Relocate
to JapanYour Guide
A handy guide on culture,
relocation and working
in JapanTable of Contents

General Enquiries
contact@woven.toyota
https://www.woven.toyota

About Japan3

Schools & Daycare

113

Entertainment, Recreation & Fitness

13

Safety & Natural DIsasters

123

Finance27

Shopping

132

Governement & Legal

41

Social & Support

147

Healthcare

53

Transport

156

Housing71

Utilities & Communication

172

Relocation

99

Woven by Toyota Employee Benefits

182

AboutJapanYour Guide
A handy guide to culture,
traditions and social etiquette inJapanIntroduction
From 1639-1853, Japan was a closed
country that was inaccessible toforeigners except those arriving at
her trade ports such as Dejima in
Nagasaki prefecture.

As the nation's capital, Tokyo has much to offer. The lifestyle canbe bustling, though, so residents sometimes venture an hour or
so outside of central Tokyo where there are scenic hot springs,
mountain ranges, and traditional sites that provide a relaxing
escape. Due to Tokyo's location, close to both mountains and thecoast, it is possible to travel easily for activities, no matter theseason. Popular choices are skiing, hiking, and visiting thebeach.

Since then, however, Japan has opened her borders, recoveredfrom two world wars, and established herself as a leading
global economy. As a result, the number of foreigners living inJapan has tripled within the past twenty years. Japan's unique
history has created a modern country that also has a wellpreserved traditional culture, making Japan a special place to
live.

Japan Guide
Japan Travel and Living Guide

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

5Weather & Seasons
Tokyo has four well-defined seasons.
Spring
The temperature in Tokyo is moderate, ranging from 13º to 19º C(55º to 66º F) during the day, which is a popular time for people togather for picnics for cherry blossom viewing (hanami). The cherry
blossom signifies the beginning of the fiscal year for the majorityof organizations as well as the school year.
SummerThis period is also the peak of the typhoonseason, which starts in May and runs until
October.
Fall
Fall is a popular season, with crisp air thatbrings much relief after the hot summer days,
along with beautiful foliage and the tastiest
produce.
WinterIn winter, the average day temperature in Tokyo
ranges from 0º to 5º C (32º to 41º F) whereas insummer it can reach above 30º C (86º F) withvery high humidity.

The timing of the rainy season differs throughout Japan. In Tokyo,
it begins in June and ends around mid July. Following the rainyseason, temperatures rise and humidity increases, making for a
hot summer in Tokyo through September.

Your Guide - About Japan

6

National Holidays
There are 16 national holidays spread
evenly over the course of each year inJapan.
Some of them were established for observing
practices in Shinto, Japan's indigenous religion,such as worshipping nature, while others are related
to observing milestones in a person's life. The spring
and fall equinoxes are also celebrated as national
holidays.

The most popular holiday in Japan is New
Year's Day, and most people spend New Year's
Eve through the first few days of the new yearwith family.
The Japanese Calendar & National Holidays

Your Guide - About Japan

7

Currency
There are four types of common
banknote denominations in Japan:¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000.
However, the ¥2,000 note is not commonly incirculation in the country and is typically only issued
at banks and places where you can do currency
exchange. In addition to paper bills, Japan issues six
denominations of coins; ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and¥500. Both the ¥5 and ¥50 coins feature a small holein the center.

As a largely cash-based and safe society, it is notuncommon for Japanese people to carry¥30,000- ¥40,000 in their wallet. ATMs can befound in many convenience stores andcommercial bank branches, though 24-hourservices are usually available only atconvenience stores. The consumption tax inJapan is 10%.
For more information about money in Japan,
please have a look at the Finance playbook.

About Money in Japan

Your Guide - About Japan8

Language
The national language is Japanese(nihongo), which is spoken by 128
million native Japanese.

However, Japanese people are generally very
polite and will often eagerly help foreigners as
best they can.
Apps to help navigate language barriers:
Google Translate
PapagoThe Japanese written language consists of three alphabets:
Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Hiragana and katakana are thenative phonetic alphabets, each consisting of 46 characters,
while kanji utilizes logographic characters adapted from Chinesecharacters. In larger cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka, there are
more English speakers and more English-supported services
than there are in rural areas. Despite learning English (aschildren) as part of their school curriculum, many do not get
regular exposure to English speakers so they tend to have adifficult time communicating in English.

iTranslate
WaygoYour Guide - About Japan

9

Culture & Festivals

For more information on festivals, visit theEntertainment, Recreation & Fitness playbook.

There are countless local festivals(matsuri) in Japan because almost
every shrine has a celebration of its
own.

Shinto Shrines

In Tokyo, there are many seasonal festivals andevents such as firework displays, cherry blossom
viewing (hanami), autumn leaf viewing, andChristmas illuminations. Many Japaneseparticipate in their local festivals, which can featureshrine floats, food and drink stalls, and activities
for both children and adults.

Your Guide - About Japan

10

Social Etiquette
Having an awareness of social etiquette
in Japan is essential.
With harmony (wa) being the primary cultural value,
Japanese people are mindful of being respectful ofothers and hold strong values for cleanliness. You
will see examples of this respect for others
throughout Tokyo. On buses and trains there isdesignated seating for the elderly, the injured andinfirm, as well as pregnant and nursing mothers,
and people will often offer their seats when thetransport is crowded.

In public, people generally are reserved andremain quiet, especially on public transport.
Eating or drinking while walking or while on
public transport is generally frowned upon.
Littering is practically non-existent despite theabsence of public trash bins, so most people
usually hold on to their trash until they find an
appropriate bin. Be sure to sort and throw yourtrash out according to bin labels; you'll findpublic trash bins designated for combustibles,
plastics, cans, etc.
When entering a Japanese house or apartment,
removing one's shoes and positioning them toface the door is custom. As a general rule, being
reserved and keeping the environment around
you clean will take you far.

Your Guide - About Japan

11

Business Etiquette
There are numerous customs to keep inmind when it comes to businessetiquette in Japan, especially wheninteracting with external clients.
Internally, it is important to greet coworkers by saying phrases suchas ohayō gozaimasu (good morning) when you start your work day
and otsukaresama desu (thank you for your hard work). People also
use otsukaresama desu to greet coworkers during the day andbefore they leave the office. It is advisable to greet your coworkers
by using their last name plus san unless they advise you otherwise.
For example, if a fellow coworker's last name is Fukada you should
address them as Fukada-san.

The same goes for non-Japanese coworkers
unless otherwise stated. When greeting clientsor employees from other companies, thehonorifics used are sama and san. Sama is not
used among coworkers as it is used exclusively
with clients. When exchanging business cards,
both hands are used to give and receive, andone should not put away another person's
business card until the meeting has concluded.
When storing another person's business card,
do not store it in your wallet or a place where it
could be easily damaged, instead store it in adesignated case or similar place for safekeeping.
Business Etiquette in Japan:
Business Etiquette in Japan: 17 Definitive Tips to
Do Business With the JapaneseYour Guide - About Japan

12

Entertainment,
Recreation &FitnessYour Guide
A handy guide to culture,entertainment, fitness and leisurein JapanIntroduction
Tokyo is a year-round hub for art,
recreation, and fitness activities.
From museums and galleries to festivals andkaraoke, there are plenty of things to keep you
entertained and connected with Japaneseculture.

Various fitness groups and clubs geared towardforeigners provide opportunities to joincommunities and meet people with sharedinterests and hobbies. In this guide we will
provide some useful information to help you
navigate your recreational time in Tokyo.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

15

Culture

TeamLabMuseum of Contemporary Art

Museums & Galleries
Tokyo is full of various types of museums and galleries, many ofwhich are one of a kind and unique to Japan. New exhibits are
opened frequently and feature a wide variety of works frominteractive sites such as Teamlab to contemporary art museums
such as the Museum of Contemporary Art.

List of popular museums and galleries
TeamLab Borderless

From traditional art museums to digital exhibits to children's
museums, Tokyo has a museum for everybody. Department stores
often host temporary exhibitions, which are convenient andeconomical. Tickets can be bought on site, but there are often
long lines for the more popular exhibits.

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

16

Entertainment
CinemasCinemas in Japan show both domestic and international box
office films. However, showings of Hollywood films may bedelayed up to a year from their original release. Hollywood films
released in Japan are typically in English with Japanese subtitles,
excluding those aimed at a younger audience which arefrequently Japanese dubbed. Promotional events are common atmovie theaters and might include discounts for women, theelderly, and students. Generally, standard adult tickets are priced
between ¥1,500 to ¥1,800. Please note that children under 18 will
not be permitted into movie screenings if the movie ends after
11:00 p.m., even if they are accompanied by an adult. This rulealso applies for arcades and other entertainment establishments.

KaraokeJapan is renowned for karaoke, a form ofentertainment where you can sing along to yourfavorite songs. Most people in Japan enjoy
gathering with friends at karaoke venues, but it
is not uncommon for some to go alone during
the day to relax. Unlike karaoke outside Japan,
which is typically held at bars or restaurants
with an open mic and stage, karaoke venues inJapan are primarily private rooms where people
can gather, drink, and sing. Most karaokeestablishments have systems with English
support and songs are frequently updated. In
addition to Western pop songs they have many
Japanese and Western hits as well as othergenres to suit various tastes.

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

17

Popular karaoke establishments:

Live music

Uta Hiroba

Nippon Budokan, Tokyo Dome, andYokohama Arena host many music
concerts, opera performances,theatre groups, and classic
performances. There are also many
jazz clubs throughout Tokyo hosting
local and international artists.

Karaoke Kan
Big Echo Karaoke

Additionally, there are two big
summer music festivals in Japan; Fuji
Rock and Summer Sonic. These
festivals feature artists from aroundthe world as well as Japan.
For more information on music andtheater entertainment, please visit thelinks below:
Live Music, Films and Karaoke
Going to a Movie Theater in Japan

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

18

Festivals

Major Sports

Each of Japan's four seasons has its own unique set of festivals
and events. Festivals take place across the country and many
regions and cities host their own special events. In Tokyo, there
are many unique festivals celebrating traditional holidays andseasons as well as the culture of various countries. Some arereligious while others are secular and wide-ranging, including
modern anime conventions and even firework displays. Below is
a list of the most popular festivals in Tokyo.

The traditional sport of Japan is sumo wrestling,whereby two opponents try to force each otherout of a circular ring or knock each other to theground. Sumo tournaments in Tokyo take placein January, May, and September. Each
tournament lasts 15 consecutive days, andwrestlers have one match per day.

Tokyo Festivals

Nihon Sumo Kyokai Official Grand Sumo
Homepage

10 Top Tokyo Festivals to Satisfy Your Cultural Craving
Events also take place on weekends in Yoyogi Park (a large,
centrally located park), including many of the country-themed
festivals such as Brazil Fest and Thai Fest.
Yoyogi Park events

Sumo tournament dates and tickets:

Baseball is incredibly popular and there is a
professional men's league. The Japaneseversion of Major League Baseball consists of
two leagues: the Central League and Pacific
League, each with six teams.

Yoyogi Park Events & Festivals
Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

19

Soccer is also very popular, with a men's league that was firstlaunched in 1965 consisting of 8 teams, which has now grown to
18. The Tokyo-based team (FC Tokyo) plays at Ajinomoto Stadiumin the suburb of Chofu. Tickets for sporting events are sold at both
the respective sites and physical venues.
Japan baseball tickets and schedule
Baseball Tickets Calendar
Japan soccer tickets and schedule
Tickets: J.League.jp

Family Activities
There are many fun activities for families andchildren of all ages in Tokyo. Amusement parks,
such as Tokyo Disneyland and Yomiuriland, as
well as attraction-packed places like Odaiba offer
fun-filled day trips. There are also plenty of
inexpensive and free activities for families
throughout Tokyo. The Imperial Palace cycling
course and ferry rides in Tokyo Bay are niceactivities that will not break the bank. For a listof family-friendly activities please visit the link
below.
List of Family Activities
50 Things to Do With the Kids in Tokyo

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

20Fitness

Public gyms
Municipal Gyms & Sports Centers

Gyms
Private gyms in Tokyo often require a membership fee. At around¥12,000 per month on average, they can be expensive comparedto gyms in other countries. There are also public community
gyms in the city that are inexpensive and do not require
membership fees, but facilities may be limited.
Most local authorities operate a training gym or sports center thatis open to the public, with admission prices typically less than¥700 per visit. These facilities usually include a workout area withweights and machines in addition to areas where visitors canpractice sports like badminton, basketball, and table tennis. Somemay have a swimming pool as well, depending on the location.
Here are links to lists of both private and public gyms in Tokyo.

