Can You Use Rakuten Mobile in China? A Hands-On Review Without a VPN

Wondering if Rakuten Mobile works in China? Can you call Japan? What about data limits and setup? I traveled to China and put Rakuten Mobile to the test to answer these questions.

This article provides a clear explanation of my real-world experience and highlights the key points you need to know.

About the Author: I’ve lived in China for 15 years and have been running a VPN-focused website for 13 years. I only recommend services I’ve personally tested and use on the ground.

The Verdict: Rakuten Mobile Works Fine for Short Trips to China

The short answer is yes, Rakuten Mobile works perfectly well for short-term travel in China (as of October 10, 2026). You can use its international data roaming feature, which is included in the Rakuten Saikyo Plan, to get online.

As a resident of China, I personally use Rakuten Mobile and can confirm that services like LINE, Instagram, and Google Search work without a VPN. There’s no need to buy a local SIM card or a prepaid travel SIM. You can use your phone just as you would in Japan.

If you want to use your smartphone in China without any complicated setup, Rakuten Mobile is your best option.

My Hands-On Experience Using Rakuten Mobile in China

I use Rakuten Mobile in Guangzhou. Upon arrival, my phone automatically connected to the China Telecom network. In the city center, I was even able to get a 5G connection.

While the internet speed isn’t exactly the same as in Japan and can feel a bit slow at times, it’s more than adequate for everyday use.

Author’s Note: It’s perfectly fine for browsing Yahoo! News, checking X (formerly Twitter), or sending messages on LINE.

However, there is one major drawback: Rakuten Mobile only includes 2GB of high-speed international data, which I’ll discuss later.

Services I Could Use in China with Rakuten Mobile

I was able to use the following apps without any issues:

• LINE: Sending/receiving messages, voice calls
• Instagram: Browsing, posting
• Google: Search, Google Maps
• X: Browsing, posting
• YouTube: Video playback (up to 720p)
• Other apps and websites normally blocked in China were also accessible.

I didn’t need any special settings or a VPN. You’ll be able to handle all the essential communication and research needed for your trip.

Google Translate also works, which is very helpful for translating Chinese at restaurants or on the subway.

Do You Need a VPN with Rakuten Mobile in China? (Conclusion: No, but You Should Have One)

When using Rakuten Mobile’s cellular data, you do not need a VPN. LINE, Instagram, and Google Search are all accessible without a VPN. This is because Rakuten’s international roaming routes your connection through its network in Japan, bypassing China’s internet restrictions.

You might think this means you don’t need a VPN at all, but I still recommend having one ready. The reason is Rakuten Mobile’s 2GB international data limit.

While 2GB is enough for occasional messaging and looking at maps, it won’t be sufficient if you plan to watch videos at your hotel or have long video calls with family. You’ll likely connect to your hotel’s Wi-Fi for those activities.

Local Wi-Fi networks in China are subject to the country’s internet regulations, meaning you’ll need a VPN to access services like LINE, Instagram, X, Google, and video streaming platforms.

Although you can purchase additional data after using up your 2GB, the cost of extra data can easily pay for a VPN subscription. I strongly recommend getting a VPN before your trip to China.

• Rakuten Mobile Cellular Data: VPN not required.
• Local Wi-Fi (Cafes, Airports, Hotels): VPN often necessary.

It’s more cost-effective to get a VPN than to buy extra data from Rakuten. For recommendations, check out our guide to the best VPNs for China.

Rakuten Saikyo Plan Pricing (A Strong Contender as a Travel eSIM)

While the Rakuten Saikyo Plan is designed as a domestic mobile plan, its pricing structure makes it an excellent option for short-term travel in China, effectively serving as a travel eSIM. For a short trip, your bill could be as low as ¥980.

Pay for What You Use

The Rakuten Saikyo Plan’s monthly fee is based on your domestic data usage:

• Up to 3GB: ¥980
• 3GB to 20GB: ¥1,980
• Over 20GB: ¥2,980 (unlimited)

Note: These prices are for domestic data usage in Japan, not the international data you use in China.

Includes 2GB of Free International Roaming

The Rakuten Saikyo Plan comes with 2GB of free high-speed international roaming data every month. This 2GB can be used in China and is generally sufficient for basic needs like LINE, Google searches, and maps during a short trip.

Key Differences Compared to a Standard Travel eSIM

Instead of buying a disposable eSIM just for your trip to China, it’s more practical to use Rakuten Mobile from the start.

Why the Rakuten Saikyo Plan is the Easiest Choice for a Short Trip to China

• Starts at just ¥980.
• Comes with 2GB of international data included.
• Simple setup is great for beginners.

