@Trang Ho-Ang

Now that you have been living in Tokyo for some time, aren't you thinking of becoming a homeowner? Are you wondering whether foreigners can buy a house or an apartment in Japan? How to get a loan? Are all visa holders eligible? Read on to find out everything you need to know about buying property in Tokyo. 

If you're moving to Tokyo, you might be wondering where to stay. Capsule hotels and other one-day deals may be enough for a short stay. However, if you want to live in Tokyo, you will have to find permanent accommodation. Where to look? Life in Japan is notoriously expensive, and the cost of living in Tokyo is known to be even higher. Where are the most affordable places to live? Here is a practical guide to finding an apartment in the Japanese capital.

Although Japan is one of the safest countries to travel and live in, the country is located on the Ring of Fire, so there are many natural disasters, not to mention other accidents you might encounter in everyday life. If you plan to relocate to Japan, preparing yourself for any unexpected issues in your daily life is crucial. You'll find helpful information regarding accidents and emergencies in Japan in this article. 

Traveling to Japan used to be impossible during the pandemic since the country blocked entry for all non-residents starting in December 2020. Although this restriction was eased gradually for students and workers in the years after, travelers and tourists still found it hard to enter the country. From April 29, 2023, since Japan lifted all border measures implemented to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the number of foreign visitors for business and leisure has significantly increased. 

Saying sorry, thank you, addressing a stranger, your boss, or your family, talking, getting around – all these natural things lose some of their natural automatisms when you go abroad, unfortunately. You will need to ensure that you're up to date, especially if you are traveling to a country with a culture that is totally different from yours. How to adapt to the local culture in Tokyo? Here is a guide to the best practices. Of course, we are focusing on Tokyo, but these tips are applicable everywhere in Japan. Read also Discovering Tokyo

You will discover the different facets of the Japanese capital by visiting the very touristy districts of Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Harajuku, up to the more remote areas of Fussa or Ome. In fact, the Tokyo Metropolitan Prefecture gave its name to the capital of the Land of the Rising Sun. Here is a practical guide for future expatriates in Tokyo.

Well, there is no need to panic. Dating places in Japan are the same as in other countries. They include friendship circles, sports clubs, leisure clubs, and professional networks, amongst many other options. Even cities are playing Cupid's game and reviving the love letter trend. Dating applications have shown their limits. Those who aspire to romance are looking for more integrity and authenticity. If you are, too, why not give it a try?

So, you have decided to move abroad with your family, but how can you get ready for this new adventure? How can you ensure your children are well-prepared and involved in the process? Check out these essential step-by-step guidelines to assist you in settling into your new life in Japan.

You're ready to move to Japan and want your pet to accompany you on your new adventure, but what steps do you need to take to ensure that the trip goes smoothly for both of you? The MAFF (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) and IATA (International Air Transport Association) have valuable information on the procedure to follow, but you know, people keep all kinds of pets. This article will mention procedures to import the most common ones – dogs and cats. 

So, you will move to Japan soon and wonder how to transition smoothly to the Land of the Rising Sun. There are lots of things that must be done, from the paperwork to stuff to bring along, etc. Indeed, relocating to Japan can be exciting but also challenging. No matter whether you come to Japan for work, study, or adventure, in this article, you'll find essential tips and insights to help your relocation go smoothly.

In recent years, the Japanese government has implemented various measures to achieve a more diverse and inclusive society that values the contributions of individuals from different backgrounds, genders, abilities, and cultures. If you want to relocate to Japan and care for diversity, equality, and inclusion in this country, this article provides you with valuable insights.

When thinking of transportation in Japan, the first things that come to our mind are punctuality, efficiency, modernity, cleanliness, and ease of access. Could the perfect transportation system be found in the Land of the Rising Sun? Here is an overview of the different means of transportation available in Japan.

Did you practice a sport before moving to Japan, whether for leisure, passion, or even professionally? Are you looking to pick up your training or discover other sports? Before putting on your sneakers and challenging the stopwatch, take a break to discover the popular sports in Japan.

What can you do during your free time in Japan? Let's not talk about tourist attractions here but about everyday leisure activities that Japanese people usually do after a good week of work, after school, or on the weekend. Of course, we recall that each person is unique. The list below suggests some popular activities in Japan. You will indeed find others that will fit your interests and desires.

