Moving to Japan? Here are some helpful resources I wish I had
Let’s help you get settled in!
Furnishing Your Home (And making it YOURS)
If you’re lucky enough to get a furnished apartment, awesome! If not, you’ll be surprised to find that your new apartment is missing a lot more than you expected, like a refrigerator, or even a stove top for starters.
Before running to Amazon and breaking the bank, here are some amazing resources where you can find secondhand (and even brand new or slightly used) furniture, utilities, decor, or even bicycles for cheap or FREE!
Second-Hand Resources
Jimoty (ジモティー) - A Nationwide Second-Hand Service
Select your prefecture and start hunting for the things you need. Some people offer delivery for free or a fee.
2nd Street - Second-Hand Variety Store
In-person and online shops are available!
Facebook Groups
Depending on your city, you can type in ______ mottainai in the search bar and find results from other residents trying to get rid of their own things!
Local Recycle Shops
You’ll be surprised to find that there are many recycle shops that offer a variety of goods for nearly 80% off the original price. My personal favorite in Kyoto is リサイクルショップリンリン located in Kita-ku.
Affordable Goods for Your Home (Nationwide Chains)
Loft
Tokyu Hands
3Coins
Daiso
These chains can help you find kitchenware, home decor, stationary, hobby items, and household goods!
Daily Life Resources
To make your days easier and more stress-free, here are some things that can help you out!
Charge Spot is a nationwide battery-charging service if you are ever outside without your personal powerbank. These portable batteries can be rented hourly (for a fair price! 330 yen and up) and be returned at most convenience stores. You can register an account with the app and get started whenever you’re in a bind (iPhone cable, Type C, microUSB)
Mobile Suica is your ticket for easy travel, available via your Apple Wallet. Rather than carrying a physical card, your card is available via touch on your mobile device. You can recharge it anytime with a credit card and always see your balance. This can be used for buses and trains.
Setting Up Your Life
Don’t wait—you need to set these things up ASAP.
Japanese Phone Number
Having a Japanese phone number is a MUST if you are going to be staying in Japan long-term. You can easily set up an account with Mobal as they have an English site and English support.
Japanese Bank Account
Be prepared to spend a lengthy time at the post office to set up your bank account with Japan Post Bank. Here is a detailed English guide!
Registering Your Address
Jumin Toroku (resident registration) is required for those staying over 3 months. You must go to your City Hall or Ward Office. If your Japanese is not up to par, please bring someone with you. You can find a step-by-step guide here!
Health Insurance
While you’re registering your address, you can sign up for national health insurance (NHI) at the same office after you register your address. NHI is also known as kokuho.
I hope this information helps you start your life in Japan!
