Your Complete Guide To Life in Japan!

10/19/13
Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!
The JAPAN WEB GUIDE's FAQ of Japan:
THE JAPAN FAQ: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

(OR: WHAT I WISH I KNEW BEFORE....)
The Complete Guide to Working, Visiting, and Living in Japan
Japan is the one of the most expensive countries on earth. In response to many questions that I keep
hearing over and over (and over...) from people I meet and Usenet Newbies, I've created a list of answers to
some of the most common questions regarding visiting and living in Japan. Up to now there have been mountains
of books from ivory-tower academics praising Japan to the skies, and websites about places to see, etc. but no
real source of information on getting by here. The information here is current as of January 2012 but be aware
that prices, regulations, exchange rates, etc. are always subject to change. Also be warned that while most
procedures presented here are immutable, in some situations things may be decided on a case-by-case basis.
The information has been divided into the following sections:
PART ONE
* The Flight Over, Customs/Immigration, and Visa Procedures
* Finding an Apartment and Getting Utilities
PART TWO
* Banking and Finance
* Health Insurance
* Mail
* Cars and Transport
PART THREE
* Customs and Going Home
* Tips, Links, and Feedback
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PREPARATION AND THE FLIGHT OVER
The flight to Japan is VERY long and tiring -- bring some aspirin and eye drops with you -- you'll
need them. Some ear-plugs, an eye-mask, and skin lotion can also help. Before your flight, sign up with a
frequent flier program -- many airlines have them, and eventually you can get free flights through them. If your
final destination will be in a large or medium size city other than Tokyo or Osaka, you might consider flying via
Seoul. Domestic travel can be EXTREMELY expensive in Japan; check with your travel agent as well as Japan
Air Lines and ANA's website for some special deals. For those just visiting Japan there are special air passes for
those taking JAL or other One World carrier called a Yokoso Air Pass, or taking ANA or other Star Alliance
carrier called a Star Alliance Japan Airpass. Each also offers another air pass where you can take any
international carrier, called a Welcome to Japan and Visit Japan fare, respectively. All of them have blackout
dates but follow the international baggage rules and cost less than half the normal air fare. You must also have a
round trip or onward ticket and the passes can only be bought outside of Japan before the start of the
international trip. ANA also has a Experience Japan fare with no blackout dates but 20kg total bag limit and no
refund or date change possibility. In more recent years there are also now discount carriers like Peach, Jetstar
Japan, Air Asia, Skymark, Solaseed, Starflyer and Air-Do. Some have very cheap international routes to Korea,
Taiwan, China, and beyond. Note however that these very low fares have low to no free bag allowance, and
may have no refundability or date changes.
It may in fact be more convenient to use airlines as much as possible if you are carrying a ton of stuff since
Japan's train system is not designed for people with heavy luggage. If you find you have just too much stuff for
you to carry, look into luggage transport services in the Japanese airport, which can deliver your things anywhere
in the country at a time you designate for a reasonable fee.
In many cases you are limited to 2 suitcases (usual max wt. 23kg or 50 lbs each, but your airline my vary) and
one hand carry with a max limit of 115 cm (45 inches) (55x35x25cm) and 10 kg (I've never seen any hand carry
actually getting weighed though). Excess baggage is charged at a piece-rate system, for example $25-60 extra if
between 50-70lbs), or $110-150 per extra suitcase if not overweight or oversize. A small backpack is also
allowable. Bringing very heavy or bulky bags may require your airline's approval first - be sure to see your
airline's website. If taking multiple airlines, each may assess its own excess bag charges.
If you get a ticket allowing a prior seat assignment, or arrive at the airport check-in counter early enough, you
may be able to choose a better seat. One of the best is the exit row behind the emergency door. This allows you
to both stretch your legs and try and get some sleep. Then just pray you're not seated next to a screaming baby
or obviously sick person sneezing their virus all over you the whole way there.
During the flight if you feel nature's call, it'd be smart to go before the meal is served since half the passengers
rush for the lavoratories the second they finish their last bite.
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Also make sure you'll be dressed for the occasion. Japan's rainy season is usually from June to midJuly, and the summers are extremely sticky and humid. Bring lots of deodorant! Likewise typhoon season is
around August-Sept. and may disrupt or cancel transportation service for the day. The summer high temps can
go up to 38C (100F) or so, and the winter temps can be as low as -2 or 3 degrees in the southern half of the
country. It rarely snows any heavy amount except for the mountains, but the northern part usually has plenty of
snow in the winter. Autumn is by far the best time to visit Japan, as far as the weather goes. For help on getting
from Tokyo Narita airport to the city, click here. From Kansai Int'l Airport, click here. Many newcomers to
Tokyo Narita just assume they'll take a taxi to downtown Tokyo. DON'T. It's 66 km and will cost you half your
plane fare to get there. Take the bus, or avoid the traffic jams altogether and take the train. From Narita the
Keisei and Narita Express are 2 popular trains used into Tokyo. For using the latter a Suica & N'EX ticket is a
popular discount ticket from Narita to various places in Tokyo.
Jet Lag
Japan is 9 hours ahead of London, 17 hours ahead of California PST (16 ahead on PDT), and 1 hour behind
Sydney, Australia. Generally jet lag hits hardest flying east, but largely depends on how many time zones you
cross, the departure/arrival time, the flight length, and how much you can sleep during the flight. Usually the
effects are sleeplessness at night or sleepiness during the day (even if you have a full night's sleep), but may also
include malaise, loss of appetite, dehydration, headaches, mild dizziness, or even nausea. Some may also have
nosebleeds for a few days because of the bone-dry air on the aircraft. (A saline nasal spray can help prevent and
alleviate this). Taking melatonin at bedtime after arriving may help you put your body clock back in sync. It
would be best to keep a light schedule for your first few days.
This is what you're going to feel like after 10 hours on a plane.....

If you're definitely coming to Japan for a long period, consider giving a limited power of attorney to someone you
trust. This allows them to conduct financial transactions in your name for you.
Changing Money
Before you come to Japan, you might change a little money into yen (photo) to be safe, or more if
you'll be arriving on a weekend or a national holiday. But if you are using US dollars or Euros, you'd be smart to
buy yen once in Japan (in contrast, in Australia it is probably better to buy yen before arrving in Japan). Inside
Japan they have a better exchange rate unless perhaps you are coming from an area with a lot of Japanese
tourists or countries with a smaller economy than Japan. Buying yen in some countries can end up costing you
from 6 yen from the newspaper rate to a whopping 30% commission! The Japanese airport bank is a bit higher
than the rest of Japan but could be better than where you are from (see their current rates here and decide for
yourself). The larger Japanese post offices are better still and can also change currencies at a rate that's a little
better than a Japanese bank. Your best bet is to get yen from your ATM card at Citibank or any of their ATMs
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which are open 24 hrs. and are in major airports in Japan. You can also go to any Japanese post office or 7-11
in the country and get Japanese yen through ATM cards in the Plus or Cirrus networks, credit cards issued by
Visa International, MasterCard International, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club, plus debit cards in
the Visa Electron or Maestro networks and a few others. Aside from these however, other cards will be virtually
useless in Japan. Traveller's Checks give a slightly better exchange rate than cash but often you are made to wait
a long time to get them cashed.
Be aware also that if you are taking more than $10,000 from the US (and about the same from many other
countries) you are required by law to declare it (for the US, do a search for FinCEN Form 105) and if you take
more than 1 million yen into Japan you are required to declare it on the Japanese Customs form you'll get on the
plane.
Bringing a Pet with You to Japan

There have been many requests for info on what needs to be done for taking a dog or cat to Japan.
There's a new system and basically four steps to take, starting several months before your planned move. The
first step is to have your pet fitted with a microchip for identification. Then if it's more than 90 days old, have it
vaccinated against rabies with an inactivated vaccine, then given a booster shot more than 30 but less than 365
days later. Then there is a blood test at a Japanese approved lab that shows a serum antibody level of at least
0.5 IU/ml. At least 180 days but less than 2 years should have elapsed since the blood test upon your arrival in
Japan; plus your pet should be given periodic booster shots, and not appear ill when it arrives. You are
supposed to notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days prior to your arrival. Also the
number of cages per flight may be limited so it would be good to reserve a spot for your pet as soon as possible.
People coming from a designated rabies-free area have a bit looser regulations, as well as animals of US military
personnel. If you satisfy all the requirements, the quarantine time for your pet will be less than 12 hours -- usually
far less. But because there is no guarantee, if you try to make a same day connection to another Japanese city,
there is a chance that you might miss your flight. If your pet must be quarantined, the costs are typically 25003000 yen per day for a private company to hold and feed your pet, which will be done at your port of entry, not
your final destination. Unless you live a stone's throw away and can feed your friend yourself, the costs can grow
quite high. NOTE: Failure to follow proper procedures could be financially disastrous since your pet will
have to be quarantined up to 180 days.
Your airline may also have other regulations or surcharges such as cage type and weight, especially with regards
to taking the pet with you in the cabin (PETC) or stowing it in the aircraft belly (AVIH), so be sure to contact
them as early as possible before your flight. It may cost several hundred dollars to take your pet, plus some
airlines have restrictions on taking pets in the summer and if you have multiple same day connections it may not
be possible at all. For additional data or other animals, please go to the Japanese Consulate in New York, or the
Japanese government's quarantine page. Be aware though that in Japan most apartment owners do NOT allow
cats and dogs.
"Do I need a tourist visa to go to Japan?"

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This depends on your nationality but those from English speaking or most European countries only
need a passport valid for the next 90 days and a return ticket out of the country within that time. Full info is here.
Also since November, 2007 every time a non-citizen enters Japan, getting fingerprinted and photographed is
required.
"How do I get a work visa?"

