Guide for expatriates Tokyo

Transcription

Guide for expatriates
Tokyo
Update: 20/03/2008 © EasyExpat.com
Tokyo, Japan
Table of Contents
Finding Accommodation,
25
5
Rent house or flat
25
City View
6
Buy house or flat
26
Neighbourhood
7
Hotels and Bed and Breakfast
27
Street View
8
Work
29
Overview
9
Social Security Number
30
Geography
10
Work Usage
30
History
10
Pension
30
Politics
11
Benefits package
31
Economy
12
Tax system
31
Find a Job
13
Unemployment Benefits
32
Volunteer abroad, Gap year
14
Moving in
33
Summer, seasonal and short
14
Mail, Post office
34
Gas, Electricity, Water
34
About us
4
Map
5
Region
term jobs
Flatsharing, Hostels
Internship abroad
15
Telephone
34
Au Pair
15
TV & Internet
35
Adverts and Recruitment
16
Education
36
Departure
19
Schooling system
37
Before you leave
20
International Schools
37
Customs
20
Courses for Adults and
38
Passport, Visa & Permits
21
International Removal
22
Language courses
39
Health
40
General Practitioner, Doctor,
41
Companies
Accommodation
2 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
24
Evening Class
Physician
Tokyo, Japan
Medicines, Hospitals
41
International healthcare,
42
Practical Life
43
Bank services
44
Shopping
44
Mobile Phone
45
Transport
45
Childcare, Babysitting
47
Entertainment
49
Pubs, Cafes and Restaurants
50
Cinema, Nightclubs
51
Theatre, Opera, Museum
52
Sport and Activities
53
Public Services
54
Consulate
55
Emergency
57
Return
59
Before going back
60
Credit & References
61
medical insurance
Guide for expats in Tokyo - 3
Tokyo, Japan
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Tokyo, Japan
Map: Region
Tokyo, Japan
Map: City View
Tokyo, Japan
Map: Neighbourhood
Tokyo, Japan
Map: Street View
Tokyo, Japan
Overview
1.
2.
3.
4.
Geography
History
Politics
Economy
Tokyo, Japan
Geography
Tokyo
The sprawling city of Tokyo, officially designated by the Japanese government as a “Metropolis”, is
situated in the southern Kanto region, roughly in the centre of the Japanese archipelago. Chiba
Prefecture (a prefecture being more or less the equivalent of a county) and the Edogawa River lie to
the east of the city, mountains and the prefecture of Yamanashi to the west, the Tamagawa River
and Kanagawa Prefecture to the south, and to the north the prefecture of Saitama. The Greater
Tokyo area is the largest metropolitan area in the world with a population of over 33 million, about
a quarter of Japan's total population. In June each year cold air from the north meets warm air from the south creating a rainy season or
tsuyu, which literally means "plum rain" because it coincides with the season when the plums ripen.
Although the rainy weather is not that inviting it can be a good time to visit Japan because there
are less tourists, and some of Japan’s most typical outdoor attractions, such as temples, gardens
and hot springs (onsen), are particularly appealing when seen in the rain. As with most industrialised cities, the growth of businesses and administrative offices in Tokyo over
recent years has had an impact on the environment with the disappearance of many green spaces.
The population density in central Tokyo is over 13,000 inhabitants per square kilometre. The threat
of earthquakes, and particularly the devastating fires that often follow them, is a constant worry,
although modern Japanese buildings are built to withstand all but the most violent quakes. History
Archaeological evidence found in the region of what is now Tokyo has revealed that the area was
inhabited by tribes during the Stone Age. The present city was founded in the twelfth century and
bore the name Edo, meaning estuary. In 1457 a castle was completed at Edo, which passed to
Ieyasu Tokugawa,founder of the Tokugawa line of shoguns in 1590. After Tokugawa assumed the
title of shogun in 1603, Edo became the capital of the shogunate, although the imperial capital
remained Kyoto. During this period city life was dominated by the shogun's palace, the residences
of the feudal barons (or daimyos), merchants and samurais. Japan was practically closed to foreign
influence for the next two-hundred and fifty years. The city of Edo thrived during the seventeenth
and eighteenth centuries, but the power struggle between shogun and emperor finally diminished
the power of the shogunate and the city's fortunes declined in turn. The shogun surrendered Edo
castle to imperial forces in 1868, and the Emperor Meiji made Edo his capital, giving it a new name,
Tokyo, or eastern capital. With the Meiji Restoration began a period of great modernisation and
development in Tokyo. The feudal system was quickly abolished in favour of the prefectural system.
In 1874 The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department was established, and ten years later the first
steps in the creation of a train system for the capital were completed. In 1923 an enormous
earthquake struck, and the ensuing fire destroyed nearly half the city and killed more than 150,000
people.
In 1941 Japan attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbour, which brought World War Two to
Japan’s doorstep. Despite important gains early in the war Japan ultimately suffered great losses
and the American firebombing of Tokyo on March 10th 1945 alone killed 80,000 to 100,000 people.
By the time the Japanese surrendered to Allied forces in 1945, Tokyo's population had been
Tokyo, Japan
reduced to half of its 1940 levels, either from the death toll of bombings or because of people
fleeing the capital. From September 1945 until April 1952, when the San Francisco Peace
Treaty came into effect, Japan was governed and occupied by the Allies, of which the United States
was the main player. Indeed the American presence in Tokyo made it an important base for
command and logistics during the Korean War. Under the terms of the post-war Japanese
constitution Japan is only allowed to have a small military force of its own, strictly for the purposes
of defence.
After the war the emperor was relieved of his political powers and was forced to publicly admit that
he was not a living god, the belief held by followers of Shinto, the national religion, up to that time.
The continuing American military presence in Japan - which in Tokyo includes Yokota Air Base and a
small number of minor bases - is still sizeable and is a contentious issue for many Japanese,
especially since American military personnel are practically immune from prosecution by Japanese
authorities should they commit any crimes while on duty in Japan. The first Shinkansen, or Bullet Train, then the fastest train in the world, was unveiled on 1964, the
same year Tokyo hosted the Olympic Games. Tokyo had finally emerged from the trauma of World
War Two and the Olympics helped make Japan's "economic miracle" the centre of world attention. A
boom in the Japanese economy began in 1986 and land prices in Tokyo went through the roof. By
1990 however the bubble had begun to burst and many "Salary Men" (Japanese use the English
idiom), or main breadwinners, suffered the painful humiliation of losing their jobs and no longer
being able to support their families during the 1990's. The World City Expo was due to be held in
Tokyo in 1996 but was cancelled as a result of the actions of the Aum Shinrikyo cult in March 1995.
They released poisonous Sarin gas into the Tokyo subway system, killing twelve people and
affecting thousands. In 1999 the colourful, dynamic and controversial politician Shintaro Ishihara
was elected Governor of Tokyo, a post he still holds. Politics
The National Capital Region includes Tokyo and its twenty-three wards (or boroughs) and seven
surrounding prefectures, for the most part governed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, whose
main offices are located in Shinjuku ward. In addition to the administration of Tokyo itself the
Metropolitan Government is also responsible for twenty-six suburban cities to the west in Tama
Area, and a number of small islands which stretch some one thousand kilometres into the Pacific
Ocean. The prefecture of Tokyo is legislated by the Metropolitan Assembly which consists of 127
elected members. Elections take place every four years; the next will be in 2009. All major national
political parties are represented in the Tokyo Assembly with the exception of the Social Democratic
Party which lost its seats during the last election. The Liberal Democratic Party has the majority in
the current Assembly.
