Moving to Japan from the US comes with a learning curve โ different systems, Japanese-only websites, and a few surprises your apartment will throw at you. This guide walks you through it, step by step.
Start from Day 0 โFollow in order, or jump to where you are now.
Narita or Haneda, train or bus, cheap or easy: here is how to choose without wasting money.
Most Japanese apartments are handed over almost completely empty. This guide explains what to expect on day one.
How to choose your communication setup in Japan for the first few days and for longer stays.
Residence registration is required within 14 days of moving in. This guide explains what to bring and what happens next.
Japanโs personal ID number system: when you receive it and when you may need it.
If you are not enrolled in an employer plan, you may need to join National Health Insurance. This guide explains the basics.
Japanese rentals are often mostly empty. This guide helps you figure out what you actually need to buy.
Many banks have restrictions for new residents. This guide explains which options are usually realistic first.
This guide helps you prioritize what you really need in your first week and what can wait.
Trash sorting in Japan is strict and local. If you get it wrong, it can create neighbor problems quickly.
Use as a reference โ jump straight to what you need.
Understand what you're buying before you click the Japanese page.
A Japanese futon is not the same thing many Americans picture. It is usually a foldable floor beddinโฆ
If you plan to eat rice at home, a rice cooker is one of the most useful appliances you can buy in Jโฆ
Shoes are not worn indoors in Japan. Indoor slippers are part of normal daily life.โฆ