To work full-time in Japan, you first need to have at least a Bachelor's degree in any field (or prove
you have at least 10 years of experience in some industry), then find a company or school that agrees to hire you.
You can apply for a visa in or out of Japan. Many people come to Japan on a 90 day landing permit (in many
countries now, the "tourist visa" is outmoded--also the Japanese Immigration may ask to see your air ticket to
show that you don't plan to illegally overstay your landing permit), find a company/school that will sponsor them
for a visa, wait around 3 weeks to get a "Certificate of Eligibility", then get the work visa, which is typically valid
for 1-3 years. If your landing permit expires before the visa is ready, you must leave the country to get the work
visa. Most people fly to Korea for this. You can also get a Working Holiday Visa, if you're Canadian, British,
Australian, New Zealander, or German (no, Americans are not elgible). Some can work legally in some field
(entertainer, chef, etc.) without a college degree but the rule of thumb is for a "specialist in
humanities/international affairs" type of qualification, the government requires some type of Bachelor's degree.
One can also enroll in a language, martial arts, or other accredited school and get a student visa which allows you
to work up to 28 hrs/week legally (there is a separate form from Immigration you'll need to fill out). To get a
student visa however, many times the Immigration Dept. will demand that you have at least one million yen in a
Japanese bank account, and to see your college diploma (the real one or certified copy, no photocopies). In
either case, you will need a guarantor for your visa -- usually your company/school can act as one for you; if they
won't, you'll need someone (often they'll demand he be a Japanese man) with a stable job and salary who'll be
one for you. Your new cute girlfriend or that cool dude you hang out with will not be acceptable.
The only other viable legal options to work in Japan are through a spouse visa by marrying a Japanese, or a
dependent visa by being married to a foreigner in Japan who is legally working full time.
If you think you'll be travelling a lot around the country to look for work or go sightseeing, an excellent
idea would be to get a Japan Rail Pass which allows you to go on any JR train in the country for one price paid
up front. You must get the pass before going to Japan and it's also good for the bullet trains (except the fastest
like the Nozomi). The price may look high but transportation in general is high in Japan and you can see the costs
you'll otherwise have to pay on the Hyperpedia rail fare calculator. If you are only staying in one area then a
regional pass is also available, and some may be purchased after arriving in Japan, plus (given some restrictions)
multiple passes can be bought. Check the options in the JR Group companies at the bottom of the rail pass page.
Watch out for peak travel periods as well -- the end of the year, August, and "Golden Week" (the end
of April and the first week of May) are usually jammed with passengers and prices are double or worse.
For those of you considering teaching English in Japan (EFL, or sometimes called ESL), please refer to Secrets
on Teaching English in Japan. The links list at the bottom also have a lot of useful information.
Registering With the Japanese Government

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If you stay more than 90 days in Japan you are required to register with the Japanese government and
carry a Residence Card (Zairyu Card). Japan changed its system somewhat in July 2012, but the card system is
essentially the same. The registration card however now has more data, including biometric data on it, and you
need to register at a government office with 14 days of moving into your residence. When you first enter Japan
on a medium/long term visa, you will be given a residence card at your port of entry that you need to take to
your local government office. If you change your residence you must get a certificate of moving out (Tenshutsu
shomeisho) that you need to submit to your new local government office. Noteworthy changes are that now you
are listed like Japanese are, as a basic resident (juminhyo). Also changed is the re-entry system for leaving Japan
and coming back. Long a thorn in the side of long-term residents, a 3000 yen charge for leaving and returning to
Japan (or 6000 yen for multiple entries) was changed to a free "special re-entry permit" if returning within a year
from departure (or before your current registration expires, whichever is earlier). The maximum status of
residence was also raised to five years from three, but for a "College Student" the maximum period of stay is 4
years and 3 months. You must carry your residence card with you at all times (unless you are 15 year old or
under) and present it to any policeman or immigration officer who requests to see it. Failure to do so may result
in a trip to jail or a stiff fine. Legal permanent residents must apply for the new residence card within 3 years from
July 2012.
For more detailed information see the Immigration Bureau Page as well as Basic Resident Registration Act info
and the MIC Leaflet.
When leaving the country for good you need to surrender the card to the immigration officer at the
airport/seaport.
"Should I bring my TV/stereo/computer, etc.?"

A laptop is good, if you need it. The others, you had better leave behind. Why? 1-They might break
along the way, and 2-The broadcast frequencies in Japan are different. AM Radio is the same, but FM is only
76-90 MHz. TV frequencies are different as well -- and the US digital broadcast is not the same. Besides, your
suitcase space is precious and you can get a used TV here for 6000 yen and up. Commercial DVDs sent to you
in Japan may not work perfectly either if your player is made for a different DVD Zone. One way around this is a
Codefree DVD Player. It's also possible to make excellent code-free copies of your DVDs through programs
like DVDFab HD Decrypter, or a combo of AnyDVD with either CloneDVD2, 1Click dvd copy, or DVD
Shrink and Img Burn. Download.com has some others, or you can rip it to your PC hard drive through programs
like AnyDVD or DVDIdle Pro. All DVD recorders and media in Japan appear to use -R/RW only, however.
Having a computer with a high speed net connection can be quite a delight though for sending pictures, nearly
free phone calls or chatting, hearing radio from back home or seeing the news whenever you want. It's also
possible to watch a large variety of television through sites like BlinkX, Boxee, or Hulu. Many new shows are on
the network sites themselves, but geoblocked for users outside America, the UK, etc. This block is easily
circumvented by free tools like Hotspot Shield or proXPN, or some pay services like Strong VPN, Faceless,
HMA, IP Vanish, Air VPN, and Personal VPN.
A few other important items on bringing a computer with a non-Japanese OS. If you get Japanese software or
hardware (with Japanese software to install the drivers) it may or may not function properly, and all the dialog
windows may look like garbage. (Conversely, depending on the program and the OS, some complex English
programs on a Japanese OS may not work either). You can change to a Japanese OS, or you can install both on
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the same machine through programs like Partition Wizard or System Commander. Coming from North America,
electricity probably won't be a problem; but for sensitive devices it may be wise to buy an electrical transformer,
widely available in electronics districts like Akihabara in Tokyo, Nihonbashi in Osaka, or larger retail chain
stores like Bic Camera. If your country uses 220-40 volts and the device can't handle the difference in current, a
transformer is a must.
In terms of prices, these days many Japanese products are not really cheaper than in North America, but still
may be a bargain compared to Europe. If you buy something in Japan, the manual may only be in Japanese, and
the warranty only good in Japan. Buying international models solves those problems but then there are far less
savings. You may also need to spend even more for accessories, like software and cables to hook up a digital
camera or camcorder to a computer, whereas elsewhere they may be included.
If you are in some isolated area, you can still shop at stores in the cheaper electronics districts online at
Kakaku.com. You will need a Japanese friend to help if you can't understand Japanese well enough though.
If you're going to be here a while, bringing a phone, answering machine and (yes, still common in Japan) maybe a
fax machine (all very pricey in Japan) would be a good idea, but cordless phones in Japan use different
frequencies, so bringing one to Japan might cause interference and land you in trouble. Japanese still send lots of
faxes, and if you think you might be needing to send or receive them, you might look into doing it through e-mail.
The Japanese cell phone system is unique and incompatible with other systems (but at the airport you can rent a
sim card for your 3G phone and then use it. Two examples are Softbank and B-Mobile). A basic sim card costs
a few hundred yen per day and are for calling only (domestic 100 yen/min, incoming free). Ones with unlimited
data cost about 1500 yen per day. If your phone is not unlocked however, you may need an unlock code when
you insert the new sim card. Your provider can help or you can try this site. As a tourist in Japan you can't legally
buy a new sim card or cell phone plan. Japan also has no GSM network, so if your phone only has that you are
out of luck. Using your phone for calls and text is one thing, but for data it can get expensive quickly (still better
than roaming charges to your company back home though). Watch out for data roaming charges or you could
get stuck with a bill of several hundred dollars or worse. There are now several companies you can rent phones,
sim cards, and w-fi units from, including not just the big ones Softbank and NTT's DoCoMo, but also B-mobile,
Pupuru, eConnect, Mobal, Global Advanced Comm, and Rentafone.
For those in Japan looking for a free WiFi hotspot, you may be in for a shock - there are comparatively few.
Starbucks now offers free wi-fi, but other places like McDonalds that have the wi-fi service often require a paid
contract with a paid service like Wi2 or a Japanese cell phone provider. You may be able to find one though at
some hotels or on a site like Freespot. Another free option is 7-Spot at participating 7-11s and Denny's. Also, if
you are a member of FON, you can access Japan's livedoor access points for free. One person collected a list
of places in Japan in 2008, and is probably mostly still reliable. If you do find one, be aware that it may not be
truly secure and your passwords could be compromised.
"Will my electric appliances work in Japan?" -- Voltage and TV Broadcasts
In Japan, the whole country runs on 100V, with the northern half of the nation (i.e. north of the Oi
River, which includes Tokyo) on 50Hz, and the southern half on 60Hz (same as in North America). If you're
from the US/Canada most electric gadgets will work fine, but things like quartz clocks on 50Hz will go nuts.
Some ex-pats also say that items with electric motors on 50Hz will run slower, and not run normally when you
take it home. This may or may not affect you. For sensitive items, buying a Japanese surge protector and
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Uninterruptable Power Supply might be well worth the money. Another possible glitch is the plug -- while
generally the same as those used in North America, some Japanese outlets may not allow you to put in polarized
or 3 prong plugs. (Adapters do exist however). For TV, Japan uses the NTSC (not PAL) broadcast, like North
America, Korea, and the Philippines. If you have family/friends from Europe or Australia send you a disc, you
won't be able to watch it unless it has a PAL to NTSC conversion. DVDs made on home DVD recorders
should play fine, but retail movies may not play if they're from a different DVD zone - in which case you need to
rip it to your computer hard drive or copy it without the junk, as noted above.
Many TVs and recorders can play bilingual broadcasts and some have Japanese satellite tuners. These days
many, but not all, western movies and shows are shown in both Japanese and another language (almost always
English). And the English tracks are not censored to death to protect your dainty ears. Unfortunately, while you
may be used to 500 satellite channels back home, there is a terrible dearth of channels in Japan. Cable and
satellite broadcasts are changing this, if you are lucky enough to be in an area that gets it, but if you think Japan is
totally "high-tech", you may be in for a rude awakening.
Dealing with Mr. NHK
Like in the UK, you are required to pay the government if you have a television. However, there are no real fines
if you refuse to pay. Sooner or later you will find an old guy from the Japanese government channel NHK
knocking at your door and asking if you have a TV. Say no and he'll go away for a while. Say yes and he will
order you to pay. Over and over again. Even if you say you never watch NHK because it's made for insomniacs
who don't respond to strong drugs, or never even turn on the tube at all, he'll demand your money. And having a
satellite dish hanging out on your balcony is a dead giveaway. One way around this is to live in a building where
the building has the dish, and you just plug in your "broadcast satellite (BS) tuner" from inside your room.
"How much can I take through customs?"