The Internet is essential. Whether you use it to keep in touch with loved ones, work, get information about restaurants, hotels, and accommodations, book a table in a restaurant or a place in a movie theater, find your way in the street, or simply chat on your favorite online platform, you will always need a good Internet connection. So, what does Japan have to offer? Here's a practical guide.

It is no exaggeration to claim that our lives now could not run smoothly without mobile phones. We need them to stay connected and informed, to work, to relax, and more. So, if you plan to move to Japan, it's essential to understand how to use mobile phones in this country since it might be very different from what you know in your own country. This guide covers some helpful information you will need to make wise decisions, such as leading mobile carriers, Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), different plan options, network availability, how and where to purchase SIM cards, as well as phone etiquette in the Land of the Rising Sun.

If you live in Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya, owning a car might be unnecessary because of the excellent public transportation systems of these large metropolitan areas. However, if you live in countryside areas where public transportation is less convenient or infrequent, having a car becomes essential for getting around. Suppose you want to rent a car for road trips in Japan, or your job involves controlling motor vehicles, and you need to learn more about the traffic regulations in Japan. Look no further! Here's a practical guide to driving in Japan safely.

Have you always dreamed of studying in the Land of the Rising Sun? Japan is attracting more and more international students. Although the Covid pandemic has affected visa issuance significantly, the recovery is there. Since March 2022, international students have again been allowed to study in Japan. Here is a guide on how to apply, admission procedures, available courses, and how to get a scholarship. Since March 2022, when restrictions were relaxed, the number of new international students in non-regular courses at universities, junior colleges, graduate schools, and Japanese language educational institutions has increased again.  According to a survey conducted by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), the number of international students enrolled in Japan as of May 1, 2022, is 231,146. This includes students who had completed the necessary admissi

Japan's labor market has gradually recovered after the pandemic. In 2023, the wage increase rate surpassed expectations. In addition, Japan's unemployment rate dropped from 2.8 percent in 2020 to around 2.5 percent in November 2023, according to the Japanese Ministry of the Interior. In appearance, the country is in total employment. Behind these promising figures, however, lies a more problematic reality. The wage increase was mainly driven by soaring prices rather than improvements in the labor market. 

How about trying the Japanese adventure in Hokkaido? Far from Tokyo's effervescence, Japan's second largest island is the country's breadbasket. It is also a dynamic region that is massively investing in biotechnology to meet current and future challenges. What is the best way to find a job in Hokkaido? How do you integrate to enjoy your stay in Japan fully?

It is called "the prefecture of monozukiri" ("monozukuri" means "manufacturing"). In Tochigi, industry is at the forefront. Large international companies have set up their headquarters in the prefecture, especially in Utsunomiya, its capital. Are you looking to work in Japan? Would you like to discover Tochigi Prefecture? Let's go to a territory where the Tokugawa's imprint remains. Rich in its history, the prefecture maintains its heritage, develops responsible tourism, and innovates. 

Located in the North-east of the Chubu region on the island of Honshu, Fukui Prefecture, Fukui-ken, where ken means "prefecture" or "county" in Japanese, gave its name to its capital, Fukui-shi, with shi meaning "city" in Japanese. Fukui borders Kyoto Prefecture to the Southwest and Gifu Prefecture to the Southeast. Its northern shores meet the Sea of Japan. What are the other characteristics of Fukui? Let's discover the prefecture.

In the central Eastern part of Honshu Island lies Kansai's prefecture, Hyogo. It is home to the famous Himeji castle, and Kobe is the prefecture's capital. The latter is an internationally renowned region for its gastronomy and port area, Kobe Harborland. Hyogo is bordered by the Tottori Prefecture in the Northwest, Okayama in the Southwest, Kyoto in the East, and Osaka in the Southeast.  

Are you or your partner expecting a baby during your stay in Japan? Congratulations! Well, now you need to know how to choose a maternity hospital, take care of your baby, get medical examinations, follow up on your pregnancy, prepare for the birth, and nurture the father's role, etc. What should you know about pregnancy and giving birth in Japan? Here's our practical guide to welcoming your baby with peace of mind.