Private gyms
Fitness Clubs & Tai Chi
Martial arts are popular and there are classes
and gyms for each discipline, from karate to Tai
Chi. In addition to having rich cultural value inJapan they offer practitioners the opportunity todevelop self-defense knowledge and ability. The
link below provides a list of public and private
martial arts gyms in Tokyo.
Martial arts in Tokyo:
Learning Japanese Martial Arts in Tokyo –Karate, Judo, Kendo and Aikido

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

21

Fitness Communities
Tokyo offers many cycling and running communities as well asother fitness groups for both Japanese and foreigners. Many ofthem use social media networks like Facebook and Meetup toorganize events and connect with people who share the sameinterests. One popular group is Sogo Fitness, which offers
activities for various sports and skill levels.
Meetup
Sogo Fitness

Indoor Facilities
In addition to indoor public and private gyms, Tokyo has indoor
sporting facilities such as ice skating rinks, rock-climbing gyms,
and squash courts.
The best indoor sports facilities in Tokyo

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

22

Leisure
Spas & Estheticians
Whether you need some time to unwind or to look your best,
there are plenty of spas and estheticians in Tokyo for all budgets.
Many of these places offer English-speaking employees to assist
foreign clientele. There are also many beauty and hair salons inTokyo that cater specifically to foreigners. Below is a list ofrecommended spas, hair salons, and estheticians.
Beauty Salons
50 Best Beauty Salons in Tokyo
Men’s Barbers
Best English Speaking Men’s Barbers in Tokyo

QB House is one of the most popular andinexpensive chain barbers throughout Tokyo,
though English-speaking employees are limited.
You can show staff a picture of your ideal haircut
and they will serve you based on that.
QB HouseYour Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness23

Parks & Gardens
Tokyo is one of the few major cities in the world with greeneryspread throughout the city, making it easy to escape into nature.
There are some centrally located parks and gardens, including
Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen and Yoyogi Park, which are famous fortheir cherry blossoms in spring. Some of the larger public parks
feature event spaces and open grass fields which allow visitors toenjoy a wider selection of activities, ranging from sports tocultural activities.
Teien (gardens) feature the historically tranquil
ambience of traditional Japanese landscaping.
They tend to charge a small admission fee andhave limited opening hours.
List of popular parks and gardens

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness24

Walk & Explore
Tokyo is a great city to explore on foot. Not only does it boast
modern and traditional architecture but it is also very safe andconvenient. There are sidewalks on most streets excluding narrowback streets of residential neighborhoods. The city has manydifferent neighborhoods and walking through them is the best
way to explore and have a mini adventure. Whether you arelooking for a city stroll or a nature hike, Tokyo and its
surroundings have it all. Below you can find a list of some of thebest walking routes in the city as well as walking tours around
Japan.
Great Tokyo walks
Walk Japan – Walking Tours in Japan
Cycling
Many people in Japan ride bicycles as a means of transportation
but there are also many cycling communities and trails forrecreation.

Some of the best trails are just outside the city
on riverbanks, though there are also sometrails in downtown Tokyo such as the ones in
Yoyogi Park. There are also many groups andcommunities for cycling enthusiasts to enjoy
together such as the Tokyo Great Cycling Tour.
Tokyo Great Cycling Tour
List of cycling groups in Tokyo

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness

25

Yoga
Yoga has become very popular in Tokyo and there are many yoga
studios, both boutique and franchise, located throughout the city.
Hot yoga is also becoming more popular. Below is a list of yoga
studios that offer classes in English.

Below you will find a more extensive list of
outdoor activities in Tokyo and the surroundingarea.
List of outdoor activities in Tokyo

Foreigner-Friendly Yoga Studios in Tokyo

Outdoor activities
There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in Japan. In spring,
many people visit parks and gardens for cherry blossom viewing(hanami). In summer, you can take advantage of the beaches in
Kamakura and Chiba, just outside Tokyo. Within Tokyo, there aremany summer festivals and outdoor beer gardens to enjoy.
Autumn and winter are fairly mild in Tokyo, so outdoor activities
are almost year-round.

Your Guide - Entertainment, Recreation, & Fitness26

FinanceYour Guide
A handy guide to banking, tax
and personal finances in Japan

Introduction
From opening a bank account toapplying for a credit card to paying
for things, there is a lot to think about
when moving to another country.
One of the most important things that nonJapanese need to do is make sure their finances
are in order.

Some of the biggest challenges are having financial
commitments in both your home and host country, juggling
finances in different currencies, and moving money between
countries. There may also be more money to manage and amore complex tax situation to deal with.
This guide will highlight key aspects of finance in Japan, to help
you navigate the various nuances of the Japanese financial
system. It is not comprehensive; in finance, the situation often
varies depending on personal situations and specific needs.
However, the information contained here will get you started
and we will provide relevant links for further investigation.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Finance29

Cash in Japan
Japan is reputed to be a
cash-based society but trends
are gradually changing.
There has been a significant increase in theacceptance of other payment methods like credit
cards and prepaid rechargeable IC cards such as
Suica and Pasmo. These IC cards are primarily atool for convenient payment of train and bus fares,
but can also be used to pay for goods and services
at a large number of businesses including mostconvenience stores, many chain restaurants,
numerous vending machines, and coin lockers.

Payment by smartphone is also becoming
increasingly popular. Among the large numberof domestic services are Edy, Rakuten Pay,
PayPay, and Line Pay. They target residents ofJapan and can be difficult to use by foreign
tourists and residents. However, Apple Pay is
becoming increasingly popular in Tokyo sothose already familiar with it may find it easier
to use than other methods of transaction.
Your Guide - Finance30

Bank Accounts & Credit Cards

Most common types of accounts
to open:

You need to open a local bank account to ensure that you can do the following:• Receive your paycheck via bank transfer• Make automatic payments for utilities and other monthly payments• Make payments for services (some companies accept only payment by banktransfer)• Withdraw cash at any time (unlike foreign banks)• Do online banking
Opening a bank account in Japan may be difficult if you do not speak Japanese.
However, woven by toyota offers support to new employees opening a
Japanese bank account. In this section we introduce banks that offer services inEnglish. Regardless of the bank you choose, the accounts available andprocesses involved will be basically the same.

• General deposit account(futsu yokin)• General savings account(tsujo chokin)**This is a post office account and generates a slightly
higher rate of interest than a general deposit account.

• Time deposit account(teiki yokin)**This type of account usually has higher rates ofinterest but may require notice for withdrawals.

• Foreign-denominated currency
deposits, foreign-currency term
deposits(gaika yokin/gaika teiki yokin)Your Guide - Finance

31

The most widely used accounts are
the general deposit account andgeneral savings accountWhat you will need
Please contact the bank for details of what you need to open an
account before you visit. A certificate of employment fromwoven by toyota is necessary to open a Japanese bank account.
English-friendly Banks
These are the only banks where you can open an account within
the first 6 months of living in Japan. All other major banks
require residents to have been living in Japan for at least 6months prior to opening an account. These banks also offer
online banking services in English.
← app does not offer English text-support

Your Guide - Finance32

Applying for a Credit Card
All major credit card companies operate
in Japan, so you can continue to use
your current country-of-issue cards, butthere are exchange rate fees to consider.
Should you like to obtain a Japan-issued credit
card, which is advisable for long-term residents, thebanks/institutions on page 6 can support yourapplication, provided you have the identification
required and details of your employment contract.

Your Guide - Finance33

Using ATMs
The ATMs in Japanese banks,
post offices, and convenience
stores (konbini) usually display amenu and instructions in English.
You can make a withdrawal or deposit, checkyour balance, and make a transfer to anotheraccount. You may be charged a fee to use an
ATM depending on the bank. While post
office ATMs do accept global debit cards not
all ATMs do.

Your Guide - Finance34

Income Tax

Standard Income Brackets

There are three categories for compulsory tax payers: Residents, NonResidents, (and Temporary Residents).

~1,950,000 yen

5%

1,950,000 yen~3,300,000 yen

10%

Residents

3,300,000 yen~6,950,000 yen

20%

6,950,000 yen~9,000,000 yen

23%9,000,000 yen~18,000,000 yen

33%

18,000,000 yen~40,000,000 yen

40%

40,000,000 yen~

45%

These are people who have a domicile in Japan through ownership or rental for
one year or more. If your employment contract expresses a term of a year or
more, you may be considered a resident, with or without a listed domicile.
Residents are taxed on their income worldwide.
Non-Residents
These are people who are not domiciled in Japan. Even if you do not live inJapan, any income earned in the country is subject to taxation. However, if you
are domiciled in Japan for five years or less and you are not a Japanesenational, you are considered a non-resident. If you have an employment
contract that has a long term, you may be subject to taxation. Money brought
into Japan will be taxed.

Tax deductions in Japan are provided for multiple scenarios suchas spousal tax deductions, family members with disabilities, andmedical expenses. This table serves as a general outline of tax
procedures in Japan, for additional information on deductions
please speak with the appropriate woven by toyota
representative or a professional tax advisor.

Japan’s Hometown Tax

Your Guide - Finance35Japanese Pension System
Japan has two types of pension plans:
Employees’ Pension (kosei-nenkin) andNational Pension (kokumin-nenkin).
Both are run by the government.
Employees’ Pension
If you are a full-time employee, you and your family can apply for Employees’
Pension. Your company will automatically deduct the premiums from yoursalary each month; 50% of the premiums will be paid by your company.

Lump-sum withdrawal
When you leave Japan, you can claim alump-sum withdrawal payment, but you
must meet certain conditions to apply.
Employees should ask their company fordetails. Starting from April 2021, themaximum lump-sum payment amount isequivalent to five years worth of pension
contributions. Information in English andan application form for the withdrawal
payment is available at your local
municipal office.

National Pension

Your employer’s HR Team can support
you with more information on theJapanese pension system.

Anyone over the age of 20 who is not employed by a company, such as a
student or freelancer, is required to enroll in National Pension. You need to apply
at your local municipal office.

For more information on tax in Japan,
visit the Government and Legal playbook.

Your Guide - Finance36Money Exchange
Currency exchange is usually handled
by banks, post offices, some larger
hotels, and a handful of licensed moneychangers typically found at international
airports.
Whether it is better to change your home currency
into yen before entering Japan depends on thecurrency you hold. The US dollar, for example, is ahighly traded foreign currency in Japan, so you
might get a favorable rate if you change US dollars
into yen on arrival.

On the other hand, in some Southeast
Asian countries, the foreign exchange
market is very competitive and moneychangers take a smaller cut, so it might
be better to convert your money into yen
before coming into Japan.
The following institutions provide foreign
currency exchange services in English:

The Best Way to Transfer Money to Japan

Your Guide - Finance37

Tax Accountants in Tokyo
If you are unable to do your taxes on
your own, you may want to considerchoosing a reputable English-speaking
accounting agency that can help file on
your behalf.

The following agencies based in
Minato and Chiyoda Wards provide
preparation services in English:
Okamoto & Company
Capital Tax KK
Kaori Fuchi Tax and Consulting

Your Guide - Finance38

Financial Planners in Tokyo
For those seeking thorough financial
support while in Japan, there are anumber of respected financial planningcompanies that specialize in supporting
non-Japanese customers.
They include:
Argentum Wealth Management
AP Advisers Ltd
Tyton Capital Advisors

Your Guide - Finance39

Paying Taxes in your Home Country
It is important to remember that if you holdcitizenship or permanent resident status inanother country you may be responsible forfiling taxes there as well.
Please consult with your respective country’s
internal revenue office for more information.
Videos to consider:
Residence Tax | Income Tax | Spouse Deduction for Freelancers Part-timers
Full-timers Etc. in Japan
How to Open a Bank Account in Japan | Docs Required | Top 3 Recos forOnline or Regular Bank | Etc!

Your Guide - Finance40

Government& LegalYour Guide
A handy guide to systems ofgovernment and law in Japan

Introduction
Governmental and legal procedures
are often a challenge in your homecountry and it is no different inJapan.
Navigating the governmental and legal
landscape as a foreigner, however, adds anotherdimension of complexity. Tasks such as
registering your address and applying for "My
Number" (the Japanese equivalent of a Social
Security and Tax Number System) are essential
in settling in.

You may also find yourself in need of legal
assistance while in Japan. This playbook aims tolessen concern regarding what can be daunting
situations and help you navigate your life inJapan.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

43

Ward Offices in Tokyo
The ward office (kuyakusho) is like yourlocal council office or local government
office and is the place to register youraddress and receive information on
general services for residents.
In addition, many ward offices provide dedicatedservices for foreign residents such as Japanese
language classes and cultural activities. There are 23
ward offices in the greater Tokyo area.

Five central neighborhoods are popular with
non-Japanese residents due to the language
and lifestyle service support offered by theward offices.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

44

Their websites have English language
support pages:

Chiyoda Ward
Website of Chiyoda City (English)

Details about all of Tokyo's
municipal offices
Municipalities within Tokyo

Minato Ward

Shinjuku Ward

Minato City's Official Website (English)

Shinjuku City Office (English)

Shibuya Ward

Chuo Ward

Shibuya City Office (English)

Shibuya City Office (English)

For information about governmental
entities of your home country, such asembassies, please view the Social &Support playbook.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

45

Registering your Address
You can register your address whileliving in a temporary address. Someshort-term accommodation providers,such as serviced apartments, allow you
to register their address at the city office.
You are required to register your address at the local
municipal office within 14 days of moving to yourpermanent address.