These are the current Customs Allowances for Nothing to Declare:
Alcohol: 3 bottles up to 760ml each.
Tobacco: 400 cigarettes, or 100 cigars, or 500g other tobacco products
Perfume: 2 oz.
Money: 1 million yen worth (regardless of form or currency)
Others: Up to 200,000 yen value (items under 10,000 yen aren't counted)
When exceeding these limits, the following duties as of April, 2011 apply:
Whiskey/Brandy (per liter): 500 yen
Gin, vodka, rum, and other hard liquors (per liter): 400 yen
Other distilled alcohol (per liter): 300 yen
Wine/Beer (750ml): 200 yen per liter
Cigarettes: 11 yen per cigarette
Others: 15% of price
Unless you enjoy seeing a jail cell and instant deportation, bringing in illegal drugs is not a good idea.
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Your treatment at customs will largely depend on several factors -- 1. The personality and mood of the customs
officer that day, 2. How busy it is 3. Your nationality and flight origin, 4. Your sex and appearance, and 5. Your
attitude. If you come up looking like a Woodstock Refugee you may have a full body and luggage search,
likewise if you come off with an attitude. Also note that if you bring in videotapes customs may ask to view them.
Any lower frontal pornographic images will be confiscated.
If you have a lot of stuff and know where you are going, it is also possible to have your things shipped
from the airport to your destination by a transport service called takkyubin. Look for such companies like
Yamato, Nippon Express, and Nittsu. Cost is around 1700-2500 yen per suitcase depending on where in Japan
it's going and the size/weight. Delivery time is overnight to two days. Baggage storage is also available ( Narita
services).
APARTMENT, UTILITIES, AND PHONE
This sign is "Fudousan", or Real-Estate Agent

Japan is a country about the size of California (and 75% of that is mountainous), yet has a population
of about 127 million (about 40% of the US population). 25% of the population live in the Tokyo area (Kanto)
and over 50% of the population live between the Osaka area (Kansai) and Kanto. As soon as you arrive, you'll
be faced with the next big challenge if you plan to stay here: finding a place to live. When you come to Japan you
should bring at least US$5,000, and several thousand more if you need to get your own place in a big city like
Tokyo or Osaka (where most of the jobs are).
"What?!! If I had that much money I wouldn't even go to Japan!!"
Stay home then.
Moving to Japan isn't cheap, and living here certainly isn't. If the school/company you'll work for
already has an apartment/dorm set up, you're in luck -- this'll save you from a big hassle, but you won't be able
to choose where you live. If not, you're on your own. Apartments in Japan are found through real-estate agents
(fudosan). Many have ads of available apartments pasted on their windows, and magazines for apartmentseekers exist as well.
For your first few nights, you may need to stay in a hotel or youth hostel. For hotels, you have 4
cheaper options -- a "Love Hotel", a capsule hotel, a Ryokan, and a Business Hotel. A business hotel is the most
straightforward -- it is just a spartan hotel with your own room. A ryokan, or Japanese inn, is cheaper though
and you may or may not have your own room. Hygiene also varies. Youth hostels are a cheap alternative but
privacy is often lacking. That said, staying in one can be fun and you can pick up a lot of good info from others
there. Availability can be a big problem though. A capsule hotel is perhaps the cheapest with a coffin sized room
for you to sleep in. There may be a sauna in the hotel also. However, most if not all these hotels are for men only.
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The last option, the love hotel, is a hotel you can use for a few hours or a full night, for obvious reasons. See
Rob's Japan Photo Gallery for more info.
Afterward, you'll probably end up in your own apartment, a "weekly manshon", or a "gaijin house".
Weekly manshon are like apartments or small condos you rent on a weekly basis -- they are cheaper than a
hotel but more expensive than a regular apartment. They may provide a temporary home but will drain your
financial reserves if you stay too long. The gaijin house is like a college dormitory and can be fun and informative
also. You can also escape the huge fees of moving into an apartment until you earn enough money; on the flip
side, they're only available in the largest cities, and security of your items may be an issue. Costs range from
40,000 yen a month and up.
For looking for housing, see the links at the bottom, or try The Japan Times, or regional ex-pat magazines.
Apartment Hunting
When choosing an apartment a few things to consider are: How close it is to a bus or train station?
How close it is to a supermarket, post office, restaurant or laundromat? Is it on a busy street? (Many motorcycle
gangs called "bosozoku" love blowing your eardrums out at all hours of the night by revving their engines). Is it
near a hostess-bar ("sunakku")? Then I hope you like the drunken wails of old men who actually think they can
sing. Is the place old? Then you might have lots of roaches in the summer who want to party with you. Is it on a
slope? Japanese bicycle brakes will make your ears bleed. Is there any building construction going on in the
area? Can you adapt to the Japanese toilet? Does the place face south where more sun shines in? Does the
building already have an internet cable connection, or DSL? Is the place smaller than your closet back home?
Can you afford it? These are some things to think over carefully.
Rooms are measured according to how many tatami mats fit into it. A tatami mat (-jo) is 1.8m x
90cm, and a typical room has 6-jo, or about 10 square meters. A 1K apt. has one 6-jo room, 1DK has that
plus a kitchen room, 1LDK has that plus a living room. Other apartments have 2DK which means 2 6-jo rooms
and kitchen room, etc. A small one-person apt. in Tokyo can easily cost over $800/month in rent excluding
utilities. Your next hurdle is finding a fudosan which will actually serve you. Some fudosan refuse foreigners, or
drag their feet and make excuses until you go away. At this point screaming about discrimination and "My Rights"
until your face turns purple won't help you. In many cases it's actually the landlord who doesn't want you, not the
fudosan. Assuming you find a fudosan that'll help you, most will show you whatever places they have open for no
fee -- you only pay if you decide to move in.
Now comes the sticker shock: in most places, before you can move in, you have to pay your first
months rent, an amount of one month's rent as commission to the fudosan, 2 months' worth as a deposit
(shikikin), and 2 months' worth to show your deep thanks (read: BRIBE) called "reikin". When you leave, if your
place is in pristine condition you might get some of your deposit back, in many cases you'll get little or none at all.
To get the apartment you'll also need a guarantor (see section on visa guarantor). It can be the same person who
guarantees your visa or someone else. To sign the contract you may be asked to use a personal name stamp
(called "inkan" or "hanko") You can have one carved up for you at a shop that deals in them for around 2000
yen or so. Both you and the fudosan should receive a copy of the contract. Read through or have every
provision carefully explained to you before you sign. And before you sign, make sure you note down whatever
wear & tear/damage is in the apartment first and have that acknowledged in the contract or else YOU might be
paying for it when you move out.
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If you change apartments, some owners require at least a one-month advance notice or you may have to pay a
penalty.
Setting up your apartment -- Utilities

So now you're in your new place, nearly broke, and tired after moving lots of stuff. What's next?
Getting your utilities installed -- the phone, electricity, water, gas. Your fudosan can help you in getting some of
these items taken care of quickly. First the electricity -- on the circuit breaker there should be a post card with
the last meter reading, the last person living there, etc. Use this tag as your application for your electricity. Fill it
out and mail it or take it to your electric company. For water, notify your local waterworks bureau in your district
(ku). Do the same for your local gas company but first make sure there are no abnormalities in your gas
equipment.
The telephone is a little more complicated. First you need to get a "subscription right". You can buy
one straight from NTT, or a broker or another individual can sell you theirs for less. Another option is renting
phone service from a separate company, but in that case you might not be able to make international calls. A
subscription right from NTT costs about 37,800 yen -- you'll need an ID to apply. On top of that are installation
charges, which if the phone wiring already exists will cost 2,000 yen (+5% consumption tax). To sell your
subscription right to another, you need your ID, the other party's ID, and have to pay 840 yen. Phone options
include: caller ID, call forwarding, crank call blocking, call-waiting: 315 yen, etc. For more info see the websites
of NTT East or NTT West, or dial 0120-019116, then push 1 for a voice message or 2 for receiving a fax. As
mentioned earlier, bringing your own phone/answering machine to Japan would be a good money-saving idea.
The basic fee for your phone bill will be about 1520-1785 yen before you make any phone calls.
The costs (rounded off with tax included) for phone calls from a residence are:
Daytime
Evening*
Late Night
Area
8 a.m.-7 p.m.
7 p.m.-11 p.m.
11 p.m.-8 a.m.
Local Calls: approx. 9
In-Prefecture
Long-Distance
Calls: 10.5
Adjacent Area
Up to 20 km
3 min.
4 min.
90 sec.
2 min.
20-60 km
1 min.
75 sec.
90 sec.
Over 60 km
45 sec.
1 min.
90 sec.
*For weekends and holidays, apply the evening rates within your prefecture.
NOTE: The prices are different for pay phones, which are below. To see how the various types work, go to the
Photo Gallery.
Call duration for 10 (tax included) from a public telephone (In-Prefecture)
Daytime
Evening*
Late Night
Area
8 a.m.-7 p.m.
7 p.m.-11 p.m.
11 p.m.-8 a.m.
Local Calls
Adjacent Area
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60 sec.
80 sec.
42.5 sec.
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55 sec.
Up to 20 km
In-Prefecture
Long-Distance
Calls
30 km
28.5 sec.
38 sec.
40 km
23 sec.
28 sec.
60 km
17 sec.
21 sec.
80 km
12.5 sec.
100 km
11 sec.
160 km
Over 160 km
16.5 sec.
18 sec.
9 sec.
15 sec.
16.5 sec.
8.5 sec.
12.5 sec.
14 sec.
*For weekends and holidays, apply the evening rates.

Cheaper companies for domestic long distance calls in Japan also exist, such as Daini Denden (Tel. 0120-110077), Japan Telecom (Tel. 0120-0088-82) and Nippon Kosoku Tsushin (Tel. 0120-03-0070). Another
option in making calls through the internet (VoIP) and costs can be far less and can include ISP and TV services.
One company that offers it if you have a fibre optic lined installed is KDDI and another is NTT's Flet's Hikari.
Smartphones can even do VoIP for free through apps like Viber or KakaoTalk.
"How can I get on the Internet in Japan?"
If you want a separate provider, there are many net providers in Japan, with many different rate
plans. Japan has some of the highest internet speeds available for consumers in the world, with up to 100 Mbps
level fiber optic cable and 25 Mbps DSL connections in major and medium sized cities, suburbs, and some
smaller cities and towns. Since 2008 cable has overtaken DSL and can be used for as little as 2000 to 4000 yen
per month. Many also have bundled plans that include VoIP and other services. Most Japanese homes have net
access yet Japanese often use the net more through their cell phones. Some of the biggest ISPs are NTT, Asahi,
OCN, Au, Biglobe, OCN, So-net, IIJ, and GOL. For those only looking for a quick temporary connection
there are free ISPs, Live Door, with access points in most major Japanese cities. For those in the sticks that are
stuck with dialup, there is also an NTT service called Telehodai, which allows you to call up to 2 local numbers
(like an ISP) from 11 PM to 8 AM and not be charged per minute. This is extremely nice if you like listening to
radio broadcasts or news from home through iTunes or RealAudio, or chatting with others for hours on end.
Cost of this service is 1800 yen a month plus tax. Unfortunately, they only offer this service when you should be
asleep.
Cellular Phones
In Japan there are 2 kinds of cellular phones, the Japanese cellular (keitai denwa) and the PHS type
which is all but extinct. For the cellular phone, prices and functions vary -- and can include net surfing, cameras,
e-mail, texting, TVs, music players, debit card functions, train or subway passes, games, and even GPS
navigation like in cars. There are several companies to choose from, but the largest are NTT, Softbank, KDDI's
AU, and Willcom. Prices for the basic phone can vary widely though, and the phone charges may be
comparable to calling long distance on a land line. In Japan, the caller assumes all the charges -- if you never
make any calls you'd only have to pay the monthly contract fee. If you buy a phone you also have to buy a
contract with it, usually good for 2 years although a monthly contract type also exists. Tourists are unable to sign
for such a contract however, only Japanese citizens or foreigners with a alien registration card and a Japanese
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bank account are accepted.