The Japanese healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency and modernity. It counts for numerous doctors and various specialties, especially in the big cities. Japanese public medical health insurance is available to all residents of Japan, whether they work or not. If you are planning to move to Japan or are already living there, you should know how to deal with the healthcare system in Japan.

If you are an expat in Japan, you may be wondering whether you are a resident or not and whether you need to pay income tax or not. You may have started a business and are unsure about its status, the amount of tax to pay, or how to file a tax return. What are the main principles of the Japanese tax system? What are the taxable incomes? How to ensure the proper management of your assets? Here is an overview of the Japanese tax system to answer your questions.

Welcome to the Land of the Rising Sun. Now that you have completed all your administrative paperwork, you can relax for a few days and go out to discover your new environment. Once back home, back to your daily routine and its formalities, you are now wondering how to open a bank account in your new host country. Check out the following practical guide. It will help you understand all the processes and formalities you will need to go through to serenely open your bank account in Japan.

The Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe metropolitan area is known worldwide as a tourist hotspot. It is known as "Keihanshin".  It is also a dynamic and innovative student destination. How to go and study there? What are the requirements to obtain a student visa in Japan? Here is our practical guide to studying in Kyoto, Osaka, or Kobe.

Osaka is the third most populated city in Japan and is only 2.5 hours from the capital Tokyo by Shinkansen high-speed train. People often say that time passes differently in Osaka, maybe because of the city's laid-back atmosphere or because of its contrasting neighborhoods; but where to stay in Osaka? What types of accommodation are available there?

Looking to live in the ancient capital of Japan? Kyoto is an emblematic city known all over the world. It is also a prefecture that preserves some of its localities from tourist invasion. In fact, there is a difference between Kyoto for tourists and Kyoto for residents. The Japanese are the first to be surprised. Is it cool to live in the former imperial capital? What about other areas of the prefecture? Here is a practical guide on how to find a place to live in Kyoto.

There are many misconceptions about finding accommodation in Japan that might scare expats. It might seem complicated, with expensive and rare accommodation, the obligation to have a guarantor, unforeseen fees by the contract, etc. However, the reality is not so dark. Here are some tips for planning your move to Japan and securing accommodation.

Are you dreaming of doing an internship in the Land of the Rising Sun but don't know how to go about it? You may have heard that internship offers in Japan are rare, and you would like advice on preparing to move to Japan.

Are you considering relocating or starting a new business in Japan? You may wonder if setting up a business in Japan takes much time and effort. How can you comply with all the conditions and procedures? How can you smoothly open your business in the Land of the Rising Sun? Don't worry! Here is a practical guide to starting your business in Japan.

It is known as "the city of trees". Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, is also the most populated city in the region. It gets its nickname from its main street, lined on both sides with large trees. In its plan for 2030, Sendai aims to make more room for nature for a green and respectful ecosystem. The city also promotes multiculturalism through intercultural exchange programs. Dynamic, the city attracts many companies for a lower cost of living than in Tokyo. Why not work in Sendai? Here's a practical guide to settling down and finding your dream job.

Chiba is sometimes mistaken as an extension of Tokyo. It is part of the Greater Tokyo area, contributing to this confusion, but Chiba is the capital of its eponymous prefecture and is an economic pillar of Japan. Which sectors are the most attractive there? How to find a job in Chiba?

Tokyo's quieter neighboring city has everything to offer. Saitama, north of Japan's capital, is an attractive, dynamic region with a strong forward-looking focus. So, if you want to work in Saitama, follow the guide.

Hiroshima is a miniature barometer of Japan. Be it the population distribution or economic situation, the socioeconomic indicators of Hiroshima prefecture often reflect those of the entire country, hence this notion of a barometer. This got many companies to experiment with their activity there first before going nationwide while taking advantage of the idyllic geographical location of the prefecture and its capital, Hiroshima. But how does one find a job in Hiroshima? Which sectors are recruiting? 

Fukuoka is the capital of its eponymous prefecture, located on the island of Kyushu in southwest Japan, and is the largest city in the region. Its location near the Asian mainland makes it a major port city. It is a dynamic city that is becoming increasingly popular among foreigners. How to find a job in Fukuoka? What are the most promising economic sectors?