To register your address, bring your passport
̄ o)* to theand Residence Card (zairyū kаdmunicipal office and fill out a form. To register
any family members, you need to provide a
Marriage/Birth Certificate that has beentranslated into Japanese. Most municipal offices
allow your attorney to register your address on
your behalf. Your attorney must bring yourpassport, Residence Card, and the letter ofproxy.
If you change your address while living in Japanyou must notify your previous municipal office
and your new municipal office of your new
address within 14 days of the move.
*To learn more about the Residence Card (zairyū̄ o), visit the Relocation Playbook.
kаdYour Guide - Government & Legal46

A Certificate of Residence (Jūminhyō)
is an individual's official registry of
their addresses in Japan.
It is required by law for taxes, census, and national
health insurance, and there may be other cases
when you're asked to provide it. The record ismaintained by the local ward office.
Relevant Video Content
Register your address in Japan at the city officeYour Guide - Government & Legal

47

My Number
A My Number is a unique 12-digit number issued to all
residents who have a residential record at a municipal
ward office. The My Number System is essentially asocial security and tax number system.
After you have registered your address at your ward office, a My Number
number will be created. A My Number Card is a plastic card that contains an
IC chip and features the bearer's name, address, date of birth, sex, My
Number (the 12-digit number itself), and a photograph.

My Number Card can:• Act as a document certifying one’s Individual
Number• Act as an official identification card for
identity verification• Act as identification for online applications forvarious administrative procedures• Act as a seal (an official stamp commonlyused inplace of a signature in Japan)
registration card, a library card, a healthinsurance card, and as a multi-purpose card
for a wide range of public services• Be used for various private onlinetransactions• Be used for obtaining various certificates atconvenience stores etc.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

48

Japanese Health Insurance
Anyone not covered by Social/
Employees' Health Insurance, which isprovided to most full-time employees,
needs to enroll for Japanese Health
Insurance at the ward office.
When you register your address it is likely you willthen be directed to the Health Insurance
Department. Enrolling for Japanese Health
Insurance is a similar process to address
registration, involving filling out forms and̄ o).
presenting your Residence Card (zairyū kаdJapanese Health Insurance
Japanese health insurance system
More details on the Japanese Health Insurance
system can be found in the Healthcare
playbook in this series.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

49

General Information

For information regarding your home country,
visit the Social and Support playbook for a listof Embassies.

Ward offices provide a wide variety ofgeneral information about living in yourward including Japanese language
classes, living procedures (such as trash
and recycling), disaster prevention,
health information (including
pregnancy), children and education,
environment and construction, andculture and tourism.
Researching your ward office's website can provide
you with information on which services can beprovided in English.
Your Guide - Government & Legal

50Immigration Services
There are resources available regarding
immigration and visas, both online and inperson. Support for foreign residents on
various issues are available at yourmunicipal ward office and through theTokyo Regional Immigration Service
Bureau.

However, if you choose to use an immigration
lawyer they will prepare the application forms
and submit them to the immigration bureau on
your behalf. Please see the list of professional
relocation agents in the Housing playbook inthis series.
Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau
Immigration Services Agency of Japan

If you choose to use a professional relocation firm,
they may also assist in providing information and/or submit the applications for various types ofimmigration-related matters.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

51

Legal Services

List of lawyers in Tokyo

If you need legal support while in Japan,
please refer to this list of family andcriminal lawyers providing support forindividuals.

Free English Consultations

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in JapanFree Consultations in English and Lawyers in
Tokyo

The lawyers and firms listed have expressed theirability and desire to represent foreign clients incriminal and civil cases. Please note that these areprivate law firms and as such require payment.

Your Guide - Government & Legal

52

Healthcare& DentalYour Guide
A handy guide to medicines,
hospitals and dental clinics inJapanIntroduction
Japan has a world-renowned
healthcare system comprising
medical facilities that are generallyclean and modern, with helpful staff.
There are relatively few General Practitioners andfamily doctors; rather, most doctors are
specialists in a particular field of medicine.

The most common specializations include
otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat), internal
medicine, and dermatology. When you are sick or
injured you need to choose a facility thatspecializes in the appropriate area of medicine foryour condition. This guide has information thatwill help you navigate the Japanese healthcare
system.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

55

Japanese Health Insurance
Japanese healthcare covers most medical
fields including dental and vision care.
Areas not included in national Japanese healthcare include
mental health, contraception, and giving birth, thoughvouchers are provided by the local government for giving
birth and prenatal procedures. There are two public healthinsurance programs in Japan: Social/Employees’ Health
Insurance and National Health Insurance. By law, allresidents of Japan (including foreign nationals with aresidence card) must be enrolled in a public healthinsurance program. Those over the age of 40 are also
required to pay Long-term Care Insurance.

Social/Employees’ Health InsuranceSocial/Employees’ Health Insurance(shakai kenko hoken) is a workplacebased health insurance system forcompany employees and theirdependents.
Premiums are based on your income, andare equally shared by employer andemployee. The employee’s portion is
automatically deducted from their salaryeach month. An insured person’s numberof dependents does not affect thepremiums. If a dependent’s annual
income exceeds ¥1,300,000, they will be
required to get their own insurance.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

56

National Health Insurance
National Health Insurance (kokumin
kenko hoken) is run by local municipal
offices and designed for self-employedpersons, students, and others who do nothave Employees’ Health Insurance.
Paying for treatment
Japanese health insurance generally
covers 70% of the cost of diagnostic andtreatment procedures, and is accepted atmost clinics and hospitals. The remaining
30% can be paid in cash. For treatmentsthat fall inside the bounds of publichealth insurance, the cost of treatment
should not differ, regardless of the clinic.
A consultation fee will always be charged
when you see a doctor. Some services,
however such as health check-ups,
comprehensive medical examinations(ningen-dokku), dental check-ups, andspecial operations such as implants may
not be covered by insurance, so it isadvisable to inquire first. If you incur
high-cost medical expenses (kōgaku
ryōyōhi) in a given month, the amountabove the limit will be reimbursed to you.
This reimbursement letter will be sent toyou by mail 2-3 months after yourhospitalization which you can then claim
at your local municipal office.
Medical Expenses and Health Insurance

Note: Some dental procedures differ from those in othercountries, specifically in regard to cavity fillings andanesthetics. Please ensure that you understand theprocedure before proceeding to avoid confusion regarding
price and method.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

57

Private and Foreign Insurance
Private insurance plans are available
that will reimburse the portion of fees
not covered by public insurance.

Foreign and international insurance schemes
may allow you to receive reimbursement for
medical expenses incurred in Japan. However,these are more applicable to tourists and not
people relocating.

If you do not have Japanese health insurance or thehospital or clinic does not accept it, your medical
expenses must be paid in full on completion oftreatment. Japanese health insurance is often notaccepted by clinics specifically serving foreign
residents, therefore it is advisable to inquire when
making an appointment.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

58

Medications and Prescriptions
Many over-the-counter drugs areavailable at pharmacies. If you cannot
find what you are looking for, a quick
search on a translation app can often
uncover a drug’s active ingredient inorder to find a substitute drug.
In major metropolitan areas, there are limited 24hour pharmacies. Some 24-hour drug stores, which
also sell general health products, may have theirpharmacy windows or shelves locked at certain
hours.

Japanese pharmacies do not honor foreign
prescriptions, therefore if you have a chronic
illness it is best to find a local care provider tohelp you.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

59

Prescription Drugs in Japan
Many prescription drugs are available inJapan, but they may not be of exactly thesame formula as in your home country.
Therefore, while your doctor may prescribe a
medication for your ailments, it may not provide
the relief you might expect as some medication in
Japan can be of a lower strength.
You should consult with your doctor
about the specific effects and desired
outcome of the medicationprescribed if you have any questions
or concerns.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

60

When to Fill Your Prescription:
in Japan or Abroad?
If you are planning to move to Tokyo and areconsidering whether to get your prescription
filled in Japan or your home country, there
are a few things to consider:• Some drugs that can often be obtainedin other countries with a prescription
are illegal in Japan. Consult the
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
website for guidelines.

• You can bring one month’s supply of
permitted prescription drugs into thecountry for personal use. If you areplanning to bring more than this, youneed to get an import certificate
approved by pharmaceuticalinspectors appointed by the Japanese
government (yakkan shoumei) in
advance. The process is outlined on the
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
website.

• If you need a foreign prescription
filled, either do it before you travel toJapan or wait until you arrive andmake an appointment with an Englishspeaking doctor.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental61• If you have specific injectable drugs(including insulin pump) or othermedical equipment like a CPAP device,these also need to be approved bypharmaceutical inspectors. Make sureto get a yakkan shoumei prior totraveling to Japan with these items.

• Several classes of over-the-counter
drugs that are common in somecountries are illegal in Japan.
Examples include some painkillers andsome allergy medicines.

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare:
General (English)
The website of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare:
Medicines for personal use
Information for those who are bringing medicines for
personal use into Japan

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

62

In Case of Emergency
In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can be called by dialing 119. If
you are not sure if your case qualifies as an emergency, you can dial #7119
and speak to an operator. If an ambulance is deemed necessary, yourcondition will be assessed by the EMT and you will be taken to an
appropriate facility.

For more information on what to doin general emergencies, visit the
Safety and Natural Disasters
playbook.
Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

63

Drugstores and Pharmacies
Drugstores selling basic medications
and a wide range of everyday items
are very common in Japan.
Most do not handle prescriptions, so you should
check the location of the nearest pharmacy tohave your prescription filled.
Pharmacies typically specialize in prescriptions,but may also have some basic medicines
available to anyone.

They will often provide you with a kusuri techō(medicine notebook) that can be used to keep
track of the medicines you have received.
Pharmacies with English-speaking
support in Tokyo:
English speaking pharmacies in Tokyo

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

64Children's Immunization
Japanese preventive vaccination law
states that parents have a duty tomake efforts towards having theirchildren immunized against certain
diseases.
In Japan, immunizations are classified into two
major types: routine immunizations (teiki-yobousesshu) and optional immunizations (nini-yobousesshu). Most local governments provide routine
immunizations free of charge.

In some cases, immunization slips will be sent to your housewhen your child becomes the eligible age. Since these
immunization slips are sent according to resident registration
data, be sure to let your local government know of new familybirths or a change of address. Optional immunizations are notfree; charges may differ depending on the hospital or clinic. Your
municipal office will automatically send you a notification in the
mail as soon as the vaccination season begins. Additionally,some schools will request a list of immunizations your child hasreceived, so please check with the school you plan to send yourchildren to for a specific list of required immunizations.
Children Immunization:
Child Immunization

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

65

Women's Healthcare Providers
Tokyo offers many high-quality women’s
healthcare providers. However, most offer
services only in Japanese.
The following links provide a basic overview of relevant
services, including check-ups, obtaining the pill, fertility,
and more.
List: OBGYNs
Tokyo-based English Speaking OBGYNs
Blog: OBGYN in Japan
Lady Doctor Basics: Women’s Health in Japan

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

66

Things to Consider when Having
a Baby in Japan

Pregnancy and childbirth resources

The Japanese health and social support
system can be a little confusing when it
comes to pregnancy.

Giving Birth In Japan: How Much
Does Childbirth And Childcare Cost?

From discount vouchers and booking of hospital beds to thedifferent types of medical facilities, the system of care andsupport can all seem somewhat old fashioned.

Tokyo Pregnancy GroupThe links on the right will provide an overview of what toexpect and what you need to do, as well as a rough idea ofoverall expected costs.

Japan With Kids
an interactive on-line community for
English-speaking parents featuring
support groups, discussions, and soon.

Having a Baby in Japan: Everything
you Need to Know

Make labour a little “easier” andmore effective with Movement!

Childbirth Education Center(CEC) for consultation, pre-natal
classes of all kinds, and doula/interpreting services

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

67

Mental Health Support
Sometimes living in a foreigncountry can really take its toll on you,especially if your personal life isn’t
going so well and/or you have amental illness.

TELL Japan
An English-speaking mental healthorganization offering TELL Lifeline, for free,
confidential support, and counseling services.
Additional Resources
English-Speaking Therapists, Psychiatrists
and Psychologists in Tokyo

If you require mental health support there are anumber of English-speaking mental healthcare
providers in Tokyo.
Additionally, woven by toyota has a Psychologist stationed attheir office 4 days a week and provides free consultations. They
also conduct an annual stress check survey.

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

68Dental Clinics with English
Support in Tokyo
Like healthcare, Japanese dental services areof high quality. Visiting a dentist (haisha) is
by appointment only.

You will be asked to fill in aquestionnaire before proceeding to
your checkup. On your first visit, thedentist will usually take an X-ray, even
if it is just a regular checkup, so haveat least ¥5,000 with you as you willoften be required to pay cash.
Dental Services (English Support):
Doctors, Dentists and Staying
Healthy

The process is likely to be very similar to that in your homecountry. Call or book online before you go, and show up foryour appointment with your health insurance.

List: Dental clinics (English support)
Hospitals and Clinics (Tokyo)

Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental

69

Hospitals and Clinics withEnglish Support in Tokyo
Hospitals usually operate on areservation-only basis for your initial
visit and always reservation-only fromyour second visit.

