We recommend Rakuten Mobile to foreigners living in Japan . It is a new mobile carrier that was launched in April 2020 as the fourth carrier. It has its own line (Rakuten line) and has thoroughly reduced costs, which led to it being ranked first in overall customer satisfaction in November 2020. Compared to other SIM and smartphone carriers, it offers overwhelmingly low prices, and its greatest feature is that it offers unlimited data and voice calls. It is also recommended for foreigners who prioritize not only price but also data communication capacity.
With simple and flexible pricing plans and comprehensive services, Rakuten Mobile offers the perfect option for those looking to save on their mobile phone bills. Its benefits are particularly evident for those considering switching over to a new mobile phone carrier (MNP).
In addition, Rakuten Mobile does not have a minimum contract period, so it is also recommended for foreigners who are staying in Japan for a short period of time. Furthermore, there is no cancellation fee, so you can cancel at any time. (※ If you have any remaining optional service fees or installment bills for your smartphone device, you will need to settle them.)
Simple and easy-to-understand pricing plans
Rakuten Mobile's "Rakuten Strongest Plan" is a simple plan where the price varies depending on monthly data usage.
•0GB to 3GB: 1,078 yen per month (tax included)
After exceeding 3GB, up to 20GB: 2,178 yen per month (tax included)
•20GB-Unlimited: 3,278 yen/month (tax included)
This pay-as-you-go plan offers low costs during months when your data usage is low, and caps on your data usage during months when it's high, giving you peace of mind.
Great services and benefits
In addition to basic communication services, Rakuten Mobile offers the following benefits:
• Overseas data communication: Up to 2GB of international data communication is available free of charge each month.
• Unlimited international calling option: Unlimited international calling for 1,078 yen per month (tax included).
• Smartphone Replacement Warranty Plus: Provides device replacement service in the event of breakdown or damage for a monthly fee of 715 yen (tax included).
These services support a comfortable communication environment both domestically and internationally.
Great campaign information
Rakuten Mobile is running the following campaigns for new subscribers and those considering switching from another company (MNP).
•Benefits for switching from another company (MNP): If you apply for Rakuten Mobile for the first time and switch (MNP), you will receive 14,000 points, and if you do not switch, you will receive 7,000 points.
•New contract bonus: When you sign up for Rakuten Mobile for the first time, use the Rakuten Link app, and make a call for 10 seconds or more, you will receive Rakuten Points worth 2,000 yen.
•Free viewing of NBA LEAGUE PASS: Exclusively for Rakuten Mobile users, all NBA games can be viewed for free.
•Rakuten WiFi Pocket Platinum Benefits: When you sign up for Rakuten Mobile, you can purchase Rakuten WiFi Pocket Platinum for 1 yen.
By taking advantage of these campaigns, you can get even better deals on Rakuten Mobile.
Reliable support for foreigners
Rakuten Mobile has created an environment where it is easy for foreigners to sign up for a contract.
Required documents
Identification documents
A valid residence card or special permanent resident certificate with your address registered
Your credit card or Japanese bank account number
You will need a credit card or a Japanese bank account number in your name.
Contact email address
You will need an email address that you can easily verify, such as Yahoo or Gmail. Free email addresses are OK.
MNP reservation number (if switching from another company)
Foreigners who wish to use their current mobile phone number with Rakuten Mobile must enter an MNP reservation number when signing up. Please contact your current mobile phone company and complete the MNP transfer procedure. Foreigners signing up for a new contract with Rakuten Mobile do not need to obtain an MNP reservation number.
Payment methods: In addition to credit card payments, direct debit, Rakuten Super Points payments, and debit cards are also accepted.
Contract procedure: This can be completed online, eliminating the need to visit a store.
This makes it easy for foreigners staying in Japan to sign contracts and use the service.
summary
Rakuten Mobile is the perfect choice for those looking to save on their mobile phone bills, with simple and flexible rate plans, comprehensive services, and a variety of campaigns. If you are comparing mobile phones or looking to renew your carrier, we encourage you to consider switching to Rakuten Mobile (MNP) and experience the savings on your communications costs and comprehensive services.
