International Schools
Storage Solutions: Simple Tips to Maximize Space in Small Japanese Apartments
10 Things Every Newcomer Should Know Before Moving to Japan
Japan Typhoon Season: How to Prepare for a Disaster
The Benefits of an IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Education for Families in Japan
How to Switch your Driver's License to a Japanese License
Seasonal Living Guide for Foreigners in Japan
10 Best Tokyo Flea Markets for Bargain-Hunting
Japan National Census 2025
Art, Music, Sports Classes for Children in Tokyo
Living in Japan: Expat Resources & Guides – Japan Living Guide
We offer detailed, easy-to-follow English guides that cover every aspect of living in Japan, specially tailored for expatriates. Whether you are just arriving or have been living here for a while, our resources provide essential information to help you navigate daily life, work, and leisure in Japan.
From understanding cultural differences to handling practical matters such as housing, visas, and healthcare, our guides are designed to make your life in Japan more manageable and enjoyable.
We also offer a wide range of English-language services to ensure you can navigate your life here without any language barriers. With everything you need to know in one place, our goal is to ensure a smooth transition and to help you settle into your new life with confidence.
Useful Information for foreign residents and families
International Schools
A guide to educational institutions across Japan
The Benefits of an IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Education for Families in Japan
This article is contributed by Aidan Leach, MYP Coordinator, Malvern College Tokyo For families living overseas in Japan, one of the most important decisions you will make concerns your child’s educat…
Why the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) Is the Best Choice for Children’s Education in Tokyo
This article is contributed by Malvern College Tokyo and authored by Head of Prep, Jason Bentley. My wife and I have lived and worked internationally for some twenty-five years. When our two children…
Homeschooling in Japan: A Better Alternative?
This article is contributed by Aoba Global Campus. Homeschooling throughout the world is on the rise and Japan is no exception. As a popular alternative to traditional schooling, homeschooling offers…
Business in Japan
Learn about the business environment in Japan
A Q&A Guide to Incorporating a Business in Japan: Everything You Need to Know
This article is contributed by Kreston Proworks, who has incorporated over 1000 companies in Japan. As of 2025, Japan holds the position of the fourth-largest economy in the world. For the foreseeable…
Which Visa is Right for My Business in Japan?
This article is contributed by Kreston Proworks, who has incorporated over 1000 companies in Japan. Japan continues to draw global attention as a destination not just for tourism, but for relocation.…
Digital Marketing Empowers Foreign Businesses in Japan
This article is contributed by GV-Digital Marketing Agency Tokyo. Running a business in Japan as a foreign entrepreneur can be exciting and challenging. As the world’s third-largest economy, Japan pre…
Japanese culture
Explore various aspects of Japanese culture
A Complete History of Tokyo: Edo Period, Meiji Era, and Beyond
Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world with a population of about 14 million people. Tokyo was once called Edo, and in the late 12th century, the Edo clan created the village of Edo (the Edo…
A Guide to Getting Married in Japan
While holding a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony at a Shinto shrine or exchanging marriage vows in a chapel in a western style may be popular, no religious ceremony can be a substitute for offici…
Restaurant Etiquette in Japan: How to Avoid Serious Mistakes
From grilled chicken skewers consumed standing in a smoky bar to the finest haute cuisine served course by course by a server clad in a traditional kimono, Japan offers an extensive range of food and…
Communication
Essential info on apps, internet, mobile phones, and postal services in Japan
Mail Forwarding in Japan: Domestic and International Options
Whether you are moving to Japan, leaving Japan, or taking an extended vacation, you still need to make sure that you will have access to your mail. There are many considerations for expats living in J…
Buying a SIM Card in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. If you plan to move to or visit Japan, or if you are already a resident of Japan, mobile phones with local SIM cards are a must-have. They are necessary in both you…
Redeliveries in Japan: Japan Post, Kuroneko, Sagawa & Amazon
There are many Japanese delivery services available, ranging from the well-known “black cat” Kuroneko service to specialized refrigerated delivery for perishable items. When a driver delivers a packag…
Everyday tips
Useful daily life information for expats
Laundry Symbols and Dry Cleaning Services in Japan
Most rental apartments (especially higher-end luxury condos) in Japan feature a washing machine however, dryers are not quite common in Japan. Many dry cleaners, fortunately, offer a comprehensive ran…
Japanese Dry Cleaning and English-Speaking Dry Cleaning Services in Tokyo
One of the biggest challenges many Westerners in Tokyo face is the difference in living footprint. Space is the most expensive commodity in Tokyo, and engineers are always looking for ways to maximize…
10 Most Convenient Daily Life Services in Japan for Expats
Living in Japan, it’s easy to notice how many everyday services are “just too convenient.” For foreigners, Japan’s lifestyle services are not only efficient but also impressively thoughtful. From shop…
What's On & Upcoming Events in Japan
A schedule listing upcoming events, including fun activities, exhibitions, festivals, and happenings.
MYSTERY OF TUTANKHAMUN: An Immersive Ancient Egypt Exhibition
Jan 1 - Dec 25, 2025
An immersive exhibition delving into the mysteries of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun. Visi…
Special Exhibition Featuring Creatures of the Night and Darkness
Mar 14 - Nov 24, 2025
This special exhibition focuses on animals that are active in the middle of the night or in complete…
Tokyo Tower Highball Garden 2025
Mar 18 - Oct 13, 2025
Enjoy top-quality highballs and delicious food that pairs perfectly with them at this gourmet event…
Family & Kids
Daycare and family-friendly spots in Japan
Worry-Free Even at Night? 24-Hour Babysitter Services for Foreign Families Living in Japan
The following article is contributed by Celestsitter. Parenting Challenges Don’t Just Happen During the Day In Japan, more and more foreign families are raising small children today. Many parents may…
Fun Places for Children in Tokyo - Farms, Legoland, Book Stores, Animal Cafes
Farms Kawatsura Strawberry Farm (Chiba) Kawatsura Strawberry Farm in Chiba prefecture offers visitors the chance to pick and eat strawberries straight off the vine from mid-December to early May. The…
Japanese Daycares, Preschools & Kindergartens—How Do They Work?
Getting accustomed to new systems and ways of doing things can be a trying and ongoing process for many foreign residents in Japan. It is especially true for families or couples planning to have child…
Area Guides
Expats in Japan: English services by region
Tokyo
This guide to living in Tokyo for expats highlights the best districts, including Minato, Shibuya, and Shinagawa, and offers insights on Tokyo’s top tourist attractions and world-class transportation…
Osaka
Osaka Prefecture is located in the Kinki (Kansai) region in Honshu. While it is the second smallest prefecture in Japan, it has a lot to offer to its residents and visitors, including delicious food,…
Fukuoka
Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, offers an ideal mix of urban convenience, coastal charm, and rich culture. Known for its livability, delicious food, efficient transport, and scenic spots like Hakata,…