Once you are called, your doctor will guide you throughthe examinations, typically asking more detailed
questions. Be prepared to wait longer if you are visiting alarger hospital. From your next visit, you will be given a
medical card (shinsatsuken) for the hospital, usually withyour next appointment written on the back. Carry thiswith you every time you visit the hospital.
Top options for expats:
St. Luke’s International HospitalTokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital

If you have a referral letter (shokaijo) from a clinic,
show this to the person in charge at the reception
desk along with your health insurance. You willthen be guided to the relevant department where
you can wait at the waiting area.

Japanese Red Cross Medical Center
Sanno Hospital
Seibo Hospital
Japan Hospital Search
Others:Hospitals and Clinics (Tokyo)
Your Guide - Healthcare & Dental70

Housing
Your Guide
A handy guide to real estate,property leasing andhomemaking in Japan

Introduction
While any international move can bechallenging, a move to Tokyo often
requires unique lifestyle adjustments
and the reordering of one’s priorities.
The sheer size and complexity of Tokyo may
initially seem insurmountable. However, withproper planning many foreign residents are able
to settle in comfortably and quickly come toappreciate the unique cultural and social
opportunities living in Japan’s capital affords.

The key lies in creating a lifestyle that isconvenient and rewarding for all family members.
Choosing the right suburb to live in is a key
ingredient.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

73

Choosing a Suburb
The following neighborhoods are known to be
comfortable and foreigner-friendly, making them
popular among newcomers to Tokyo.

Regardless of where you choose, be assured thatTokyo is known for its safety and convenience.
Grocery stores, drug stores, convenience stores, andpost offices are usually no more than a 5–10-minute
walk from your home.

They have many international schools, shops, and restaurants, eachwith English-speaking staff. You should decide on the best place to live
based on where you work, access to school for your children, and thetype of lifestyle you lead.
Finding the right home and understanding a lease
Guide to Renting an Apartment in Tokyo, Japan
Image: Tokyo Area Flood Map
Ground elevations in the lowlands of Tokyo

Your Guide - Housing74

Yoyogi, Ebisu, Daikanyama, andShibuya areas
Located between business areas and suburban areas,
these places offer an easy commute to Otemachi andRoppongi, with a relatively peaceful living environment.
They are popular among singles and families.

Hiroo, Azabu, Roppongi, Aoyama, andOmotesando areas
These are the primary residential areas of foreigners incentral Tokyo. They offer a good environment forforeigners due to their proximity to the bus routes ofinternational schools as well as international
supermarkets and major business areas.

Your Guide - Housing

75

Meguro-ku, Setagaya-ku, and the suburbsof Tokyo

Nihonbashi, Kachidoki, Toyosu, Ginza, andthe Tokyo Bay areas

These quiet and restful areas are away from busy
central Tokyo. There are many foreigner-friendly
detached housings, compounds, and low-riseapartments built along the bus routes of international
schools.

These areas are located on the east side of Tokyo from
Nihonbashi to Tokyo Bay and have attracted many stock
brokerage firms. There are therefore many tower
apartments in the Tokyo Bay area, which offer hotel-like
quality services and ocean views.

Your Guide - Housing76

Common Forms of Housing
The most common forms of housing forforeigners in Japan are apartments/
condominiums and houses.
Apartments/Condominiums
The characterization of buildings in Japan is based on theconstruction materials and quality. A concrete apartment/
condominium complex of three or more floors is called amanshon, whereas, an apаt̄ o is usually less than three floors andconstructed of wood. This makes “mansions” more expensive as
they are better-insulated and can be built much higher. Buildings
with at least five floors usually have elevators, and more modernbuildings often have a main entrance with auto-lock doors.
Apartments range from one-room studios to properties with threeor more bedrooms, and may encompass more than one floor.

HousesDetached houses are the most common type offamily home outside of Minato-ku and othercentral neighborhoods in Tokyo. They areparticularly common in the suburbs and smaller
towns, but can be found in central locations as
well. Renting a house may give you more
freedom with pets, and allow you to enjoy
activities such as gardening if the property
includes a backyard.
Though tatami mat flooring is available in someapartments/condominiums, it tends to be morecommon in houses, for those who would like toexperience a more Japanese living environment.
No matter what kind of house you end up living
in, you should be no more than a 10–15 minute
walk from the local or major train station.

Your Guide - Housing

77Real Estate Terms
Below is a table of abbreviations and terms commonly used in the real estate business inJapan. Floor plans are written using numbers and alphabets; the number indicates thenumber of bedrooms and the letters show the other areas the property comprises.

L

Living room

Over 8 jo (approx. 13m²)

S

D

Dining room

Over 5 jo (approx. 8m²)

Washitsu

K

Kitchen

About 4 jo (approx. 6.5m²)

DK

Dining-kitchen

1 room of 8-14.5m²

LDK
1R

Living-dining-kitchenStudio Apartment

Storage RoomJapanese style

Tatami floor

Yoshitsu

Western style

Wooden or carpeted
floor

RofutoLoft

Loft

BerandaBarukoni

Veranda/Balcony

Balcony

1 room over 14.5m²
Undivided, open spaceYour Guide - Housing78

As an example, a 3LDK housing unit
will have three bedrooms and one
living-dining-kitchen room.
The size of each room is usually shown on the floorplan, either using the Japanese unit jo, which isequivalent to the size of one tatami mat (1.6m²). The
floor plan will also indicate whether the room hastatami or wood flooring.

洋室
6帖

押入

洋室
7.1 帖

WC

収納

洋室
4.5 帖

洗面

浴室

LDK
12.1 帖Your Guide - Housing

79Apartment Features
In Japanese apartments one can expect tosee a cupboard for shoes in the entrance(genkan).
Should you have a traditional Japanese-style roomin your home, you will have an oshiire (deep closetwith sliding doors) where futon bedding is stored.
These can be converted easily into Western-style
closets for storing clothes by using temporary bars
and shelving units.

Bathrooms and Toilets
Japanese bathrooms can be broadly divided
into two types: those where the toilet andbathtub are in the same room (yūnitto basu),
and those where the toilet and bathtub are indifferent rooms. The yūnitto basu, or unit
bathroom, is generally a compact, square roomfeaturing the bathtub, toilet, and sink. A tap isshared by the bath and sink. Most Japanesepeople wash using the shower (often sitting on astool) and use the ofuro (bathtub) for soaking
only.

Your Guide - Housing80

Larger properties will often have the toilet in a small, separate
room. Many Japanese people keep slippers specially for use
when using the toilet in this room. The washstand may be in a
separate room, adjacent to the toilet and bathroom.
Many Japanese toilets feature an electronic bidet and seatwarmer with customizable features. Whether the toilet is separate
or not, the bathroom is usually waterproof, with the floor
designed so that all water flows towards the drains. Somemodern bathrooms have a heating function in addition to theextractor fan, designed both to dry off the bathroom after use toprevent mold and for drying laundry.

Many Japanese apartments have only a washer
without a separate dryer, so most people hangtheir clothes dry outside or in their bathroom.
There may also be a function to automatically fill
the bathtub to the desired level at a designatedtemperature, or to maintain the temperature of
the water in the tub.

Your Guide - Housing

81

Heating and Cooling

Kitchen Appliances

Most Japanese residential buildings do not have central heating
and are very cold in the winter. Air conditioning units (ea-kon),
however, have modes for both heating and cooling. Electricalspace heaters and standing fans can be used to cover areas
where there is no air-conditioning. In winter some people sit
with their legs under a kotatsu (a heated coffee table covered
with a blanket) for warmth. The heater does not produce enoughheat to warm the whole room, but the blanket keeps the heatinside to warm the legs.

Many kitchens are equipped with either a gas or electric stove. It
is traditional in Japan to grill fish, so many stovetops come witha small grill feature. It is not however traditional in Japan tobake, so it is unlikely that you will have an oven in your kitchen
unless you select an apartment that has been designed for
expatriates. People who enjoy baking will typically purchase a
microwave oven which offers both microwaving and baking
features. These can be found in electronics stores along with
toasters, rice cookers, washers, driers, and other home
appliances. For more information on shopping, visit the
Shopping playbook.

Your Guide - Housing82

Renting Costs: an Overview
Here is a rundown of the various costs you can expect when you rent through aJapanese agency:
Rent

YachinPaid monthly

Maintenance fee

Kanrihi

Paid monthly with the rent

Key money

ReikinDepositShikikin

Guaranty money

Hoshōkin

Agent's fee

Chūkai-Tesuryō

Non-refundable upfront payment to the landlord. It usually accounts toapproximately 1-3 month's rent. Accommodations designed for shorter termstays or for residents from overseas will often not be charged Reikin.

Upfront cost, returned when you move out as long as your rent has been
paid. The cost of any repairs or cleaning may be deducted.
Commission paid to the real estate agent that helped to close the deal.
Consumption tax may be charged.

These are people who are not domiciled in Japan. Even if you do not live infee paid to is
the subject
landlord if you
like to rent
the room forif
anotherJapan, any income earned in the Acountry
to would
taxation.
However,
you lease
Renewal fee
term. A lease term is generally two years, and the fee is usually about one
Koshinryō
are domiciled in Japan for five years
orrent.
less and you are not a Japanesemonth'snational, you are considered a non-resident. If you have an employment
Required at most rented rooms, usually charged when signing theFire insurance
Kasai hoken
contract that has a long term, youcontract
maytoberentsubject
the room. to taxation. Money brought
A fee may be charged to change the keys to the property (to discourage
FeesJapan
to changewill be taxed.
intoKagi koukanhiyō
the door keys

break-ins, etc.)

These elements can impact housing
pricing (usually mentioned in thelisting):• Train station/line• Distance from bus stop or othertransportation• Nearby supermarkets andconvenience stores• Age of the building• Floor level of the apartment• Direction that the apartment faces(South is most popular for evensunlight; East is least popular as it
is very bright in the morning andcan be hot in the summertime)• Land elevation (flood zone or highground) see this map

Your Guide - Housing

83Average Rental Rates in Tokyo Within Key Expat Suburbs
Hiroo, Azabu, Roppongi, Aoyama, and Omotesando areas
Size (sqm)
Apartment

Meguro-ku, Setagaya-ku, and suburbs of Tokyo

Rent ( in 10,000 JPY units)

Size (sqm)

Low

Mid

High

Apartment

Rent ( in 10,000 JPY units)
Low

Mid

High

1 bedroom

50

32

46

68

1 bedroom

50

28

38

52

2 bedrooms

80

54

80

100

2 bedrooms

80

36

53

69

3 bedrooms

120

77

120

160

3 bedrooms

120

55

70

95

Yoyogi, Ebisu, Daikanyama, and Shibuya areas
Size (sqm)
Apartment

Nihonbashi, Kachidoki, Toyosu, Ginza, and Tokyo Bay areas

Rent ( in 10,000 JPY units)

Size (sqm)

Low

Mid

High

Apartment

Rent ( in 10,000 JPY units)
Low

Mid

High

1 bedroom

50

29

44

50

1 bedroom

50

25

35

41

2 bedrooms

80

49

66

85

2 bedrooms

80

30

42

51

3 bedrooms

120

66

90

120

3 bedrooms

120

57

70

88

Your Guide - Housing

84

Types of Lease Contract
Normal Lease Contract (Renewable)
Usually the length of a lease contract is two years. This does notmean that you must stay in your apartment for the contract’s
duration and there is no penalty for leaving before your contract
ends. Sometimes a renewal fee arises at the time of an agreement
renewal.
Fixed-Term Lease Contract (Not renewable)
The rental agreement terminates on the expiry date of theagreement. The agreement can be re-contracted only if both thelessee and lessor agree to do so.

Your Guide - Housing

85

Time Frame and Steps
Involved in Obtaining a HomeYou should generally begin your home search atleast two weeks prior to your desired move-in
date.

You should plan on spending at least
one day viewing properties. If special
needs must be met, you might wantto spend up to a week. What follows
is a typical schedule of events once
you have located a property thatinterests you.

It is difficult to secure a suitable property more than eight weeks
before a move-in date, except when applying for a property thatis currently under renovation or when the existing tenant
cooperates in a property’s showing.
Additionally, the woven by toyota HR Team can provide a list of
preferred vendors for relocation assistance including support forfinding a home.
Real Estate Negotiation Practices in Japan:
How to Negotiate on the Asking PriceYour Guide - Housing86

1 Application

2 Landlord's Response

3 Draft Contract

A document stating intent to contract alease. (Applications are not legallybinding but they should not be submitted
casually; let your agent guide you in thisprocess). Any requests related to theproperty must be submitted at this time
and will be considered by the owner.

The time it takes to receive a response to
your application varies by landlord. One
landlord may give you an answer
immediately, while another may take up
to 10 days when a background check ofapplicants is required.

This is generally prepared in Japanese.
An English translation may be available
depending on the landlord. A copy may
be sent to the corporate HR Team forreview, negotiation, and approval. Your
real estate agent will also review thelease terms.

Requests typically include minor
maintenance or renovation work and the
addition of various fixtures, cable, orsatellite TV. Again, it is best to let youragent guide you in making these requests
as their negotiability will vary fromproperty to property.