The author and politician Shintaro Ishihara has been the governor of Tokyo since 1999. He is a
controversial figure, famous for criticising the United States, China and the central government, and
for once having said that Japan "is the only non-Caucasian society to have created a modern
superpower." Just two months before graduating from university Ishihara won Japan's most
prestigious literary prize for his novel Season of the Sun. The book was made into a film and both
Ishihara and his brother Yujiro, who played a supporting role, found themselves at the centre of a
youth-oriented cult. His distinguished political career began with his election to the House of
Councillors in 1968, and his literary works have continued to be published since that time. Two of
Tokyo, Japan
his four sons are also in politics and hold seats in the House of Representatives. Economy
Tokyo possesses the largest metropolitan economy in the world with an estimated GDP of US$1,191
billion in 2005. Tokyo is a major international financial centre, is home to several of the world's
largest investment banks and insurance companies, and is the hub for the national transportation,
publishing, and broadcasting industries. The post-war growth of Japan's economy prompted many
large businesses to shift their headquarters to Tokyo from cities such as Osaka (the historical
commercial capital). Such moves allowed companies to take advantage of better access to
government. However overcrowding and the high cost of living in Tokyo have slowed this trend in
recent years. Tokyo remains one of the most expensive cities in the world. The Tokyo Stock Exchange is second in size only to the New York Stock Exchange, and at the peak
of the Japanese economic bubble in the early 1990’s it accounted for more than sixty percent of the
stock market value of the whole world. Tokyo only has about 8,000 hectares of farm land, concentrated in the west. The greater Tokyo
area contains a large amount of forest, especially in the mountainous western regions. Tokyo’s
lumber output is in decline however due to falling prices, increased production costs, and an aging
population in the tree-farming areas. Tokyo Bay was once a major source of fish but today most of
Tokyo's fish production comes from the outlying islands. Tourism in Tokyo also contributes to the
local economy. 12 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Find a Job
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Summer, seasonal and short term jobs
Internship abroad
Au Pair
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo offers some interesting opportunities if you’re looking to do some volunteer work. This may
be with organisations such as Amnesty International, Greenpeace, the Red Cross or the World
Wildlife Fund. You can look up any specific organisations on the internet to see if they have
openings, or try the following website about volunteering in Japan: http://www.4icj.com/jp/10-seasonal-jobs-volunteering.htm
Volunteers For Peace organises volunteer projects around Japan of two to three weeks in duration,
from May to September. Their projects are diverse in nature, ranging from construction and
renovation of low-income housing or community buildings, historic preservation, archaeology,
environmental education, wildlife surveying, park maintenance and organic farming, to working
with children, the elderly, the physically or mentally handicapped, as well as in arts events and
festivals. You will work in groups of eight to twelve people and must be over 18. You can apply as
an individual or as a couple. For more information:
http://www.vfp.org
Concordia is a small UK-based charity which organises volunteer projects in the same areas as
Volunteers for Peace but is only open to UK residents. Their aim is to promote inter-cultural
understanding. Again you must be over 18, although a number of programmes also exist for 16 and
17 year olds. For more information:
http://www.concordia-iye.org.uk
Oxfam International works in over a hundred countries around the world combating poverty and
lobbying for policy changes at both the national and international levels. Oxfam Japan is still very
small and is in need of committed volunteers: http://www.oxfam.jp/english
Summer, seasonal and short term jobs
The best bet for working holidaymakers heading for Japan is to do something related to teaching
English. An excellent place to start looking for information about teaching English in Japan is the O
Hayo Sensei site (sensei means teacher): http://www.ohayosensei.com
Although a fair amount of money needs to be paid up front (£499 in instalments), Japan Essentials
provides a comprehensive service for those looking for paid work in Japan for periods of up to one
year. In return for your money they will give you access to their job search service upon arrival in
Japan, they’ll provide you with seven nights’ accommodation, airport pick-up, assistance with
obtaining your Working Holiday Visa and insurance, a cultural orientation session and more. For
further information: http://www.realgap.co.uk
Tokyo, Japan
Internship abroad
There are enormous possibilities for internships in Japan. Most Japanese universities have
exchanges with institutions abroad, so if you’re looking to continue your studies in a particular field
you should check with your school to see if they have any partnerships or exchange programmes. If
you’re looking to gain experience in a specific field of business or industry, you should write directly
to the branch of an appropriate Japanese company in your home country and enquire as to whether
there are any openings exist. Agencies can assist you in finding a suitable placement for a small
fee: http://www.internships-4u.com
The Japan Hospitality Internship Program was created to allow citizens of Australia, New Zealand,
Canada, France, the UK and Germany to have access to paid internship work in the hotel industry.
You can expect to earn enough money to live on, although no more than that. Consult their site: http://www.jhip.org/contact.html
The Pasona Internship Program was founded by the business entrepreneur Yasuyuki Nambu and
allows outstanding undergraduate and graduate students from the US to undertake internships in
Japanese firms. Acceptance on the internship programme is competitive, but if accepted all your
travel and accommodation costs will be covered and you will receive a modest monthly wage. For
more information: http://www.nambufound.com/#Program
You can also use the following databases to organise your own projects: http://www.yamasa.org/internships/index.html
http://www.internabroad.com/Japan.cfm
Au Pair
The term “au pair” is French for “on equal terms with”, and working as an au pair will usually be an
enriching experience since your relationship with your host family will be based on mutual respect
and love of children and family life. Au pairs are generally females between 18 and 30, but there is
nothing to prevent young men from being au pairs and in fact this is becoming more and more
common. What the au pair must know
As an au pair you do not require any special qualifications (as a nanny would) or any special
psychological training. As an au pair your duties will include taking care of the children, perhaps a
pet, doing light housework such as vacuuming and dusting, as well as helping with preparation of
meals. You will usually have to pay for travel costs to get to your host family and any necessary
language classes yourself. Typically you will work 30 to 35 hours a week, probably with some
additional babysitting a couple of nights a week too. Guide for expats in Tokyo - 15
Tokyo, Japan
Regarding visas, if you are a citizen of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France, Korea, Germany or
the UK and are currently living in your country of citizenship you may apply for a Working holiday
visa. In order to be eligible your plan must be to visit Japan primarily for pleasure, and for a specific
length of time. You must be between 18 and 30 and shouldn’t have a criminal record or any serious
illness. Check with the Japanese Embassy or consulate where you are for more details. What the family has to do
In exchange for your time your host family should:
Give you your meals
Give you pocket money of between 200 and 280 euros per month
Allow you some days off (this should be agreed upon prior to taking up the position)
Insure your belongings under the host family’s household insurance
Cover your health insurance costs for the duration of your stay (negotiable)
Treat you pretty much like a member of the family, like a big bother or sister to the children
(after all you’re not an employee in the strict sense of the word)
There are several very comprehensive websites that can help you if you're interested in doing au
pair work in Tokyo:
http://www.tokyowithkids.com/index.html
http://www.findaupair.com/index.asp
http://www.au-pair-world.co.uk/
http://www.greataupair.com/aupair-nanny-jobs
If you're a native English speaker then working as a language instructor in Japan can be a good
option. The demand for English trainers is high and some of the large Japanese language schools
even have recruitment offices abroad. If you’re qualified in translation, IT, modelling, gastronomy,
or in a field of the entertainment industry, then you have a good chance of finding work in Japan.
Knowledge of the Japanese language will of course increase your chances of finding a job, and it will
also be an advantage if you’re already in the country. According to Japanese labour laws a written Labour contract must be signed when an employee
starts work. This document sets out working conditions, wages, working hours and retirement
conditions. Should an employer fail to abide by the terms of the labour contract, the employee has
the right to terminate the contract at any time. The internet will be an invaluable resource in your search for work and is the standard way to find a
job in Japan. The following recruitment websites will come in very useful: http://www.tokyonoticeboard.co.jp
http://jobfinder.metropolis.co.jp
http://www.gaijinpot.com/job_search.php
http://www.tokyoconnections.com
http://www.jobsinjapan.com
Tokyo, Japan
http://www.jobdragon.com
http://www.japanesejobs.com
http://www.escapeartist.com/japan/japan.htm
http://www.careercross.com/en
The interview
When you're eventually invited for interview it's important to prepare properly. Bear in mind some
of the differences between Japanese culture and the West. You are much more likely to impress
your potential employer if you’re able to demonstrate that you’re a great team player, and have
had sufficient contact with Japan, its people and culture, to fit in. You are less likely to impress if
you try to show how your own individual skills and talents can improve the company. Your
education, work experience, interests and hobbies are therefore relevant. Make sure you get to
know the company well before the interview, by fully consulting their website for example. Be there
ten minutes before the interview is due to start and dress conservatively. This means wearing a
dress or suit and minimal make-up and jewellery for a woman, a dark suit for a man. Don’t forget that Japan remains a very hierarchical society and this translates directly to the
workplace: irrespective of their actual competence, an older person deserves more respect than a
younger one, and men generally have higher status than women. The Japanese attach a great deal
of importance to avoiding unpleasantness and confrontation, so it’s important to respect the
hierarchy.
A handshake is an appropriate greeting in a business environment (not too firm!). A slight bow will
also be appreciated. Wait to be invited before sitting down. While looking someone directly in the eyes is usually taken as an indication of confidence and
trustworthiness in the West, in Japan it will more likely be seen as provocative and a sign that you
don’t know your place, so avoid too much direct eye contact. Keep a respectable distance and avoid touching. It is important for the Japanese that you appear attentive when spoken to, so you should give an
occasional nod or other sign to indicate that you are listening and understand. Avoid interrupting the interviewer and don’t criticize your former employer. Show your interest by asking questions about the job, the lines of authority within the firm, and
what your future responsibilities would involve.
Exchanging business cards is a normal and important element of professional meetings in Japan. If
you’re given a business card by a colleague or potential employer take a moment to look at it and
treat it with respect, never bend it or write on it. After your interview it can be a good idea to send some sort of thank-you letter. Guide for expats in Tokyo - 17
Tokyo, Japan
This will be seen as a further indication of your interest in the position.
Tokyo, Japan
Departure
1.
2.
3.
4.
