Guides
Practical, step-by-step guides for every stage of settling in Japan. Based on official sources, written for foreigners.
Before Moving to Japan
Pre-departure checklist: documents, finances, shipping, what to bring, and a 3-month timeline.
Residence Card (在留カード)
Your most important document. Updates, replacements, re-entry permits, and the new 2026 integrated card.
Ward Office Registration (区役所)
Your first stop after arriving. How to register your address within 14 days.
Health Insurance for Foreigners
NHI vs Employee Insurance, enrollment process, costs, and what is covered.
Visiting a Doctor in Japan
Clinic vs hospital, what to bring, pharmacy system, English-speaking doctors, and emergency care.
Best Phone Plans for Foreigners
Compare SIM cards and phone plans with English support. Pricing and signup guide.
Best Banks for Foreigners
Which banks are easiest to open? English support, the 6-month rule, and how to apply.
Setting Up Utilities
Electricity, gas, water, and internet. How to start, average costs, and English-friendly options.
My Number Card (マイナンバーカード)
How to apply, what you can use it for, and why it's becoming essential.
Pension System for Foreigners
National vs Employee Pension, student exemptions, and how to get your money back when you leave.
Sending Money From Japan
Compare Wise, SBI Remit, Western Union, and more. Fees, speed, and requirements.
Tax in Japan for Foreigners
Income tax, residence tax, year-end adjustment, filing your return, and leaving Japan.
Visa Renewal & Extension
When to apply, required documents by visa type, online filing, and common mistakes.
Permanent Residence (永住権)
Eligibility, fast-track paths (HSP/spouse), required documents, and tips for approval.
Renting in Japan as a Foreigner
Upfront costs, guarantor requirements, foreigner-friendly services, and the full process.
Trains, Buses & Commuter Passes
IC cards, commuter passes, train types, rush hour survival, and essential transit apps.
Credit Cards & Cashless Payments
Best credit cards for foreigners, IC transit cards, PayPay, and navigating Japan's payment landscape.
Canceling Contracts When Leaving
Phone, internet, utilities, bank, apartment — what to cancel, when, and how.
Driver's License for Foreigners
Convert your foreign license or take the test. Country list, practical test tips, and IDP rules.
Freelancing in Japan
Visa options, opening notification, Blue Return tax filing, NHI, invoicing, and bookkeeping tools.
Finding a Job in Japan
Job boards, visa requirements, resume format, interview culture, salary expectations, and changing jobs.
Learning Japanese in Japan
Free classes, best apps, textbooks, JLPT prep, and practical survival Japanese phrases.
Garbage Sorting & Recycling
How to sort burnable, non-burnable, plastic, PET bottles, and oversized trash in Japan.
Mail & Packages in Japan
Receiving deliveries, redelivery slips, sending internationally, and mail forwarding.
Emergency Numbers & Disaster Prep
Essential contacts (110/119), earthquake & typhoon procedures, disaster apps, and emergency Japanese phrases.
Glossary & FAQ
Essential Japanese terms and answers to the most common questions foreigners ask.
By Visa Type
Settlement steps differ by visa. Find the guide for your situation.
Work Visa
Employer support, tax, pension withdrawal.
Student Visa
NHI, pension exemption, part-time work rules.
Spouse Visa
Dependent insurance, no work restrictions, PR path.
Working Holiday
Share houses, flexible work, 1-year planning.
SSW (特定技能)
Organization support obligations, designated industries.
City Guides
Practical details for settling in specific cities — neighborhoods, rent, transportation, and local tips.
Tokyo
The capital. Most expat resources, highest cost of living.
Osaka
20-30% cheaper than Tokyo. Friendly, food-obsessed culture.
Nagoya
Manufacturing hub. Toyota country. Affordable.
Fukuoka
Compact, livable, great food. Growing startup scene.
Kyoto
Cultural capital. Universities, temples, traditional charm.
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