If you are “accepted,” move on to draft
the lease. If you are declined, continue
your housing search. Landlords may“accept” under certain conditions,meaning the elimination or reduction ofrequests. Your agent will negotiate on
your behalf in these situations.

Your Guide - Housing

87

4 Final "Original" Contract

5 Prior to Move-in Day

6 Move-in Day

Once all parties agree, an “Original”
contract is made. There can be no further
negotiation at this stage. The “Original” istaken to your company for completion.
All related fees must be paid before thelease’s start date. Japanese landlords will
never turn over a property before
receiving a payment in full.

Your agent will see that all utilities,
telephone, and satellite or cable services
are arranged before you move in. Your
real estate agent will also coordinate withyour moving company and the building
manager to see that the move is assmooth and trouble free as possible.

Your agent will conduct a thoroughinspection of your new property and train
you in the use of all appliances andclimate control systems, such as how to
use the remote for your air conditioner,
how to operate your electronic toilet, how
to use your washing machine, and more.
Air conditioner:
How to Use your Japanese Air Conditioner
RemoteElectronic toilet:
Guide to Japanese Toilets! Japanese Toilet
Buttons Infographic
Washing machine:
Guide to Japanese Washing Machines!

Your Guide - Housing

88Real Estate Agencies that
Support Expat Housing

Plaza Homes, Ltd.
Real Estate in Tokyo, JapanKen Corporation Ltd.
Tokyo Real Estate - Ken Corporation Ltd.
Real Estate Japan
Foreigner-Friendly Properties for Sale andRent in Japan - Real Estate Japan

Your Guide - Housing

89

Short Term Rental

Suumo
Searching for Rentals in Japan: a
Beginner’s Guide

Many people moving to Japanchoose to find a short-term rental tolive in while searching for a more
long-term home.
Tokyo can cater to foreigners looking for a place
to stay for a few months. Short-term rentals areusually furnished apartments, but there are also a
few unfurnished options. Costs vary, starting from
¥80,000 per month, depending on your needs.

Monthly Furnished Rentals in Central Tokyo:
Monthly Furnished Rentals in Central Tokyo
Short Term Rentals and Furnished
Apartments in Tokyo:
Short-term rentals and furnishedapartments in Tokyo

Your Guide - Housing

90

Relocation AssistanceIf you find yourself overwhelmed by thetask of moving to Japan from abroad,consider a relocation company tohelp you.
In addition to moving your possessions to your new
home, experienced relocation companies provide
personal assistance in various matters such as visa
procedures, applications/registrations with municipal
offices and public services, setting up bank accounts
and finding schools. They can also advise on the
supermarkets, shops, and restaurants in yourneighborhood.

The woven by toyota HR team canprovide several preferred vendors forrelocation support, please contact themfor more information.

Your Guide - Housing

91

Purchasing Furniture

It is also common to rent furniture andeven other housing materials andappliances from blinds to TVs.

As a general rule, it is typically notadvised to ship large furniture fromabroad as it often does not fit inJapanese apartments.

For more information on purchasing
homegoods and appliances, please visit
the Shopping playbook.

If you plan to source furniture in Japan after you
have made your move, here is a list of furniturecompanies where you can easily source all of theitems that you need. These companies offer
shipping and delivery services so you do not needto have a car to transport large items.

Recommended furniture shops in Japan:
Francfranc
Francfranc Official Online Store
Muji
Muji Rushi Ryōhin Keikaku
Ikea
IKEA Japan - Furniture and Home Goods

Your Guide - Housing

92

Utility Bills and Payment

Utility suppliers:
TEPCO (electricity)

A “notice of consumption” is mailed to you
and indicates the amount to be billed andalso counts as a receipt if your bill is paid via
bank withdrawal. The notice may appear to
be a bill, but it is not.
Utility bills can be arranged to be paid automaticallythrough your bank or post office. You can also pay the billwith cash at the post office, banks, and convenience stores(7-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson etc.). For further details
about contracts and applications for using different
payment methods, please contact the utility company.

Credit Card Payment Procedure(New/Changed)
Tokyo Gas
About Credit Card Payment
Bureau of waterworks Tokyo
Waterworks Bureau Customer Center(23 wards)
For more information on setting up
your Utilities, TV, mobile phone andinternet, visit the Utilities andCommunications playbook.

Your Guide - Housing

93Garbage
The Japanese take their garbage disposal
very seriously. Garbage should be
divided into six categories, with pick up
on specific days depending on yoursuburb. You will be provided with atimetable and itemized list by your agent.

1 Burnable garbage (moeru-gomi/
kanen-gomi)
2 Unburnable garbage (moenai-gomi/
hunen-gomi)
3 Plastic garbage (purasuchikku)
4 Food and drink recyclables (PET
bottles, glass, cans) (petto-botoru,
bin, kan)
5 Newspapers, magazines, andcardboard (shinbun, zasshi,danbōuru)
6 Other garbage including bulky
refuse (sodai-gomi)

In addition to keeping your neighborhood clean,disposing of garbage properly is crucial in establishingand maintaining good relations with your neighbors.

Your Guide - Housing

94

House Cleaners
If you are looking for cleaning services on aregular basis or for a spot clean, thefollowing companies offer professional
services in English.
Kurashinity
Kurashinity - professional bilingual housekeeping service
Mamy Tokyo
Mamy Tokyo Housekeeping
Zehitomo (freelance house cleaning)
Hire local service professionals
Trustworthy Housekeeper (offers deep cleaning services)
Trustworthy housekeeper - cleaning services Tokyo
Your Guide - Housing95

Housing Insurance

While costs for earthquake insurance
differ based on prefecture, the typicalcost is around ¥30,000 annually. For

Fire insurance is often required for renting
or buying a property in Japan. Fire
insurance not only covers damages
incurred as the result of a fire but also
many other household accidents.
Generally, fire insurance covers the personal contents ofyour home or apartment as well as damage to theinterior. Typical fire insurance plans cost between¥20,000-¥40,000 for every two years. Earthquake
insurance covers any damage that occurs to your home
as a result of an earthquake, even if it is fire or water
damage caused by an earthquake.

more information on insurance inJapan, please visit the link below.
Japanese Insurance
Financial System Stabilization
Note: Some employers in Japan offer housing
insurance as part of their benefits, please check withthe woven by toyota HR Team for more information on
this.

Your Guide - Housing

96

Getting a House/Mortgage for
Foreigners
Generally you must have permanent residency status or
have a spouse who is a Japanese citizen or permanent
resident. They must be a co-signer on the contract.
Certain Japanese banks may not let you apply for a
housing loan without sufficient Japanese language
capabilities.
Banks that offer housing contracts for non-JapaneseGetting a house or housing contract(general)• Must be at least 20 years old to apply
for a housing loan or purchase ahome, with the loan payment being
able to be paid off by a maximum of
80 years old.
• Must be a full-time employee orcontract worker with the previous
years annual salary totaling at least¥3,000,000.
Additional information on housing
loans in Japan
Guide to Home Mortgage Loans in
JapanYour Guide - Housing

97

Moving with Pets
If you are bringing your pet into
Japan, you need to fill out forms andhave your pet vaccinated.

Some apartment buildings may feature aseparate elevator to use when you are withyour pet. Generally, the more pets you havethe more difficult it may be to find anapartment.

It is best to start preparing as early as possible, as
the procedure takes at least seven months. If you
own a dog, then once you have moved to Japanyou should register it at the local municipal officeand have it vaccinated as soon as possible. Many
apartments in Japan do not permit pets and somehave strict rules on how they should be managed in
the apartment.

Your Guide - Housing

98Relocation
Your Guide
A handy guide to relocating fromyour home country to Japan

Introduction
Now that you are ready to make themove to Japan, you are likely
wondering what essentials you need tobring, how to ship your furniture andpersonal items, and how to register asa resident.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Relocation101Checklist
Make sure that you bring the following
items (as appropriate) with you:
Passport
Visa documents
Immunization records
Copies of any relevant transcripts

As it could take time to set up a local
bank account, it is recommended thatyou bring the equivalent of ¥500,000
in cash to cover any purchases overyour first couple of months.
Many locations in Tokyo accept credit
cards or cashless payments, but it isstill largely a cash-based society andthere are cases in which you might
have to have cash on hand.

A copy of your birth certificate
A copy of your marriage licenseYour driver's licenseYour International Driving PermitYour Guide - Relocation

102

Comfort Items
You can find nearly everything you need in Japan.
Of the items you cannot find, you can likely order
online. Having said that, there are some common
items that you might want to consider bringing
with you.

• Toothpaste: The taste may be different
to what you are used to.

• Laundry detergent: It may be hard tocome by your preferred smells.

• Deodorant: Deodorants are notably
faint in smell compared to ones
outside of Japan.

• Tampons: Japanese women generally
prefer pads, so tampon varieties are
harder to source.

• Snacks & non-perishables: Certain
candies, spices, dressings, andcomfort foods, such as peanut butter,are difficult to find in Japan.
• Sheets & towels: The towels in Japanare relatively thin (which make themeasy to dry on a balcony). If you prefersofter towels and sheets, you may
want to consider bringing them fromyour home country.
• Over-the-counter drugs*: Somepeople find comfort in having
medicines they are familiar with,featuring labels and instructions they
can read. Note that certain
prescription drugs that are legal inother countries are illegal in Japan.
*Refer to the Healthcare playbook formore information
Your Guide - Relocation

103

Prohibited Items
Before coming to Japan, read through this list of prohibited items as having
them could result in you being turned away at the border. While some items are
generally prohibited when entering most countries, there may be some items
that are legal in your home country but illegal in Japan.
• Prescriptions: Certain prescription
and over-the-counter drugs that arelegal in other countries are illegal in
Japan. Look at Healthcare playbook
for more information.
• Raw meat and animal products thatare not approved by thegovernment, even if just for
personal use.
• Many tropical fruits andvegetables.

• Items that infringe on intellectual
property such as fake brands andcounterfeit goods.
• Obscene magazines and DVDs, andchild pornography.

There are also some items that are
permitted in Japan but come withregulations, including fur and leather
items which are subject to tax, andpets like dogs and cats that are subject
to quarantine. For a comprehensive listof prohibited items in Japan, please
visit the link below.
Japan Customs Restricted Items
Japan Customs Restricted Items:
Careful! Things You 'Can' and 'Can’t'
Bring Into Japan• Illegal drugs such as narcotics andstimulants.
• Counterfeit bills and checks.
• Firearms and explosives.

Your Guide - Relocation

104

Power Supply
If you are bringing appliances with you,
you may be wondering about thevoltage and power supply. The power
supply in Tokyo (eastern Japan) is 100V/
50Hz.
If you are coming from North America, you do notneed a converter; however, if you are coming fromother locations, then you will likely need a converter.
It may be easier to get all of your appliances inJapan if you have many appliances that would needconverters.

For information on whether or not you require
a converter, visit World Plugs.
Plug adapter requirement calculator
World Plugs

Your Guide - Relocation

105

Relocation Companies
If you are planning on moving yourfurniture to Japan, you can contact a
relocation company to assist you.
It could take a few months for your items to arrive in Japan, so
plan the shipment based on how long you will likely stay intemporary housing before moving into your home of choice.
Other than shipping furniture, relocation companies can help
with a variety of relocation services including assisting you toselect an international school for your children, find a home,register your address, and settle in via a tour of yourneighborhood.

Your Guide - Relocation

106

Visa & Residence Card
New residents are eligible to have a residence card
issued upon arrival or in the following first days (zairyū̄ o). Those visiting Japan on a tourist visa are notkаdeligible for a residence card.
It is essential that you obtain this card as it acts as a form of ID in Japan.
You can pick up your residence card directly at major airports (Narita
and Haneda) by showing your visa to a staff member at immigration
who can direct you to where you can have your card created. If you do
not receive your residence card at the airport, you will have to visit theimmigration office to obtain one. Once you have your card and you
have moved to your new temporary or permanent home, you need tovisit your local ward office* to register your address within 14 days.

*For more information on your local ward office,visit the Government & Legal playbook.
Immigration office
Immigration Services Agency of Japan
Driver's license
You can drive using a foreign license with an
International Driving Permit or an officialtranslation (depending on your country) during
your first year of residence, but you must get aJapanese driver's license before the start of thesecond year.
For more information on driver's licenses, please
visit the Transportation playbook.

Ask woven by toyota about their visa/residence card procedure.

Your Guide - Relocation107

Where to Purchase and Lease
Furniture
If you do not ship your furniture or are
looking for additional furniture to add toyour new home, you can visit the popularfurniture stores listed on the following
page.

Note that many furniture stores will provide
shipping, so you do not need to arrange anytransportation to pick up bulky items. Japanesefurniture stores provide items that are suitable
for Japanese sized apartments. However, incases where you purchase oversized furniturethat will not fit into your building elevator,
companies might arrange a crane to lift furniturein through the balcony.

This list contains standard and affordable furniture
shops. Should you wish to source high-quality andluxury items, you can find many nice furniture
stores in the Aoyama and Roppongi areas.

Your Guide - Relocation

108

Leasing furniture is also popularamong foreigners, since it does not
require moving large furniture acrosscountries. What follows is a list of
furniture stores, both rental andpurchase.