Before you leave
Customs
Passport, Visa & Permits
International Removal Companies
Tokyo, Japan
Before you leave
It is important to have health insurance to cover your stay in Japan. If you are entering Japan on a
tourist visa it is your responsibility to ensure that you have adequate coverage since the state
medical system is only intended for Japanese residents and nationals. See the section Private
medical insurances for more information.
Bear in mind that annual worldwide health insurance can cost as little as 75 euros, so it might be
best to invest in that rather than a short-term policy. If you are in possession of a student visa then
you are eligible for the Japanese National Health Insurance plan. This is cheap (about 15,000 yen
per year) and covers 70% of any medical costs you may incur during your stay. Japan is a modern,
highly developed county, so it’s not necessary to bring a large supply of toiletries or other such
items, everything can be found there. Few Japanese speak any European language, even English, so it would be worth your while learning
a bit before your start your journey, especially if you’re planning to travel outside Tokyo. The
Japanese writing system includes three systems of characters: two phonetic alphabets called
hiragana and katakana, and about a thousand Chinese characters called kanji. Hiragana and
katakana are relatively easy to learn and memorise and would be worth trying to get familiar with
before you leave, especially since katakana is always used for foreign (usually English) names and
words. It’s not very hard to learn basic grammatical structures in Japanese since there are no
genders, no articles, no personal pronouns, all verbs are regular, and verb tenses are quite simple.
You should definitely memorise some of the most common basic greetings and courtesies, such as
“sumimasen” (excuse me) and “kon nichi wa” (hello/good day) and so on. There are many English
words used in the Japanese language, but remember that you must pronounce each syllable
clearly, for example if you just say “internet” in a normal way you probably won’t be understood,
you have to say “in-ta-ne-tto”.
Many doctors advise getting vaccinated against Japanese Encephalitis. This is an extremely rare
condition however. Before travelling it’s always a good idea to make sure your tetanus inoculation
is up to date, as well as Hepatitis A and B when travelling in Asia. If you're planning to travel around Japan for a week or more it’s worth considering a Japan Rail Pass.
You can ONLY buy the pass outside of Japan, so make sure you get it before you travel. The pass
offers unlimited travel on almost all the Shinkansen (Bullet Trains), JR express trains, JR local trains
as well as JR local buses. You must be a foreign tourist with temporary visitor status to be eligible
for the pass, although Japanese nationals who are either legal residents of another country or
married to a foreign resident are also eligible. See the ‘Transport’ section below for more
details. Japan’s policy regarding importation of live animals means that if you want to bring your dog or cat
you will need to have it micro-chipped and have an official document from a vet stating that the
animal had its rabies booster at least 180 days prior to the time of travel. Advance notification of
your arrival must be sent to the Animal Quarantine Service at least forty days before you travel. Customs
Upon arrival in Japan you are required to submit a written declaration about you belongings. The
Tokyo, Japan
necessary customs declaration forms are available on the plane or at the customs desk. If you are
not travelling with any goods that may be subject to duty or tax you take the green channel at
customs, otherwise it’s the red channel.
You are allowed to bring up to three 760ml bottles of alcohol with you into Japan, up to 100 cigars,
400 cigarettes, 500 grams of loose tobacco and up to two ounces of perfume. Personal effects and
any professional equipment you are travelling with are exempt from tax as long as their quantity or
volume doesn’t lead customs officials to believe they are items for sale in Japan.
If you intend to stay in Japan for more than twelve months you or your family’s effects may be
imported free of duty or tax, within reasonable limits. There is no limit on the total amount of money you bring in or take out of Japan, should it be cash in
any currency or traveller’s cheques. However if you’re travelling with more than the equivalent of
1,000,000 yen, or with precious metal of more than 1kg, you will need to submit a report to
Customs.
You cannot legally enter Japan if you are in possession of narcotic drugs, firearms or ammunition
(unless for hunting purposes, for which you will require a permit), or pornography. Passport, Visa & Permits
You will need to be in possession of certain documents before you travel to Japan. You must have a
valid passport, and if you need a visa to visit Japan it should be attached to your passport for
inspection upon arrival. You should check with the Japanese Embassy or consulate in your home
country to determine whether you need a visa or not (see below for information on consulates and
embassies). Generally travel to Japan is unproblematic, but should you have any complex or
detailed questions regarding your entry into Japan the Immigration Bureau has an extensive
website: http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/index.html
As a tourist you will normally enter Japan on a tourist visa, which is valid for ninety days. Should
you wish to extend your stay the simplest way is probably just to leave Japan and re-enter for
another ninety-day period.
Working Visa
You will need a working visa to work in Japan legally. If you’re hired by a Japanese company they
will normally take care of this, it just requires them to fill out a few forms and submit them to the
appropriate authorities on your behalf. Officially you can’t actually start work until the visa comes
through, which can take up to two months, but there are some unofficial ways around this. If you
don’t have at least an undergraduate degree from an established university you may have a hard
time finding a Japanese firm that’s willing to hire you and take care of your visa affairs. Your
Japanese language skills (or lack of them) do not affect your application for a working visa. The
working visa is valid for one to three years (the authorities will decide on the duration of its validity
based on your application). It’s best to apply for a multi-entry permit at the same time; otherwise if
you leave Japan, even for a short holiday, your working visa will no longer be valid upon re-entry. Guide for expats in Tokyo - 21
Tokyo, Japan
Anyone who intends to stay in Japan for longer than ninety days is required to register as a foreign
national at their local ward office in order to be issued with the obligatory alien registration card
(gaikokujin toroku is the Japanese term for alien registration). To register you will need two recent
passport photos. You will not be issued with your card straightaway; you’ll be notified when it’s
ready. Once you get your card you must keep it with you at all times. The Shinjuku Foreign Resident Information Center at Shinjuku Multicultural Plaza offers immigration
advice to foreign nationals. It’s open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, except for national
holidays and the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. As a permanent resident of Japan both you and your spouse can freely undertake paid work there.
If you’re entering Japan on a student visa you will not be allowed to work legally unless you obtain
special permission from your place of study and the immigration office. Even then you will only be
able to work a certain number of hours per work. If you are a citizen of Australia, New Zealand,
Canada, Korea, France, Germany, Ireland or the United Kingdom, and are between eighteen and
thirty years of age, you can apply for a working holiday visa which will allow you to work in Japan
for up to twelve months.
International Removal Companies
Many airlines now offer passengers the possibility of taking extra hold baggage with them when
they fly, for an extra fee. How much baggage you can bring with you when you fly, as well as its
weight, also depends on the type of ticket you buy. Sending items abroad can be very costly so it’s
worth considering these options when planning your trip or move. If you do decide that shipping
your things separately is the best option the following websites can help you: http://www.jluggage.com
http://www.intlmovers.com
http://www.internationalmoving.biz
http://japan.moverworldwide.com/
http://www.sitracom.fr/gr/index.php?rech_rub=7
When shipping items make sure you have established the extent of the carrier's liability and take
out any necessary extra insurance. Sending items by ship takes about a month, so try to arrange an
address in Japan where you can send your things ahead of you. Bear in mind that the first and last
few days of the month tend to be the busiest times for moving, so try to avoid them. If your things
are due to arrive on a national holiday it will create delays, so check this before finalising your
booking (in the section Work/Convention there is a complete list of Japanese Public
Holidays). If you’re packing your things yourself and you’re going to be away for an extended period give
yourself plenty of time in advance to prepare. Plan how you’re going to pack, don’t just start
randomly. An international move can be a good opportunity to get rid of unwanted or unneeded
items – this will save you time and money when you come to ship your belongings. Make sure your
boxes aren’t too heavy to lift and use proper packing boxes and strong tape to seal them. Label all
your belongings with your name and a forwarding address. Clearly mark fragile items. Unpacking
your boxes at the other end will be easier if you write their contents on them with a marker pen, or
Tokyo, Japan
write messages to yourself like “open first”, “kitchen things” etc. Guide for expats in Tokyo - 23
Tokyo, Japan
Accommodation
1.
2.
3.
4.
Finding Accommodation, Flatsharing, Hostels
Rent house or flat
Buy house or flat
Hotels and Bed and Breakfast
Tokyo, Japan
Finding Accommodation, Flatsharing, Hostels
Tokyo offers a large number of apartments, rooms and guest houses for rent. There are many
agencies which specialise in helping foreigners find what their looking for. If you’re looking for
long-term housing, you may be lucky enough to have your lodging provided by your company.
Otherwise flat-sharing can also be a good option. These websites are a good place to start,
whatever you have in mind:
http://www.japt.co.jp
http://www.oakwood.com - Oakwood Apartments – flats in nine locations in Tokyo
http://www.TokyoApartment.com - leading agency for renting flats and houses in Tokyo
http://www.tgkrealty.com - offers furnished apartments in Tokyo
http://www.accommodation-japan.com - a Tokyo-based business which rents out rooms,
flats and dormitories.
