楽天モバイル (Rakuten Mobile) is an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) under the Rakuten Group in Japan. It offers Japanese phone numbers and SIM card services to consumers.
The most significant appeal of Rakuten Mobile is its affordable monthly fees. Additionally, it features a unique points system called "Rakuten Super Points." Users can make free domestic calls and send SMS within Japan using Rakuten Link, making it a great choice for those looking to save on communication expenses.
Official Website for Rakuten Mobile SIM Card: https://mobile.rakuten.co.jp
Here Are the Reasons to Choose Rakuten Mobile
Trusted Brand
Rakuten Mobile is backed by the Rakuten Group, which reduces the risk of issues compared to many smaller MVNO providers. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, it's a good choice.
Zero Various Fees:
Many MVNO providers charge various fees when applying for a new SIM card, terminating a contract, or transferring your number (MNP). Rakuten Mobile doesn't charge these fees; you only need to pay the basic plan fee when getting a new SIM card.
Simple and Affordable Plans
Rakuten Mobile offers straightforward and relatively low-cost plans. Their Rakuten 最強プラン (Rakuten SAIKYO Plan) starts at just 1,078 yen for 0-3GB, 1,980 yen for 3-20GB, and 2,980 yen for 20GB and above. These prices are lower than many other MVNO providers, making it suitable for students and budget-conscious individuals.
15-Minute Unlimited Calls:
Unlike other MVNO providers that offer 5-10 minutes of unlimited calls, Rakuten Mobile's 15分通話かけ放題 plan gives you more flexibility, and it's designed to be more reasonable regarding call charges, which is a common drawback of budget SIM cards.
Rakuten Points
When you sign up for Rakuten 最強プラン（Rakuten SAIKYO Plan）and start using Rakuten Link, you can earn 3,000 Rakuten Points, which can be used for discounts and promotions on the Rakuten Market or Rakuten Point Club.
Free "5G"
Rakuten Mobile plans include 5G communication by default, with no additional charges if you have a 5G-compatible phone and are within the coverage area. While 5G signals may not be widespread in Japan yet, they are available in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and Rakuten is actively expanding 5G coverage.
Convenient Payment Options
Rakuten Mobile offers various payment methods, including credit card payments, Japanese bank accounts, Rakuten Bank cards, and Rakuten Points. This flexibility is especially helpful for newcomers to Japan who may not have a Japanese credit card.
You can find more information about their payment options on their official payment method page
The Plans of Rakuten Mobile
Rakuten SAIKYO Plan
| Data | Price |
|---|---|
| 0GB~3GB | ￥1,078 |
| 3G~20GB | ￥2,178 |
| 20GB~Unlimit | ￥3,278 |
Calls／SMS
| Rakuten Link APP | When both parties are using Rakuten Link: Domestic/International Calls: Free Domestic/International SMS: Free When the other party is not using Rakuten Link: Charges for calls outside of Rakuten Link apply Charges for SMS outside of Rakuten Link apply |
|---|---|
| Standard OS apps | Domestic calls: 22 yen per 30 seconds Unlimited calling within 15 minutes (optional)> For international calls from within Japan to other countries, charges are based on a per-country/region usage basis. Unlimited international calling (optional).）> |
15 Minutes Standard Free Call (Optional)
If you have higher phone usage needs, you can opt for the Unlimited Calling Within 15 Minutes Package. This package allows you to make unlimited domestic calls within a 15-minute window and send and receive text messages within Japan at a cost of 1,100 yen per month. Additionally, you can enjoy the first three months for free when you apply for this package for the first time.
For more details：15分（標準）通話かけ放題
Unlimited International Calling (Optional)
If you're concerned about the cost of making international calls, you can consider this package. For a monthly fee of 980 yen, you can make unlimited international calls to 66 countries and regions without worrying about call duration!
| Outgoing Calls | When using Rakuten Link | When using Standard OS |
|---|---|---|
| From Japan to overseas | unlimited international calls | unlimited international calls |
| From overseas to overseas | unlimited international calls | Not applicable |
For more details, please check: 国際通話かけ放題
Rakuten Mobile Communication Speed in Various Regions
Rakuten Signal Area
High-speed, unlimited data in Rakuten signal areas.