No other plan offers this combination of features for short-term travel to China.

Important Points About Rakuten Mobile’s International Roaming

Free High-Speed Data is Capped at 2GB Per Month

You get up to 2GB of high-speed international roaming data each month at no extra charge. This data is counted as part of your Rakuten Saikyo Plan usage. For most short trips focused on messaging, searching, and maps, this is often enough.

Caution: Streaming video or performing OS updates over your mobile connection will use up the 2GB allowance very quickly.

Speed is Throttled After 2GB

You can still use international roaming after exceeding 2GB, but your speed will be reduced to a maximum of 128kbps. This is fast enough for text-based communication but unsuitable for watching videos or browsing image-heavy websites.

You Can Purchase More High-Speed Data

If you need more high-speed data after using your initial 2GB, you can purchase a data top-up. The rates are as follows:

• 1GB: ¥500
• 2GB: ¥1,000
• 3GB: ¥1,500
• 4GB: ¥2,000
• 5GB: ¥2,500

You can buy the amount you need, and it will be applied instantly. This is a convenient option if you use slightly more data than expected. However, if you anticipate heavy use (like watching YouTube at your hotel or frequently checking X), it’s better to prepare a VPN.

What to Do Before Leaving Japan

To use international roaming, you must complete the following steps while you are still in Japan:

• Connect to the Rakuten Mobile network in Japan.
• Complete the authentication process for the Rakuten Link app (this is needed to purchase data top-ups from the app).

If you don’t do this, you may have trouble using the service abroad.

What to Do After Arriving in China

Almost no special setup is required to use Rakuten Mobile in China. However, be aware that it can sometimes take up to 10 minutes to connect to the local network after you land. I’ve had moments on the plane thinking, “Why isn’t it connecting?” so here are the steps to check.

Once you arrive in China, just confirm these two things:

1. Turn on Data Roaming

If you can’t connect, check if Data Roaming is enabled.

• iPhone: Go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Turn Data Roaming ON.
• Android: Go to Settings → Network & internet → Mobile network → Turn Roaming ON.

This is the most common reason for connection issues.

2. Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off

If it still doesn’t connect after enabling roaming, turn Airplane Mode on and then off again. This forces your phone to re-scan for networks and usually resolves the issue. In my experience, if you just wait patiently, it will connect eventually.

Can You Make Phone Calls from China with Rakuten Mobile?

Yes, you can make phone calls while in China with Rakuten Mobile. Calls from overseas locations like China back to Japan are free when using the Rakuten Link app.

Calling from China to Japan: Free (No Options Needed)

When you are in China and need to call Japan, simply place the call through the Rakuten Link app, and you will not be charged any calling fees. No special add-ons are required; this is included in the basic plan.

Other International Calls: Available for ¥980/Month

For other types of calls, you will need the International Calling add-on (¥980/month):

• Calls from Japan to other countries
• Calls from one foreign country to another (e.g., China to the USA)

This option provides unlimited calling to 65 designated countries and regions.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Use Rakuten Mobile for China Travel

Rakuten Mobile is a great fit for:

• People on short trips or business travel to China.
• Those who don’t want to deal with setting up a local SIM or eSIM.
• Travelers who want to use their smartphone as usual without a VPN.
• Users who just need access to LINE and Google.

Rakuten Mobile may not be ideal for:

• Business users who require consistently stable, high-speed internet.
• Individuals who need to use specific overseas services and want to be prepared for China’s internet restrictions.

For most tourists whose main needs are communication and navigation, Rakuten Mobile is the best choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Do I really not need a VPN?
A. I’ve used it in Guangzhou without a VPN and had no problems.

Q. Are any special settings required?
A. No, just make sure data roaming is turned on.

Q. Can I rely on it to work everywhere in China?
A. For general tourism and travel purposes, it should be fine. I use Rakuten Mobile in my Japan-specific smartphone here and have had no issues.

Conclusion: For Short Trips to China, Rakuten Mobile is the Best Option

When it comes to staying connected on a short trip to China, Rakuten Mobile offers the best balance of convenience and cost.

• Use LINE, Instagram, and Google right away.
• No VPN is needed for mobile data.
• Minimal setup and preparation required.
• You can add more data if you run out.

While you could get a local SIM, a travel eSIM, or a separate VPN, those options involve more hassle, confusion, and risk of failure. Starting with Rakuten Mobile is the simplest solution.

You don’t need to do anything special for your trip to China. Just bring the smartphone you use in Japan. If you want to use your phone like you always do, choosing Rakuten Mobile is the safest bet.