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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Average Public Utility Prices in Japan – Electricity, Gas, and Water Costs
Public utilities such as electricity, gas, and water supply are basic necessities for everyday life. Here, we explain the rate structure, payment methods, and approximate average monthly costs by hous…
Fireworks (Hanabi) Festival in Tokyo 2025
Experience the magic of summer in Japan with some of the most beautiful fireworks festivals in Tokyo. Every year, large-scale hanabi (fireworks) events light up the night sky across Japan—and Tokyo is home to some of the biggest and most popular shows. Here’s a list of the major fireworks festivals scheduled in the Tokyo area for 2025.
By PLAZA HOMES
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…
Traffic Rules in Japan
Even though Japan has an excellent public transportation system, having a car can still be useful—especially on weekends when you're heading out of town, going somewhere that’s not easily accessible b…
Driving in Japan for Foreigners: License Rules & the 3-Month Rule
Many foreign travelers and residents are interested in driving in Japan. To drive legally, it is essential to understand the use of International Driving Permits (IDPs), foreign driver’s licenses, as…
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…
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…
What is Kyudo? An Easy Guide to Japanese Archery History and Basics
Kyudo is a traditional Japanese martial art focused on discipline, spirituality, and self-improvement through archery. This article explores the rich history, cultural significance, and unique practic…
Essential Apps for Visiting and Living in Japan
Taking a trip to or within Japan any time soon? Are you looking for an app or two to help with navigating around Japan, assisting with language barriers, identifying touristy ideas, or just making lif…
Japanese Mobile Phones: Plans, Coverage, and Services
This page contains affiliate links. From the iPhone to the latest Android devices, Japanese mobile phones are outfitted with the latest technology with designs to suit every taste; whether you want to…
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…
Disaster Preparedness: Emergency Bags in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. Being ready in case of an emergency evacuation In the event of an emergency evacuation in Japan due to an earthquake, fire, tsunami, or lifeline interruption, it is…
Disaster Preparedness: Stockpiling and Emergency Food in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. Major disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes and torrential rains can happen at any time. When a disaster strikes, lifelines such as electricity, gas and water may…
Internet in Japan: Finding English-Speaking Providers in Japan
This page contains affiliate links. After arriving in Japan, it is unlikely that you will be able to settle down without internet. There are several options for connecting to the internet in Japan. Wh…
Japan Courier Services Combine Convenience, Efficiency and Innovation
Courier services in Japan are second to none, both for efficiency and innovation—ever thought of easily and quickly getting your luggage delivered from the airport or your skis to your resort? In Japa…
Expat Communities in Hokkaido
There are various members' clubs and groups in Japan where foreigners can connect and engage with one another. Many actively participate in these communities to make new friends, exchange valuable inf…
What Is an Imabari Towel in Japan – And Why Is It So Special?
This page contains affiliate links. The following article is contributed by Japarcana. If you’ve ever used a truly great towel, you probably know the difference it makes. Most of the time, you don’t r…
Childbirth in Tokyo: Maternity Hospitals and Clinics for Expats
If you are an expectant mother living in Tokyo, it is comforting to know that there are quality, English-speaking hospitals and clinics available that are capable of both providing care for you and yo…
English-Friendly Hospital Support Services in Japan
In Japan, most hospitals operate almost exclusively in Japanese, which can make the whole process even more difficult for those who are not fluent in the language. While going to the hospital is a nec…
Japan Medical Tourism / What is the "Visa for Medical Stay"?
Medical tourism in Japan refers to the practice of traveling to Japan for medical treatment or to undergo medical procedures. Because of its advanced healthcare infrastructure, highly skilled medical…
