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This article may contain affiliate linksLearn moreGTN Mobile vs. Rakuten Mobile: Which is Actually Better for Foreigners? (2026 Review)
Published on February 5, 2026
Updated on June 11, 2026
Author:Yushi Yamamoto
Essentials
Updated against official, partner, and reviewed site evidence where available.
Last updated: June 11, 2026
Official or partner facts are separated from practical notes.
Prices, screening, documents, and rules can change.
Some next-step links may be monetized.
Needs review: Approval, visa/tax/legal, availability, and campaign terms are not guaranteed. Confirm on the official or partner page.
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If you search for "Best SIM in Japan," you will see two names everywhere: Rakuten Mobile and GTN Mobile.
Rakuten Mobile is famous for being the cheapest "main carrier" with unlimited data. GTN Mobile is famous for being the most "foreigner-friendly" support service. (Check our Full Top 4 SIM Comparison to see other options like Mobal.)
But here is the truth that most comparison sites don't tell you: The best plan means nothing if you can't pass the application screening.
In this direct showdown, we analyze not just the price, but the "Approval Difficulty" and the hidden benefits of the "Credit Card Ecosystem".
99% acceptance rate for valid visa holders. No credit card needed. English support included.
| Feature | GTN Mobile (5G Unlimited) | Rakuten Mobile (Saikyo Plan) |
|---|---|---|
| Network | Rakuten 4G/5G (Same quality) | Rakuten 4G/5G |
| Monthly Price | ¥3,498 (w/ bundle)* | ¥3,278 |
| Application | Easy (Residence Card only) | Strict (AI Verification) |
| Payment | Conbini / Bank / Credit Card | Credit Card / Bank (Fee) |
| Support | 13 Languages | Japanese (Mainly) |
| Overseas Data | 2GB Free (70+ countries) | 2GB Free (70+ countries) |
| Bonus | Helps build Credit History | High Point Rewards |
*Price includes GTN EPOS Card discount (-220 JPY) and Hikari bundle (-330 JPY).
Rakuten Mobile is an amazing service, but it has a high wall for entry.
Verdict: Rakuten is best only if you are fluent in Japanese and already have a Japanese Credit Card.
GTN Mobile's "5G Unlimited" plan actually uses the same Rakuten network. This means you get the same speed and coverage, but with a completely different user experience designed for foreigners.
You pay about ¥200 more per month with GTN compared to Rakuten. For that small difference, you get full English support and the ability to pay without a credit card.
This is the most important part. According to recent data, 71% of foreigners in Japan have been rejected for a credit card (Read our Credit Card Screening Guide for details).
If you choose Rakuten Mobile, you often need a credit card to sign up. If you choose GTN Mobile, signing up helps you GET a credit card.
Don't just think about the SIM. Think about your life infrastructure. GTN offers a path to financial trust that Rakuten does not.
Choose Rakuten Mobile ONLY if:
Choose GTN Mobile if:
💡 Want it even cheaper? If ¥3,498 is too expensive, check the GTN Ecosystem Hack to lower your bill to ¥650/month.
Solve your Mobile and Credit Card problems in one go. Start your application now.
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A: No. Rakuten Mobile requires a Japanese credit card or bank account for payment, and their automated screening system frequently rejects foreigners who have been in Japan less than 6 months. GTN Mobile is designed specifically for foreigners and has no such requirement.
A: Rakuten Mobile's automated KYC system rejects applications if the Katakana name entry does not exactly match their internal phonetic database, if you have been in Japan less than 6 months, or if you don't have a Japanese credit card. GTN Mobile has no such automated rejection.
A: Rakuten Mobile has its own nationwide network (with Docomo roaming in areas without Rakuten coverage). GTN Mobile uses Softbank or Docomo networks via MVNO, so coverage is comparable to the major carriers in most areas.
A: GTN Mobile is popular as both a bridge SIM and a long-term option. The bundled ecosystem (SIM + GTN credit card + housing guarantor) makes it convenient for foreigners who want to simplify their administrative life in Japan, even if individual plans are slightly more expensive than pure MVNO options.
A: Yes. Once you meet Rakuten Mobile's screening requirements (typically 6+ months in Japan with a Japanese bank account), you can initiate an MNP (mobile number portability) transfer. GTN Mobile will issue an MNP transfer code upon request.
CEO / Native Japanese Expert
Updated on: June 11, 2026
※ 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.
