Living in JapanThe complete guide to tax-free shopping at Japan's major electronics retailers. Compare Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, Yamada Denki and Edion. Learn about tax-free procedures, point cards, recommended products and the upcoming 2026 tax refund system change.
City GuidesDon Quijote is Japan's most famous discount megastore, open 24 hours at most urban branches. This complete guide covers the store formats, tax-free procedures, insider tips on navigating the packed shelves, and the top 20 items foreign tourists actually buy.
Living in JapanJapanese drugstores aren't just pharmacies — they sell cosmetics, snacks, daily goods and souvenirs, and offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Here's how to use Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Cosmos, and the other big chains.
Living in JapanA complete beginner guide for foreigners on how to play pachinko in Japan. Learn the rules, the prize exchange system, pachinko vs slots, legal status, how to avoid losses, and addiction precautions. Updated for 2026.
Money & PaymentsComplete guide for foreign visitors and residents on currency exchange in Japan. Compare airport counters, banks, Japan Post, ticket shops, Seven Bank ATMs, and Wise/Revolut. Find the best rates and save money in 2026.
AccommodationA foreigner-friendly guide to Japanese business hotels (APA, Toyoko Inn, Dormy Inn, Route Inn, and more). Compare prices, booking tips, amenities, and choose the right chain for your trip.
Living in JapanVisiting Japan without knowing Japanese can feel daunting, especially in emergencies. Unlike many English-speaking countries where you can get by with English almost anywhere, Japan presents unique communication challenges — only about 30% of the population reports being comfortable with English. This guide equips you with the essential Japanese phrases, point-and-speak (YUBISASHI) communication techniques, and...
TransportWhy Bike Sharing Is the Best Way to Explore Japan If you have ever visited Japan, you know the train system is world-class. But here is something most tourists overlook: bike sharing gives you a completely different way to experience Japanese cities. Instead of rushing between stations underground, you can cruise past hidden temples, stop...
Living in JapanComplete guide to using Japan's 25,000+ coin laundries (laundromats). Learn step-by-step instructions, pricing from ¥300, payment tips, and essential etiquette rules for tourists and residents.
Living in JapanOne of the most striking sights that amazes foreign visitors to Japan is the country’s ubiquitous vending machines (jidohanbaiki). Japan is home to approximately 4 million vending machines, making it the highest vending machine density per capita in the world — roughly one machine for every 31 people. Beyond drinks, these machines sell food, daily...
TransportBefore your flight departs from Haneda or Narita, are you fighting through crowded terminals hunting for a power outlet? Most travelers don’t realize that Japan’s major airports offer surprisingly cheap—or even completely free—lounge access. You don’t need to be a frequent flyer elite. Between Priority Pass, credit card perks, and same-day cash passes, you have...
Living in JapanJapan is famous as one of the safest countries in the world, yet many tourists and expats wonder: “Where does all that CCTV footage go?” “Is it illegal to film strangers on the street?” “Is it really okay to walk alone at midnight in Shinjuku?” If you’re planning a trip or a long-term stay, you’ll...
ConnectivityA 2026 comparison of the three main connectivity options for travel to Japan: eSIM, physical SIM, and pocket Wi-Fi. See the pricing, device requirements, and ideal scenarios for solo, family, and business trips.
TransportJapan's bicycle rules changed dramatically in 2023-2026. Understand the helmet duty-of-effort, new blue-ticket fines (up to ¥12,000 for phone use), drunk-cycling criminal penalties, and how to stay safe as a foreign visitor or resident.
ConnectivityA curated 2026 app stack for first-time and long-term visitors to Japan. Learn which of Google Maps, Translate, Suica, PayPay, and 10+ more you actually need — and when to install each one.
Living in JapanStarting June 2026, Japan launches the Specified Residence Card merging your Residence Card with your My Number. Understand the benefits, process, and whether to choose integrated or separate cards.
Living in JapanComplete guide to Japan's Digital Nomad Visa (Designated Activities No. 53): income requirements, eligibility, application process, and step-by-step instructions to apply.