It is also possible to rent a cell phone for a short period. There are some companies that allow you to just pick
up a cell phone at the airport, or receive it through the mail. Another option is buying a handset and using prepaid cards from such brands as NTT Docomo, Softbank, and AU. Costs typically run from 6000 yen for the
phone and up, making calls are about 80 yen per minute (the contract type phone plans are about 40 yen per
minute), and you can buy more time at a convenience store. You'll need to give some sort of ID which will be
copied, and phone cards for 3000 or 5000 yen are valid for 60 days from activation. You can receive unlimited
calls at no charge for another 365 days as long as the account is valid. The phones have a color screen, and can
also use the Short Message Service (SMS) and send e-mail. If you want more freedom though, no seller will
give you an unrestricted phone without a credit card and/or a deposit.
"I Want My Mommy!!"

As soon as you get off the plane in Japan, you'll be bombarded by cute ads from the international
phone companies about how cheap they are. While not as bad as they used to be, and now offering better rates
if you sign up with their international call programs, as a newcomer to Japan you can take advantage of the latest
developments that old-timers needed when they first came -- the prepaid cards, VOIP, Skype, and callback
companies. You can buy the prepaid cards at major convenience stores. With the callback company, you dial a
number and let it ring, hang up without being charged by the Japanese companies, then they dial you back and
give you a ring tone you then dial your friends or families with -- as if you were back home. You pay in dollars,
can use a credit card, and not be subject to peak usage rates. You can even make calls to far-away Japanese
cities while in Japan on weekday afternoons for less than the Japanese phone monopoly, NTT. There are always
several ads for international calling in the Japan Times, ask some long-term ex-pat, or look in the ex-pat
magazines. Not all the companies work the same, however, so make sure you find a company with no monthly
minimum or start-up fee. Another option is buying a calling card from various companies like AT&T, MCI,
Brastel, Pingo, or Dial Abroad, allowing calls from a residence, cellular, or pay phone. Also if you have a credit
card making calls through the Internet for less or even for free through programs like Yahoo Messenger or other
programs. If you'll be on the phone a lot talking to people back home, VoIP is an excellent solution to avoid high
costs.
"Is that price RIGHT?? They gotta be kidding!!"
Now that you have your new apartment, you'll need to put stuff in it. If you're not too genteel, there's
one other alternative. One night of every month (varying from area to area) people dump their large, nonburnable trash (sodai gomi). Many people throw out perfectly usable electric appliances, chairs, bikes, shelf
units, etc. Many old men run around in small trucks like vultures hoping to get something good. You might too.
But the early bird gets the worm.
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1) A 100 yen shop like the above is also a great place to pick up utensils and needed items. 2)Don
Quijote is another popular discount chain.
PART TWO
BANKING AND FINANCE
This sign is "Ginko", or Bank

In Japan, bank interest is exceptionally poor -- less than 0.5% on any account. If you do set up such
an account though make sure you have enough money on hand to cover any possible emergencies. Bank hours
are about the same as in the US -- they close at 3PM on weekdays. Most have ATMs, but outside of central
Tokyo they close around 6 PM or so. Also, you can save money just like banks through the post office. The
P.O. is open til 4:00 (their ATMs until 9:00 weekdays, 5:00 Saturdays), has slightly better interest rates, and
vastly more offices than any of the banks. Being a foreigner, you probably can get by without an inkan in
establishing an account, but if you get one and use it once you'll be forever required to use it. It is the same as
your legal signature -- take VERY good care of it.
Checks in Japan are nearly unheard of for consumer transactions. People use cash and credit cards.
Credit cards are generally accepted only at larger department stores and hotels, as well as shops that handle a lot
of tourists. Generally smaller shops and supermarkets do not accept them. But it's now possible to withdraw
money using a Visa, AmEx, Mastercard, Cirrus, Maestro, Plus, or Electron affiliated card at some ATMs,
convenience stores, and post offices, as well as Citibank.
Japanese banks do offer one big convenience, though. You can automatically have your bills for utilities paid
through bank transfer. This will save you the hassle of paying the bills yourself. Just fill out the necessary forms
from your utility company. You can revoke this power at any time, and you'll get a receipt through the mail of
what was deducted. If you choose not to do this, you can still pay your bills through the post office, or almost
any convenience store if it's not overdue.
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- "How do I send money to someone??"

Since Japanese don't use checks, Japanese send money by way of bank transfer (furi-komi). Usually
the money will arrive on the next business day. The costs for sending money can range from 105 yen to 735 yen,
depending on the bank you go to and whether the receiver's acct. is at a different bank. Japanese banks do not
send monthly statements of your current balance. To check, you need to take your acct. book (tsucho) and stick
it in the ATM. Any deposits or withdrawals will immediately be printed on it, including your current balance. You
will need your PIN number (ansho bango) to withdraw money -- do NOT forget your secret number!! Also, if
you or someone attempts to put in the incorrect PIN number to gain access to your account, the bank's
computer will freeze the whole account until you clear up the mess with their administration. Some banks charge
a small fee (100-300 yen) if you withdraw money and your balance is below a certain amount.
- "How do I send money home?"
So you've visited the banks and found that your bedroom mattress gives a better interest rate. Now
what? You have a few options -- invest it with a securities co. (shoken gaisha), send it home and invest it (there
are still some good Savings Bonds worth looking at, as well as some mutual funds), or wait until the exchange
rates move in your favor, buy travelers checks, and keep them until you go back. A securities company also has
CD type accounts, or can buy stocks for you. The Japanese stock market (Nikkei) has been rather flat, along
with the anemic economy of late, but there are other markets that are doing well, and the NYSE hasn't
disappeared either. If you're interested, contact a stock broker. If you want to play it safe though, send it home
to a CD, Treasury Note, or make a moderately conservative investment in a Ginnie Mae (GNMA) or some
other fund. For sending money home, the Japanese post office may be your cheapest and best bet. The Post
Office allows you to send money home to any person through a money order at much cheaper rates.
The person you send it to (hopefully someone you can trust) can then deposit the money order into
your account. (NB: If you'll be out of the country for a long time, it would be a good idea to legally make a good
friend or family member have a limited power of attorney for your affairs. This allows them to act in your name.)
For sending up to 200,000 yen, the P.O. charges a mere 1000 yen. From 200,000 to 500,000 yen the charge is
1500 yen, and beyond that it is 500 yen per 500,000 yen sent.
In some cases though you may have to send it through a bank, which takes about 4-7 days. If you
have a Citibank account with over a million yen you can send the money for free to any bank account through the
Internet Banking System. Simply download and mail in their recipient registration form to a Citibank
administration center first. Another alternative is through GoLloyds, which has a 2000 yen fee (kokusai soukin
tesuryo) per remittance. Through a Japanese bank, the fast way is direct electronic transfer, which costs 25007500 yen, and maybe more when it reaches its destination from the receiving bank(s). The smaller the bank you
send it to, the more times the money bounces around from one bank to another and incurs service charges. A
cheaper way is the bank mail transfer, which takes up to a couple of weeks. The costs are around 2500 yen, but
vary from bank to bank. A US bank must inform the US government anytime over $10,000 is moved, so
frequently depositing more than US$10,000 in an account might attract government scrutiny and increase the
chance of a tax audit by the IRS. Since 1986 to willfully attempt to circumvent the bank's $10,000 reporting law
(e.g. sending several blocs of $9900, etc.) is also illegal and a bank can inform the government voluntarily
anytime they wish.
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- "Do I still need to file income tax forms if I am living abroad?"

For U.S. citizens, it's YES! US citizens must file a 1040 Long Form by June 15th of each year (you
have a 2 month grace period compared with your friends back home). If you receive income or interest in your
home state you may also need to file forms for your state income tax; as well as a Report of Foreign Bank and
Financial Accounts (FBAR) (Form TD F 90-22.1, not sent with the 1040, due the next June 30 after you meet
the $10,000 threshold) listing each bank account outside of the US if the aggregate value of the account(s)
exceeds $10,000. The first thing you'll need is the official dollar-yen conversion chart from your local
embassy/consulate. You'll need it to complete the Foreign Earned Income Form (#2555).
US citizens qualify for the Bona Fide Residence Test if you have an actual bona fide residence in a foreign
country/ies for at least one full calendar year. Or if you spend more than 330 days outside of the US, then you
qualify for the Physical Presence Test and are also allowed a $97,600 (for 2013) income tax exemption. Even if
you end up owing zero to Uncle Sam you still must file your tax forms. If not, you might not be able to get your
passport renewed when it expires and you open yourself up to an audit. If you've never had one, you'll find that
root canal together with a broken leg is a far more pleasant experience. If you don't stay for a full year, you may
still owe nothing since you can take a deduction for part of the year, in which case you can get x/365 * $92,900
(as of 2011), where x is the number of qualifying days in the calendar year. Taxpayers with an AGI (Adjusted
Gross Income) of $57,000 or less can electronically file their tax return for free using Freefile.
If you have stocks/bonds/mutual funds, etc, you'll also have additional forms to fill out (1099-INT,
1099-DIV, etc). Note also that to be able to count a day as outside the US you must be in or flying over a
foreign country, whether it's your destination country or not doesn't matter. Flying over the ocean per se doesn't
count. The bureaucrats have made a very lengthy explanation of all this in their tax pamphlets. (See IRS
Publication 54 -- Tax Guide for US Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad). Contact the US embassy (033-2245000) or Osaka Consulate (06-315-5900) for tax advice during the tax season. The embassy has an IRS agent
there all year long, and can assist you in getting thru the red-tape, as well as other matters such as absentee
ballots (you DO vote, don't you?) and legal questions.
If you're Canadian, consider declaring yourself a non-resident before moving to Japan. This means you will not
need to file a Canadian tax return, but you will no longer be elgible for Canadian government health care and
need some alternative insurance. Canada taxes people on their residency and worldwide income. If you remain a
legal resident of Canada while you are living in Japan you need to pay both taxes to Japan and to Canada, but
can receive a tax credit for your Japanese taxes on your Canadian return. Ask the CCRA for publications that
explain this more in depth. British nationals can find info here.
For paying Japanese income taxes, usually the employer does nearly all the work for you. You also might receive
some money back at the end of the year (nenmatsu chosei) if there is any tax refund. More info (old, but
basically still accurate is here).
- "What if I get sick in Japan?"

