Thinking About Switching from Docomo to Rakuten Mobile? Read This First
If you’re a foreign resident in Japan currently on Docomo, you’ve probably noticed that your monthly phone bill isn’t exactly light on the wallet. Rakuten Mobile has been getting a lot of attention as a budget-friendly alternative — and for good reason. But before you make the switch, it’s worth understanding the full picture: the genuine benefits, the real drawbacks, and exactly how the referral campaign works so you don’t leave money on the table.
This guide is written specifically for foreigners living in Japan who are weighing up a move from Docomo to Rakuten Mobile in 2026.
Why Foreigners on Docomo Are Considering Rakuten Mobile
Docomo is undeniably one of Japan’s most reliable carriers. Its network coverage is extensive, customer support is widely available, and it’s often the default choice for people who arrived in Japan and simply needed a working SIM quickly.
However, Docomo’s plans — even the “affordable” ahamo option — tend to run ¥2,000–¥5,000 per month depending on your usage, and data caps can be frustrating if you’re a heavier user. For foreigners who regularly use maps, translation apps, video calls back home, and streaming services, data consumption adds up fast.
Rakuten Mobile’s single plan is priced at ¥3,278 per month (tax included) and includes completely unlimited data with no speed throttling based on how much you use. For many people, that alone makes it worth a serious look.
The Real Demerits of Switching from Docomo to Rakuten Mobile
Let’s be honest about the downsides first — because understanding them helps you make a genuinely informed decision.
1. Rakuten’s Own Network Coverage Is Still Growing
Rakuten Mobile has been building its own 4G/5G network from scratch. In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, coverage is generally solid. However, in rural areas, mountainous regions, or some suburban zones, Rakuten relies on roaming via au’s network — which can sometimes mean slower speeds or inconsistent connectivity.
If you live in a city center, this probably won’t affect you much. But if you frequently travel to the Japanese countryside or live outside major urban areas, it’s worth checking Rakuten’s coverage map carefully before committing.
2. Customer Support Can Be a Barrier for Non-Japanese Speakers
Docomo has relatively robust multilingual support options. Rakuten Mobile’s customer service is primarily conducted in Japanese, either via chat or phone. While their online help system and My Rakuten Mobile app are reasonably intuitive, navigating complex issues — like porting problems, billing disputes, or device compatibility — can be challenging if your Japanese is limited.
That said, many foreign residents manage just fine using Google Translate alongside the app, and Rakuten’s online account management tools are generally clear.
3. The Application Process Requires Some Documentation Preparation
To sign up for Rakuten Mobile, you’ll need a valid residence card (在留カード), a Japanese phone number for verification, and a payment method (credit card or bank account). The MNP (Mobile Number Portability) process from Docomo requires you to first obtain an MNP reservation number from Docomo — this can be done via the Docomo website or app, though again, Japanese language ability helps.
For a detailed walkthrough of the application process, including how to apply at a physical Rakuten Mobile store with a referral, check out this guide: Rakuten Mobile Employee Referral In-Store Application: How to Apply at a Shop [2026 Guide].
4. Device Compatibility
Some older devices or certain Docomo-locked handsets may not be fully compatible with Rakuten Mobile’s band frequencies. Before switching, it’s recommended to check whether your current phone supports Band 3 (1800MHz) and Band 18/26, which are key frequencies used by Rakuten’s network. Most modern smartphones purchased in the last three or four years should be compatible, but it’s worth verifying.
The Benefits: Why It Still Makes Sense for Many Foreigners
Despite those drawbacks, there are compelling reasons why Rakuten Mobile makes sense for a large number of foreign residents in Japan.
Truly Unlimited Data, No Games
Unlike some carriers that throttle speeds after a certain threshold or require you to manage usage carefully, Rakuten Mobile’s plan is genuinely unlimited. For ¥3,278 per month all-in, you get unlimited domestic calls (via the Rakuten Link app) and unlimited data. If you’re currently paying more than this on Docomo, the math is straightforward.