Temporary housing
One good option can be temporary housing, often referred to as "Gaijin (foreigner) Houses". This is
cheaper than taking on an apartment by yourself, and many newcomers to Japan often start off
with this kind of accommodation. Here are some useful links: http://www.gaijinhouse.com
http://www.bamboo-house.com
http://jafplaza.com/
http://www.sakura-house.com/index.htm
HOSTELS IN TOKYO
EasyExpat.com has set up a partnership with Hostelworld.com - the market leader for hostel
and budget accommodation reservations - to bring you a fantastic selection of over 20,000
properties across 170 countries worldwide.
They offer a selection of youth, independent and backpacker hostels worldwide - including
all sorts of unique & unusual properties such as a hostel on a Jumbo jet, in a tree house, on a
houseboat, even a bed in an old jail!
Rent house or flat
When it comes to renting a flat most people find that working through a real estate agent is the
easiest option and the one that offers the most choice. If you end up taking a flat they’ve found for
you, you will have to pay them a fee equal to about one month’s rent.
Until you actually sign for a place there’s no charge for using an agency however. Be aware of the
substantial move-in fees that a new flat in Tokyo will normally incur, such as your first month’s rent,
a two to three-month deposit (make sure you get a written receipt for this), key money
(non-refundable and can sometimes be as much as two-months’ rent!). If you do decide to go
Tokyo, Japan
through an agency take your time to look at lots of places since the first ones they show you may
be the properties they’re anxious to rent but may not be the best for you.
Try to hold out until you find something that’s really suitable. Since move-in expenses are high
don’t rush into signing anything until you’re really satisfied. Japanese apartments tend to be small
so have a good look at storage space and the bathroom.
If you get a Japanese person to help you deal with the landlord and/or agency it will be a big help.
The following links are for agencies where English is spoken: http://www.tokyoapartment.com/
http://www.tokyoapt.com
http://www.japanhomesearch.com
http://www.century21japan.com/
http://www.kencorp.com
http://www.plannersinternational.com
http://www.nord.co.jp
http://www.plazahomes.co.jp/index_e.asp
http://arkios.co.jp/propertiesbyrent.php
Buy house or flat
Buying property in Tokyo is a complicated process and very costly, although house prices are more
affordable now than some years ago. There are a number of agencies that specialise in assisting
non-Japanese nationals in finding a home. The Real Estate Tokyo website is an exhaustive guide
and probably the best place to start: http://www.realestate-tokyo.com/sale/
Or: http://www.foreclosedjapan.com
Finding the right home for you and your family will take a lot of effort. Help from a Japanese native
will be pretty much essential. There’s a big difference between the different areas of Tokyo – some
lack the kinds of amenities you may need, like good public transport or large shops – so it’s
important to do some research to find the best location. Houses are small in Japan by American or
European standards. There are basically three types of housing in Japan: a house, a mansion or an
apartment, houses being the most expensive followed by mansions and apartments. A mansion is
basically a nicer, newer kind of apartment. Be aware that more rooms doesn’t necessarily mean
more space, so pay attention to the surface area (usually given in square meters). Also be aware
that the advertised surface area may include storage space and the stairwell, so the real living
space will in fact be a bit smaller. Real estate offices can be found on main streets and around
stations. It’s customary to give simple gifts to your neighbours when you move in. The giving and receiving
of gifts is one of the ways the Japanese maintain their relationships. Get a Japanese friend to help
you out with this if possible. Food is appropriate in this case, maybe something typical from your
Tokyo, Japan
part of the world. Don’t be surprised if the receiver of your gift puts it to one side; you normally
don’t open such gifts right away in front of the giver. Note that you should never give gifts in
groups of four.
The Japanese are superstitious when it comes to numbers: All Nippon Airways, for example, has no
seat numbers four, nine or thirteen, and many Japanese hospitals don’t have these room numbers
either. The number thirteen has negative connotations in the West too of course, but the number
four is considered unlucky in Japan because it has the same sound as the word for death (shi). The
number nine in Japanese is pronounced ku, the same pronunciation as the Japanese word for agony
or torture. The number eight however is a lucky number for the Japanese because of the way its
character is constructed: two diagonal lines, the second being longer than the first, therefore
suggesting better things to come in the future. Hotels and Bed and Breakfast
Japanese youth hostels are very clean are a cheap option for accommodation in Tokyo. You should
book well ahead of time however. The Japan Youth Hostel Association is the place to start:
http://www.jyh.or.jp If you have a regular hotel in mind the following websites will come in very handy: Sakura Hotel. Reasonable rates at this hotel near the Tokyo Dome
http://www.sakura-hotel.co.jp/ Japan Hotel Association. Very complete and extensive hotel listings.
http://agent.hoteljapan.com Hotel Japan offers hotel listings for Tokyo and other Japanese cities In your search for a hotel in
Tokyo you will certainly come across the business hotel. Business hotels are cheaper than regular
western-style hotels, and are often conveniently located, but the rooms are small and so may not
be suitable for an extended stay. One very interesting accommodation option if you’re planning a short stay in Tokyo is the Ryokan,
or traditional Japanese inn. In Ryokans you normally sleep on futons, and the floors of the room are
covered with tatami (or reed) mats, so this, combined with the traditional ambience, will give you a
far more authentic experience than a western-style hotel. You will be provided with a traditional
Japanese robe to wear (yukata) and your stay will include breakfast and sometimes dinner too.
Many Ryokan also have their own onsen (Japanese equivalent to a Turkish bath). To find out more
about Ryokans in Tokyo and make a booking click on: http://reservations.bookhostels.com
http://www.sawanoya.com
http://reservations.bookhostels.com
http://www.eryokan.co.jp/
http://reservations.bookhostels.com
http://www.ryokan.or.jp/kinki/eng/
Tokyo, Japan
Another option is a Minshiku, which are traditional Japanese hostels. These are very similar to
Ryokan but usually a bit more basic, often private homes that have been converted to
accommodate visitors. When it comes to accommodation in Japan one important and well-known
institution is the Love Hotel. These are easy to spot with their neon lights and coloured facades, and
are intended for couples in need of privacy for their amorous pursuits. Bear in mind that if you don’t
appear to be a couple, or arrive with loads of luggage, you’re not likely to be allowed a room. Love
Hotels are generally cheap but are not suitable for stays of longer than a few nights. EasyExpat has set up a partnership with HotelClub to provide a wide range of cheap hotels and
high quality customer services in the city of your choice. This site is for you to make your trip
here easier. You will get discount hotel rates, last-minute deals, hot deals, special offers ,
with a real-time reservation and on-line booking.
You can also query other locations in the world by searching directly with our partner HotelClub.
Hostels and budget accommodation in Tokyo
EasyExpat.com recommends Hostelworld.com to bring you online bookings at thousands of
hostels worldwide and cheap accommodation for your travel.
Tokyo, Japan
Work
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Work Usage
Pension
Benefits package
Tax system
Unemployment Benefits
Tokyo, Japan
It is the responsibility of all employers to make sure their employees are enrolled in the
Employment Insurance system.
You will be eligible to participate in the scheme as long as your visa status carries no restrictions on
your professional activities in Japan.
If you find yourself out of work and have previously been employed full-time for a minimum of six
months in the same company (or twelve months if you were working part-time) you are entitled to
unemployment insurance benefit.
For more information contact your local Hello Work or Public Employment Security Office. Work Usage
Regarding working conditions, the Labour Standards Act limits working hours to a maximum of forty
hours per week and eight hours a day. However companies have the right to increase these hours
during busy periods.
Overtime should be paid at least an extra 25% above the worker’s regular wage, rising to 35% at
weekends and public holidays and 50% for night work. If you have been in a job in Japan for six
months or more you are entitled to ten days of paid holiday per year. This should be increased by
one day per year of work following the first 1 ½ years of employment, up to a maximum of twenty
days per year. Japanese Public Holidays
January 1st New Year's Day
January 8th (approx) Adult's Day
February 11th National Foundation Day
March 21st (approx) Spring Equinox Day
April 29th Green Day
May 3rd Constitutional Memorial Day
May 5th Children's Day
September 15th Respect for the Aged Day
September 23rd Autumn Equinox Day
October 10th Sports Day
November 3rd Culture Day
November 23rd Labour Thanksgiving Day
December 23rd Emperor's Birthday
Pension
As a foreign worker in Japan, if you are between twenty and sixty years of age, you have to
subscribe to the national pension plan. There are two types of plan: the standard plan (kokumin nenkin) and the employee's pension
Tokyo, Japan
insurance plan (kousei nenkin). How much you will have to contribute will depend on your profession. If you’re self-employed, or
work in agriculture or the forestry industry, you’re in category one, which means monthly payments
of about 13,000 yen. Basically everyone else is in category two and must pay seventeen percent of
his salary, of which your employer covers half.
You can get more information from your local ward office, or from the Social Insurance Agency
website: http://www.sia.go.jp/e/index.html
Benefits package
If you’ve been contributing to the national insurance plan for at least twenty-five years, then upon
retirement at the age of sixty you’ll be entitled to claim your pension. If you sign up for the pension
plan after the age of thirty-five then you may have to continue to contribute until your sixty-five or
seventy. Special rules apply to foreign nationals who have become permanent residents of Japan.