Getting ill in a foreign country is nothing to take lightly -- and medical expenses in Japan can be quite
costly as well. If you live in Japan you can choose to enroll in Japan's National Health Insurance. Under this plan
you pay a monthly premium, as well as a 30% deductible of your medical/dental bills immediately on treatment
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(with a cost cap in case of severe illness or injury); the government pays the other 70%. You can sign up for it at
your local city ward or town office, and aside from that there is never any paperwork or red tape to go through.
The ward or town office determines a monthly premium to pay based on your previous year's income. If you're
new to the plan the amount can be quite low -- around 1350-4500 yen per month. However, every April at the
next premium adjustment you may find the amount escalating sharply, even if your income changes very little. A
first year of 4500 yen a month, a second year of 13,500 yen a month, and a third year of 35,000 yen a month is
typical (Japan has an exploding number of old-timers). Cosmetic/elective surgery, child birth, and abortions are
not covered, however. Previously, some ex-pats who planned to leave Japan and tried to cancel their
government insurance were given the standard response to Japanese, "You can't cancel it." However, the truth is
you can, and if someone lays that response on you to may have to reiterate that you're leaving and push a little
more for them to terminate the insurance. They may ask to see your air ticket to prove you're actually leaving. So
if you plan to change from the government plan to a different plan while in Japan you may have to do it before
you take a vacation abroad somewhere. If you're definitely staying in Japan long-term, and your employer won't
pay the insurance rate for you through a private plan (Shakai hoken,where the cost is split equally with you and
the employer), then you might consider private insurance either with Japanese or foreign companies, like Viva
Vida. There are others to choose from as well and dental costs may not be included; the Nova Teacher's Union
has compared some as an example. By law, if you are residing in Japan, you are required to have some kind of
health insurance plan.
If you are just visiting Japan or don't have anything set up yet, try contacting your embassy or consulate. Tokyo
also has a walk-in clinic for non-emergencies called The International Clinic in Azabudai, Minato-ku (tel 033582-2646).
This sign is "Yuubin Kyoku", or Post Office
MAIL
Japan offers all the major services that are in other countries. But the stamp for domestic mail is the
highest on the planet -- 80 yen each up to 25g (90 yen up to 50g). Delivery within or to a nearby prefecture
usually takes one business day. Any further takes 2 business days. Special delivery can make that into one day,
but that costs 270 yen more. An info hotline in English is now available and the PO will answer any questions you
may have about mail, transfers, life insurance, etc. (NB: the hotlines are NOT toll-free.)
Here is the phone number for English -0570-046-111
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Hours are Mon-Fri. 8:00AM to 10:00PM; Sat.,Sun., & holidays 9:00AM to 10:00PM
If you speak Japanese or have a friend and don't want to pay, there is the Japanese language toll free number at
0120-232-886 for the same hours.
More info is available on their website.
The international rates and calculator are on the Japan Post Office Rate Website There can be discounts or extra
charges regarding how much you are sending and the size of the item. If sending boxes of books you can get a
discount rate sending an M bag by surface mail. If not in a hurry, you can look into surface mail rates or SAL
(Sea Air Lift) mail as well.
Getting/Sending E-Mail
For those of you who want to get or send lots of e-mail, but don't want to shell out a lot of money for
a computer and net provider, there are some good sites that can help, such as Yahoo Mail, with 100 MB
mailboxes and allowing 10 MB attachments, Google Mail with 1 GB mailboxes, and the spam-free Mail Blocks.
For 200 other sites, click here. A few other noteworthy sites are E-Fax which allows you to receive faxes or
voice-mail from around the globe through your computer and Hushmail for encrypted and completely private email.
Even if you don't need one of these sites, a free service like Fan Mail is useful since you choose your
own e-mail name and not be forced to use some long stupid number (like at a university) that none of your
friends can possibly remember. Other e-mail forwarders are on Yahoo and Dud Mail. And if you are forced to
give an e-mail address for something, but you're afraid you might get spam from them later, you can always set
up a free temporary e-mail address at Melt Mail, good for 3-24 hours.
DRIVER'S LICENSES, CARS AND TRANSPORT
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1) Train ticket machine in Japanese & English 2) Worn out subway riders...you can be one too 3)
Getting off the subway 4) Got the wrong ticket? Use the fare adjustment machine.
- "Is my (insert your country) driver's license valid in Japan?"
NO --not for one minute, not even for a second. If you're going to drive, you'll need to get an
international permit before you come to Japan, or else get a Japanese license when you're in Japan. The
international permit will only be as good as your visa or a max of one year. Be sure to carry your home license
and passport with you when driving on an international permit. Afterwards you'll need to return to your home
country to get a new international permit or get a Japanese license. Officially you are supposed to get a Japanese
license after a year of using an international permit. For obtaining the Japanese license, if you've had your own
country's license for at least 90 days before coming to Japan, you can use it in lieu of having to go to a Japanese
driver's school (saving you up to 300,000 yen), but you'll need an authorized translation of your license which
will take a couple of days (contact your embassy/consulate in Japan or the Japan Auto Federation [JAF]; cost:
3000 yen + 270 yen for postage) as well as taking a written test (10 multiple choice questions, you need to score
at least 70%; English and 7 other languages now available), driving test (citizens from the UK, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Sweden, Italy, Spain, or other nation with a reciprocal license agreement are exempt from the
driving test; Americans are not exempt), color recognition and eye test. Depending on the examiner and location,
the driving test can be extremely picky and even experienced drivers can fail over and over again. For those
staying in Japan long term, it would behoove you to get the Japanese license and take a couple hours for some
driving lessons to prepare you for the test, especially if you are unfamiliar with driving and traffic signs in Japan.
There are specialty classes just for taking the driving test, and cost about 5-6000 yen per hour. The whole test
process takes several hours and you'll need to sign up for it first thing in the morning (call for times), paying up to
5000 yen. (In large cities you may have to wait a few weeks for the driving test). Take your passport, photo
(3cm x 2.4cm), and foreigner id card, and translated docs with you. To pass the tests you'll need to know what
Japanese street signs mean and the examiner's directions in Japanese (right, left, stop, etc). No high speed driving
or fancy shifting is necessary, but to be licensed for both auto and manual transmissions, you need to pass the
test with a manual transmission. Be sure the examiner knows you are checking all your mirrors when turning and
he can feel the car totally stop when you come to a stop sign, etc. Many fail because of this. Assuming you pass
everything, (if you don't you can come back again) you'll then be photographed for the license. Look good -- if
you sneeze when they snap the shutter you'll be stuck with it for 2 years from your next birthday. Waiting until
right after your birthday would be the most economical. Long term ex-pats with good driving records can
eventaully get a license good for 5 years. A regular license allows you to drive a normal car or 50cc scooter. For
any motorbike helmets are required at all times, and bike ignition locks are about as effective as jello -- be sure
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to use a chain or horseshoe lock as well.

NB: Different prefectures have some differences in procedures, requirements, etc. Before your test,
check and see about anything else you may need, schedules, etc. You might want to see some supplemental info
on getting a license and the test here.
- "How do I get a car?"
Like everything in Japan, getting a car is never as simple as picking one out, putting your money down,
and driving your new honey home. Many people go past some used car dealers, see some good looking cars,
(some for just a few hundred bucks) and wonder if they're really that cheap! Well, they are. But there's more to
what you see. The real costs come afterward. Before you can call that car yours, you'll have to get a parking
space for it, pay the taxes on it, get insurance, and then there's the mandatory periodic maintenance check. Still
gung-ho? Or is that adrenaline rush of roaring down the street waning a bit? First ask yourself WHY you want a
car, and if you really need it. Where you live in Japan is a big factor -- if you live in the mountains or some small
town, or if you'll be constantly needing to transport a lot of stuff, it might not be a bad idea. Plus, you won't be a
slave to train and schedules, which stop before midnight. And the fact that Japan has some of the most beautiful
mountains in the world! On the other hand, if you live in a big city, the costs can be very discouraging -- in fact,
they're meant to be. Traffic jams 30 miles long aren't unusual, gasoline prices are far higher than that of the US,
cities are clogged with cars, and the freeways are anything but free. Let's look at what's involved in that car
purchase...
The parking space
You must have a registered parking space and submit certification of such (shako shomeishou) to the
police. The rental of the space varies -- from a couple thousand yen/month in the sticks to up to $1000/month in
the glitzy areas of Tokyo. To get a parking space, some are found thru real estate agents, others are rented
directly from the owners. If it's from the fudosan, except for the guarantor most of the other terms for apartmenthunting apply. If you change your parking space contract you must also notify the police.
Paying taxes
When you buy a car, you'll have 3 main taxes to pay. One is an Acquisition Tax, another is a weight
tax, and the 3rd is an annual tax every May. The first 2 you pay when you buy the car. Basically, the bigger the
engine, the more you pay. The Acquisition Tax is around 5% of the price of the car. The weight tax for cars with
engine sizes up to 2 liters are about 56,700 yen. Over that is 75,600. Passenger cars with a 300 something or 33
in the upper right corner of the license plate (including nearly all US cars) are the highest. A 50-something on the
license plate indicates a medium-size car, and the "Kei" cars with an engine of 660cc have a yellow plate and are
lowest. The May annual tax for Kei cars is the lowest as well at about 5000 yen, but for larger cars the tax
quickly escalates to 34,500-39,500 yen for medium cars to 45,000 yen for 2.5 liter cars and 56,000 yen for 3
liter cars. You also need to pay consumption tax when you buy gasoline, and many gasoline stations don't post
their prices. Prices can vary and may be up to 15 yen/ltr. cheaper at some stations -- a big difference.
Vehicular Insurance
There are 2 insurance programs -- one is the mandatory insurance (kyosei hoken) which just covers
the car, and the optional insurance (jibaiseki hoken) covers collateral injuries/damages you may get/cause. You
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can decide the extras -- theft, vandalism, disaster damage, lost wages, etc. Getting it would be a good idea -- if
the guy driving that Mercedes you just broadsided decides to have a heart-attack, you'd be in trouble. The costs
vary according to your age, if your family also drives it, how many citations you may have had, if the car has an
airbag, etc. Since the customer is King in Japan, by all means find a company that has a 24 hour toll-free hotline
in English you can call in case of trouble. If you can't find one, try the British Insurance Group at 033-214-6921
in Tokyo, and 066-252-7251 in Osaka. Ask about a good driver's discount, in which you might get a 10%
discount. Make very sure though that you know all the details of the insurance forms you are signing, wherever
you go.
Shaken -- The Mandatory Vehicle Inspection
Many people come to Japan and are very surprised that all the cars are clean, well-maintained, and
always running well. The sensitive Japan "experts" will tell you that it's because Japanese take such pride in their
work, have such dignity to drive cars that only look like new, etc. All of which are true. But the real reason is
different -- and you'll pay dearly for it. Cars more than 3 years old have to have a mandatory maintenance check
(shaken) every other year, broken or not. The costs again vary according to the size of the car and area, but you
may be paying 120,000-160,000 yen or so for a smaller car, and more for a larger one or if there is anything the
grease-monkeys can possibly fix. Also, when the car is very old, it has an official value of ZERO and you may
actually have to PAY someone to take it off your hands! After that it'll be either scrapped or sold to dealers in
Asia.
To buy a car, you can always check the local dealers, or buy it from another individual (a little more
complicated -- either you or the other person will have to go to the Kensa Toroku Jimusho, or Inspection
Registration Office to submit the Re-registration (meigi henkou) and Massho toroku (owners cancellation
registration) papers). A change in registration fee also exists and may be around 25,000 yen. You can also find
several magazines on people selling cars in your area. More info can be found here.
"What's that red light in my mirror? UH-OH".
1) A bike parking ticket (you need to go to the police station for removal). 2)A police motorcycle
3)Double-decker parking
There are some differences in Japan on driving that you should know. The pedestrian always has the
right of way, and you can NOT turn on a red light. Also, they drive on the left side of the road and the steering
wheel is on the right (like in the UK) here. Also, in areas where the cops are few, people routinely speed 30km
over the speed limit (50kph), and taxi drivers are notorious for their aggressive, some would say suicidal driving.
If you get a car be SURE to go to a bookstore and get the most detailed street map of your area. City layout in
Japan is a DISASTER -- they couldn't screw things up more here if they tried. Large streets will have names in
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English, but smaller streets will not. Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory. It's now also illegal to drive while talking on
a cell phone, and a kid under 6, with a few exceptions, must be in a child seat.
So let's say the cops decide to pull you over. Maybe if you start babbling in English they'll let you off with a
warning, but not always. A driver here is given 15 points per year. One citation is worth one point, including a
parking ticket. Bigger infractions mean more points, and a DUI is 15 points, or instant license revocation. The
infraction depends also on the size of the car/bike. Every year, if you're not over 15 points you'll be cleared, but
your insurance may go up/down accordingly.
On driving a car/motorbike, some other important facts to remember are that you must stop at a railroad
crossing before crossing it.
So if you decide a car isn't for you, there's always the trains, buses, subways, and the old bicycle.
Public transportation here isn't cheap either, though, and if you ride a lot, the kaisuken or teikiken is a good idea.
With the kaisuken, e.g. if you buy say 10 tickets at once, you'll get one free. The teikiken allows you to go back
and forth all day for a period of time, e.g. one month. In many cases a full-time employer will pay transportation
costs for you, in others it's negotiable. Another option when you first come to Japan is a JR Rail pass, which
allows you to go anywhere in the country on JR trains, but you need to be a tourist and get it BEFORE you
come to Japan.
For info on motorcycles and touring, please read The Japan Biker F.A.Q.
- "Can I ship over my own car?"

