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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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…
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
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 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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
