How to Use Zalo in Japan 2026
Unlimited Data for Video Calls【Rakuten Mobile】

"Will I still be able to talk to my family on Zalo after moving to Japan?" — this is one of the first questions almost every Vietnamese person asks before coming to Japan. The short answer is: Zalo works perfectly in Japan. However, which SIM card you choose makes a huge difference in how comfortably you can use it. This article explains how to choose the best SIM for unlimited Zalo use in Japan.

Zalo Works in Japan — But You Need Mobile Data

Zalo is a Vietnamese messaging app, but it works the same way as LINE or WhatsApp — it runs over an internet connection. As long as you have Wi-Fi or mobile data, you can use Zalo for messaging, voice calls, video calls, group calls, and file sharing from anywhere in Japan.

You can also continue updating the app from the Japanese App Store or Google Play Store without reinstalling it.

Zalo Video Calls Use Data — Why an Unlimited Plan Matters

Zalo voice and video calls use data instead of traditional call minutes, which makes them very affordable. The downside is that your data balance decreases the more you use it.

Estimated Zalo Data Usage

If you video call for one hour every day, you could use over 6–30 GB per month. On plans with limited data or throttled speeds, Zalo may become slow or drop out mid-month.

Rakuten SAIKYO Plan: Unlimited Zalo for ¥3,278/month^※1

Rakuten Mobile's Rakuten SAIKYO Plan automatically becomes unlimited data once you exceed 20 GB per month^※1. No extra charges apply.

At ¥3,278/month (tax included) for unlimited Zalo usage, this is exceptional value compared to major carriers in Japan.

Compare Prices with Other Carriers

※ Prices shown are before discounts. Various campaigns and discounts may apply at each carrier.

Compared to other carriers, you save ¥2,000–¥5,000 per month — a difference of ¥24,000–¥60,000 per year. For Vietnamese residents who use Zalo frequently, Rakuten Mobile is one of the most cost-effective choices. See the full carrier comparison →

Free Domestic Calls with Rakuten Link

Rakuten Mobile offers Rakuten Link, a free calling app that makes domestic calls within Japan free of charge^※2. You can video call your family on Zalo and make free calls to workplaces, government offices, and hospitals via Rakuten Link — all from a single SIM card.

Use Zalo While Visiting Vietnam — 2 GB Roaming Included

The Rakuten SAIKYO Plan includes 2 GB of international roaming data per month at no extra charge^※3. Available in over 100 countries including Vietnam, so you can message friends and family during visits home without worry. Speed is restricted after 2 GB.

Foreigners Can Apply — Residence Card Accepted

Rakuten Mobile accepts applications from foreign nationals with a Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate. No Japanese bank account is required — international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted.

• Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate
• Credit card, Japanese debit card, or bank transfer
• Rakuten ID (free to create on the application page)

The entire application is completed online. Choose eSIM and you can start using Zalo the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary — Rakuten Mobile Is the Best Choice for Using Zalo in Japan

• Zalo works in Japan for messaging, calls, and video calls
• Video calls use 200–400 MB per hour — an unlimited plan keeps you worry-free^※1
• Rakuten SAIKYO Plan: up to ¥3,278/month (tax included) for unlimited data
• Save ¥2,000–¥5,000/month compared to major carriers
• Rakuten Link app: free domestic calls in Japan^※2
• 2 GB international roaming included — use Zalo when visiting Vietnam^※3
• Foreign nationals with a Residence Card can apply

Apply for Rakuten Mobile (Referral Campaign) →