Consult your local ward office or the Social Insurance Agency website above for more details. Should you be injured or fall ill while working, the Labour Standards Act states your employer must
cover your medical expenses and pay any necessary compensation. Since such costs can be large
the Workers' Compensation Insurance was created, and all employers must pay into this. Japanese
residents are covered by the National Health Insurance plan for illness or injury. All large businesses
are responsible for making sure their employees are suitably insured. As a foreign resident in Japan you can subscribe to the National Health Insurance plan as long as
you have completed your alien registration. This is not an option for those coming to Japan on short
term visas however. You can find out more about National Health Insurance at your local ward
office. Tax system
As in most countries, tax is levied on individuals’ annual income, on inherited property, on goods
and alcohol sales, and on goods imported from abroad.
There are two main types of tax in Japan, national and local, and if you work in Japan, no matter for
how long, you have to pay tax on your income. You can make a self-assessment of your taxes and
file your tax return to the appropriate authorities, you can request an official tax assessment, or
follow the ordinary tax collection procedure, which is that the Metropolitan and other taxation
authorities calculate how much tax you owe and send you a notice.
It is your responsibility to then pay your taxes at your bank or financial institution. You will be fined
if you miss the payment deadline; the size of the fine will depend on the length of the delay in
payment.
For more information on paying taxes in Japan follow the links below: Guide for expats in Tokyo - 31
Tokyo, Japan
National Tax Agency
http://www.nta.go.jp/foreign_language/index.htm Income Tax Guide for Foreigners / National Tax Agency
http://www.nta.go.jp/taxanswer/english/gaikoku.htm Unemployment Benefits
Unemployed workers who have previously been in continuous employment for at least six months
(twelve months for part-time workers) with the same employer are entitled to receive the benefits
of unemployment insurance. The Employment Insurance system was created as a way to support workers should they find
themselves without a job, as well as to assist them financially as they search for new employment.
All employers are obliged to enrol their employees in this system. This insurance system is also
available to foreign workers who are in possession of visas that carry no restrictions on their
professional activities in Japan, unless you are employed outside of Japan or draw unemployment
benefit from another country.
For more details you can consult Hello Work or the local Public Employment Security Office. 32 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Moving in
1.
2.
3.
4.
Mail, Post office
Gas, Electricity, Water
Telephone
TV & Internet
Tokyo, Japan
Mail, Post office
Japanese post offices provide a range of services and are open from 9 am to 5pm on weekdays,
some large post offices are also open on Saturdays, but only Tokyo International Post Office and
Tokyo Central Post Office are open on Sundays. Post boxes are red. Most post offices have cash
machines that accept international cards.
A well-established alternative postal system is the door-to-door courier service called Takuhaibin.
This service usually provides next-day delivery, is moderate in price, and is designed to ship most
types of parcels and boxes, as well as sports equipment, clothes, luggage and food stuffs. You may
arrange a pick-up via a local service centre or from your hotel. One thing you will quickly notice when travelling around Tokyo is that, with the exception of major
roads, Japanese streets do not have names. Instead towns and cities are divided into blocks and
sub-areas. Japanese addresses therefore start with the post code, followed by the prefecture, city
and sub-area, with the person’s name at the end. If written in English, the address follows the
western format, starting with the person’s name, with the prefecture and post code at the end. Japanese post offices provide mail forwarding services to and from international destinations,
simply fill out the appropriate form at your local branch. Gas, Electricity, Water
Gas
Tokyo Gas Company - (1) 0570-00-2211 if calling from a mobile phone (2) 03-5722-3111
Open weekdays 9am-7pm Electricity
Tokyo Electric Power Co., Inc - 03-3501-8111
Open weekdays 8:40am to 6:30 pm Water
Bureau of Waterworks - 03-5320-6326
Open weekdays 8:30am to 5:15 pm Telephone
Phone Directory in English – dial 104 (open daily from 9am to 8pm).
Most people in Japan have mobile phones and they’re a major part of city life. 34 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
See the Practical / Mobile Phone Section for more information.
TV & Internet
With a simple room antenna you can receive about five private and two national TV channels in the
capital. Satellite and cable TV are becoming more and more popular. The main TV networks
accessible from Tokyo are: Japan Broadcasting Corporation
Tokyo Broadcasting System, Inc.
Nippon Television Network Corporation
Fuji Television Network, Inc.
Asahi National Broadcasting Co.
Tokyo Metropolitan Television Broadcasting Corporation
Satellite TV
Satellite TV provider: http://www.skyperfectv.co.jp Internet
You have a number of options for getting connected to the Internet in Japan. If you’re a visitor you can use the WiFi hotspots for about 8 yen per minute, around 1,700 yen per
month for unlimited access. Internet cafés generally cost 200 yen for the first half-hour and usually offer packages for longer
periods.
Accessing the internet from your mobile phone costs about 900 yen per month for the provider fee
plus 10 yen per minute (extra charges apply for large data transfer; Wilcomm Air Edge PHS is
currently the cheapest).
Other options include phone dialup at around 250 yen per month plus 5 yen per minute for the
connection, a domestic wireless service with companies like eMobile, eAccess, and SoftBank at abut
5,000 yen a month for unlimited access, and ADSL for between 3,000 and 4,000 yen a month
(pre-existing phone line required). Guide for expats in Tokyo - 35
Tokyo, Japan
Education
1.
2.
3.
4.
Schooling system
International Schools
Courses for Adults and Evening Class
Language courses
Tokyo, Japan
Schooling system
Ninety-five percent of Japanese schools are owned and run by the state up to Junior High level.
Children attend the school that lies within their catchment area, although Senior Schools have
overlapping catchment areas so access to the best schools involves a degree of competition.
Competition is even greater when it comes to Senior High schools, over one-quarter of which are
private and often expensive. Indeed Japanese parents are usually prepared to make a substantial
financial investment in their children’s schooling, and Japan's education system is one of the best in
the world. It has been suggested that the high pressure on Japanese school children has led to
higher levels of psychological problems than in other developed countries, although there is no
scientific evidence to support this. Changes in diet and social behaviour have contributed to
increasing levels of obesity among Japanese children, but this is still lower than in Europe or North
America. The university entrance exam is of enormous importance; it’s not an exageration to say that
performance in the exam pretty much determines the course of a young person’s life since the key
to getting a well-paid job in a large firm is greatly dependent on being accepted to the right
university. For the majority of Japanese their school life begins at kindergarten, or Yochien. This is optional but
about two thirds of children are sent there. The government is keen to support kindergartens, partly
because it helps working mothers, but statistics suggest that due to demographic challenges this
will never be an option for all Japanese children. Compulsory education in Japan begins at six years
of age with elementary school or Shogakku. Uniforms are standard in Japan, with girls still dressing
in sailor outfits reminiscent of an earlier era. Junior High School, or Chugakku, follows at age twelve
and it is at this point that pupils begin to feel the pressure since good results at junior high are
needed to enter one of the better senior high schools, in turn a good university, and ultimately a
good job. Children typically remain at school until well into the evening, taking part in after-school
clubs and activities. At age fifteen students move on to senior high, which although not compulsory
is attended by almost everyone. An important part of Japanese school life is the cram school, or Juku. These institutions provide
extra lessons, either to help under-achieving students catch up, or to allow the more gifted
students to develop their talents. Such classes run late and a twelve-hour school day is not unusual
in Japan, with homework to follow. Apart from the schools mentioned above there are many other options open to young Japanese
students, such as Senmon Gajkkou (technical or vocational schools), or Junior colleges which offer
two-year degrees something along the lines of a university degree. One of the regrettable
imbalances in Japanese society is that men continue to outnumber women in Japanese universities. International Schools
Every child is entitled to free education in Japan up to the age of fifteen, whether he or she is
Japanese or not. As a foreigner seeking education for your child in Japan your only expenses will be
just like any Japanese parent, such as for text books, school uniform etc. You may prefer to enrol
your child in one of the international schools to be found in Tokyo, where classes are taught in both
English and Japanese. This can be an expensive option, but perhaps preferable to a totally Japanese
Tokyo, Japan
learning environment. Having said this, children will pick up Japanese a lot more quickly and easily
than their parents do. Here are links to the most popular international schools in Tokyo: American School in Japan
Aoba-Japan International School
Axis Kichijoji International
British School in Tokyo
Canadian International School
Christian Academy in Japan
India International School In Japan
International School of the Sacred Heart
K. International School
Keimei Gakuen Elementary, Junior and Senior High School
Kikokushijo Academy International School
New International School
Nishimachi International School
St. Mary's International School
Seisen International School
The Montessori School of Tokyo
Tokyo International School
Tokyo YMCA International School
Courses for Adults and Evening Class
Adult continuing education is provided by both private institutions and local government in Japan.
