【2025 Guide】Best SIM Cards for Foreigners in Japan: Sakura Mobile vs. Rakuten vs. Mobal
CEO / Native Japanese Expert
Updated on: December 3, 2025
Don't get trapped by 2-year contracts or "Credit Card Only" rules. We compare the best SIM cards for newcomers (Sakura Mobile, Mobal) and the best long-term plan (Rakuten Mobile), along with the smartest strategy to switch between them.
GTN Mobile
- Multilingual Support (6 Languages)
- Pay at Convenience Store
- 10 min Application
JP Smart SIM
- No Credit Card Needed
- Cash on Delivery Available
- Minimum Contract: 1 Month
"I just landed in Japan, but my phone doesn't work!" "I went to Docomo and SoftBank, but they told me I need a 2-year contract..." "I tried to sign up for a cheap SIM, but got rejected because I don't have a Japanese credit card..."
This is the "Connectivity Wall" that almost every foreigner faces upon arriving in Japan.
Mobile phone contracts in Japan are notoriously complex. Many companies require a "Japanese Bank Account," a "Japanese Credit Card," and a "Visa valid for at least 6 months." However, to open a bank account, you need a phone number. To get a phone number, you need a bank account. This is the "Vicious Cycle" that traps many newcomers.
In this article, we introduce the "Golden Route"—a fail-safe strategy for choosing a SIM card, based on conclusions from Reddit and expat communities.
In short, depending on your length of stay and situation, your best choices are narrowed down to these three:
- Sakura Mobile: For those who want to pay with Cash (Convenience Store).
- Mobal: For those who want to pay with PayPal/Alipay or prioritize lower fees.
- Rakuten Mobile: For long-term residents who want to save money (Conditions apply).
We will explain the pros and cons of each, and the "Smartest Switching Strategy."
Comparison: Top 3 SIM Cards for Foreigners (Updated 2025)
| Feature | Sakura Mobile | Mobal | Rakuten Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best Start) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Budget Friendly) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Long Term Goal) |
| Best For | Newcomers / Cash Payers | Short-term / Digital Payments | Long-term Residents (6mo+) |
| Monthly Fee | ¥2,980~ (4GB) | ¥1,650~ (1GB) | ¥1,078~ (3GB) |
| Data | 4GB / 25GB / Unlimited | 1GB / 5GB / 10GB / 30GB | Unlimited (Strongest) |
| Payment | Konbini (Cash) / Card | Card / PayPal / Alipay | Japanese Card / Bank Transfer |
| Contract Binding | None | None | None |
| English Support | Perfect (Native Level) | Perfect (Native Level) | Mostly Japanese only |
1. Sakura Mobile
~ Cash Payment OK! The Best "First SIM" upon Arrival ~
If you have just arrived in Japan and do not have a Japanese bank account or credit card yet, Sakura Mobile is the most reliable choice.
Why is Sakura Mobile chosen?
- Convenience Store Payment: As long as you have Japanese Cash, you can pay at a convenience store (using the Smart Pit system). It is one of the few companies that allow contracts without a credit card.
- Apply Before Arrival: You can apply online before coming to Japan and pick up the SIM at the airport.
- Docomo Network: It uses the network of NTT Docomo, Japan's largest carrier, so reception is excellent even in subways and rural areas.
I picked up my SIM at the airport on my first day. Being able to use Google Maps immediately was a lifesaver. Customer support is very helpful in English. It's a bit pricey, but for the first 3 months, it was the right choice.
Disadvantages
- Slightly Higher Cost: Compared to major carriers or Rakuten Mobile, the monthly fee is a bit higher. However, consider this a "service fee" for the ease of contract and English support.
Verdict: If you "don't want to use a credit card" or "prefer paying in cash," choose Sakura Mobile without hesitation.
Sakura Mobile
Pay at Konbini. Full English Support. Best for your first SIM.
2. Mobal
~ PayPal & Alipay Accepted! For Low Cost & Flexibility ~
Mobal is a SIM card that excels in "Low Cost" and "Payment Flexibility" compared to Sakura Mobile. It is especially supported by users who want to use PayPal or Alipay.
