Rakuten Mobile for Foreigners in Japan: The 15-Minute Setup Guide (2026)

Quick answer

If you live in Japan and want the simplest, cheapest unlimited SIM, Rakuten Mobile is the one to beat: one plan, no data caps, no throttling, and you can activate by eSIM the day you arrive.

The plan and price

One tiered plan (the SAIKYO plan): ¥1,078/mo for 0–3GB, ¥2,178 for 3–20GB, and ¥3,278 for unlimited — all tax included. It is Japan's only truly unlimited plan at a fixed price.

Can foreigners sign up? (yes — here's what you need)

You verify identity by photographing your residence card (在留カード) — no store visit. Most work and spouse visas are eligible; your residence card should have at least ~3 months of validity remaining. You'll need a Japanese card or bank account to pay.

Coverage

Rakuten Mobile's own network covers Japan's population widely, and its area continues to expand. For the latest coverage in your area, check the official area map.

Free calls with the Rakuten Link app

Make free domestic calls through the Rakuten Link app. Setting up Rakuten Link and placing one 10-second call is also how the referral bonus is completed.

The Rakuten ecosystem: points and everyday perks

Your plan plugs into the wider Rakuten world. As a Rakuten Mobile member you earn extra points when you shop at Rakuten Ichiba, and your plan includes Rakuten Drive with 50GB of free cloud storage.

There's also no extra fee to enjoy Pacific League baseball, plus music and magazine perks — small everyday extras that add up. It's less about mere connectivity and more about smarter, more connected living.

Overseas roaming: up to 2GB free

Traveling outside Japan? Your plan includes up to 2GB of international roaming at no extra charge (it counts toward your plan data), so your number keeps working abroad without a separate SIM.

Age-smart savings

Rakuten Mobile has monthly savings tied to age: a discount for children up to 12, a discount for young users up to 22, and a senior program from 65 that adds a monthly point rebate and unlimited 15-minute calls. Registration is required for each — see the official page for current amounts.

Set up by eSIM in ~15 minutes

Apply online, upload your residence card, and if your phone supports eSIM you can be connected the same day. Physical SIM by mail takes 2–5 days.

FAQ

Do I need Japanese? The core steps can be done from the app; this guide covers the parts that are Japanese-only.

Is there a contract lock-in? No fixed-term lock-in on the plan itself.