Yes, with some restrictions. You can import your car, boat or other vehicle into Japan duty free as long as you
are staying in Japan over one year, and you have documentation to show that you have been using the vehicle for
more than one year before it arrives in Japan. You are also prohibited from selling the vehicle in Japan and you
must ship it back to your home country when you leave. Given the high shipping costs and likely poorer mileage,
this option may be cost prohibitive, at least for civilians. The vehicle must meet all Japanese laws to be driven in
Japan as well.
PART THREE
CUSTOMS, TIPS and GOING HOME
1) Shinjuku, Tokyo 2)Akihabara, Tokyo 3)A typical country rice field

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- "How's Shopping?"
Not really different. But if you wear fairly large sized clothes/shoes, you'd better bring all you'll need
with you. Large-sized goods in Japan are scarce, or very expensive, or make you look like a dork. Mail-order
shopping is also growing in popularity, but the customs hassles can make it more expensive than you might
imagine. Make sure you know ALL the costs your purchase will entail. Having family/friends send it to you might
be better.
There is also no custom of tipping in Japan -- people do not tip waitresses, taxi-drivers, etc. Before
you come to Japan, getting a credit card would also be a good idea (note however there may be a foreign
currency surcharge when you use it). Getting one in Japan can be very frustrating, with more trouble of finding a
guarantor, $100 annuals, etc. Many people are stunned when they see the prices in Japan.
The following are some typical prices :
*Rice: 300-400 yen/kg
*Bread (approx 1/3 loaf) 150-200 yen
*Coca-cola (12oz) 120 yen/can
*Gasoline 135-145 yen/liter
*Milk: 150-200 yen/liter
*Domestic Beer (12oz) 225 yen/can
*Regular aspirin (100 tab) 1800 yen
*Contac (10cap) 1350 yen
*Movie 1800 yen
*Doritos (7oz) 400 yen
*Orange 100 yen each
*Apples (4 red) 350 yen
*Bananas (4) 130 yen
*Steak (120g) 600 yen
*Chicken (breast, 275g) 100 yen
*Eggs (10) 200 yen
*Maybelline Lipstick 1500 yen
*Taxi - 2km 550-660 yen, then 90 yen/200m
*Pizza (10 inch; home delivery) 3000 yen
*Coffee 400g 400-800 yen
*Honeydew melon 400-10,000 yen each (no, that's not a typo)
Bringing in your own vitamins, herbs, cosmetics, aspirin, suntan lotion, cold medicines, etc. would be a
smart choice. But BEWARE -- in the US lately many illegal methamphetamine labs have bought up massamounts of psuedoephidrine type cold pills (Sudafed, et.al.) to convert to illegal speed. Japanese Customs is
aware of this and on the look out for anyone coming in with Sudafed, Vicks inhalers, and so on. Before you buy
all those pills for those future colds, consider what you purchase.
There are a few other noteworthy aspects -- you can buy virtually ANYTHING from vending
machines, which are everywhere. (They turn themselves off at 11PM for alcohol; however these days there are
many convenience stores that also sell liquor 24 hours a day). There are no "last calls for alcohol" by law in
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Japan either, and it's perfectly legal to be totally drunk on the street, in parks, and on the beach. And nobody
ever cards you. Now that's freedom! Fireworks are also thankfully very legal, but on sale only in the summer
months. If you want to light some up for New Year's, you'll need to buy them before August ends. It's still very
rare for families to do so, but that may slowly be changing too.
If you plan to buy any electronics at major shops like Yodobashi, Bic Camera, etc., be sure to sign up
for a free point card before making any purchases (they'll require a phone number or address...just give your
hotel or something). A point card will allow you to get points for free stuff or a price cut for future purchases; the
points you receive often being 10% or more of your initial purchase.
When leaving Japan, you are permitted to take up to 1 million yen with you without declaration. But if
you enter the US you are required to file a form with Customs if you are carrying more than $10,000 (regardless
of currency, travelers checks, bonds, etc.). Failure to do so may result in seizure of your assets, DEA scrutiny,
and maybe even an IRS audit. You are allowed to take with you up to $800 of goods duty free into the US. For
entering Canada the same limit applies for bringing CAD$10,000 or equivalent. For the U.K. it is 10,000 euros,
and to Australia it is AUD$10,000.
Help, Useful Info, Phone Numbers, and Moving Back

Culture Shock, Isolation, and Getting Burned
Just 20 years ago there were few westerners outside the big cities. Now there are mobs of them
everywhere. Even so, if you're new here, there may be times that you feel out of it, or have a problem that you
just can't solve by yourself. But you don't have to feel helpless if you have a medical problem or your employer
screws you over. There are several city government international sections that can assist you, plus living guides,
and other associations that can help you. Here are a few valuable phone numbers to remember.
Important Phone Numbers

Japan Nat'l Tourist Organization--Tourist Info Ctr. 03-3502-1461
Japan Helpline (24 hrs, toll free in Japan) 0120-46-1997
Tokyo and Kanto Area

Tokyo English Life Line (Daily 9AM-4PM, 7PM-11PM) 03-5774-0992
IWC/IAC 03-3773-4836 (10AM-5PM weekdays)
HELP (English, Japanese, Thai, Tagalog) 03-3368-8855
Immigration -- Tokyo Immigration Info Ctr. (M-F (9:30-12,1-4:30PM) 03-3213-8523
AMDA Tokyo Medical Info and Referral Service 03-5285-8088 FAX 03-5285-8087
American Ctr. (Tokyo) 03-3436-0901
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Tokyo Medical Info Service 03-5285-8181 (9-5PM)

Tokyo Medical Translation Services 03-5285-8185 Weekdays 5PM-8PM; Weekends Holidays 9AM8PM
Relief Ctr. for Human Rights 03-3581-2302
Tokyo Japan Hotline 03-3586-0110 (Mon-Fri; 10-6)
Tokyo English Lifeline 03-5721-4347
Kapatrian Medical & Legal Info/Counseling for Filipinos 03-3432-3055 (Mon-Fri 10-4)
Yokohama Information Corner 045-671-7209 (Mon-Fri; 10-4)
Hokkaido and Tohoku Areas

Hokkaido Women's Counseling Office 011-666-9955 (Japanese only; Mon-Fri 9-5:15)
Sapporo International Plaza 011-211-2105 (Mon-Fri; 9-5:30)
Sendai International Ctr. 022-265-2471 (9AM-8PM)
Sendai English Hotline 022-224-1919 (9AM-8PM)
Chubu and Kansai Areas

Nagoya Free Legal Consult 052-581-6111 (Sat 10-2:30)
Arusa No Kai (Nagoya) 052-935-9448
Kakekomi Aichi Domestic Abuse Hotline & Shelter 052-853-4479 (Mon 1-4PM)
Asian Friend (Osaka) 06-6634-2127
Osaka International House 06-6773-8989
Immigration Procedure Workshop (Toyonaka-shi, Osaka) 06-6843-4343 Fax : 06-6843-4375
Kyoto International Community House 075-752-3511
Kyoto Center for Multicultural Info & Assistance 075-604-5625
Nara International Foundation 0742-27-2436 (Tues-Sat; 10-6)
Kobe International Community Center 078-291-8441
Kobe International Plaza 078-795-4400 (closed Mon.)
Hyogo International Assn. & Advisory Service 078-382-2052 (Mon-Fri; 9-5)
Chugoku and Kyushu Areas

Hiroshima International Center 082-541-3888
Okayama Pref. International Exchange Foundation 086-256-2000 (closed Mon.)
LAAF (Fukuoka) 092-716-0577
Rainbow Plaza (Fukuoka)(Daily/Personal Problems) 092-733-2220
Kokusai Hiroba (Fukuoka)(Legal/Labor Issues) 092-725-9201
Asian Workers Hotline (Fukuoka) 092-716-0577
AIDS Workers Fukuoka 092-715-8395
Komustaka (Kumamoto) 096-352-3030
Nagasaki International Assn. 095-823-3931 (Mon-Fri; 9-5:30)
More websites for other cities and languages is at Secom and the Tokyo government. Other groups such as AA,
AIDS support groups, PC and Mac User groups, motorcycle clubs, culture groups, religious groups, etc. are
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also around. Consult the classifieds of any big English magazine like Kansai Time Out, The Hiragana Times,
Tokyo Journal, Tokyo Classified, etc.
Beware The Bait-And-Switch Travel Agent