Features of Mobal
- Cheap: From ¥1,650/month: You can start with a 1GB data plan for just ¥1,650. It's cheaper to maintain a phone number than Sakura Mobile.
- Flexible Payment Methods: In addition to credit cards, you can pay via PayPal or Alipay. Even if your country's card doesn't work, you can sign up if you have a PayPal account.
- SMS Verification OK: Comes with a real Japanese phone number (070/080/090). SMS verification for LINE and PayPay works perfectly.
- Charity: A large portion of Mobal's profits is donated to "Seibo," a charity feeding children in Africa.
Being able to pay with PayPal was the deciding factor. I used it for my 6-month study abroad. Cancellation was super easy, and I had zero stress when leaving Japan.
Verdict: Recommended for those who "want to pay via PayPal/Alipay" or "want to save money."
3. Rakuten Mobile
~ The "Goal" for Long-term Residents, but Beware the Trap ~
Once you get used to life in Japan, everyone considers switching to Rakuten Mobile. This is because of the "Rakuten SAIKYO Plan"—unlimited data for an overwhelmingly cheap ¥3,278/month. Using the dedicated app (Rakuten Link) also makes domestic calls free.
However, we do NOT recommend Rakuten Mobile for foreigners who have just arrived.
⚠️ The "Screening Wall" of Rakuten Mobile
Rakuten Mobile strictly requires the following conditions for contracts:
- A "Japanese Credit Card" or "Japanese Bank Account" in your own name.
- Sufficient validity period remaining on your Residence Card.
The biggest issue is the "Payment Method." Foreign credit cards are often rejected during screening, and bank transfers mean you miss out on point rewards.
✅ The Strategy: Get a "Rakuten Card" First
Before signing up for Rakuten Mobile, make sure to apply for a "Rakuten Card (Credit Card)" first.
- Easier Screening: It is known as a relatively easy card for foreigners to get.
- Earn Points: Paying your mobile bill with a Rakuten Card earns you lots of points.
- Instant Mobile Approval: If you have a "Rakuten Card," identity verification and payment setup for Rakuten Mobile are completed instantly.
If you want Rakuten Mobile, start by applying for the card. This is the shortest route.
Rakuten Card Application Guide
We explain how to apply in English and tips to pass the screening.
Conclusion: The Golden Route Strategy
Here is the smartest "Golden Route" recommended by communities like Reddit.
Step 1: Arrival to Month 3
Contract Sakura Mobile (Cash preference) or Mobal (PayPal preference). First, secure a "Phone Number" to complete your Residence Card registration and City Hall procedures. Even if it costs a bit more, you are buying peace of mind and speed.
Step 2: Month 3 to Month 6
Once your life settles down, open a Bank Account, and then apply for a Rakuten Card. (Note: You cannot open a bank account without a phone number! That's why Step 1 is crucial.)
Step 3: Month 6 and beyond
Once your Rakuten Card arrives, switch (MNP - keep your number) from Sakura/Mobal to Rakuten Mobile. This will significantly lower your monthly costs and give you a comfortable unlimited data environment.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q. Do I need to unlock my SIM?
Yes, absolutely. If you are using a smartphone brought from your home country, please ensure you "SIM Unlock" it before departure.
Q. Do I need an Inkan (Personal Stamp) for the contract?
No. Sakura Mobile, Mobal, and Rakuten Mobile all accept contracts with just a signature. However, you may need an Inkan to open a bank account.
Q. Is there a minimum contract period (2-year binding)?
No. All three companies introduced here have "No Contract Binding." The cancellation fee is ¥0 (or very cheap) whenever you cancel. You can sign up with peace of mind.
Next Step: Once you have your phone number, let's prepare your "Bank Account" and "International Money Transfer" methods.
Money Transfer Guide
Wise vs Bank Transfer: A comparison guide to avoid losing money on fees.
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※ The information in this article is accurate as of the time of writing. Laws and regulations may change, so please always check official sources for the latest information. We assume no liability for any damages resulting from the content of this article.
