Posted on: December 2nd, 2024
5-minute read
Who Knew Unlimited Data Could Be This Affordable?
Living in Japan comes with unique challenges, and navigating mobile phone plans is one of them. Between data caps, unpredictable bills, and complicated contracts, many foreigners struggle to find a mobile service that fits their digital lifestyle. Dimas, an Indonesian expat, experienced these frustrations firsthand when his limited data plan left him unable to stay connected during his daily commute.
Discover how switching to Rakuten Mobile transformed his digital life with unlimited data and a simple, predictable pricing structure—making one aspect of life in Japan much easier to manage.
Note: This interview is with a Rakuten Group employee.
Dimas Wijaya (pseudonym)
(20s Male/Kanagawa Prefecture)
Rakuten Mobile user since: May 2023
Previous carrier: LINEMO
Monthly data usage: Between 15GB to 20GB
Inside This Story
From Data Stress to Data Bliss
Interviewer
What inspired you to make the switch to Rakuten Mobile?
Dimas
You know how it is with phone plans in Japan - they can be pretty overwhelming!
I started with one of the major carriers, but the pricing was getting out of hand. I tried switching to a budget carrier, thinking I'd save some money, but ended up with this tiny 3GB data plan. Once I hit that limit, my internet basically crawled to a stop. Not fun when you're trying to check Google Maps during your commute or scroll through social media!
Note: Information and pricing details are current as of May 2023 and may have changed.
Interviewer
How has your experience changed since switching?
Dimas
It's been amazing, honestly! With Rakuten Mobile's unlimited data plan*, I don't have to obsess over my data usage anymore.
The best part is their smart pricing system—you only pay for what you actually use. These days, I can stream music on my commute, watch YouTube videos whenever I want, and post as many Instagram stories as I like without worrying about hitting a data cap. It's such a relief!
*Speed may be restricted due to fair service provision during peak times and other conditions.
Interviewer
How has unlimited data changed your phone usage habits?
Dimas
It's been such a liberating experience! Before, with just 3GB, I had to be super careful about everything—like, I'd think twice before posting a simple Instagram Story or watching a quick YouTube video while commuting. Now I can actually enjoy my phone the way it's meant to be used!
What's really cool is that I don't have to stress about my bill shooting up just because I used more data one month. The pricing adjusts based on my usage, so I only pay for what I need. Whether I'm video calling family back home or streaming music on my way to work, I know I won't get hit with any surprise charges.*
*Excludes call charges etc.
Interviewer
Could you tell us about the switching process?
Dimas
It was way easier than I expected! Everything's available in English on their website—you just look for the pink button and follow the steps.
The whole process is super straightforward, even if your Japanese isn't perfect. Plus, I got to keep my phone number through their MNP service, which was a huge plus for me since I use it for everything here in Japan.
Note: You can keep your phone number when switching to Rakuten Mobile. No need to get an MNP reservation number from your previous carrier. Learn more.
Easy Setup, Free Calls, and English Support
Interviewer
What other features have enhanced your experience?
Dimas
The Rakuten Link app has made such a difference! It's really user-friendly—just download the app, log in with your Rakuten account, and you're all set. No complicated setup needed.
I used to be so scared of making phone calls because of the charges. I'd literally ask my friends to make restaurant reservations for me. Now with Rakuten Link, all my calls are totally free*, whether I'm calling restaurants, making appointments, or just chatting with friends. No more awkward asking for favors.
*Some numbers excluded. Only domestic calls are covered. Performance may differ based on network conditions and environmental factors.
Interviewer
And how's the call quality?
Dimas
Zero complaints! I'm using an iPhone 13 Pro, and every call is crystal clear—no drops, no weird echoes, nothing like that.
The app's in English too, which is perfect for us foreigners. I actually make calls now instead of just texting all the time! It's really changed how I communicate here in Japan.
Interviewer
What about the service coverage and reliability?
Dimas
The network has been really reliable, especially in the Tokyo area* where I spend most of my time.
I use my phone heavily for both work and staying in touch with family back home, so good coverage is crucial. The unlimited data combined with stable service means I can make video calls and stream content without worrying about connection issues or data caps.
*Speed may be restricted due to fair service provision during peak times and other conditions.
Your Gateway to a World of Rewards
Interviewer
Have you found any additional benefits within the Rakuten group services?
Dimas
Oh yeah, the point system is fantastic! I use Rakuten Gurunavi for restaurant bookings all the time now, and each reservation earns me points.
I can use these points for shopping on Rakuten Ichiba or with Rakuten Pay, which helps save money on everyday stuff. It's pretty cool how everything connects together!
Interviewer
How does the Rakuten point system work with your daily life?
Dimas
These points add up quickly, and I can use them for all sorts of everyday expenses. Just last month, I used my points to get a nice discount on my mobile bill.
Since everything is connected, I find myself naturally using more Rakuten services. Whether I'm ordering food delivery, booking travel, or shopping online, each activity earns me points that help reduce my daily expenses. It's like getting a little bonus for things I'm already doing!
Interviewer
Would you recommend Rakuten Mobile to other foreigners in Japan?
Dimas
Definitely! The value you get is incredible—unlimited data* when you need it, free calls through Rakuten Link**, and you earn points for everything.
Plus, their English support makes the whole experience so much more accessible for foreigners. It's really made my life in Japan easier!
*Speed may be restricted due to fair service provision during peak times and other conditions. **Some numbers excluded.
Interviewer
Thank you for sharing your experiences with us today, Dimas.
Closing Message
For foreigners in Japan like Dimas, Rakuten Mobile offers a refreshingly simple approach to mobile service. With flexible pricing that starts at ¥980 (¥1,078 incl. tax) for light users (under 3GB) and caps at ¥2,980 (¥3,278 incl. tax) for unlimited data*, you'll never face bill shock again. Plus, the service seamlessly connects with Rakuten's other services—from shopping to restaurant bookings—helping you save money through points while managing daily life in Japan.
The switch is straightforward, with English support throughout the process. Whether you choose a physical SIM or instant-activation eSIM, you can start enjoying reliable service right away. For anyone frustrated with data limits or complex pricing, Rakuten Mobile provides a hassle-free solution that grows with your needs.
This content reflects the actual experience of an individual user as of December 2nd, 2024. Individual experiences may vary, and service details are subject to change.
*Excludes call charges etc. Speed may be restricted due to fair service provision during peak times and other conditions.
Interested in Diving
Deeper?
Price PlanDiscover the Rakuten SAIKYO Plan, where you pay only for what you use.
Learn More
MNP One-StopSwitch to Rakuten Mobile without troublesome steps.
Learn More*Available online only. Not offered in Rakuten Mobile shops.
Rakuten Link
Enjoy free domestic calls with Rakuten Link App.
Learn More*Some numbers excluded. ¥22/30s without Rakuten Link app.
*Product and additional option fees are billed separately. **1 Speed may be restricted due to fair service provision or network environment. **2 Entry required. Points are rewarded as time-limited points after conditions are met, around two months later. **3 Some numbers excluded. Domestic calls only. **4 Some numbers excluded. ¥22/30s without Rakuten Link app. **5 Excludes call charges and related fees. Speeds are capped at 128 kbps after 2GB. Coverage areas and conditions are subject to change. **6 The maximum monthly point earning is 2,000 as time-limited points. Click here for more details on SPU. **7 Use of this service incurs separate communication charges. While designed to provide high reliability and security, it does not guarantee complete or indefinite data protection. **8 Campaigns may be subject to change or cancellation without prior notice. Other conditions apply. Click here for more details.
