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Driving in Japan offers convenience and flexibility, but there are important aspects to consider, from getting a driver’s license without knowing Japanese to renting a car. While the basic rules of the road are similar to those in other countries, the process and consequences of a traffic ticket in Japan can be quite different. Japan’s unique demerit point system and various types of tickets can be confusing. When pulled over, you’ll be asked to show your license and residence card. Police in Japan are (usually) polite and may even apologize for inconveniencing you by pulling you over. However...
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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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When looking for a place to live in Tokyo, you should consider your closest train lines. A train line is more than just your commute to work or school. It’s your connection to the city’s social, commercial and entertainment worlds. With abundant overland and underground routes, you’ll want to make the best choice from the beginning. Our Best Train Lines for Living in Tokyo series has made exploring your options easy. Today, let’s take a look at Tokyo Metro’s Ginza Line: OverviewThe commutePopular neighborhoodsBest three Ginza line stations for living in TokyoGinza Line OverviewThe Ginza Line h...
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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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When looking for a new home in Tokyo, nearby stations and train lines are among the best things to check out. Knowing the city’s extensive public transportation system can help you better enjoy this sprawling metropolis, whether you’re moving in or have been living here for ages. Take the Asakusa line, for example. The Toei Asakusa is one of the best train lines for living in Tokyo. It serves popular tourist spots like Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree and business districts like Nihonbashi. There are also plenty of safe and convenient neighborhoods to choose from. If you want to live in historical Ja...
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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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For many visitors to Japan, where ancient traditions harmonize with modern lifestyles, there lies a definitive Japanese experience: The onsen (hot springs). These natural hot springs, praised for their stimulating properties and serene ambiance, beckon travelers to immerse themselves in soothing waters. Yet, it can quickly fade into disappointment for many visitors with tattoos. Despite tattoos not being outright illegal, there is a cultural barrier associated with a criminal history, often barring those with ink from entry into onsen and sento (community bathhouses). Bathhouses in Japan are t...
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Over the last decade, Japan’s enthusiasm for Halloween has seen a noticeable surge, accompanied by growing commercial promotion. Whereas once the vibrant decorations, imaginative visuals, and elaborate costumes associated with the holiday were primarily confined to attractions like Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, these festive elements have become increasingly mainstream. However, their adoption and interpretation in Japan might differ from what one would expect in Western countries. For instance, while trick-or-treating isn’t widespread, many Japanese people embrace the holiday as an op...
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Recently, Japan has announced plans to reinvigorate rural areas by encouraging families with children to move to neighborhoods with aging populations in the countryside. The goal is to rouse 10,000 people from the crowded capital to more remote communities with aging populations by 2027. If you are tired of the packed trains and busy streets of Tokyo, starting a family and looking for an escape, this might be just the push you need. But is it worth it? How much?Families who relocate will receive 1 million yen if they meet one of three conditions: Employment at a small or midsize company in the...
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After moving to Japan, the excitement and chaos eventually settle, and you might find yourself stuck in a daily routine. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your week, why not pick up a new hobby? There are tons of unique Japanese pastimes, plus Western hobbies and sports just as loved in Japan. Pursuing a hobby in Japan is a fantastic way to get that extra cultural immersion while working on your personal growth. As a plus, you can make new friends, connect within the community and access a creative outlet for stress relief and self-expression. Here are five popular and accessible hobbies...
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