International Schools
Japan Driving Demerit Points: Traffic Violations & Penalties
Discover Trial Living in Rural Japan: A New Choice for Digital Nomads
Living and Working in Rural Japan: Realities, Communities, and Legal Tips for Digital Nomads
Which Visa is Right for My Business in Japan?
Coworking & Coliving with Unique Stays for Digital Nomads in Japan
3 Days in Nagoya, Japan: Exploring Culture, Festivals, Food, and Local Life
Fishing in Tokyo: Top Spots, Shops & Charters for Expats and Visitors
How to Survive Japanese Summer and Prevent Heatstroke
Why Hiring a Housekeeper in Japan Might Be the Best Decision for Your Mental Health
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
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…
Supporting Globally Mobile Families: How Online International Schools Ensure Academic Success
This article is contributed by Aoba Global Campus. Online international schooling offers a range of benefits for globally mobile families moving to or from Japan, providing continuity and stability i…
School Grade and Age Structures in Japan
In Japan, Elementary school starts at the age of 6, Junior High at the age of 12, and High School at the age of 15. In Japan compulsory education lasts from the 1st grade of Elementary school until the 3rd grade (grade 9) of Junior High school. Here is a comparison of the Age and Grade Structures between Japan and other countries.
Business in Japan
Learn about the business environment in Japan
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.…
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…
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
Paying Bills in Japan Conveniently: A Simple Guide
Paying bills is no one’s favorite thing to do, regardless of where you live. When it comes to paying though, the easier it is the less painful it will be. This is another area in which Japan stands ou…
How to borrow books from a public library in Japan - Tokyo
If you are reading this article, chances are you are interested in finding out how to borrow books from a public library in Japan and whether or not they have English books available. If you are a res…
Transform Your Home: How to Remove Floor Clutter for Ultimate Tranquility
In this article, we will explore the negative effects of floor clutter, highlight the benefits of maintaining a tidy home, and provide practical tips for reducing housekeeping-related stress, ultimately helping you achieve a more fulfilling and tranquil life.
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,…
