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For English teachers moving to Japan, it’s common to look at Tokyo first. However, living in Tokyo can be quite expensive, overcrowded and busy. In contrast, Living in Saitama offers a more affordable alternative while providing convenient access to Tokyo and nearby prefectures. It’s less hectic and offers a good balance of city living, nature spots and historic sights. This post will explore the pros of living in Saitama as an English teacher. From cheaper housing options, ease of access and weekend getaways, here’s why new teachers or seasoned professionals will find Saitama to be the ideal ...
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Traditionally, Japanese naming conventions have consisted of a family name followed by a given name. The concept of a middle name is not part of Japanese culture. The language is designed for this two-part naming convention with its kanji writing systems. Thus, foreigners with more than two names often face issues with bank accounts, credit cards and online registrations. To avoid these problems, they may need to drop the extra name from their passport or create a legal alias in Japan. A legal alias (通称, tsuushou) in Japan can simplify bureaucratic processes for foreigners by aligning their na...
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For me, the answer is yes. Fukuoka Prefecture is the best place to live in Japan. I’m not alone in offering my praises for Kyushu’s northernmost prefecture. According to several sources, Fukuoka has earned accolades inside and outside Japan. But, more than the rankings, the experience of living in Fukuoka Prefecture and Fukuoka City, in particular, makes me think this place is great. Curious to find out more? Keep reading for a few great reasons to live in Fukuoka. Fukuoka Prefecture RankingsNumbers don’t lie. Here are a few sources to explain why Fukuoka is the best place to live in Japan. Co...
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People in Japan traditionally prefer cash for transactions, but digital payment apps are becoming more popular. The percentage of cashless transactions increased from 24.1% in 2018 to 39.3% in 2023. There are many options to choose from, including PayPayt, Rakuten Pay, and Line Pay. That said, what is the best payment app for foreigners in Japan What is a Payment App?A payment app allows you to make electronic transactions using your smartphone. To use a payment app in Japan, you need to download and install it on your phone, create an account, link it to your bank or credit card or charge it ...
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One of the first things you’ll have to familiarize yourself with when apartment hunting in Japan is the unique terminology used to describe Japanese apartment layouts. On GaijinPot apartments, we offer apartments across Japan to suit your needs. Each unit is listed with numbers and letters to help prospective tenants understand the size. However,the actual apartment size must be understood beyond these numbers and letters using tatami mat (traditional woven straw mat) sizing. This article will review the basics of understanding standard Japanese apartment layouts and types. Japanese Apartments...
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Congratulations! You’ve decided to propose! Now it’s time to go shopping for wedding rings in Japan. Nowadays, Tokyo has a wide variety of engagement ring options, but that hasn’t always been the case. Wedding rings, while not historically a staple of Japanese wedding culture, became increasingly popular from the 1960s on. While only 5% of Japanese brides owned a diamond ring in 1967, over 60% did by 1981. Portraying diamonds and diamond wedding rings as modern, European and fashionable, De Beers, a giant in the diamond industry, and others convinced Japanese consumers to adopt the practice. A...
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Japan is known for its efficient and far-reaching transportation system. With several train lines and a vast network of buses, it’s easy to get around. However, driving is your best bet if you want to take the road less traveled. For this and many other reasons, having a driver’s license can be handy. Applying for a driver’s license in Japan may seem complicated, but it’s all about knowing what to prepare and going through the proper steps. Whether you’re using an international driver’s license, converting your license from your home country or learning how to drive altogether, here’s how to g...
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Japan once had a reputation for having a high cost of living. Previous surveys such as the one by global consulting firm Mercer, have shown that Tokyo has dropped ten spots. Currently, Tokyo holds 19th place, well behind Hong Kong (1), Singapore (2) and Shanghai (12) for the most expensive cities to live in. Despite the lower ranking, the question remains for people who want to move here: “Can I afford to live in Japan?” The answer is still “yes!” Here’s what you need to factor in to understand how much it costs to live in Japan. Calculating the Cost of Living in JapanThe cost of living measur...
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Everyone wants to live in Tokyo, but not everyone can afford a high-rise apartment in Shibuya. Not everyone is willing to commute from the inaka (countryside) either. To help you get the most out of your rent money, let’s go through the average cost for different neighborhoods in Tokyo and some tips for finding the right place to live—for the right price. Is Tokyo expensive?Average cost by wardWhich ward should I live in?Can I afford central Tokyo?Central Tokyo’s border wards are a good middle groundWhat are the cheapest wards in Tokyo?Outside the 23 wardsIs Tokyo expensive?Tokyo is no longer ...
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If you have yet to embrace the convenience of mobile Suica or Pasmo in Japan, you’re missing out. Suica or Pasmo cards streamline your commute by allowing you to tap in and out at train stations or buses and use them at convenience stores, eateries, and vending machines. However, getting an IC card has become more complex. Due to a worldwide semiconductor shortage, physical cards are less readily available. Tourists still have options, though, with special versions of these cards available. Additionally, digital alternatives are better than ever, offering flexibility in how users access these ...
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