You can take classes in areas such as general education, vocational training, technology,
homemaking, home economics, arts, physical education, and recreation. The Japan Campus of
Temple University in Tokyo offers continuing education classes in subjects such as language,
academic skills, business, professional training, and culture and the arts: http://www.tuj.ac.jp
If you’re interested in the field of architecture then you may want to look into the continuing
education programme offered by the American Institute of Architects in Tokyo: http://www.aia.org/cesfaq_default
The Canadian university McGill has its own campus in central Tokyo and runs an MBA programme
from there. The classes take place on weekends, so you can do the course even if you’re working
full-time. Classes are taught in English and the academic year begins in June. For more
information: http://www.globaldaigaku.com/
You may want to consider taking classes through one of Tokyo’s E-Learning centres:
Tokyo, Japan
http://www.weekender.co.jp/new/education/e-learning-schools.html"> The Japan Adult Education Directory is a useful resource too:
http://dir.japandirectoryonline.com/dirs/?catid=320195 Your local ward office can also give you more information about continuing education in Tokyo. Language courses
There's an enormous choice of language schools in Japan: you’ll find that they have different
focuses and can be of varying quality. The Association for the Promotion of Japanese Language
Education was set up to ensure that the standards of courses offered to foreign students is upheld,
and you are recommended to attend schools which are recognised by the association. You can choose whether you wish to follow a short-term or a long-term program. The classic
short-term programme in Japan is during the summer, which is convenient since you’ll usually be
able to stay in Japan on a student visa. Few schools offer short-term programmes with a specific
focus, such as business Japanese or conversation, but rather the classes are divided up according
to level. If your ultimate aim is to get your Japanese to a good enough level to enter a Japanese
university or work in a Japanese language environment then you should be looking at a long-term
study programme of a year. Long-term study will require a student visa. Guide for expats in Tokyo - 39
Tokyo, Japan
Health
1. General Practitioner, Doctor, Physician
2. Medicines, Hospitals
3. International healthcare, medical insurance
Tokyo, Japan
General Practitioner, Doctor, Physician
There’s no such thing as an actual “doctor’s surgery” in Japan: doctors work at hospitals or medical
centres. A basic consultation will cost around ten euros, and it should normally be possible to have
your medical costs paid directly by your private travel/medical insurance. The British Embassy has
compiled a useful list of doctors in Tokyo who are willing to accept English-speaking patients: http://www.uknow.or.jp/be_e/consular/life/life10.htm
If you’re travelling to Tokyo during the summer months note that it can get very hot. The so-called
heat island effect is a major factor, caused by a combination of the sun’s rays reflected off the
asphalt, and the heat exhaust from air conditioning. So make sure you drink plenty of fluids so you
don’t get dehydrated, wear protective clothing, and try and stay in the shade. One bothersome aspect of life in Tokyo is the high pollen count, particularly from the cedar and
cypress trees which grow in the region. You will see people wearing masks on the streets of Tokyo
to block the pollen. The hay fever season starts in February, so if you’re a hay fever sufferer
planning to travel in the spring you should definitely see a doctor and stock up on appropriate
medication before you leave for Japan. Medicines, Hospitals
Falling ill in a foreign country is never a pleasant experience. You may find it useful to have some
common medical vocabulary on hand in case you do: I feel sick - Mune ga muka-muka suru
I have chest pains - Mune ga kurushii I have a headache - Zutsu ga suru.
I feel tired - Karada ga darui
I have a fever - Netsu ga aru
My stomach hurts - Onaka ga itai
I feel nauseated - Hakike ga suru
I have diarrhea - Geri wo shiteiru
I have a sore throat - Nodo ga itai
I have asthma - Zensoku desu
I have an earache - Mimi ga itai
If you do fall ill and need advice you can call the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information
Center on 5285-8181. The centre is open every day from 9am till 8pm and can provide information
in English and Spanish. There is also an emergency translation service for foreigners needing
medical attention while in Japan: 03-5285-8185 (open daily). Using the following website you can find hospitals and clinics near your location in Tokyo: http://www.himawari.metro.tokyo.jp/qq/qq13en01sr.asp
Or use this webpage to locate one near the train or subway station of your choice: Guide for expats in Tokyo - 41
Tokyo, Japan
http://www.himawari.metro.tokyo.jp/qq/qq13en02sr.asp
International healthcare, medical insurance
You are strongly advised to take out comprehensive private health insurance before leaving for
Japan because the Japanese national heath service does not serve non-Japanese citizens unless
they have residence status.
Annual travel insurance – which covers not only emergency health costs, but also insures your
belongings – is available for as little as 75 euros, so is a better investment than trip-by-trip
insurance. You will need to be officially resident in your home country for a total of at least six
months in the year however.
Many travel websites offer good insurance deals for Japan, such as: http://www.pacificprime.com/countries/japan
http://www.moneysupermarket.com/travelinsurance
http://www.globalsurance.com/index.php
Buying private medical insurance over the internet is a simple process, you will just need to
provide your credit card details, your permanent address and contact info, and then you will receive
you policy document by e-mail. Pay attention to what your policy will actually cover before buying. Do you intend to do winter or
water sports? Do you have any illness or disability that needs to be declared? Such factors will
affect the overall cost of your policy. Once your policy document comes through keep it in a safe place and always have the emergency
telephone number of your insurance company and your policy number on your person when you
travel. 42 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Practical Life
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Bank services
Shopping
Mobile Phone
Transport
Tokyo, Japan
Bank services
Opening hours of Japanese banks are usually Monday to Friday from 9pm till 3pm. To open a Japanese bank account you will be required to produce your Alien Registration Card (all
foreigners need this document to legally remain in Japan for more than ninety days). Note that many cash machines don’t operate during the night and most of them don’t take foreign
credit cards. If you want to withdraw money from a machine using your credit card you will have to
find an international ATM in a post office, department store, or at the airport.
Here are links to some major Japanese banks with English websites: http://www.mizuhobank.co.jp/english/index.html
http://www.btm.co.jp/english/index.htm
http://www.smbc.co.jp/global
http://www.ufjbank.co.jp/ippan/english/index.html
Shopping
Shops are generally open every day from 10am to 8pm, although some department stores are
closed on Wednesdays. Tokyo has a wealth of choice for the shopper. If you’re looking for cheap souvenirs, try one of the
100 yen shops, which are easy to find. If traditional souvenirs are more what you have in mind try
either the Nakamise Shopping Arcade (facing Asakusa's Sensoji Temple, Kappabashi Dori), or the
Oriental Bazaar, which is open daily till 7pm, closed on Thursdays (on Omotesando Dori between
Omotesando and Harajuku stations). Akihabara is the place to go for electronic and photographic
goods. Electronic goods can also be bought on the west side of Shinjuku station – do make sure you
check what electrical supply is needed to run any electronics you buy since some products are not
designed for export. Kinokuniya is one of Tokyo's largest bookshops and is located next to the
Times Square Shopping Centre just south of Shinjuku Station, but Jimbocho is Tokyo's true
bookshop district. Tower Records in Shibuya has a reasonable selection of English language books
and magazines. Harajuku, Shibuya or Shinjuku (all on the JR Yamanote Line) are the neighbourhoods to head for if
you want casual clothes. If you’re looking for chic clothes and designer labels then Omotesando and
Aoyama are the areas to go to. It’s hard to find a supermarket in central Tokyo, but the food courts
in department stores and pretty well stocked. Meida Dori Avenue in Ochanomizu is renowned for its
musical instrument shops and if you’re in Ginza then you will be well served at the enormous
Yamaha music store. Sports shops and concentrated on Yasukuni Dori in Ochanomizu. Tokyo’s main
department stores are: Isetan – quite expensive, one of the largest is near Shinjuku Station.
Mitsukoshi - established in the 1930's, impressive décor, in Nihombashi
Odakyu – quite pricey, near Shinjuku Station
Tokyu, Seibu, Keio – Owned by Japanese rail companies, the Seibu in Ikebukero is one of the
biggest department stores in the world. These stores are moderately priced.
Tokyo, Japan
Parco - A "bazaar style" store, there’s a big one in Shibuya.
"0I0I" (pronounced "Marui") – tends to be rather overpriced but can be found in most
neighbourhoods
Pick pocketing is quite common in Tokyo in places where large numbers of people gather. Keep
your handbag close to your body. Be aware that there is a fair amount of drug dealing in the
bustling entertainment districts of Shinjuku and Roppongi. Mobile Phone
The biggest mobile phone companies in Japan are NTT Docomo, AU by KDDI and Softbank
(Vodafone). Your phone will only work in Japan if it is a 3G model, and international roaming is
expensive.
