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.
- Apartments for Rent in Tokyo
- Start your life in Tokyo now! Discover your dream living space with PLAZA HOMES' selection of rental apartments and houses.
Click here to begin your jorney towards an ideal lifestyle!
Essential Japanese Phrases and Cultural Tips for Dining in Japan
This article is contributed by Wakoku. The culinary journey through Japan extends far beyond just savoring the exquisite flavors of sushi, ramen, or tempura. It's an immersive cultural experience wher…
Japanese Apartment Etiquette: Essential Rules for Expats
Adjusting to life in a Japanese apartment? Mastering local etiquette is key to a hassle-free experience! Understanding these essential rules will help you settle in smoothly and avoid cultural misunde…
Japanese Honorifics and Their Meanings Explained
Every language has different ways of showing respect and denoting one’s place in society. Japanese is no different with the use of honorifics being a key indicator of respect, authority, and interpers…
Japanese Language Exchange: Find a Partner to Talk With
There is nothing more immersive in learning Japanese than living in Japan, but even then, it can be hard to find opportunities in everyday life. This is where a good language exchange program can help…
Essential Japanese Phrases and Etiquette for Shopping in Japan
This article is contributed by Wakoku. Navigating shops in Japan can be both exciting and intimidating for international visitors. The unique combination of language barriers and distinct cultural pra…
10 Best Tokyo Flea Markets for Bargain-Hunting
There are many different ways to experience the culture of a foreign place, but nothing gives quite the same insight into local pop culture. >> What is Mottainai? The Japanese Meanings and Expre…
How to Start a Business in Japan
For those who already have an established company abroad and would like to expand their business to Japan, there are 3 types of operations you can choose from to incorporate your business. You can eit…
Animal Cafes in Tokyo - Cats, Dogs, Owls, and Other Animals
Animal cafes are popular in Japan, and Tokyo offers a myriad of options ranging from well-known cat cafes to the places with more exotic animals. People visit such cafes for a variety of reasons, incl…
Animal Shelters and Nonprofit Organizations around Tokyo
Many people wishing to own pets may prefer not to purchase or adopt them from pet stores due to controversy surrounding their operation. There are many dogs and cats that have been rescued in Japan. M…
IC Cards in Japan: Traveling with Suica, PASMO, ICOCA and More
The use of IC cards for public transportation in Japan has become the norm. While paper tickets are still available, they have been largely phased out in favor of more convenient options. However, it…
English-Speaking Accounting & Consulting Firms in Tokyo
Whether you are filing individual tax returns or hoping to establish a new business, financial issues can be complicated. These difficulties will no doubt be compounded upon moving to a country like J…
Cost of Living in Japan
Are you wondering the monthly living cost in Japan? As prices have been rising significantly in many countries, the situation in Japan is equivalent. In this article, you will find the Consumer Price…
Hanko/Inkan: A Guide to the World of Japanese Signature Seals
This page contains affiliate links. If you're a foreigner planning to live in Japan, you'll likely need to set up a bank account, apply for a phone, and sign up for public utilities. During these proc…
Cultural Immersion: How Learning Japanese Enhances the Expat Experience in Japan
The following article is contributed by BiCortex Languages. Living as a foreigner in Japan can be an exhilarating experience. However, adapting to a new culture, especially one as unique and intricate…
Setsubun: Welcoming Spring with Ogres, Beans, and Sushi
This page contains affiliate links. Famous for bean-throwing antics and parents dressed in ogre costumes to scare children, Setsubun is celebrated in Japan on February 2 or 3 (depending on the year) t…
Japanese Kotatsu: Staying Warm in Winter
This page contains affiliate links. Kotatsu, while largely unknown outside of Japan, has long been part of Japanese culture, keeping people warm during cold winters. With the exception of Hokkaido, ho…
Japanese Punctuality in the Workplace
There are many differing opinions on the importance of punctuality and what time frame is considered 'on time.' In Japan, this is very important and can be the key to making a good impression, being a…
Understanding the different uses of ‟Sumimasen (Sorry)" in Japanese culture
This page contains affiliate links. The following article is contributed by Tokyo Central Japanese Language School. Hello, my name is Yuki, a Japanese language teacher. Japanese people always say "Su…
Best Japanese Learning Apps - from beginners to advanced levels
Whether you are studying at home or newly arrived in the country, the Japanese language can seem impossible to those just starting to learn it. That said, there's one simple way to survive no matter h…
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…