Are you considering settling down in Japan? This country is a unique blend of tradition and innovation where you can have diverse experiences, from old-world charm to cutting-edge technology. Moving to Japan undoubtedly presents a thrilling opportunity for the adventure of a lifetime, yet you will face challenges in understanding the Japanese way of life.

Despite global challenges, Shizuoka, known for its agriculture, fish farming, and industries, has remained remarkably stable. This city is now becoming a hub for economic giants, embracing its international character and introducing various initiatives to attract young professionals. If you are interested in finding a job in Shizuoka, look at our informative guide and explore the hidden energy of Shizuoka, a tranquil city in Japan that surpasses all expectations. 

Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan after the capital, Tokyo. It is also the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture, has a population of more than 3.6 million, and takes advantage of its geographical position. Located less than one hour by train/subway from Tokyo, Yokohama attracts more and more tourists and expatriates every year, among which are many foreigners who choose to live in Yokohama rather than in the Tokyo megalopolis. How do you find a job in this port city? What are the main economic pillars there? Here is a practical guide.

Do you dream of working in Japan? Why not opt for Osaka? The country's third-largest city is known for its dynamism and relaxed lifestyle. An excellent alternative to sprawling Tokyo, Osaka is ideally located in the center of Japan, less than 3 hours away from the capital, and closer to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. Here is a practical guide to optimize your search and find the job of your dreams.

Do you dream of working in Kyoto? The ancient capital of Japan is indeed a fascinating place that attracts millions of tourists every year. While COVID abruptly halted the flow of tourists, it has gradually picked up again since the official reopening of the borders. However, visiting Kyoto during vacations and working there are two different things. How do you find a job in Kyoto? How easy is it for foreigners? How open is the local labor market? Let's look at how to get a job in Japan's ancient imperial city.

Thanks to its unique culture and developed economy, Japan has always been a dream destination for many of us. However, it might take time and a lot of effort for foreigners to find a job in Japan, especially in the current economic crisis. Luckily, it is far from impossible if you are well-prepared. In this article, you will find helpful tips to help you plan your move to Japan.

Japan has something to appeal to almost every type of traveler. Are you dying to explore Japanese history and culture, taste Japanese cuisine, or ride the lightning-fast Shinkansen trains? With the Working Holiday Visa (WHV) program in Japan, you can enjoy the adventure around every corner, taking your time and having a part-time job to help finance your trip.

Working in Japan is a dream for many. Yet it is believed that finding a job in Japan and getting a work visa in the Land of the Rising Sun is quite challenging. The application process can be long and tedious, especially since the pandemic because the country closed its borders to fight the health crisis. Since 2022, Japan has gradually started to reopen. In addition, addressing its severe labor shortage in a competitive world after the pandemic, Japan has also unveiled new immigration pathways and changes in visa application procedures. 

Before even considering moving to Japan, a quick tour of the customs regulations and procedures is necessary. What products are allowed in the passenger compartment and the hold, and in what quantities? Can you bring fruit, meat or alcohol? Here is the essential information you need to know about customs in Japan to avoid unpleasant surprises upon your arrival.

If you plan to get married in Japan, it is essential to register your marriage according to Japanese law for it to be legally binding. In Japan, ceremonies conducted by religious or fraternal organizations are not recognized as legal marriages. Whether you prefer a Western-style wedding or a traditional Shinto-style ceremony, gathering and filing the required paperwork is crucial. This process can be confusing, especially if you are still figuring out where to start. Here are essential things you should know about getting married in Japan as an expat.

Ideally located between Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Tottori, Osaka, and Kyoto, Okayama is a hot business spot. It is an excellent opportunity for locals and foreigners who wish to work there. What are the key sectors of the city and the prefecture? How to look for a job? Here is a practical guide dedicated to living and working in Okayama.

The Nagoya region is one of Japan's three economic pillars. Home to Toyota, it is also a leader in the aviation sector and machine tool industry. The area has been looking beyond its borders for further expansion. The "Greater Nagoya Initiative" organization underscores its desire to accelerate exchanges with international companies and thus attract global talent. This is a significant boon for foreigners who dream of working in Nagoya.