Integration with the Rakuten Ecosystem
If you already use Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Pay, Rakuten Card, or other Rakuten services, having Rakuten Mobile can boost your SPU (Super Point Up Program) multiplier, meaning you earn more Rakuten Points on your everyday shopping. For people already embedded in the Rakuten ecosystem, this is a meaningful bonus.
Flexibility — No Long-Term Contracts
There’s no long-term contract lock-in. You can cancel anytime without penalty. This is particularly useful for foreigners whose plans in Japan might change — whether you’re here on a work visa, a student visa, or considering your options.
The Referral Campaign: How to Maximize Your Signup Bonus
This is where things get genuinely interesting, especially if you’re switching from Docomo via MNP.
Rakuten Mobile currently runs an employee referral campaign that offers significantly better rewards than the standard public campaign. Here’s how the numbers break down:
- Standard campaign (no referral): 13,000 Rakuten Points for MNP switch
- Via employee referral link: 14,000 Rakuten Points for MNP switch
- Via employee referral link (new number, no MNP): 11,000 Rakuten Points
That’s an extra 1,000 points simply for using a referral link when you sign up via MNP — at no additional cost to you.
How the Points Are Paid Out
The points aren’t delivered all at once. Here’s the schedule you should be aware of:
- Points are paid in three installments
- The installments begin 4 months after the month in which you first logged in using the referral link
- This is standard across Rakuten’s referral campaigns and is worth factoring into your expectations
So if you sign up in May 2026, your first installment would typically arrive around September or October 2026. Plan accordingly.
One Referral Link, Up to 5 Lines
If you’re part of a family or a group of friends also considering the switch, one referral link can be used for up to 5 lines. Each person who signs up via the referral link and completes the MNP process gets their own 14,000-point bonus. It’s worth coordinating with others in your circle if multiple people are thinking about switching.
For a deeper comparison between the friends referral program and the employee referral campaign, this article is worth reading: Rakuten Mobile Friends vs Employee Referral: Complete Comparison Guide for Foreigners in Japan [2026 Guide].
Docomo vs Rakuten Mobile: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Docomo (General Plans) | Rakuten Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ¥2,000–¥5,000+ | ¥3,278 (unlimited) |
| Data | Capped or throttled options | Truly unlimited |
| Domestic Calls | Often charged separately | Free via Rakuten Link app |
| Network | Docomo’s own (extensive) | Rakuten + au roaming |
| Contract | Sometimes fixed-term | No lock-in |
| Multilingual Support | More available | Limited |
| MNP Referral Bonus | N/A | 14,000 points |
Is Rakuten Mobile Worth It If You’re Switching from Docomo?
For most foreign residents living in urban areas of Japan who are comfortable managing their plan online and don’t require premium Japanese-language customer support, Rakuten Mobile is a genuinely compelling option. The unlimited data at ¥3,278 per month is hard to beat, and the MNP referral bonus of 14,000 points adds meaningful value on top of that.
The key is going in with realistic expectations: coverage in rural areas can be patchy, customer support requires some Japanese ability or patience, and the points bonus takes a few months to arrive.
If you want to compare Rakuten Mobile against another major carrier switch, the experience with au is also quite relevant — you can read about that here: Rakuten Mobile for Foreigners in Japan: AU Switch Demerits & Complete Guide [2026 Guide].
How to Apply with the Employee Referral
If you’ve decided to move forward, applying via a referral link is straightforward. You can apply online directly — no need to visit a store unless you prefer in-person assistance.
When you’re ready to sign up, using the employee referral link below will automatically register you under the campaign and ensure you receive the 14,000-point MNP bonus (or 11,000 points for a new number):
👉 Apply via Employee Referral Link
Make sure you have your MNP reservation number from Docomo, your residence card, and a credit card or bank account ready before you start the application. The process typically takes around 20–30 minutes online.
Final Thoughts
Switching carriers is always a bit of an undertaking, especially when navigating Japanese systems as a foreign resident. But for many people, the savings and the simplicity of Rakuten Mobile’s unlimited plan genuinely outweigh the drawbacks — particularly when you factor in 14,000 points just for making the switch via referral.
Take the time to check coverage in your area, confirm your device compatibility, and if you’re ready, the referral link above is the best way to start.