You will have much better rates if you rent a Japanese SIM card. Renting a phone at the airport is a
convenient option, and some companies will actually send you a phone by mail to your home or
hotel. You will need to present a valid form of ID with a photo and a credit card. There are two sets
of fees on rental phones, the daily rental fee (between 250 and 1000 yen) and the per-minute
calling fee (between 70 and 200 yen per minute within Japan, no charge on incoming calls). Prepaid phones which can be charged up at convenience stores and mobile phone shops, as well as
subscription plans, are not available for visitors to Japan, you will need to be in possession of an
alien registration card and/or Japanese drivers licence for that. Note that very few Japanese mobiles
function outside of Japan due to the way they are setup and network conflicts. Transport
Metro
Although on the expensive side, the Tokyo public transport system is extremely well organised and
the network is highly developed. Train and underground stations abound and Tokyo has one of the
world’s most efficient train systems.
If you’ll be making multiple journeys the most economical way to travel on the highly efficient
Tokyo subway system is with a One-day Open Ticket which covers the entire subway network and
costs 710 yen. Tickets can be bought directly from the ticket counter or via one of the many
tourist-friendly automated ticket machines.
Almost all subway signs and maps are in both Japanese and English.
Metro: http://www.tokyometro.jp
Bus
Tokyo, Japan
Unless someone has specifically told you to travel to a certain destination by bus it’s best to avoid
buses in central Tokyo since they tend to be slow and more expensive than the subway. Trains
As mentioned earlier you may want to think about getting a Japan Rail Pass. You must buy the
coupon before leaving home as it can’t be bought in Japan. The coupon is available from most
travel agencies and should be exchanged upon arrival in Japan at a Japan Rail Pass exchange office
or a Travel Service Center located in major JR stations or airports. You need to be a tourist or a
Japanese national who lives permanently abroad to be eligible. When you get the pass you can tell
them the date you wish to start your trip. Trains: http://www.japanrail.com/
Airports
If you’re arriving in Tokyo by air you’ll almost certainly arrive at Narita Airport: http://www.narita-airport.or.jp/airport_e/index.html Narita has two terminals, both of which are connected to the NEX (Narita Express Japan Rail),
Keisei Skyliner, Keisei limited express, and Airport buses (called limousines). A free shuttle service
operates between the two terminals and runs every ten to fifteen minutes. Taxis
Taxis can be hailed on the street at any time but can be expensive. Between 11pm and 5am an
extra night surcharge is also applied. Make sure you have your destination written down in
Japanese. It is common for Tokyo taxi drivers to consult their maps in order to find the best route
for your desired destination, so don’t worry if this happens. Note that the rear doors open
automatically, so don’t stand too close when the taxi pulls up to let you get in! Boats
If the weather is fine you may want to take a cruise on Tokyo Bay or along the Sumida River. The
small cruise boats operating in the Tokyo area are known as Suijo-bus, and if you take one from
Hinode Pier or Odaiba Seaside Park you will have fine views of Tokyo’s waterfront and the famous
Rainbow Bridge. The journey takes about twenty minutes and costs 400 Yen. The Sumida River Line
goes from Asakusa (either Asakusa or Ginza stations) to Hamarikyu Garden (35 mins/620 yen), or
from Hamarikyu to Hinode Pier (5 mins/100 yen). Car
Tokyo, Japan
Don’t forget that like in the UK, the Japanese drive on the left, so go carefully when driving in Japan
for the first time and gradually get acquainted with the local traffic rules. Note that pedestrians
always have priority over cars.
Parking is a huge problem in central Tokyo, traffic jams are frequent, and there are heavy tolls on
most motorways and bridges, so driving in and around Tokyo is to be avoided. Should you need a
car you can rent one from Nippon Rent-a-Car (3485 7196) or Nissan Rent-a-Car (3587 4123). You
will need to be in possession of an international driving license. The following website gives useful
information on driving in Japan: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2022.html
Bicycle
The bicycle is a popular means of transportation in Tokyo and bike theft is rare (although make sure
your bike has a proper lock on it). If you plan to do some cycling in Tokyo don’t forget that although
people frequently ride on the pavement this is illegal, as is cycling at night without lights. Bicycles can be hired from Eight Rent (Sumitomo-seimei Bldg 1F, 31-16 Sakuragaoka-cho,
Shibuya-ku, +81334622383, Shibuya station, south exit), don’t forget to bring your passport.
However you will often be able to make the most of Tokyo by exploring it on foot.
There are a number of organisations that have been created to assist non-Japanese mothers and
parents find babysitters and carers for their children. The most popular are Tokyo with Kids:
http://www.tokyowithkids.com/ And Field of Mugi:
http://www.mugi.com/en/ There is great demand for day-care (hoikuen) and kindergarten (yochien) places so you should try
and secure a place at least six months before the new school year begins. In any case you should
go to your local ward office to apply. You can also look in the Yellow Pages under hoikuen, baby
hotel or takujisho. A trip to your ward office is important since they will be able to advise you on a
range of issues and not all public day-care facilities advertise in the Yellow Pages.
Private day-care costs in the region of 65,000 yen per month, fees for public day-care depend on
parents’ income. Some expat families hire live-in or live-out nannies or maids. Visa complications
make hiring a foreign nanny difficult. As anywhere, networking is important: internet mothers’
groups such as those mentioned above will be useful, but try and get to know working mothers in
your area, in the park etc.
Here is some useful vocabulary: kindergarten - yochien
day-care facility - hoikuen
Tokyo, Japan
day-care childminder - hobo-san has a cold - kaze hita
nappy - omutsu
fever - netsu
sick - byoki
cow’s milk - gyunyu, miruku
breast milk - bonyu
Tokyo, Japan
Entertainment
1.
2.
3.
4.
Cinema, Nightclubs
Tokyo, Japan
The Weekender website is one of the most popular sources of information if you're looking for
entertainment while in Tokyo:
http://www.weekenderjapan.com
Cafes/Bars/Pubs
Saké, or rice wine, is Japan's traditional alcoholic beverage. It is clear in colour, is a little less
alcoholic than regular wine, and can be served hot (the traditional way) or chilled. Almost every
Japanese town has its own saké producer so there are literally hundreds of labels. Beer is also extremely popular in Japan, and is usually lager. The most famous names are Kirin,
Asahi, Suntory and Sapporo. An isakaya is a traditional pub, something between a restaurant and a bar: Hibiki is well-known for
its excellent views and great food and is worth a try; the nearest station is Shiodome station on the
Yurikamome or Toei Oedo lines (address: Caretta Shiodome 46F, 1-8-1 Higashi-Shinbashi,
Minato-ku). Other watering holes that are worth checking out are Kagaya with its country-themed drinks (B1F,
2-15-12 Shinbashi, Minato-ku, take the Karasumori exit at Shinbashi JR station), Ieyasu Hon-jin (1-30
Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Jinbocho station), and the art deco Lion Beer Hall. Restaurants
There are an estimated 300,000 places to eat in Tokyo, so whether you’re looking for stylish
European cuisine or the pleasures of traditional Japanese food you’re sure to find what your heart
desires. If you’re running on a tight budget the “conveyor belt” sushi restaurants are a good option.
Here two or three sushi chefs are hard at work in the centre of a continually rolling circular
conveyor belt. You just take what you want and the waiter or waitress will add up the coloured
plates at the end of the meal (the colour indicates the price of the dish). There is often green tea on
tap. Such eateries are popular with students because they’re cheap, but frozen fish is often used to
prepare the sushi. A popular restaurant is Hyakunincho Yataimura in the financial and shopping district of Shinjuku
(2-20-25 Hyakunincho, Shinjuku-ku, Shin-Okubo station). It has a fun atmosphere and offers fine
Asian cuisine. If you want to sample something more authentic then consider the “Zen” restaurant
Daigo (2-4-2 Atago, Minato-ku, Kamiyacho station) , or one of the small, cheap and entertaining
open-air eating places such as Yurakucho Under the Tracks (2-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Yurakucho
JR station, Hibiya or Ginza exit). Two other excellent outdoor restaurants are Roti in the lively
international neighbourhood of Roppongi (1F Pyramid Bldg, 6-6-9 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Roppongi
station), which offers high quality western style cuisine and is favoured for its weekend brunch
menu, and the appropriately named Terrace Restaurant, at Hanezawa Garden (3-12-15 Hiroo,
Shibuya-ku). If you're in the mood for something more sophisticated you might want to go to Afternoon Tea
Tokyo, Japan
Baker & Diner (2-3-6 Ginza, Chiyoda-ku, Ginza-Itchome station,). The menu was created by the
celebrated British chef Jamie Oliver and is appreciated for its original fusion of Japanese ad western
influences. The Daidaya restaurant serves traditional Japanese cuisine with a touch of modernity
and it's impressive interior makes it worth a visit (8-5 Ginza Nine No.1 Bldg 2F, Ginza-Nishi,
Chuo-ku, Shinbashi JR station). Cinema, Nightclubs
Cinema
The film scene in Tokyo is vast and very international. Check out Metropolis for listings:
http://www.metropolis.co.jp/tokyo/recent/movie_times.asp
Or Piya (Japanese only):
http://www.pia.co.jp/ If you’re more into alternative, non-commercial cinema, then the following list will be of interest
(much of the information is only available in Japanese): Athenée Français Cultural Center :
http://www.athenee.net/culturalcenter/
Cine Amuse East/West:
http://www.cineamuse.co.jp/
Cinema Artone:
http://www.cinekita.co.jp
Cinema Rise:
http://www.cinemarise.com/
Ginza Cine Pathos:
http://www.cinema-st.com/road/r005.html
Eurospace:
http://www.eurospace.co.jp/
Image Forum:
http://www.imageforum.co.jp
Laputa Asagaya:
http://www.laputa-jp.com/laputa/main/
National Film Centre:
http://www.momat.go.jp/FC/fc.html
Tokyo, Japan
Shimbashi Roman Gekijo / Shimbashi Bunka:
http://www.cinema-st.com/classic/c005.html
Shinjuku Kokusai Gekijo / Shinjuku Kokusai Meiga-za:
http://www2u.biglobe.ne.jp/~p-g/menu.htm
Shin-Bungeiza:
http://www.shin-bungeiza.com/
Theatre Pole Pole:
http://www.mmjp.or.jp/pole2/
Nightclubs
Tokyo's clubs often seek to provide their customers with a full “night out” experience, which means
a great meal followed by dancing. A variety of types of food is available at these club/restaurant combinations, from French cuisine to
Japanese fare. La Fabrique (Zero Gate B1F, 16-9 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Shibuya JR station) is worth a
try, as is the smart Orbient (Crystal Bldg B1F/B2F, 3-5-12 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku,
Omotesando station).
