How to Enrich Your Life in Japan with the “Rakuten Ecosystem”: A Guide to Switching Carriers (MNP) While Keeping Your Number

Smartphones are essential to our daily lives. What if simply reviewing your current mobile carrier could lower your monthly fixed costs and help you earn tons of points? The answer lies in the gateway to the “Rakuten Ecosystem” provided by Rakuten Mobile. In this article, we will explain the MNP (Mobile Number Portability) procedure, which allows you to keep your current phone number, in a way that is easy for beginners to understand.

Why is switching to Rakuten Mobile a “smart choice”?

The appeal of Rakuten Mobile goes beyond just affordable communication rates. Its biggest feature is that it makes it “easier to earn Rakuten Points.”

For example, Rakuten Mobile users benefit from the “SPU (Super Point Up Program),” which constantly boosts the points you earn when shopping on Rakuten Ichiba. When you factor your monthly payments into your household budget, the effective cost-performance is unmatched by other carriers.

If we assume a monthly fee of 3,278 JPY (tax included) and an additional 500 points granted through the SPU program, the effective cost is as follows:

$$Effective Cost = 3,278 – 500 = 2,778 \text{ JPY}$$

Reducing communication costs while receiving returns across your entire lifestyle—this is the first step toward effectively utilizing the Rakuten Ecosystem.

Switching in 3 Simple Steps

There is no need to worry that the MNP procedure is difficult. Thanks to the “MNP One-Stop” system, it is now much easier than ever before.

Step 1: Obtain an MNP Reservation Number (or One-Stop Application)

You can issue an “MNP Reservation Number” from your current carrier’s “My Page.” However, since Rakuten Mobile supports the “MNP One-Stop” system with many carriers, you can often proceed directly from the Rakuten Mobile application screen without needing to obtain a reservation number from your current carrier first.

Step 2: Apply to Rakuten Mobile

Apply via the official website. Have your identification documents (such as your driver’s license or My Number Card) ready and follow the on-screen instructions. If you select eSIM, you can be ready for activation in as little as 3 minutes.

Step 3: Activation (Switching the Line)

Once the SIM card arrives, or after the eSIM settings are complete, perform the activation procedure via the “my Rakuten Mobile” app. With this, your previous carrier contract will be automatically terminated, and you will be switched to Rakuten Mobile.

Tips for a Successful Switch

• Make full use of campaigns: Rakuten Mobile frequently runs campaigns that offer point rewards for new sign-ups. Don’t miss out on these!
• Utilize the “Rakuten Link” app: To enjoy free domestic calls, using the dedicated “Rakuten Link” app is essential. Make sure you set it up correctly.

Conclusion: Start Your “Savings & Points” Lifestyle Today

The MNP procedure is a “lifestyle improvement” that offers significant benefits for very little effort. Why not optimize your fixed communication costs and use the extra money and points you save to enrich your life? Start by comparing your current rate plan with Rakuten Mobile’s plans. The next step begins right on the smartphone in your hands.

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