Rakuten Mobile SAIKYO Plan Review | Prices & Support

Are you thinking about getting the Rakuten Mobile SAIKYO Plan for your cell phone in Japan? With unlimited high-speed data and low prices, it seems like a great choice. However, there are some downisdes to consider, such as the reliability of the signal and the level of English support they provide.

This guide will explain the plan’s features, pros, cons and more. We will also compare it to other options to help you decide if it right for you.

Table of contents

1. Overview of Rakuten Mobile SAIKYO Plan
2. Understanding Rakuten Mobile SAIKYO Plans and Fees
3. Comparison with Other Carriers
4. Advantages of Using Rakuten SAIKYO
5. Disadvantages of Using Rakuten SAIKYO
6. Who Benefits from Rakuten Mobile and Who Does Not
7. How to Get Started
8. English Support
9. Simple Phone Plans with Sakura Mobile

1. Overview of Rakuten Mobile SAIKYO Plan

Rakuten Mobile’s Rakuten SAIKYO Plan, introduced in June 2023, is a very affordable phone plan offered by Rakuten Mobile, Inc. It provides you with unlimited high-speed data and 99.9% 4G coverage throughout Japan. It includes both Rakuten’s own network and its partner networks.

This is the most powerful plan offered by Rakuten so far.

Rakuten SAIKYO Plan: At a Glance

Scroll right for more →→

• Speed may be slower during busy times or under other conditions

↑ Go back to the table of contents

2. Understanding Rakuten Mobile SAIKYO Plan and Fees

Rakuten Mobile’s pricing is different from most other Japanese mobile companies. Instead of paying for a set amount of data, the monthly fee varies based on how much data you use.

Data Charges

Here’s how it works:

• Up to 3 GB: 1,078 yen (incl. tax)
• Up to 20 GB: 2,178 yen (incl. tax)
• More than 20 GB: 3,278 yen (unlimited data*, incl. tax)

*Speed may be restricted due to fair usage policy

The Rakuten SAIKYO Plan includes the Rakuten Link app, which lets you make free calls and send free messages. The tables below show the difference between using the Rakuten Link app and a standard phone app.

Call Charges

Scroll right for more →→

Texting and SMS Charges

Scroll right for more →→

• Note: For both Android and iOS users, receiving messages is restricted to specific countries and regions outside Japan.

Using the Rakuten Link app is a great way to save money on calls and texts. Without it, you will be charged for every call and message. For example, a call using a standard phone app costs 22 yen for every 30 seconds.

With Sakura Mobile, you do not need a special app for your calls. Our Voice + Data SIM and eSIM plans offer clear, easy-to-understand pricing for data, calls, and texts, so you always know what you are paying for.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

3. Comparison with Other Carriers

When you are looking for a mobile plan in Japan, it is important to compare the available options. The three main providers are docomo, au, and SoftBank. Rakuten Mobile is a newer company that has quickly become a popular choice.

The table below gives you a quick look at how Rakuten Mobile compares to other major carriers, including Sakura Mobile.

Scroll right for more →→

As you can see, Rakuten Mobile is a great option for people who want unlimited data for a low price. However, its network can be less than reliable in some areas compared to the larger carriers.

For visitors and residents who do not speak Japanese, Sakura Mobile is a great choice. We offer full English support, and our service uses the trusted docomo network, which is known for its wide coverage and reliable signal all over Japan. This gives you the peace of mind that you will need to stay connected without the stress of a language barrier.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

4. Advantages of Using Rakuten SAIKYO

There are a few reasons why the Rakuten SAIKYO Plan is so popular.

1. Unlimited High-Speed Data: While the rules of the Fair Usage Policy (FUP) restricts your usage during peak hours, this plan offers unlimited high-speed data all over Japan. You won’t lose access to data completely, but after heavy suage, speeds may slow, especially during heavy hours.
2. Affordable Pricing and Discounts: The prices are very competitive, and you can get the plan for as low as 1,078 yen per month for up to 3 GB of data. There are also some discounts and campaigns you can take advantage of.
3. Rakuten Points and Perks: Rakuten also provides a points program and occasional perks across its wider range of services.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

5. Disadvantages of Using Rakuten SAIKYO

While the Rakuten SAIKYO Plan has many benefits, there are some downisdes to consider.