RentalPurchase

Tokyo Lease Corporation

IKEA Japan

Franc Franc

Advance International

Muji

Loft

May's Corporation

NitoriYour Guide - Relocation

109

Living Etiquette
It is important to be mindful of theetiquette and customs typically sharedby your new neighbors.
One of the first things you should do when you
move into your new home is greet the neighbors
who live on your floor (or next to you, if you live ina house) by ringing their doorbell, introducing
yourself, and offering a small gift (such as snacks).
You can easily find small snacks at local department
stores or specialty shops in your neighborhood.

Another thing to be mindful of is trash disposal
and recycling. There are regulations on how tosort and dispose of trash as well as designatedtrash and recycling disposal days. Following
these rules ensures that you can live peacefully
with your neighbors.
How to Sort Trash in Japan
YouTube Video Guide

Your Guide - Relocation

110Finally, you will want to be mindful of noise. Walls can be thin inmany apartments and people live in relatively close proximity. If
you are going to have a conversation outside on your balcony, forexample, keep it quiet. Also, bring the conversation indoors atnight so as not to disturb anyone. Being aware of noise also
includes taking proper care of your pets. For more information on
pet etiquette, visit the resource below.
Moving with Pets
If you are bringing your pet into Japan, you need to fill out forms
and have your pet vaccinated. It is best to start preparing as earlyas possible, as the procedure takes at least seven months. If you
own a dog, then once you have moved to Japan you should
register it at the local municipal office and have it vaccinated assoon as possible. Note that having a pet will narrow your housing
options to select apartments that permit pets; notify your realestate agent about your pets so that you can be matched with thebest fit.

For more information on pet etiquette, please
visit the resources below.
Pet Manners & Etiquette in Japan
Bringing your pet dog or cat to Japan
Import dogs and cats into Japan

Your Guide - Relocation

111

Japanese Language Classes
The sooner you start to learn
Japanese, the sooner you can be
independent when living in the city.
While you will likely come across signs in English,
there can be a language barrier whencommunicating with locals so it is essential to
study helpful phrases. The Dojo, which is an inhouse training organization at woven by toyota,
offers language support in addition to various
training programs.

Additionally, here is a list of some popular
Japanese language schools that offer a variety of
programs from survival Japanese to businessJapanese:
Coto Academy
Japanese Language School in Tokyo and
Yokohama
UJS Language InstituteJapanese Language School
Tokyo Central Japanese Language School
Tokyo Central Japanese Language SchoolYour Guide - Relocation112

Schools& DaycareYour Guide
A handy guide to childcare andinternational children’s educationin Japan

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Introduction
A primary concern for many parents
is how their children will adapt to a
new environment, especially one
with a different culture and language.
However, there is no need to worry as there aremany good international schools and preschools
in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Local Japanese schools follow a different
schedule from international schools in Japan.
Their first term starts in April and their third term
ends in March, with seasonal breaks in between.
International schools in Japan follow theacademic calendar of the country they represent.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

124International Schools
There is a good selection of international
schools in Japan, offering a wide
curriculum with a diverse student bodynot found in Japanese schools.
They can be expensive (¥1-3 million per year) andplaces are limited. It is a good idea to research thecurriculum of each school to find the right one foryour child. See the listings on the next page for
information on specific international schools.

Applying to an international school
Because of the time required to prepare thenecessary documents, it is advisable to apply atleast six months in advance of your desired
enrollment date. Entry requirements differ fromschool to school.
Check the school's website or call for more
information. It will be useful to have transcripts
prepared from the schools your child has
attended in other countries. It may be necessary
for your child to undergo a health checkup andtake an entrance exam. Some schools have aminimum requirement for English language
ability.

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

125International School Resources
List of international schools

Pre-schools and kindergartens

Quest Tokyo

International Schools (Tokyo)

Preschools, Kindergartens and After School Quality Educational Services and Tutoring

A comprehensive list of all international
schools in Tokyo.

A list of all preschools, kindergartens andafter school services.

Quest Tokyo offers tutoring andconsulting services about international
schools in Tokyo.

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

126

Schools for Children with
Special Needs
Mainstream schools tend to not
advertise that they are open to accepting
children with special needs and usuallyconsider enrollment on a case-by-casebasis.
A number of international schools have support forchildren with special needs and many of the larger
ones employ one or more specialists in the field. It isadvisable to contact these schools prior to visiting andmaking an application as criteria and services offeredcan change.
Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

127International schools that offer support forchildren with special needs
Aoba-Japan International School

International School of the Sacred Heart

Seisen International School

The American School in Japan

KAIS Elementary & Middle School

St. Mary's International School

The British School in Tokyo

Nishimachi International School

Saint Maur International School
Tokyo International School

Schools for children with learning
differences

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

128

Childcare
Japan has a well-developed daycare
system. There are daycare centers(hoikuen), both private and public, allacross Tokyo.

That being said, some foreigners
prefer to send their young children to
Japanese daycare centers as it iscomparatively less expensive andthey can immerse them in Japanese
language from a young age.

For the most part, they are not English-speaking,so enrolling in them can be challenging. Also,
daycare centers tend to be competitive andprioritize children from families with two working
parents, so it is recommended that you apply tomore than one to increase the chance of yourchild being accepted.

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

129

Public daycare centers
The local government operates public daycare centers withuniform standards of childcare policies and facility environment.
Some parents may feel the daycare hours are short and have an
overall lack of flexibility. Standard hours are from 7:00-18:00 but
some daycares may offer overtime hours for an additional cost.
Private daycare centers
Private daycare centers decide their childcare policies
independently. Each also has its own unique programs andpolicies, A key benefit of these facilities is their flexibility, both inhours and meals.
Daycares In Japan - How To Enroll, Costs,
And Types Of Child Care
English-speaking Childcare in Tokyo

Your Guide - Schools & Daycare

130

Finding a Nanny
Japan does not have a traditional culture of informalbabysitting as is common in some parts of the West(especially the United States), where you can pay
someone you know to come watch your kids while you
are out for the evening. That being said, there are anumber of companies that provide English-speaking
nanny services.
CarefinderYour trusted source for finding babysitters and online tutors
Baby Sitting & Nanny Services
Directory of Babysitting & Nanny Services in Tokyo

For those on a high-skilled visa it is also possible
to bring a live-in personal helper from yourhome country or abroad. There are certain
requirements that need to be met such as
having at least one child who is under 13. For
the full list of requirements and procedures
please visit the link below.
How to Bring a Personal Helper With You to Japan
Maid/Housekeeper/Personal Helper VisaYour Guide - Schools & Daycare

131

Safety& Natural
DisastersYour Guide
A handy guide to staying safeand responding to emergencies
in JapanIntroduction
With one of the lowest crime rates ofall developed nations, Japan is anextremely safe country. In
comparison to other major world
cities, Tokyo has few incidences ofconfrontational violence, even atnight.
Cultural norms, legal restrictions, and strict
enforcement of illegal possession of firearms,
weapons, and drugs have resulted in traffic
accidents becoming the biggest threat tophysical safety.

However, Japan's relative safety does not mean
you should discard the precautions you would
normally take at home. This playbook outlines
some key considerations on personal safety inTokyo.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Safety & Natural Disasters

115Personal Safety
Walking at night time
Tokyo is generally a safe city to walk around, even late at night.
Most visitors and foreign residents experience minimal, if any,
hassle. You should nevertheless maintain a certain degree ofstreet sense and awareness of what is going on around you,particularly if you are a woman walking alone later in theevening.
Visiting entertainment zones
Shinjuku's entertainment and red-light district of Kabukicho has
many cabaret clubs, drinking establishments, and entertainment
venues. After dusk, a lot of people come to the area to enjoy thenightlife and things can get a little rowdy at times. Some venues
have CCTV and the police make their rounds, but you should
keep aware of your surroundings and try to avoid dangerous
situations.

Areas around Roppongi and Shibuya stations can also
become somewhat rowdy in the late evenings and whilestrangers might not cause you any harm, it's advisable tobe aware of your surroundings at all times.

Your Guide - Safety & Natural Disasters

116

Theft & pickpocketing

Lost & foundBe wary in busy locations and entertainment areas ofplacing your bag down unattended at a seat or in a
restaurant, for example while using the restroom orordering at the counter. While you may notice that many
people will use a personal item to reserve a seat or table, it
is safest not to.

Despite the prevalence of certain forms of crime, honesty ispolicy for the general population when it comes to lost andfound in Japan. Tokyo's citizens hand in billions of yen in lost
cash each year, often waiving their right to receive a finder'sreward.

Although pick-pocketing is somewhat less common inTokyo than in other large cities around the world, it is best
to be on guard and keep valuables away from easy access.

Your Guide - Safety & Natural Disasters

117

Women's safety
Generally speaking, Tokyo is very safe
for women.
However, you should be aware that both groping(chikan-kōi) and unauthorized, inappropriate
photography and filming (tōsatsu) can happen on
trains, particularly during rush hour.
Several train lines have introduced pink-stickered women-onlycars (josei-senyousha) during morning rush hour, aimed at
women worried about unwanted physical contact.

The following link provides an overview of
key cities in Japan and their relative safety
rating.
How Safe is Tokyo?
Japan: Safety by City
Your Guide - Safety & Natural Disasters

118

Emergency Services
Japan is a safe and modern country with various
emergency services. Being prepared and knowing
how to access those emergency services can makeall the difference in a crisis.
PolicePolice in Japan are based out of police stations (keisatsu-sho) and police
kiosks (kōban). Kōban operate 24/7 by officers working in shifts, and handle
such tasks as lost & found incidents, giving directions, automobile accidents,
and criminal cases. Police officers or patrolmen are called omawarisan andpatrol the neighborhood on white bicycles or motorbikes.

Fire department and ambulance service
In Japan, you dial 119 in the case of an
emergency. This number will connect you eitherwith the fire department or the staff responsible
for sending an ambulance to your location.
Although there are a few operators who speak
English, you should be prepared to explain yoursituation in Japanese. It is advisable to speak
slowly and specify first if you need an
ambulance (kyuu-kyuu desu – “it’s anemergency”) or wish to report a fire (kaji desu –“it’s a fire”).
Tokyo Fire Department:
Fire Service in Tokyo
Medical emergencies overview:To call the police dial 110.
Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department (in English)

Medical Emergencies in Tokyo: How to
Communicate in JapaneseYour Guide - Safety & Natural Disasters

119Natural Disasters
Natural disasters such as typhoons,floods, tsunamis and earthquakes arecommon in Japan.
In Tokyo, it is likely that you will experience atyphoon and an earthquake during your time here.
Although Tokyo is generally well prepared for such
events and has strict building codes to withstandearthquakes and underground flood-stopping
barriers, it is prudent to be always ready in theevent of a disaster so it is easier to safeguard you
and your family against injury.

Below are links to comprehensive information
on emergency services, guidance in the event ofa natural disaster, emergency number lists,
evacuation shelter sites in Tokyo, Japanese
earthquake insurance, and natural disasterworkshops.
Emergency & Disaster Prevention in Japan
Information on Earthquakes, typhoons, where toevacuate, and more
Disaster Preparedness Workshops
Wanavi Japan

Your Guide - Safety & Natural Disasters120Natural disaster preparation & kits
As natural disasters (particularly earthquakes) are relatively
common in Japan, it is commonplace for citizens to havededicated home preparation kits. While primarily forearthquakes, the kits are also useful for other disasters such as
typhoons and floods.
Earthquake Preparation
Basic Facts and Disaster Prevention
Directory of emergency numbers & services (English)
List of Emergency telephone numbers in Tokyo
Image: Tokyo Area Flood Map
Ground elevations in the lowlands of Tokyo

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ShoppingYour Guide
A handy guide to department
stores, supermarkets and retailstores in Japan

Introduction
Tokyo offers a wealth of shopping
venues from low-end 100 yen shops
to luxury brands.

This playbook will cover everything from where
you can source food items to electronics to home
goods and beyond.

Japan is renowned for carrying high-quality
goods no matter the item, and there are plentyof options to choose from regardless of yourbudget.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Shopping134

Groceries
You can source both local andinternational food products at a wide
variety of places including local
grocery stores, international grocery
stores, natural foods stores, farmers
markets, department stores, 24/7
convenience stores, and online.
In general, grocery stores and convenience stores can be foundat local train stations, allowing you to do your shopping within a
5-10 minute walk of your home. Grocery stores that carryinternational food products tend to be located at major stations
or in international neighborhoods, and are easily accessible,
even if one is not at your local station.