If you stay in Japan, there might be a time when you decide to go home for a visit. You might also
notice that on some magazines there are some discount travel agencies with seemingly reasonable prices. One big
caveat however -- the price in the magazine might not be the one you pay. Many, if not most agencies have a bit
of a scam running. They set you up for the price they post and then as you close the deal they say, "By the way,
there is an airport usage tax of (2500-6500) yen you'll need to pay..." It is not at all infrequent. I have also flown
through Los Angeles many times and I KNOW there is no such "usage tax". Of course there are several taxes
and fees that exist, but they're usually included in the up-front price of the ticket. Even more off-the-wall is that
for every agency you call, you get a different amount for the so-called "usage tax". Some airlines are also pulling
some slick tactics, giving you a base fare of just a few hundred dollars, and then at the end, tack on several
hundred dollars more in taxes, issue fees, and fuel surcharges. Japanese, of course, simply say OK and pay
more. Can you avoid the scam? Maybe not. But when you start calling for quotes, make sure you ask how much
their ticket is with ALL taxes and surcharges included -- don't just simply set up a reservation at a place with the
"cheapest price in town".
Moving Back
Moving back is also very expensive. Whatever is not critical should either be sold or trashed since the
moving costs might well cost more than the item itself. Besides, unless there is a specific international warranty,
warranties are invalid outside of Japan, and even if you have something made by a big name multi-national, they'll
often be unable or unwilling to fix it. If you do take it home though, there are several moving companies, all of
which are expensive. A cheaper option is shipping by consolidated cargo. For sea freight, volume is a much
bigger issue than weight, and units are usually done by cubic meter. Three boxes the size of 100cm (39") by
50cm (20") by 66cm (26") make up about one cargo cubic meter. You may need to pick up your things at your
home country's harbor unless aditional transort is contracted to get it to your home. Another option is the
Japanese post office. Yet there might be one more choice if you're up to it -- stuff your suitcases, handcarry and
backpack to the max, go to Guam or Korea, and mail your stuff there. From Guam you can use the US postal
service, which costs about one-third that of sea-mail from Japan -- and your stuff will arrive in 2-5 days if you're
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sending it to the States. To calculate exact costs, go to the USPS site and find the cost from Agana, Guam to
your destination.
As stated previously, it is important to notify your landlord or his representative at least 1-2 months before you
move out (check your contract). Also, contact your gas, water, and phone company on when you plan to leave,
and arrange a time for them to come to your place to assess your usage for the last fraction of a month and have
you pay on the spot. It may take a few weeks for the landlord to return any of your deposit by furi-komi, so you
may wish to designate a friend's account number and be paid back later. Also you may have to arrange a time
and pay a small fee to have larger items like washing machines, cabinets etc. taken away to be trashed. Your
ward office should have all the details. Generally speaking, the selling price of used items is about half of what it
cost when new (assuming there's nothing wrong with it). Selling items to another individual at a "sayonara sale" is
preferable to a used-goods shop, since the shop will probably give you merely a quarter what you paid for it
(and then they'll sell it at half price). Used good shops may not want the item if it's more than 10 years old, even
if it's in mint condition. Do not take moving out lightly -- unless you live like a spartan monk it will take several
days to divide up what you want and what you don't, getting your affairs taken care of, etc. Leaving Japan during
tourist season will also make getting a ticket that much harder -- call a travel agent at least 2 months in advance.
You are allowed 2 suitcases up to 32 kg each and one hand-carry item (and a backpack if you've got the back
for it) if flying to the Americas. When flying to Europe or other areas some airlines like Air France only allow up
to 20kg per suitcase. Carrying a 3rd suitcase may also be an option. You'll need to pay the excess baggage
charge but compared to air mailing it from Japan it'd still be well worth it. Many airlines charge excess baggage at
1-1.5% of the full economy airfare per kilogram. Check with your airline for complete info.
"Do you have any tips?"

*Learn as much Japanese as you can before you come. Anything you learn will make your stay here easier. Very
few Japanese can speak English with ease. If you get lost, try writing your question on paper and giving it to
someone young. Use simple words. Probably they can point you in the right direction.
*Bringing a number of inexpensive gifts with you is also a good idea, to give them to those who show you a big
kindness. Nothing extravagant is necessary -- even a DVD of TV would do wonders, or some item that
represents where you're from. Recordings of Top-40 radio (Japanese radio is horrible), small picture books or
calendars, posters, ashtrays, chocolates, pure maple or berry syrups, t-shirts or pens/pencils with famous
animation characters (except Disney or Snoopy, which they have in abundance), BBQ sauces, salad dressings
like Ranch, flavored coffees, keychains, postcards, liquor, caps, coasters, nice soap or shampoos, lotions,
cosmetics, etc. would be great. Even varieties of green tea that Japanese have never tried, such as with mandarin
orange by Celestial Seasonings, or green tea with jasmine, earl grey, apple, raspberry, lemon, ginseng or mint
from Salada would do well - they're cheap, light, and familiar to Japanese yet still unique. Be aware though that
in Japan 4 and 9 are "unlucky" numbers, and especially older Japanese tend to be superstitious, so avoid giving
sets of 4 or 9.
*If you still don't know how many litres there are in a gallon, how hot 37 degrees Centigrade is, how heavy 23kg
is, or how far 1 km is, then join the rest of the world and get on the metric system. Everything here is metric, and
if you're not, you'll be lost very quickly.
*If you know where you'll be, getting some business cards before you come may be a good idea. However,
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while getting them in Japan is far more expensive, in Japan they can be printed in Japanese, and with English on
one side. You will also receive many of them. They are exchanged to show who is superior to whom in this
vertically-structured society. Do not play Frisbee with them, or stick them in your back pocket and sit on them
when you meet someone.
* In Japan there is a 5% consumption tax. It is placed on every product you buy and every service (except
public transportation), and more increases are expected in the years ahead.
* This is obvious, but NEVER SURRENDER YOUR PASSPORT TO ANYONE except the legal government
authorities. Many people have been blackmailed to stay in their jobs by shady types who took them "for
safekeeping". If they ask why, tell them the truth -- that you trust them about as far as you can throw--, well,
maybe not that. But say that it's not even your property to give them -- it's your government's, which is also true.
Stay away from such places -- you wouldn't be working there long anyway.
* If you have any tattoos, you had better hide them if you go to someplace like a public bath. In Japan the
people with tattoos are primarily the yakuza, or Japanese mafia. Even if you're a foreigner, having any will often
give others the creeps, and many places won't let you in their establishments.
* If you're definitely coming, bring a good digital camera or camcorder with you. They are excellent for sending
photos to friends thru the net, as well as easy to make many photo albums of your experiences here. Be sure to
back up your files regularly by burning them on to a CD or DVD, or upload them onto an online storage site, in
case you lose your camera or your memory card gets corrupted. The photos will be a treasure you will look
back on with great fondness as you get older, and if you don't do it you'll sorely regret it later.
Some other useful things to bring (which are very high in Japan) are aspirin, vitamins, Vicks vapor rub, OTC
medicines, deodorant, suntan lotion, birthday/Xmas cards (getting cards in English to send back to friends/family
may be tough or expensive), books, and some spices for some cooking. If you are a women wearing a US size 8
shoe or larger (25cm, Euro size 39), your size may be very scarce; the same goes if you wear larger size lingerie
or clothes/suits. It is not hard to get stuff shipped to you, but to avoid customs hassles have your family send it to
you; not direct mail-order. Men's shoes may be harder to find above size 9, especially in rural areas.
* If you plan to use a smartphone in Japan, get the Hyperdia app. It can make train travel a breeze. Hyperdia is
a great tool to show rail fares, times, and routes.
* On the main island of Honshu there are many earthquake faults, and tremors in Tokyo are a daily happening.
Most of them you won't even feel, but on occasion you might get a jolt. DON'T PANIC. But Tokyo is expecting
a "Big One" someday, so be prepared for any big earthquake or tsunami.
* In case you lose your passport, license, etc., keep a photocopy of them in your place just in case. They can't
be used in place of them but might speed up getting a replacement.
For lots of other important cultural and etiquette info, please refer to Japanese Manners and Etiquette Page.
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Other Useful Websites
There are a lot of excellent websites to help you out. Not coincidentally most of them have put of a link to THE
JAPAN FAQ.
Comprehensive Sites on Japan
Like this site? Please vote for it on Japan Reference
Japan Guide - Over 200 Japan Pages
Japan Zone
Stockton's Japan Links - Great compilation
Open Directory Project - Japan
Stanford University Japan Links
Griffith University Japan Links
Web Japan
Japan Hot Spots
Sunsite Japan Info
Links on Life In Japan
Roger & Marilyn's Photo Tour of Tokyo
Master Card, Cirrus & Maestro Japan ATM Locator
Visa Card Japan ATM Locator
Luis Poza's Japan Guide
The Japan Biker F.A.Q.
Americans in Japan
United for a Multicultural Japan
Dining Out In Tokyo
ISP Japan FAQ -- Compare options and companies
Townpage Useful Phone Numbers
Procedures on Registration of Marriage to a Japanese National
Links on Working in Japan
Hall Houston's EFL in Asia Page
EOL-Japan
A-Kaiwa.net - Free student searching service
EFL Job Information Journal
Ohayo Sensei EFL job-hunting BBS
Guide To Jobs In Japan Useful info on job hunting
Big Daikon
Diajob
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Kimi Information Center