Rakuten Signal Area (au Signal)
After exceeding 5GB, the speed is reduced to a maximum of 1Mbps, but you can continue to use data without limits.
International Speed
After exceeding 2GB, the speed is reduced to a maximum of 128kbps, but you can continue to use data without limits.
For information about Rakuten's 4G and 5G signal coverage, please refer to this page.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Rakuten Mobile
Before applying for Rakuten Mobile, please make sure that your phone is compatible with Rakuten SIM cards.
Rakuten's official website provides a convenient tool for checking compatibility:
https://network.mobile.rakuten.co.jp/product/byod/
If your phone model is compatible with Rakuten Mobile, it will be displayed as shown below
Of course, you can also choose to purchase a phone and SIM card together from Rakuten. You can find prices for various iPhone models on this page.
Applying for Rakuten Mobile SIM card online:
① First, open the official website of "楽天モバイル" (Rakuten Mobile): https://network.mobile.rakuten.co.jp/
Click “Apply Online”
② Since there is only one plan (Rakuten SAIKYO Plan) available, click on "ADD TO CART"
③ You are free to choose additional options to include, such as the 15min Free for Domestic Calls (free for the first three months), International Unlimited Talk, Rakuten Mobile WiFi, physical SIM card, or eSIM, among others.
Once you have confirmed your selections, "SELECT PRODUCT" on the right is for purchasing a phone, while "APPLY" is for not purchasing a phone. Choose accordingly based on your needs.
④ Log in your Rakuten account (if you don't have it, please register one) Fill in your registration and payment information, then submit your residence card information. After that, patiently wait for Rakuten to review and approve your application.
⑤ Activate your Rakuten Mobile SIM card
After receiving your SIM card, you need to activate it. First, log in to the "my楽天モバイル (my Rakuten Mobile)" webpage. (If you are transferring from another SIM card provider to Rakuten Mobile, you will need to enter your original phone's MNP number to complete the number transfer process.)
Once you have successfully activated it, insert the new SIM card into your phone and follow the official instructions for the initial setup. After successful setup, you can start using it!
Rakuten Mobile Precautions
Payment Methods
Rakuten Mobile supports various payment methods, including common credit cards like VISA, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Rakuten Bank cards, and Rakuten Points. For detailed information, please refer to the official website's payment method instructions.
Rakuten Signal Coverage
Rakuten Mobile's residential signal coverage has reached an industry-leading 99.9%, so you rarely need to worry about signal coverage issues. To be on the safe side, you can check Rakuten's signal coverage area in advance.
Daily High-Speed Data Limit
Within the coverage of Rakuten's signal area, unlimited high-speed data is available. However, if you exceed 10GB of data usage within a day, your speed will be reduced to 3Mbps. This restriction is lifted after midnight, allowing you to use high-speed data again.
Control Signal Usage with the my楽天モバイル App
You can easily control your internet signal usage by using the my楽天モバイル (my Rakuten Mobile) app. For example:
- When using data outside Rakuten's signal coverage area, you can enable unlimited usage of data at 1Mbps speed by disabling high-speed data.
- When within Rakuten's signal coverage area, turning off high-speed data won't have any effect since you can use high-speed data without limitations.
Cancellation Procedure
To cancel your subscription, visit the my楽天モバイル app and navigate to "契约プラン" (Contract Plan) → "各种手続き" (Various Procedures) → "解约" (Cancellation). After completing the cancellation procedure, you'll need to mail the SIM card back to Rakuten Mobile in Japan. This step is different from many other SIM card providers, so be sure to pay special attention to it.
Address for Returning Rakuten Mobile Cancellation SIM Cards in Japan:
〒143-0006 Tokyo, Ota-ku, Heiwajima 3-5-1 Building B, 2nd Floor Rakuten Mobile RSIM回收系
