Practical steps and advice for your move and initial days in Japan.

Before You Arrive

• Visa & Residence Card (Zairyū Kādo): Our HR team will guide you through the visa application process. Upon arrival in Japan (at major airports like Narita or Haneda), you'll typically receive your Residence Card. This card is crucial for many official procedures.
• What to Bring (and not to Bring):
  • Essentials: Passport, visa documents, Residence Card (once issued), important personal documents (birth/marriage certificates if applicable, translated if necessary), any critical prescription medication (with doctor's note and check Japanese regulations – see Healthcare section).
  • Comfort Items: Favorite toiletries (some Western brands can be hard to find or expensive), specific non-perishable food items you can't live without (check customs rules).
  • Clothing: Pack for the season of your arrival. Sizes can run smaller in Japan.
  • Electronics & Adapters: Japan uses 100V electricity. Eastern Japan (including Tokyo) is 50Hz. Plugs are Type A (two flat, non-polarized pins). You'll likely need adapters for your devices and potentially voltage converters for items not rated for 100V.
  • Prohibited Items: Be aware of Japan's strict rules on certain medications, weapons, and other items. Consult the Japanese Customs website.
• Initial Funds: While credit cards and digital payment applications are now widely accepted, Japan is still a cash-based society in many smaller establishments. It's advisable to bring a reasonable amount of Japanese Yen (e.g., ¥100,000 - ¥200,000) for initial expenses before you set up a local bank account.

Upon Arrival & First Few Weeks

• Airport Transfer:
  • Narita (NRT) & Haneda (HND): Both airports are well-connected to central Tokyo by train (Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner from Narita; Keikyu Line, Tokyo Monorail from Haneda) and limousine buses. Taxis are available but can be expensive.
• Registering your Address: Within 14 days of establishing your residence (even temporary, if permitted by the accommodation), you must register your address at your local municipal/ward office (kuyakusho or shiyakusho). You'll need your passport and Residence Card.
• "My Number" (Individual Number): After registering your address, you'll be issued a 12-digit "My Number." This is used for social security, tax, and disaster response purposes. You'll receive a notification card by mail, and you can then apply for a plastic My Number Card (optional but can be useful).
• Opening a Bank Account: Essential for receiving your salary and paying bills.
  • Requirements: Typically Residence Card, passport, Japanese phone number, hanko/inkan (personal seal, though some banks accept signatures for foreigners), and sometimes proof of employment.
  • English-Friendly Banks: Prestia SMBC Trust Bank and Shinsei Bank are known for better English support. Major Japanese banks (MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho) are also options but may have less English assistance at local branches. Our team can provide guidance.
• Mobile Phone & Internet:
  • Mobile Phone: Options include major carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank) often requiring 2-year contracts, or MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) which can offer more flexible, cheaper SIM-only plans (e.g., Rakuten Mobile, Sakura Mobile, IIJmio, Mineo, Line Mobile). You'll generally need your Residence Card and a Japanese bank account or credit card.
  • Home Internet: Usually arranged after securing long-term housing. Fiber optic is common.
• Learning Basic Japanese: While not mandatory, it will significantly improve your daily life.
  • Consider apps (Duolingo, Memrise), local community classes, or private tutors.
  • Even learning greetings, numbers, and how to ask for help will go a long long way.
  • Braid provides support for Japanese language classes.