1. Limited English Support: Rakuten Mobile has some customer support in English, but it is not a full-time service. This can be frustrating if you do not speak Japanese and need help with your plan.
2. Signal Strength and Coverage: Some users have said that Rakuten’s signal can be unrelaible. This is especially true in rural areas, on subways, and inside some buildings. You might find that your connection drops often.
3. Data Usage Limits: Even though the plan is “unlimited,” it still subject to Japan’s Fair Usage Policy. This means that yuor speed may be slowed down durin gpeak hours (like rush hour) to make sure everyone gets good service.
4. You Have to Use the Rakuten Link App: To get free calls within Japan, you must use the Rakuten Link app. This can be annoying because it means you cannot use your phone’s regular calling app.

Sakura Mobile solves these problems by offering full English support and reliable service on the docomo network. Our plans are straightforward, with no hidden limits or special apps needed. You get a consistent signal and a team that can help you in english whenever you need it.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

6. Who Benefits from Rakuten Mobile and Who Does Not

Who This Plan is For

The Rakuten SAIKYO Plan is an excellent fit for some people but not for everyone. The plan works best for those who:

• Need a lot of data: With almost unlimited data for a low monthly fee, this plan is ideal for individuals who stream videos, play games, or use their phone extensively for work.
• Do not need a lot of data: The pricing is teired, so if you use less than 3 GB of data in a month, you only pay a small fee. This structure makes it a flexible and affordable option for those who do not use thier phone much.
• Use the Rakuten ecosystem: If you shop on Rakuten Ichiba or use other Rakuten srvices, you can earn and use Rakuten POints to get discounts on your phone bill.

Who This Plan is Not For

On the other hand, the plan may not be a good fit for people who:

• Do not speak Japanese: While Rakuten has some English support, it is very limited. The language barrier can make it difficult to get help with your account, especially if you have an issue that is not covered in the English FAQs.
• Need a very reliable connection: The signal can be inconsistent in rural areas, on subways, and in some buildings. If you need a strong, stable connection at all times, this might not be the best choice for you.
• Want a simple, hassle-free experience: The need to use a separate app for free class and the complex pricing structure can be confusing.

Sakura Mobile is a better option for those who need a consistent and reliable connection without the hassle. We use the docomo network, which has excellent coverage. Plus, we offer full English support, from the application prociess to customer service, so you never have to worry about a language barrier.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

7. How to Get Started

If you have decided that the Rakuten SAIKYO Plan is a good fit for you, here is what you need to do to get setup.

Gather Required Documents

You will need a few things to complete you application. Be sure to have these ready:

• Identity verigication documents: These can include your Residence Card, Special Permanent Resident Certificate, or another accepted form of identification.
• Rakuten Member ID and Passwrod: You will need to either log in to your existing Rakuten account or create a new one.
• Credit card of bank account information: This is needed for monthly payments.
• MNP reservation number: If you are switching from another provider and want to keep your current phone number, you will need to get a Mobile Number Portability (MNP) reservation number from your current service provider.

Choose Your Smartphone

Check if you rphone is cimpatible with the Rakuten network. You can check the compatibility on their website. Make sure your phone is also SIM-unlocked. If you need a new phone, you can buy one directly from Rakuten Mobile.

Apply Through Your Preferred Method

You have a few ways to apply for a plan:

• Online: Via the Rakuten Mobile website.
• By phone: You can call the consultation desk or the English support line for general questions.
• In-store: You can visit a physical Rakutne Mobile store for assistance with your application.

Complete Initial Setup and Start Using!

After your application is approved and you receive your SIM card or eSIM, you will need to do the initial setup on your phone to start using the service.

If you are worried about the steps above or about language problems, Sakura Mobile offers an easy and stress-free application procees. You can sign up online in English in a few minutes without needing to worry about complicated documents or in-person visits.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

8. English Support

When you live or travel in Japan, having customer support in a language you can understand is a big deal. Rakuten Mobile does offer some help in English, but it is limited.

You can visit their stores in person, where they offer ENglish application forms and a “Point-and-Speak” sheet to help you commumicate. They also ahve a limited English phone service. However, it often requires a three-way call with you, a customer service agent, and a phone interpreter, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Sakura Mobile is different. We provide comprehensive English support every step of the way—on our website, via email, phone, or in person. From the application to customer service, you can talk to someone in English without a language barrier. This can make your life much easier and less stressful.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

9. Simple Phone Plans with Sakura Mobile

If you are looking for a simple and reliable phone plan with full English support, take a look at Sakura Mobile’s SIM and eSIM plans.

Sakura Mobile provides comprehensive English support for everything, from helping you choose the right plan to addressing any questions you may have later.

We use the docomo network, which is known for its wide coverage and reliable service. This means you will have a consistent connection throughout Japan, so you don’t have to worry about your signal dropping.

To get a simple, stress-free phone plan in Japan, you can start your application with Sakura Mobile today!