Alcohol is sold at just about every convenience,
drug, and grocery store in Tokyo, but there arealso designated liquor shops with both local andimported wines as well as sake.
Here are some popular international grocery
stores where you can find imported foodproducts (such as wine and cheese) and home
goods (these stores also offer delivery services
by telephone and online):
American grocery store and household products
National Azabu
International foods and household products
Nissin World Delicatessen
Costco*Costco*located outside Tokyo in KawasakiYour Guide - Shopping

135Here are some grocery stores that carrynatural food products, supplements, anditems suitable for people who are veganor have dietary needs such as gluten
intolerance:
Bio C'Bon
French organic foods store thatcarries many European bio
products

Picard Frozen

Natural Mart

French frozen foods

Organic and vegan products

Natural House

While not quite as popular as it is inWestern countries, there are online
grocery stores in Tokyo. Here is a full listof them:
Online Grocery Shopping in Japan

Organic foods store with local andimported productsYour Guide - Shopping136

Markets (farmers & general)
Many neighborhoods have specialty markets such as fish
markets, fruit and vegetable stands, butcher shops, and bakeries.
You may find that butcher shops in Japan offer different cuts andkinds of meat, and Japanese cuts typically contain a higher fat
content and come from different parts of the animal.
Fish markets
Tsukiji Outer Market

Additionally, there are numerous weekend
farmers markets held across the city. These hoststalls selling fresh produce from various vendors
throughout Japan, plants, and flowers, as well
as food trucks and flea markets. Here are some
popular and easily accessible farmers markets:
Farmers Market @ UNU
Hills Marche
Yebisu MarchéJapan is also known for its world-renowned bakeries featuring
authentic French pastries and breads as well as unique Japaneserolls and sweets. Shun refers to using the appropriate seasonal
produce for the freshest and best-tasting ingredients.
List of the seasonal fruits, vegetables, and seafood in Japan
Seasonal Ingredients in Japan

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Convenience Stores
Convenience stores (konbini) that
operate 24 hours a day are everywhere;
you can find one on almost every blockin Tokyo.
The three most popular convenience stores are 7Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. All carry the same
variety of products including food, drinks, home
supplies, toiletries, stationery, and batteries. In
addition, convenience stores have ATMs, printers/
copiers, and kiosks where you can buy tickets forconcerts and so on. You can also pay your utility,
phone, and tax bills, as well as mail out letters.

Convenience storesYour Guide - Shopping138

Drug Stores
The three primary categories of items
you can find in drug stores in Japan are
personal hygiene products andcosmetics, home cleaning supplies, andmedicine.
Most drug stores also have a pharmacy where you can fillprescriptions. While Japanese drug stores carry all of the
products you would need for personal and home care, somepeople like to bring items such as toothpaste, laundry detergent,and medicine with them to Japan for personal comfort. You
should also be aware of pharmacy operating hours asprescription windows are not 24/7.

Matsumotokiyoshi
Matsumotokiyoshi is a chain drug store that is
popular throughout Japan. It sells medicine,cosmetic products, and daily necessities while
also offering free Wi-Fi and English-speaking
services to assist foreign customers.
Here is a list of additional common drug stores
Sugiyakkyoku
Sun Drug
Tomod's

For more information on medications and a checklist of what tobring with you to Japan, visit the Relocation playbook.
Your Guide - Shopping139

Department Stores
From prepared Japanese foods anddelicacies to clothing and cosmetics,
Japan's world-class department stores
have it all.
They carry a similar range of products to their Westerncounterparts. Floors are organized; you tend to find bustling
food markets, gourmet delis, and beautiful selections of sweetand savory goodies in the basement floors, women's cosmetics
and accessories on the first two floors, clothing and homeinteriors on the upper floors, and a selection of international
restaurants on the top floors. Japanese department stores carryboth high-quality Japanese products and renowned
international brands and labels.

Here is a list of renowned department storesin Tokyo
Mitsukoshi (Ginza)
Isetan (Shinjuku)
Takashimaya (Shinjuku)
Relevant Video
Navigating the Levels [Department Stores] #TOKYO [Japan]Your Guide - Shopping140

Home Goods Stores
Whether you are setting up your new
home or adding new furnishings to yourexisting one, Japanese home goods
stores offer it all.

If you are ever in need of toolkits, stationery,craft supplies, home exercise gear, or any home
goods products, these stores carry what you arelooking for:Tokyu Hands
Olympic

Maximizing space in Tokyo apartments is essential
and these stores offer products to help you do so.

Your Guide - Shopping141

Electronics Stores

Yodobashi Camera
Bic Camera

There are various electronics franchises
throughout Japan that carry a wide
range of products including computers,
televisions, cell phones, and household
appliances such as refrigerators,
washing machines, and rice cookers.

Yamada Denki

These large stores also sell jewelry, alcohol, andother goods. Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Shinjuku arehubs for electronics but there are large electronic
stores throughout Tokyo especially near large train
stations. To the right is a list of popular electronic
stores in Japan.
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142

Other Noteworthy Shops
Don Quijote is a great one-stop shop for products from food andbeverages to clothing to home appliances. It is also a low-cost
option compared to some other home goods stores such as Tokyu
Hands. Additionally, it is a great store for unique items that are
not sold in most stores such as halloween costumes, party
materials, and gag gifts. There are 46 branches in the 23 wards, a
few of which are "Picasso" stores under the Don Quijote parent
company.
Don Quijote
Amazon's Japan site features many of the same items that you
would find in other countries with additional products unique toJapan. However, some global items such as imported leather ormeat may be taxed or unable to ship to Japan. Amazon Japan isvery convenient and boasts fast shipping times with even sameday delivery at an additional cost.
Amazon Japan

Your Guide - Shopping143

100 yen Shops
If you are looking for products of no
particular brand, 100 yen shops are agreat option.
Some stores are simply called "100 yen shop" whileothers have a name, such as the popular chain,
Daiso. The range of items offered at these stores isastonishing, from food, stationery, and clothing totoys, homeware, and gardening equipment. All
items are priced at ¥100 plus consumption tax (10%)
unless otherwise stated.

DaisoYour Guide - Shopping

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Vending Machines

Yen coins
Yen Bills

With one vending machine (jidōhanbaiki)
per an estimated 40 people, Japan has
one of the world's highest densities ofvending machines, and the machines
have become somewhat of aphenomenon.

IC Cards

They sell not only cold and hot drinks but also canned soup, ice
cream, and other snacks. Some machines also might carry nonfood related items such as masks or neckties. A typical vending
machine accepts payments in 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen coins, aswell as 1,000 yen bills. When paying by cash, insert the money
first before making your selection. Payment by IC cards, such as
Suica, is becoming more popular.
Your Guide - Shopping145

RetailTokyo is well known for its shoppingand fashion scenes, from high-end
fashion to Harajuku streetwear.
Omotesando, Roppongi Hills, and Ginza offer robust
high-end fashion shops that carry both Japaneseand international brands. Shibuya and Harajuku, on
the other hand, are home to everyday fashion andstreetwear shops. In addition to clothing, you canalso find souvenir shops, lifestyle and hobby shops,
and jewelry stores. Neighborhoods such as
Shimokitazawa and Koenji are trendier and younger,
with vintage shops and thrift stores.
Your Guide - Shopping146Social &SupportYour Guide
A handy guide to places ofworship, clubs and societies, andLGBTQ resources in Japan

Introduction
Creating connections is essential inbuilding a home in Japan. Thankfully,
Tokyo has a highly vibrant, diverse,
and welcoming international
community.
Whether you want to meet new people or joincultural groups related to your home country, it
is possible. There are plenty of resources
available to assist your integration into thelargest city in the world.

As there are so many community groups it is notpractical to list every one; instead we will provide
a brief overview and point you to online
resources that provide great coverage on the
different community groups and organizations inTokyo for further information.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Social & Support

149

Clubs and Societies
Tokyo and Yokohama have membersonly clubs for foreign residents.
Many of these clubs offer facilities including
conference rooms, banquet halls, restaurants,
fitness gyms, sports facilities, and libraries, as well
as a diverse range of cultural, recreational, andbusiness activities.

Embassies
There are 153 embassies in Japan and all ofthem are located in Tokyo. When it comes toregistering a new passport, receiving a notary or
support on medical and legal assistance, orother instances when you require the services ofyour home country, please contact theappropriate embassy. Below is a full list of theembassies in Tokyo.
Directory of Embassies in Tokyo
Foreign Embassies in Tokyo

Overview on expat community groups in Tokyo
Expat Community in Tokyo: Meetup Opportunities for Foreigners

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Chamber of Commerces

InterNations

While it might be assumed that chambers of commerce are only
for business, many also provide a great resource to network,
make new friends, and discover the culture of Japan. They tend tohave strong community connections, particularly among people
looking to get involved in business and social groups. The
American Chamber of Commerce and British Chamber ofCommerce are the largest organizations, and chambers offer joint
events over the course of the year. Below you can find a full list of
countries with Chambers of Commerce in Japan.

a global online network of expats with
communities in major cities including Tokyo
FEW Japan
a collective of globally-minded, Englishspeaking women who motivate, inspire, andconnect with one another through powerfulprogramming, intimate gatherings, and aconstant exchange of ideas.

List of Chambers of Commerce in Japan

Meetup.com

Chambers of Commerce in Japan (Foreign & Domestic)

an online platform for connecting people in yourcity based on similar interests. It also hosts
online and in-person events.

Other networking organizations
Whether you are looking for friends to explore the city, activities
to join based on your interests, or women's organizations, theseplatforms provide opportunities for you to connect.

Your Guide - Social & Support151

Places of Worship
The dominant religion in Japan is
Shintoism, but there are many places ofworship in Tokyo other than Shinto
shrines.
Tokyo caters to a wide variety of major religions andfaiths, and there are places that offer services inEnglish and Japanese. Please use the link to theright to view a list of places of worship in Tokyo.
List of places of worship in Tokyo
List of Churches, Mosques and Synagogues
in TokyoYour Guide - Social & Support

152

LGBTQ
The LGBTQ community in Tokyo is considered one of the largest in Asia andthere are resources and organizations that are accessible. Shinjuku Nichomeis Tokyo's LGBTQ district, home to bars, cafes, and bookshops catered to thecommunity.
Yoyogi Park hosts a pride parade in thespring which you can find more
information about here
Tokyo Rainbow PrideYour Guide - Social & Support

153

LGBTQ Legal Partnership & Visas
Japan is the only G-7 country that has not legalized same-sex
marriage. For couples who are legally married outside of Japan,
spouses can receive a Designated Activities visa (instead of a
Spouse visa). The visa does not include a work permit, but
spouses can apply for a special work permit that allows up to 28
hours of work per week (which is the same amount allotted for a
Spouse visa).
There are benefits that foreign residents can receive inrecognition of same-sex marriage that are not available tonatives. As of 2021, there are 12 wards in Tokyo that legally issuesame-sex union certificates (pātonāshippu sensei seido). Minatoku and Shibuya-ku are common neighborhoods that werecommended in the Housing playbook for foreign residents
which are included in those 12 wards. Additionally, the ward
Adachi-ku started recognizing biological and adopted children ofsame-sex partners as family members in April of 2021.

While this legal union is not the same as samesex marriage, it does offer benefits in civil
matters such as housing, hospital visitationrights, and child care centers. If you have asame-sex marriage certificate from abroad thatis translated into Japanese, you may be able toreceive the benefits of a legal marriage whenpresented to your ward office. Note that thiscertificate is only available to same-sex couples
with two non-Japanese partners. For more
information on LGBTQ rights and a full list of
prefectures and wards that offer same-sex
unions, please visit the links below:
Wikipedia
LGBT rights in Japan
Wikipedia
Recognition of same-sex unions in Japan

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154

LGBTQ-friendly Real Estate Agents

GenderDespite some members of the LGBTQ community reporting
difficulties or even discrimination when looking to rent or buy
property in Japan, there has been significant progress in thisarea. With organizations such as Iris and LLAN (Lawyers forLGBT & Allies Network) renting an apartment or house has
become easier for LGBTQ couples and families. Many foreignfriendly real estate agencies we recommended in the Housing
playbook such as Ken. Corp and Plaza Homes also provide
support for LGBTQ couples.
Real estate agencies:

Legal documents including residence cards willstate sex as male or female and do not have an"other" option. Some foreign non-binary
residents experience difficulty with gendersegregated scenarios including Japanese
language nuances used differently by men andwomen, and visiting public onsen (hot springs)
that are separated into male and female areas.
Diversity and Inclusion - woven by toyota

IRIS LGBT

Ken. Corp

LGBTQ Resources

LLAN

Plaza Homes

Stonewall Japan

Pride House Tokyo

Fruits in Suits

Nijiiro Diversity

Shirakaba Clinic

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TransportYour Guide
A handy guide to public andprivate transportation in Japan

Introduction
Whether you are traveling near or far,Japan is known for their high speed
bullet trains (shinkansen) andextremely punctual public
transportation systems.

Often it is also quicker, cheaper, and moreconvenient than driving. It can be a joy to use,though it can be crowded at peak hours. Even
with the millions of passengers using the systemeach day, it is a timely, safe, and convenient way
to get around.

woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

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158

Trains
Trains in Tokyo operate both underground and above ground. Tokyo is ahuge sprawling city but it’s served by one of the world’s best public
transport systems. The following is an overview of the rail systems
operating in Tokyo and how to get around.

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JR Trains in Tokyo
The 2 Subway Systems in Tokyo:
Tokyo Metro and Toei
They are pretty well interlinked,
so you do not really have toworry about which one you areon.

