EXPAT INFO
Discover essential information for expats living in Japan. Our guide offers valuable tips on settling in, understanding local customs, navigating everyday life, handling official documents, and finding the best attractions. Whether you're new to Japan or looking to enhance your experience, we provide practical insights to help you thrive in your new home.
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Seating Protocol in Japan - Seating Arrangements
In Japan there is an unspoken rule about where to sit when you are in the company of your elders, co-workers, and customers etc. There are seats known as “Kamiza” and a ranking of seats for “Shimoza”. This is a unique part of Japanese and its purpose is to show respect and hospitality to superiors and customers by being considerate about where you sit.
Is ANATA (You) Rude in Japanese? What Words Can You Use Instead?
This article is contributed by ICI (International Communication Institute) Step Up Nihongo team. “How are you?” How simple to ask! The translation “Ogenki desu ka” is also easy, but where is the “you”…
What you should know about Consumption Tax in Japan
This article is contributed by YASUDA-Accounting. What is the Consumption Tax? The consumption tax is imposed on the transfer of assets, lending of assets, and provision of services by businesses in J…
Japanese warning system - J-ALERT
As Japan lies on the circum-Pacific volcanic belt, the occurrence of the large-scale earthquakes and possibly volcanic eruptions, are unavoidable. In addition, some neighboring countries frequently te…
International Money Transfers to Japan
This page contains affiliate links. While it is possible to make a traditional bank transfer from abroad to a Japanese bank account, there are a number of alternative services that are well worth expl…
International Money Transfers from Japan
This page contains affiliate links. When it comes to sending money overseas from Japan, you have several options. You can do it through a traditional bank transfer or via one of the alternative servic…
Free Legal Consultation in English for Foreign Residents in Japan
If you get into difficulty in Japan or have a legal situation, it will be difficult for foreigners who do not speak the language to resolve. In this article you can find list of consultation offices w…
English-Speaking Lawyers in Tokyo
Even if you speak Japanese, you may want to consult in English about personal issues or legal issues concerning your job. We have gathered law firms and organizations in Tokyo where you can consult wi…
How to Receive Unemployment Benefits in Japan
When you lose your job in Japan, whether the reason is for your personal reasons or for the company reasons, you can receive unemployment insurance if you meet the conditions. The basic allowance of e…
Japan Rent Relief Grants - Housing Security Benefits
The Japanese Government provides Rent Relief Grants - Housing Security Benefits (住居確保給付金 - Jûkyo Kakuho Kyûfukin) for a certain period of time for people who have trouble with paying rent due to the loss of job, closing of a business, or falling into a situation equivalent to these. This system's purpose is to help people who have lost or may lose their house.
Japanese Sake - How to Brew and its History
This article is contributed by Konishi Sake Brewery and covers the history of sake, brewing process, and the differences between various types of sake, such as ginjoshu, junmaishu, Honjozo, Genshu, Ko…
Things You Should Know about Status of Residence (Visa) in Japan
This article is contributed by Mori Niitsu Administrative Legal Visa Office. While living in Japan, I think there will be various changes in situations, such as changing jobs, getting married and havi…
Where can you charge your electric vehicle (EV)？ How can you charge it at home?
Sales of electric vehicles are increasing as public awareness for environmental issues is growing. The Japanese government has also set a goal of achieving by 2035 that 100% of new vehicle sold will b…
Japanese Trains Demystified: Taming Tokyo’s Complex Sytems
In many countries, public transport and the systems surrounding it fade into the background of daily life — or in some cases, are close to non-existent. However, Japanese public transportation, especi…
Japanese Voice Translator / Interpreter Apps
Recently, a variety of translation and interpretation apps have been developed. There are various types of recognition, including text, voice, multiple conversations, and images. We have gathered a se…
Saving Tax using Business Safety Mutual Relief System
This article is contributed by WINgs llc. Have you ever heard of the Business Safety Mutual Relief System? This is a type of Small Business Mutual Aid offered by SME(Organization for Small & Mediu…
Hiring Foreign Workers in Japan and How to Apply for Visa
This article provides information on how to hire a foreigner in Japan from abroad. If you currently live outside Japan and would like to work in Japan, your first step is to find an employer (sponsor)…
The Best Way to Learn Japanese: 7 Savvy Strategies
So you're living in Japan and the only Japanese you know involves food names like sushi and tempura or brand names of electronics or cars. Some other expats may jokingly reassure you that you can get…
How to Pay Utility Bills in Japan
Electricity, gas, and water are the basic utility services needed for everyday life. In Japan there are many convenient ways in which you can pay your utility bills. Here's some info on the rate structure and the payment methods available to those living in Japan.
By PLAZA HOMES
Driving on Japan’s Highways and Toll Roads
For those new to driving in Japan, using the highways and toll roads can be an exciting opportunity to see some of the best of the country’s destinations that public transportation doesn’t offer convenient access to. It can also be a daunting prospect if you aren’t used to the way Japanese roads work. This guide covers everything you need to know to have a fun and rewarding experience driving on Japan’s major roadways, including information and tips on everything highway related, including toll roads, road signs, accessing highways, and service stations.
By PLAZA HOMES