Money & PaymentsJapan's International Tourist Tax jumps from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 per person on July 1, 2026. Learn who pays, exemptions, transitional rules, and how to save on your next trip.
Living in Japan📌 Golden Week 2026: Essential Facts for Visitors Dates: April 29 (Wed) – May 6 (Wed) Minimum vacation: 5 consecutive days (April 29 + May 2-6) Maximum vacation: 8 consecutive days (April 27-May 6, with PTO) Congestion level: ★★★★★ Japan’s 3rd busiest travel period Hotel prices: 1.5-2x normal rates, up to 3x in popular areas...
Living in JapanMaster Japan's moving procedures: move-out notification, move-in notification, 14-day deadline, ward office registration, residence card update, health insurance, pension, and utilities setup for foreigners.
TransportThe complete guide to Japan's train etiquette for foreigners. Learn about phone rules, priority seats, women-only cars, rush hour survival tips, and the unwritten social rules that keep Japan's railways running like clockwork.
Living in JapanEverything you need to know about importing dogs and cats to Japan: microchip, rabies vaccinations, antibody test, 180-day waiting period, quarantine rules, and required documents from MAFF.
City GuidesDiscover Japan's best festivals from Gion Matsuri to Nebuta. Learn how foreigners can participate in traditional matsuri, what to wear, street food guide, etiquette tips, and seasonal festival calendar.
TransportMaster car rental in Japan with our comprehensive guide covering IDP requirements, pricing (¥5,000-10,000/day), traffic rules, insurance, and practical tips for foreign drivers.
City GuidesComplete guide to visiting Japanese shrines and temples. Learn proper prayer etiquette, purification rituals, the difference between shrines and temples, omamori charms, and goshuin stamp collecting.
Living in JapanComplete guide to Japan's sento public bathhouses. Learn bathing etiquette, entry fee (~$3.50), tattoo policies, and how sento differ from onsen. Step-by-step instructions for first-timers.
TransportComplete guide to Japan's takkyubin luggage forwarding service. Compare Yamato, Sagawa, and Japan Post rates. Ship suitcases from airports, hotels, and convenience stores for ~$13-20 per bag.
Connectivity📱 Quick Facts Cheapest monthly plans: ¥990 ($7-8 USD) LINEMO 3GB to ¥1,078 ($8 USD) Rakuten Mobile 0-3GB Short-term (visitors): Mobal, Sakura Mobile eSIM (no contract, 7 days+ plans available) Long-term (residents): IIJmio, mineo, LINEMO, ahamo, Rakuten Mobile (stable and affordable) Required documents: Residence Card (在留カード), Passport, Japanese bank account or credit card eSIM support:...
TransportQuick Facts March 25, 2026: 11 Kanto railway operators launched mutual contactless payment system Major card brands supported: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, UnionPay Simply tap your card or phone—no recharge needed before boarding Coverage: 54 railway lines, 729 stations across Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama Children’s fares: Not available with credit card...
TransportQuick Facts March 25, 2026: 11 Kanto railway operators launched mutual contactless payment system Major card brands supported: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, UnionPay Simply tap your card or phone—no recharge needed before boarding Coverage: 54 railway lines, 729 stations across Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama Children’s fares: Not available with credit card...
ConnectivityFind free WiFi across Japan: airports, convenience stores, train stations, and cafes. Learn SSIDs, connection steps, the Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect app, Tokyo's 2026 phone booth WiFi project, and essential security tips.
Living in Japan✅ Quick Facts for Foreigners Essential information before visiting a hospital in Japan. If you’re a foreigner seeking medical care in Japan, here are the critical points you need to know: National Health Insurance is mandatory: If you’re staying 3+ months, you must enroll at your municipal office Insured patients pay 30%: With insurance, you’ll...
City GuidesQuick Facts Access to Peace Park ~15 minutes from Hiroshima Station (streetcar) Ferry to Miyajima ~45 minutes, ¥2,200 (one-way) Recommended Stay Minimum 2 days (half day Peace Park, full day Miyajima) Daily Budget Budget: ~$55, Mid-range: ~$127 Museum Admission Adults ¥200, Students Free Table of Contents Complete Hiroshima & Miyajima Guide Overview Peace Memorial Park...