Air (Hikawa Bldg B2F, 2-11 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku, Daikanyama station) offers both
European cuisine and an impressive sound system,
and the high-tech Alife (1-7-2 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Roppongi station), is a veritable
haven for clubbers.
If you think size matters then why not give the Club Complex Code a try, it’s one of Tokyo's
biggest (Shinjuku Toho Kaikan 4F, 1-19-2 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku JR station, east
exit).
Edo-Tokyo Museum is a great place to start if you're looking to know all about Tokyo's history. Also of interest are the Tokyo National Museum (Japan's oldest museum), the National Science
Museum, Tokyo, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan), and the
Science Museum. For art lovers there is the National Museum of Western Art, the Ueno Royal Museum, the National
Museum of Modern Art, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography. The Japanese traditional performing arts are Kabuki, Bunraku, Noh and Kyogen. The weird and
wonderful Noh plays combine highly stylised vocalising with impressive traditional costumes.
Kabuki is a synthesis of dance and singing that was created in the 17th century, and Bunraku is a
traditional puppet drama. Kyogen evolved in parallel with the Noh, but is light-hearted and comical.
The National Theatre, National Noh Theatre, Meijiza Theater and National Engei Hall all produce
Tokyo, Japan
performances of these traditional genres. If you’re more into classical concerts, opera or ballet,
then you should check out the programmes at Tokyo Opera City, Bunkamura, or Suntory Hall.
Japan's national sport is Sumo wrestling and there is a centre entirely devoted to the sport called
Kokugikan where the public can watch it in action.
The Tokyo Dome is the place to see another extremely popular sport in Japan, baseball, whereas
soccer matches usually take place at the Ajinomoto Stadium.
If you're more of a doer than a watcher, then contact the Tokyo Metropolitan Sports Facilities
Service, which is responsible for sports facilities in metropolitan parks. Showa Kinen Park also offers
facilities for sports and outdoor activities. There are tennis courts and swimming pools available at theJapan Institute of Sports Sciences
(JISS): National Agency for the Advancement of Sports and Health (NAASH).
Tokyo, Japan
Public Services
1. Consulate
2. Emergency
Tokyo, Japan
Consulate
AUSTRALIA
Consulate of Australia
2-1-14 Mita, Minato-ku,
Post Code: 108-8361
Tel: 03-5232-4111
Web: http://www.australia.or.jp
CANADA
Consulate of Canada
7-3-38, Akasaka, Minato-ku.
Post Code: 107-8503
Tel. 03-5412-6200
Web: http://www.canadanet.or.jp/english.shtml
CHINA
Consulate of China
3-4-33, Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku.
Post Code: 106-0046
Tel. 03-3403-3380
Web: http://www.china-embassy.or.jp/chn/
FRANCE
Consulate of France
4-11-44, Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku.
Post Code: 106-8514
Tel. 03-5798-6000
Web: http://www.ambafrance-jp.org GERMANY
Tokyo, Japan
Consulate of Germany
4-5-10, Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 106-0047 (Hibiya-Line, Station Hiro-o, Exit 1) Tel.: (03) 5791-7700 Fax: (03) 5791-7773 Web: http://www.tokyo.diplo.de UK/GREAT BRITAIN
Consulate of Great Britain
Ichiban-cho, Chiyoda-ku,
Post Code: 102-8381
Tel. 03-5211-1100 Web: http://www.uknow.or.jp IRELAND
Consulate of Ireland
Ireland House, 2-10-7, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku.
Post Code: 102-0083
Tel. 03-3263-0695
Web: http://www.irishembassy.jp ITALY
Consulate of Italy
2-5-4, Mita, Minato-ku.
Post Code: 108-8302
Tel. 03-3453-5291/6 Web: http://www.ambtokyo.esteri.it/Ambasciata_Tokyo/ THE NETHERLANDS
Consulate of the Kingdom of Netherlands
3-6-3, Shibakoen, Minato-ku.
Post Code: 105-0011
Tel. 03-5776-5400
Tokyo, Japan
Web: http://www.oranda.or.jp SPAIN
Consulate of Spain
1-3-29, Roppongi, Minato-ku.
Post Code: 106-0032
Tel. 03-3583-8531/2
Web: http://www.eda.admin.ch/tokyo.html SWITZERLAND
Consulate of Switzerland
5-9-12 Minami-Azabu Minato-ku
Tokyo 106-8589, Japan
Web: http://www.eda.admin.ch/tokyo.html UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Consulate of the U.A.E.
9-10, Nanpeidai-cho, Shibuya-ku.
Post Code: 150-0036
Tel. 03-5489-0804
Web: http://www.uaeembassy.jp The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has compiled a complete list of embassies and
consulates in Japan:
http://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/protocol/index.html Emergency
Minor earthquakes occur frequently in Japan and usually don’t prevent people from going about
their business. Should you be caught in the middle of a violent tremor you should quickly turn off
anything that may cause a fire and identify a door or window that can offer you a means of escape
should a fire occur. Use a pillow or cushion to protect you head and seek shelter underneath a solid
table. NHK radio broadcasts earthquake information in English on 639 AM or 810 AM. The United States Embassy in Japan has compiled an earthquake survival checklist should you
require further information:
http://japan.usembassy.gov/e/acs/tacs-7111.html In Japan any phone can be used to make emergency calls free of charge. Guide for expats in Tokyo - 57
Tokyo, Japan
Police, Fire and Ambulance (English-speaking operator on duty 24 hours a day) - dial 110 Foreign Residents Advisory Center, 03-5320-7744, Open weekdays 9:00 - 12:00, 13:00-16:00 Health and Medical Information Center, Emergency Interpreter Service, (1) 03-5285-8181; (2)
03-5285-8185 58 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Return
1. Before going back
Tokyo, Japan
Before going back
If you have a great deal of luggage you might want to consider sending your suitcases to the airport
ahead of you. The service costs about 1800 yen per item. The following companies provide this
pick-up service: ABC (Air Baggage Service Company Ltd.) - (03) 3545-1131
NTS Sky Porter - (03) 3590-1919
QL Liner - (03) 5994-3332
Yamato Transport Co. - (03) 3541-3411
Be aware that some animal products, such as hide, fur, horns, and antlers require an official
document in order to be taken out of Japan. Due to some outbreaks of Mad Cow Disease (Bovine
Spongiform Encephalopathy) in Japan some countries may not allow you to bring beef or other meat
products with you when you leave. You are advised to enquire at the Embassy of the country
concerned. 60 - Guide for expats in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Credit & References
Copyright EasyExpat Ltd © 2011. All rights reserved.
No part of this guide may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic
or mechanical, including sharing the guide on
third-party platforms, without permission in writing
from the publisher.
You can contact EasyExpat by email:
[email protected]
Author: Gabriel Prynn
Editor: EasyExpat Ltd
Photography: Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons,
Fotolia®, Creative Common EasyExpat Ltd
Cartography: Google maps
Although we make every effort to ensure the
accuracy of all information at the time of the
update, changes do occur. If you want to
rectify an information, add another comment
that doesn't link with a specific section, please
Contact us: [email protected]
http://www.easyexpat.com: If you've got any
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Complete the form and fill a short title for your
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Update: 20/03/2008 © EasyExpat.com
Tokyo, Japan
Notes
Tokyo, Japan
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Guide for expatriates Tokyo

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