Which is the 2024 Best SIM Card in Japan?
Wondering about the top SIM card option in Japan? With a plethora of choices, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. However, in this guide, we’ll delve into Rakuten Mobile, one of Japan’s leading carriers, and compare it to other major players like docomo, SoftBank, and au.
2024 Best SIM Card in Japan is Rakuten Mobile
Rakuten Mobile, a subsidiary of the Rakuten Group, entered the Japanese mobile market in 2019 with a promise to shake things up. Known for its competitive pricing and innovative approach, Rakuten Mobile quickly gained popularity among consumers.
Straightforward Pricing Model
Rakuten Mobile simplifies its offerings by providing just one plan, the Unlimited Plan (Rakuten SAIKYO Plan), which comes with three pricing tiers based on monthly data usage. So, this approach makes it convenient for users to comprehend and anticipate their monthly expenses.
- Up to 3 GB Monthly Data Use: 1,078 yen/month
- 3 to 20 GB Monthly Data Use: 2,178 yen/month
- Over 20 GB Monthly Data Use (Unlimited/No caps): 2,980 yen/month
Free Domestic Calls
The Rakuten Link app, with its feature of allowing users to make free domestic calls, emerges as an attractive option, particularly for individuals who frequently engage in phone conversations. Moreover, this functionality not only offers convenience but also enables users to save on communication expenses. Consequently, for those seeking a cost-effective and user-friendly communication solution, the Rakuten Link app presents a compelling choice.
Rakuten Mobile in Comparison with Competitors
- NTT docomo: docomo is one of the largest carriers in Japan, known for its wide coverage and reliable service. However, docomo’s pricing tends to be higher compared to Rakuten Mobile, especially for unlimited data plans.
- au: au offers competitive pricing and a variety of plans to choose from. However, like docomo, its pricing can be higher than Rakuten Mobile, particularly for heavy data users.
- SoftBank: SoftBank is known for its reliable network and good customer service. While its pricing is comparable to Rakuten Mobile, SoftBank may offer better coverage in certain areas.
Top SIM Card Option in Japan: Why Choose Rakuten Mobile?
When considering mobile service providers, Rakuten Mobile stands out for several compelling reasons.
Transparent & Capped Pricing
As discussed earlier, Rakuten Mobile has a transparent fee structure with no hidden charges or surprises on your bill unlike some other carriers.
While the monthly fee for Rakuten Mobile plans may initially seem higher, there is a cap on the maximum amount you’ll pay. Even with unlimited plans, there is a predetermined limit, ensuring you won’t face excessive charges.
No Need for Home Wi-Fi
By opting for an unlimited plan from Rakuten Mobile, you can bypass the necessity for a separate home Wi-Fi subscription, leading to substantial savings. Additionally, in Japan, most home Wi-Fi contracts mandate a minimum 2-year commitment, and terminating them prematurely frequently results in hefty penalties ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 yen. On average, a home Wi-Fi plan costs between 6,000 to 8,000 yen per month, so opting for Rakuten Mobile’s unlimited plan can lead to considerable savings over time.
No Minimum Usage Period and Easy Cancellation
Rakuten Mobile offers the flexibility of no minimum usage period, allowing you to cancel anytime. Moreover, the cancellation process is straightforward and can be done easily through the app.
Rakuten Card Application & Rakuten Market Benefits
Rakuten Mobile allows you to apply for a Rakuten Card (credit card) simultaneously. While it can be challenging for foreigners to obtain a credit card in Japan, applying for a Rakuten Card along with Rakuten Mobile increases your chances of approval.
Rakuten Mobile users can enjoy a 4% increase in the point redemption rate on Rakuten Market, making it a lucrative choice for frequent shoppers.
Promotional Offer
Rakuten Mobile’s promotions offer enticing discounts, incentives, and exclusive perks, effectively attracting users from competitors. Additionally, these limited-time deals often include complimentary services or devices, catering to diverse customer preferences. Overall, these promotions bolster Rakuten Mobile’s competitive position in the telecommunications market, ensuring its continued success.
English Website
The English page of Rakuten Mobile offers a multitude of benefits, making it an invaluable resource for international users. Firstly, it provides clear and concise information, facilitating easy understanding for non-Japanese speakers. Moreover, with its user-friendly interface, navigating through the various plans and services becomes effortless. Additionally, the English page ensures inclusivity, catering to a diverse range of customers from around the world. Overall, the English page of Rakuten Mobile serves as a testament to the company’s dedication to providing top-notch service to all users, irrespective of their language or nationality.
Free Overseas Data
Rakuten Mobile provides 2GB of complimentary data communication for use overseas. So, you can utilize your smartphone abroad without incurring extra charges or needing to adjust settings.
Free Overseas Data Coverage: Rakuten Mobile offers services in various countries and regions, including Iceland, Ireland, United States (Hawaii and mainland), United Arab Emirates, Andorra, United Kingdom, Italy, India, Indonesia, Estonia, Australia, Austria, Netherlands, Qatar, Canada, Cambodia, South Korea, Cyprus, Greece, Guadeloupe, Guam, Kuwait, Croatia, Saipan, Gibraltar, Singapore, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Slovakia, Slovenia, Thailand, Taiwan, Czech Republic, China, Denmark, Germany, Turkey, New Zealand, Norway, Hungary, Philippines, Finland, Brazil, France, French Guiana, Bulgaria, Vietnam, Peru, Belgium, Poland, Portugal, Hong Kong, Macau, Malta, Martinique, Malaysia, South Africa, Myanmar, Mexico, Morocco, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Romania, Luxembourg, Reunion, and Russia (as of January 27, 2023).
How to Sign Up for Rakuten Mobile
Signing up for Rakuten Mobile is a straightforward process that can be done online or at a Rakuten Mobile store. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose “Apply Here (New/MNP Transfer)”.
- Provide the required documents for identification.
- Complete the application process and receive your SIM card or eSIM.
- If you opt for eSIM, you can promptly access the network once your identification process is complete.
- If you opt for a SIM card, your SIM card will be delivered in a week.
- Insert the SIM card into your phone and start using Rakuten Mobile’s services.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rakuten Mobile offers a compelling option for those looking for affordable and feature-rich mobile plans in Japan. With its competitive pricing, transparent fees, global reach, and innovative approach, Rakuten Mobile is a carrier worth considering for your mobile needs.
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