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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Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. If karate is the most well-known of Japan's empty-handed martial arts, judo comes in second. Whereas karate stresses punches, judo, which is Japanese for "gentle ma…
Aikido Dojos in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. Aikido is a style of Japanese martial arts that is relatively new. Aikido focuses on defending its practitioners without injuring their attackers. Aikido does not h…
Japanese Calligraphy (Shodo) classes in Tokyo
This page contains affiliate links. Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy, is a traditional art with much history behind it. Shodo's roots are in ancient China where kanji, one of the major forms of Japanese…
Learning Ikebana: English-Speaking Ikebana Classes in Tokyo
There are several Ikebana schools / classes in Tokyo where you can learn it in English. If you would like to know what Ikebana is, please read Exploring Ikebana, The Art of Japanese Flower Arranging.I…
Art, Music, Culture, Dance Classes in English in Tokyo
There are many classes and lessons in Tokyo available in English. These classes offer a great opportunity to experience new aspects of Japanese culture, new artistic fields, or new musical instruments…
Experience the Beauty of Sado, the Japanese Tea Ceremony
In a peaceful moment, imagine the design of an elegant kimono, the asymmetrical beauty of a flower arrangement nearby, the contrast of light green tea. Such are the scenes of Sado, the art of the Japa…
Join a Japanese Pottery Class in Tokyo
Japanese Pottery (Tougei) is popular throughout the world. Arita-yaki, Kutani-yaki, Mashiko-yaki, are just three types of Japanese ceramics. Arita yaki is made in and around the town of Arita in Saga…
Affordable or Even Free Japanese Language Classes in Tokyo
When learning a new language, especially a difficult one like Japanese, it may often seem that it will require a substantial financial investment on your part. However, if you already live in Tokyo, t…
Exploring Ikebana: The Art of Japanese Flower Arranging
Ikebana is the traditional art of Japanese flower arranging, but don’t mistake it for a version of Western-style floral arrangements – there’s a lot more to ikebana than initially meets the eye. With…
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…
How to Get from Narita Airport to Tokyo
Narita International Airport, located in Chiba, is a major gateway to Japan. Though farther from Tokyo than Haneda, improved trains and roads make access easier. Discover the best, and most comfortable ways to reach Tokyo from Narita.
By PLAZA HOMES
How to Get from Haneda Airport to Tokyo
Haneda Airport, Tokyo’s nearest airport, handles most domestic and many international flights. Though sometimes pricier, it’s popular for its convenience. With smart planning, your trip stays smooth. Discover the best, cheapest, and most comfortable ways into Tokyo.
By PLAZA HOMES
English-Speaking Drivers & Chauffeur Services in Tokyo
While Tokyo's public transportation is convenient and inexpensive, there are times when you need some personal space and time to relax before arriving at your destination. Hiring a chauffeur is one wa…
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…
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…
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…
Japan's National Pension System
While Japan offers many protections for working residents, often times the rules are confusing and circular; and with much of the paperwork in complex Japanese, it can be difficult for expats to under…
How to Donate and Sell Used Clothing and Furniture in Japan
Whether learning a new language, doing your best to follow the local culture, or just trying to get from point A to point B, living in Japan never ceases to keep expats on their toes. But what to do w…
How to Open a Bank Account in Japan
It is necessary for foreign residents in Japan to open a bank account in order to receive their income, make everyday purchases, and pay utility bills. In this article, we introduce the types of banks…
Electronic Money (E-Money) in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. While Japan is generally seen as a cash-based society, the Japanese government has set a goal of boosting cashless payment usage to 40% by 2025. Cashless payment us…