City GuidesA complete guide to tax-free shopping in Tokyo for tourists. Compare the best duty-free stores in Ginza, Shinjuku, and Akihabara, learn the difference between Tax-Free and Duty-Free, and prepare for Japan's November 2026 refund system reform.
OkinawaComplete guide to Okinawa's remote islands by ferry. Compare the best islands, ferry routes, fares in USD, booking tips, and seasonal advice for foreign visitors island-hopping from Naha.
AccommodationKey Facts Japan’s Private Lodging Business Act enacted June 2018 Licensed minpaku limited to 180 days per year Foreigners must provide passport information at check-in Illegal operation penalties: up to USD 8,500 fine or jail Approximately 30,000 Airbnb hosts registered in Japan 2026: New centralized matching system validates registration against platform listings [toc] Bottom Line...
City GuidesComplete guide to Kyoto's Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Compare 3 access routes, discover the best walking course, crowd-beating strategies, and nearby attractions with prices in USD.
Money & PaymentsComplete guide to withdrawing cash from ATMs in Japan with foreign cards. Compare Seven Bank, Japan Post fees and limits. Learn to avoid DCC traps and save 5-8% on hidden charges.
City GuidesYour complete guide to Dotonbori street food in Osaka. Discover the 10 must-try foods from takoyaki to kushikatsu, the best walking route, prices in USD, and essential tips for foreign visitors.
TransportArriving at Haneda Airport in the middle of the night? Here's your complete guide to shower facilities, nap zones, hot springs, hotels, and time-killing options available 24/7.
Living in JapanEssential guide for foreign residents: Japan's Residence Card & My Number reporting requirements. 14-day address change deadline is critical—violations carry fines up to ¥200,000. Unified 'Specific Residence Card' launching June 2026.
AccommodationComplete guide to staying at Japan's capsule hotels. Learn check-in procedures, etiquette rules, what to bring, and how to choose the right capsule hotel. Rates from $17/night with free amenities.
City GuidesComplete guide to Kyoto's autumn foliage for international visitors. Discover 8 essential temples, peak viewing dates (November 20-30), practical transportation tips, photography techniques, and budget breakdown for the ultimate autumn leaf viewing experience.
City GuidesSpring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, and if you’re a foreigner living in Japan, experiencing hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is an absolute must-do. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about hanami season, from the best viewing spots to essential etiquette rules. Each year, over 30 million Japanese participate in hanami...
Money & PaymentsJapan has a strict no-tipping culture. Learn why tipping is unnecessary at restaurants, taxis, and hotels, understand kokorozuke etiquette at ryokans, and discover the smartest ways to show gratitude.
City Guides【Quick Facts】 Tokyo has over 4,000 ramen shops Average bowl: ¥800-¥1,200 ($5-8 USD) Ticket vending machines (shokkenki) are the standard ordering method Tipping is never required or expected Slurping noodles is normal and encouraged Main styles: Shoyu, Miso, Shio, Tonkotsu, Tsukemen ## Table of Contents 1. [Introduction: Why Tokyo is Ramen Capital](#intro) 2. [Types of...
Living in Japan📋 Quick Facts Convenience Stores in Japan: 56,000+ Major Chains: 7-Eleven (21,000+), FamilyMart (16,000+), Lawson (14,000+) Operating Hours: Most locations are open 24/7 ATM Support: 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards with multilingual support Tax-Free Shopping: Available at some stores for purchases over ¥5,000 ($35 USD) Services: ATM, package delivery, ticket printing, bill payment, copy/fax/print, Wi-Fi...
TransportEverything foreigners need to know about Japan's bicycle laws, including the new Blue Ticket fine system from April 2026. Covers traffic rules, fines, registration, insurance, and how to get a bike.
Living in JapanComplete guide to renting an apartment in Japan as a foreigner. Understand upfront costs, key money, deposits, guarantor companies, and the best apartment search sites for expats.
TransportEverything foreigners need to know about Japan's overnight highway buses. How to book on WILLER and Japan Bus Online, route prices, seat types, and the Japan Bus Pass explained.