So You Want To Be A Hostess?
Links on Cheaper Japanese Accommodations
Cheaper Japan Accommodations
Kurumi Weekly Mansion
Japan Hotel Network
Toyoko Inn - Discount chain across Japan
Yadokari -- Cheaper hotel list (Japanese)
Japan Hotels Official Website Directory
Hostels in Japan
J-Hoppers - Hostels in Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Takayama
Khaosan Tokyo Hostel - In central Tokyo, Kyoto, Fukuoka & Beppu
Japan Hospitality Public Youth Hostel Group
Super Hotel - Nationwide single rooms from 4800 yen (in Japanese)
K's House - Dorms/private rooms; Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagano, Mt. Fuji
Economy Hotel New Koyo Tokyo - Inexpensive Tokyo hotel
Sakura Hotel - singles, dorms, doubles, with breakfast
Yadoya Guesthouse - 3 dorm-type houses near Nakano Stn, Tokyo.
Cheap Hostels Japan
Shrek-Watta House - NW Tokyo guest house with weekly/monthly discounts
Hotel Juyoh (Tokyo)
Tatami Guesthouse
Yoshida House - Daily & monthly rates, in Nerima-ku
Sawanoya Ryokan (Tokyo)
Ryokan Kangetsu (Tokyo)
Ryokan Toki (Tokyo)
Sawanoya Ryokan (Tokyo)
Sakura Ryokan (Tokyo)
Hotel New Azuma Taito-ku, Tokyo. Singles from 3000 yen
Capsule Hotel Akabane - For men only, from 3000 yen, in Kita-ku
Tokyo International Youth Hostel
Yokohama Hostel Village
International Guesthouse Azure - near Narita Airport
Backpakers Fuji - near Narita Airport
Oak Hotel - Higashi-Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
E-Ryokan Nationwide list of Japanese inns
Bookings Modest to 5 star hotels scross Japan
Fuji-Hakone Guest House B&B B&B near Mt. Fuji
Ryokan Reservation Service -- Reserve a cheaper room thru the net (Kansai region only)
Uno House - Inexpensive guest house in Kyoto
Green Peace - Cheap dorm/rooms in Kyoto. 3 night minimum stay
Kyoto Hostel - 2 hostels in Kyoto
Tour Club -- Cheap dorm in Kyoto with daily & weekly rates.
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Guesthouse Bon in Kita-ku, Kyoto

Kyoto Cheapest Inn in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
Guesthouse Tonbo in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Kyoto Guesthouse Kyonoen in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Gojo Guesthouse - in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Backpacker Hostel K's House
Tojian Guest House - Cheap Kyoto dorm & private rooms
Palace Side Hotel - Inexpensive downtown Kyoto hotel. Long term discounts too
Budget Inn Kyoto
Crossroads - Kyoto
Costa del Sol Kyoto in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
BSC Backpackers Hostel - Next to Lake Biwa
Chuo Group - 6 hotels in Osaka from 2100 yen/night
Hotel Taiyo - Located in Nishinari-ku, Osaka
Hotel Toyo - In Nishinari-ku, Osaka
Kyoto Craftman Guest House
Hotel Seiryu - Budget hotel in Higashi-Osaka City
U-Comunity Hotel - Higashi-Osaka City - Rooms from 6750 yen
Khaosan Fukuoka - Near Hakata Stn, Fukuoka City
B&B Masuya Dong - Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
Beppu Guest House - Beppu, Oita
Base Okinawa - Naha, Okinawa
Japan National Tourist Organization--Accomodations Page
International Tourism Center of Japan - Nationwide list of moderately priced accommodations
Tiglion Travel - Japan Hotel Special Rates
Japan Youth Hostels
Japan Hospitality Hostels - 9 hostels across Japan
Taito Ryokan 7 room Tokyo inn with 2-4 people rooms.
Japanese Inn Group
Japan Quick Easy Hotel Plan
My Trip Hotel Reservations
Japanese Guest Houses -- Traditional Japanese inns
Weekly Mansion Tokyo - Budget weekly stays in Kanto, Osaka & Sapporo (in Japanese)
Links on Japanese Long Term Accommodations
Gaijin House Japan
Move & Stay Serviced apartments/apartment-hotels/offices in Asia & Australia
J&F Networks - Agents who'll rent to you without a hassle
Sakura House -- Tokyo gaijin houses, private apartments, & hotel.
Oak House - Tokyo
Housing Guide for International Students in Japan
Tokyo Apartment Co.
U&I House - Tokyo guest house & apt.
Nichio Koyu Kikaku - Guest house, gaijin house, and private apt.
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Borderless Tokyo Several house sharing accommodations in Tokyo

Guesthouse Konomiya - 6 houses in Tokyo
Apple House - 8 houses in Tokyo
Bamboo House 6 houses in Tokyo & Chiba
Friendship House -- List of a few Tokyo gaijin houses
Green Forest Six Tokyo houses
Guest House Hanata House near Kita-Koshigaya, Tokyo
Imagining - Guest/Gaijin House in Yokohama
Gaijin Houses - With optional cultural classes
Osaka English House
Guesthouse Osaka - 4 Osaka houses
Osaka Guest Houses - 4 Osaka houses
Happy Habitat Apt. & Guest Houses in Kyoto
J-Stay Kyoto guesthouse and apartment agency
Yamate Homes -- Tokyo homes for sale/rent
At Home -- Find an apt. thru the net (in Japanese only)
Home and apartment rentals across Japan
Ken Corp. -- Monthly home rentals in Tokyo at 500,000 yen and up
Links On Getting Around
Kansai International Airport
Tokyo International (Narita) Airport Page
The Narita Layover Page
Tokyo Subway Map
Other Major City Subway Maps
Japan Rail Pass Info
Kakuyasu bus Cheap overnight buses (Japanese only)
Highwaybus.com - Japanese only
Willer Overnight Buses
Kansai Thru Pass - Allows 2-3 days pass on Kansai transportation
Townpage Route Search - JR Travel Navigator - Train fares, routes, & transfers
JR Railways Info on Japan train info, fares, timetables, etc.
JNTO Travel Train routes, fares, timetables, and air routes.
Hyperdia Rail Schedule and Fares
Ferry & Hydrofoil Info
Japan Tollway Fare Calculator
Maps of Japan
Map of Japan
Map of Kanto area
Map of Tokyo
University of Texas Japan Maps - Political & regional maps
Map of Mt. Fuji area
www.thejapanfaq.com
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Map of Hakone area

Map of Fukuoka City area
SunSite Japan Maps
Japanese News & Media
AJR Newslink - All the English language newspapers in Japan
Jisho.org - Excellent website Kanji/Japanese word dictionary, plus other language software.
Rikai.com - A *superb* website kanji translation tool.
Live Radio and Television From Japan
The Foreigner Japan
Streaming Radio & TV Real time Japanese broadcasts
Embassies
Unites States 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, 03-3224-5000
British Embassy - 1 Ichibancho, Chiyoda-ku, 03-3265-5511
Canadian Embassy - 7-3-38 Akasaka, Minato-ku, 03-3408-2101
Australian Embassy - 2-1-14 Mita, Minato-ku, 03-5232-411
New Zealand Embassy - 20-40 Kamiyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, 03-3467-2271
French Embassy - 4-11-44 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, 03-5798-6000
German Embassy - 4-5-10, Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, 03-5791-7700
Brazilian Embassy - 2-11-12, Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, 03-3404-5211
Irish Embassy - 2-10-7, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 03-3263-0695
Philippine Embassy - 5-15-5, Roppongi, Minato-ku, 03-5562-1600
Indian Embassy - 2-2-11, Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda-ku, 03-3262-2391
Japanese government list of Embassies, Consulates and International Organizations
Other Good Sites
Vibe Tokyo - Meet Japanese Friends
Japanable
JLinks
2000 Live Radio Stations from the US Live net broadcasts
Shoutcast - over 50,000 radio stations live
Gaijin A Go-Go -- See your favorite Hollywood stars in Japanese TV ads!
The Japanese Page - Japanese learning site
Dave's ESL Cafe
Tokyo Pregnancy Group -- Info for expectant and new mothers
Photo Japan/Stock Photography
Tokyo Toilet Map
Other Useful Ex-pat Resources
www.thejapanfaq.com
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Conclusion
This Japan FAQ can by no means answer everything. But I have attempted to answer the most frequent and
basic questions. Japan is neither paradise nor hell, Tokyo neither Babylon nor Camelot. You can greatly enjoy
and experience Japan by coming here with an open mind and not "why they don't act more like me". Some
people will stare at you, and hearing how great you can use chopsticks and how great you can speak Japanese
(regardless of your true ability) will be a daily, if not hourly occurrence. If this FAQ has saved one person from a
difficult situation, then it has been worth the effort of making it.
One final question that is often asked is, "Is Japan for me?" There are good things and bad things about
everything and whatever you choose there is a series of trade offs; taking advantage of one thing means giving up
something else. There are many foreigners in Japan, some have been here for over 20 years and don't plan on
leaving anytime soon; and others for just a year and clearly it was a year too long for them (and just about
everyone else around them). It clearly takes some stamina, patience and an open mind to survive living in a very
dissimilar foreign country. Most will find Japan to be a very interesting and enjoyable place. Unfortunately of late
there have also been more than a few whiners who could win the lottery in Japan and still complain and moan
about everything Japanese from morning til night. This FAQ may tend to be read as a bit cynical and sobering,
but overall Japan is what you make it, and most people should find being in Japan a positive experience. If you
choose to come, enjoy your stay, and discover life in a very dissimilar foreign country. You will learn as much
about your own country as about Japan. BE ENLIGHTENED.
Thanks for visiting the site! Your comments are appreciated!
Feedback
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The Japan FAQ: Know Before You Go -- Online since the summer of 1996.
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This FAQ is provided as is without any express or implied warranties. While every effort has been
made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the authors/maintainers assume no
responsibility for any errors or omissions, or for any damages resulting from the use of the
information contained herein.
?Copyright 1996-2012, The Japan FAQ: Know Before You Go, All Rights Reserved. The contents on
this website, all photos and custom-made graphics are property of the author and may not be copied,
altered, or stored in a retreival system without express written permission.
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Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

The JAPAN WEB GUIDE's FAQ of Japan:

THE JAPAN FAQ: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

PREPARATION AND THE FLIGHT OVER

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

This is what you're going to feel like after 10 hours on a plane.....

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Bringing a Pet with You to Japan

"Do I need a tourist visa to go to Japan?"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

"How do I get a work visa?"

Registering With the Japanese Government

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

"Should I bring my TV/stereo/computer, etc.?"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

"How much can I take through customs?"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

APARTMENT, UTILITIES, AND PHONE

This sign is "Fudousan", or Real-Estate Agent

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Setting up your apartment -- Utilities

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

*For weekends and holidays, apply the evening rates.

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

bank account are accepted.

"I Want My Mommy!!"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

This sign is "Ginko", or Bank

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

- "How do I send money to someone??"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

- "Do I still need to file income tax forms if I am living abroad?"

- "What if I get sick in Japan?"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

This sign is "Yuubin Kyoku", or Post Office

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

DRIVER'S LICENSES, CARS AND TRANSPORT

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

to use a chain or horseshoe lock as well.

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

- "Can I ship over my own car?"

1) Shinjuku, Tokyo 2)Akihabara, Tokyo 3)A typical country rice field

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Help, Useful Info, Phone Numbers, and Moving Back

Important Phone Numbers

Tokyo and Kanto Area

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Tokyo Medical Info Service 03-5285-8181 (9-5PM)

Hokkaido and Tohoku Areas

Chubu and Kansai Areas

Chugoku and Kyushu Areas

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

Beware The Bait-And-Switch Travel Agent

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!

"Do you have any tips?"

Your Complete Guide To Life In Japan!