The only time you really have to think
about it is when purchasing an individual
ticket. To avoid thinking about this, werecommend either buying a subway passor prepaid card (for details on both, see
below).

Several overland train lines also run through, around, and to/from Tokyo.
These two lines might be used most frequently by foreign workers andexpats:
JR Yamanote Line
JR Yamanote Line: Commonly known as the JR Loop Line or Loop Line,
this line runs around central Tokyo and connects most of the major hubs
(the main exceptions are Roppongi and Akasaka).
JR Chuo Line
JR Chuo Line: This line cuts across Tokyo, running roughly east to west. It isuseful for moving from Shinjuku Station to Tokyo Station.
To ride JR trains in Tokyo, you can buy an individual ticket, use a Tokyo
Combination Ticket, or use a prepaid IC card like Suica or Pasmo.

Tokyo Metro

JR East East Japan Railway Company

Toei Subway System

DownloadThis resource provides a detailed map of the Tokyo train system:
Major railway and Subway Route Map: Metropolitan AreaYour Guide - Transport

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Using subways and trains with a prepaid IC card (Pasmo or Suica)
By far the easiest and best way to use Tokyo’s subways and trains is witha Pasmo or Suica card.
You can purchase a card at any JR or Metro station for ¥2,000, which is
broken down into a ¥500 deposit for the card and ¥1,500 for travel fares.
Simply swipe the card over the reader on the ticket gates when you’reentering and leaving the system.

iPhone support is now available
for Pasmo users and isaccessible as an Apple Wallet
accessory, and it even functions
when your phone has run out ofbattery.
For details on how to buy one of these cards:
Tokyo Smart Cards: Pasmo and SuicaThe fare will be deducted automatically from your card and the machine
will show the remaining balance. The Pasmo and Suica operate in thesame way, but Pasmo is sold at subway stations and Suica is sold at JR
stations.

Your Guide - Transport161

Commuter Passes
The monthly commuter pass (teikiken) is very popular among students andoffice workers in Japan as it is a discounted train and bus pass from yourlocal station to your office. You can also use it on weekends if traveling along
the same route. These passes can be purchased at JR stations at the tickets
and information desk or at the electronic ticket machine located at each gate.
You will need to provide the origin station, transfer station(s), and the finaldestination as well as your:• Name• Gender• Date of birth• Phone number

Tips for riding the subways and trains in Tokyo• Avoid riding subways and trains during rushhour (7.30am-9.30am and 5pm-8pm) as trainsare generally extremely crowded anduncomfortable, particularly in summer due tothe high heat and humidity.
• Use the JR Yamanote Line to move to nearby
hubs around central Tokyo.
• Use the subways to cross the city or accesshubs on opposite sides of the city.
• If you are buying single tickets and cannot
figure out the fare for your destination,
simply buy the cheapest ticket. When you get
to your destination, put the ticket in the fareadjustment machine, insert the additionalfare, and use the new ticket you'll be issued
to pass through the ticket gates.

Your Guide - Transport162

Tokyo Buses
Tokyo buses are inexpensive, efficient,and can take you to locations thatwould otherwise require taking morethan one train to reach.
The fare to ride any short or long distance within
the city is typically around ¥210 and you can evenuse your Pasmo or Suica card to pay. The
downsides to taking a bus rather than a train arethat buses come less frequently (perhaps 2–3 times
per hour) and are subject to traffic delays. Still,
Tokyo’s buses are inexpensive, extensive, andefficient.

Information about Tokyo buses androutes:Tokyo BusesYour Guide - Transport163

Tokyo Taxis
Tokyo’s taxis are an excellent way to get around the city,
especially outside of rush hour or if you have to go to a placenot close to a train or subway station.
Much like other forms of Japanese public transport, taxis are very clean and wellmaintained with many beginning to feature amenities such as touch-screen
assistance and mobile phone chargers. However, they are not cheap. Like mostcities around the world, simply raising your hand to call a taxi is the norm. While
many drivers do not understand English, they are helpful. Often you only needto show them the written address to get where you want to go. Note that you
should not try to open the door when getting in or out of a taxi; the doors areautomatic. Ride-sharing services are not yet widespread in Japan, likely due toTokyo taxi fare and payment methods• All taxis accept cash, and sometaxis also accept credit cards andIC cards.
• It is not necessary to tip the driver.
• The standard base fare for taxis inTokyo is ¥410.
• As a general rule, it will cost around¥3,500 to cross Tokyo in a taxi (forexample, from Tokyo Station to
Shinjuku Station).
• If applicable, taxi drivers will often
ask for your preference of toll roads
or local roads when traveling longer
distances.

the popularity and convenience of public transport.

Your Guide - Transport164

Tokyo Airport Transfer

Haneda Airport Transfer

Here are details on the best ways to getfrom Narita and Haneda airports to Tokyo.

Haneda (Tokyo International Airport) is about 14
kilometers, or 8 miles, south of central Tokyo,
making it more convenient to the city than
Narita Airport; Haneda is cheaper, easier, andfaster.
The JR Yamanote Line and Keikyu Line run
between the airport and Tokyo.

Narita Airport Transfer
Narita International Airport is about 60 kilometers, or 37 miles, northeast ofTokyo, making it less convenient to Tokyo than is Haneda. It is very expensive
to take a taxi to the city. The best option is the JR N’Ex (Narita Express). This
train can take you to many central stations, including Tokyo, Shinagawa, andShinjuku.

Taxis are also a good option, particularly outsideof rush hour or on weekends or when travelingwith a lot of luggage.
What to do when arriving at Haneda:
Arriving at Tokyo’s Haneda International Airport

Another option is the Keisei Skyliner, which takes you to Ueno Station, only
four stops from Tokyo Station on the JR Yamanote Line. There are also
Limousine Buses between Narita and various points in Tokyo.
What to do when arriving at Narita:
Arriving at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport
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Driving in Japan
If you have an international driver’s license
and a foreign driver’s license that is at least
three months old and is approved by theJapanese authorities, you can hire or buy a
car in Japan.

Hiring, rather than owning, a car is
becoming a cheaper option and is worth
considering if you are a resident in Japan.
Car hire companies can be found near
major railway stations and ferry terminals
in the big cities. Woven also offers a
Toyota rent-a-car benefit for employeeswith car rentals for up to ¥100,000 per
year.
Cars in Japan drive on the left, with thesteering wheel on the right of the vehicle.

To have your foreign license approved by Japanese authorities
you must have a Japanese translation of it that is prepared byan entity specified by law. These can be done through theJapanese Automobile Federation, or the embassy or consulateof the country in which the license is from.

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There are few toll roads in Japan, apart from the mostly twolane expressways, which are your best bet for getting
anywhere quickly. Unless you have an ETC (Electronic Toll
Collection) unit and card in your vehicle, you will need to stopat the toll barrier as you enter a Japanese expressway and takea ticket.

When you exit the expressway, produce
the ticket and pay the toll in cash or using
a pre-paid card (different from an ETCcard), which can be purchased at service
areas on expressways.
Throughout Japan’s road network areservice areas that provide restaurants,
convenience stores, gasoline pumps,
overnight parking, toilets, and maps.
Getting A Driving License In Japan

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Car Insurance in JapanAll drivers in Japan must have at least
third party insurance.
You must carry your car insurance documentation(hoken-shomeisho) and driving license with you
when driving. Fully comprehensive insurance atvarious levels is also available and recommended.
If you do have a serious accident involving the
hospitalization or death of a third party or serious
damage to another vehicle or property, the claims
on your insurance will be large, if not catastrophic.

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Driver's License
You can drive using a foreign licensewith an official translation(depending on your country) or an
International Driver’s License during
your first year of residence in Japan,
but you must get a Japanese driver’s
license before the 2nd year.
To transfer to a Japanese driver’s license, you needto submit the required documents to yourPrefectural Driver’s License Center.

If the country in which your license was issued
does not have a mutual agreement with theJapan Automobile Federation, you must take aJapanese driving test.
Japan Automobile Federation website (English):Japan Automobile Federation (JAF)

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Riding a Bicycle in Tokyo
Bicycles, especially the ubiquitousmama-chari (a single-gear, often electric,
bike with a basket and rack), are aconvenient form of transportation in
Japan.

Cycling is often grouped with pedestrian
activity in the public consciousness, but beaware that bicycles are treated the same as
vehicles under Japan’s Road Traffic Law.

They are ideal for running errands and making
short trips in urban areas. Many people in Tokyo
ride bicycles to get around the city, so there aremany bicycle shops where you can purchase andregister a bicycle.

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Bicycle parking

Bicycle licence

Bicycle parking tends to be strict in most areas of Tokyo, especially near
major stations.

Bicycle registration is something you might not
be used to back in your home country. Afterpurchasing a bicycle, you are legally obligated toregister your bike.

Free or inexpensive bicycle parking areas are available near stations andshopping areas. Those charging a fee range from hourly-based racks
lining sidewalks to ticketed garage-type lots and undergroundautomated storage systems.

Overview on shops, license & insurance:
A Beginner’s Guide to Cycling in Tokyo

Bicycles are not allowed on public transportation, but some train lines
will allow foldable bicycles to be carried on in a special bike bag.
There is bicycle parking available at the woven by toyota office for a rateof ¥250/6 hours. Commuting by car is not allowed.

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Utilities &Communication
Your Guide
A handy guide to setting up
essential utilities like gas, water,and electricity in Japan

Introduction
Upon moving to Japan, some of thefirst things you need to do are to set
up utilities, acquire a mobile phone,and familiarize yourself with thepostal system.

If your landlord has not set them up for you, youwill have to do so yourself when you move in bycalling each company and providing them withyour name, new address, and preferred billing
method. Before moving out, you will also need to
notify each company to terminate their respective
utility service.

Metered utilities in Japan include electricity(denki), gas (gasu), and water & sewerage(suidō).
woven by toyota assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or
the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear in this playbook.
Inclusion in this playbook is in no way an endorsement by woven by toyota, and as such, readers
are advised to undertake their own due diligence in deciding which services they engage.

Your Guide - Utilities & Communication

174

Utilities & Home Setup
Electricity
Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) is the provider ofelectricity to the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo and
Yokohama, as well as Yamanashi and parts of Shizuoka. We
recommend that you apply over the phone before you move in,as the electricity is usually cut off if you do not register yourinformation.
If your property has an electric boiler, you will need to contact theelectric company and schedule an appointment with them. You
can get the English brochure, "A Guide to Electricity," either by
mail or on the website.

Water
The tap water in Japan has been treated and is safefor drinking. Between contracts, the water service
may be cut off. If this is the case you can open it byturning the main handles counter-clockwise. Call toapply for service before you move in and inquire if
you are in an area that accepts payment by credit
card.
Tokyo Metropolitan Waterworks Bureau
Customer Service Center (23 wards only)

TEPCO
Customer Center - Tokyo

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Gas

Reading bills

There are broadly two types of gas used in Japan: natural gas(toshi gasu), and liquid propane (LP Gas). Toshi gasu (literally "citygas") is the norm in urban and suburban areas, while LP Gas isused in rural areas where there is no gas mains line. You need toarrange an appointment with the gas company to open youraccount. While it is advisable to call in advance, it is usuallypossible to arrange this on the same day.

Metered utilities include electricity (denki), gas(gasu), and water & sewerage (suidō). Utility
bills can be paid automatically by credit card orbank transfer (furikomi) after filling out theappropriate application forms. Alternatively, abill will arrive each month (every two months forwater), which can be paid in cash at convenience
stores, post offices, utility offices, and banks.

Some newer buildings may automatically shut off gas service inthe event of an earthquake to prevent a gas leak. If this is thecase, you may have to turn on the gas again after the earthquake.
Tokyo Gas Customer Service

Tokyomate is a mail-collecting service for nonJapanese speakers that scans and translates
Japanese mail, including bills, which you canthen choose to have paid on your behalf.

Check the Tokyo Gas Emergency Procedures for what to do in thecase of leaks, and earthquakes, and other emergencies.

Tokyomate

What to do when you smell gas

Your Mail Made Digital Setting up and paying
utilities in Tokyo

Video

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Internet options• Fiber to the Home (FTTH)• Cable Television Line (CATV)

Most foreigner-targeted housing
companies provide Internet as
standard, whether as a line
connection in your room/
apartment, a shared Wi-Fi network,
or a portable Wi-Fi device.

Optical fiber transfers data at therate of 10Mbps to 100Mbps, so it isextremely fast. Sometimes thisservice is limited in certain areas.
Line construction work isnecessary, so if you live in anapartment, you will need to get
permission from the owner and thereal estate agency.

By using Cable TV, you may be able
to use the same line to connect tothe Internet. Please check with thecable company to see if your area
has Internet via CATV capability.

There are five common connection
types for Internet in Japan.

• ADSLADSL is a high-speed Internet thatuses a fixed telephone line that canbe installed quickly andeconomically.

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Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi environment is improving in Japan with the rapid
increase of smartphone usage. Though some spots charge accessfees, more and more places offer free Wi-Fi, such as airports, train
stations, tourist attractions, convenience stores, cafes, andrestaurants. There are also mobile applications and services toassist in finding and connecting to public networks.
Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi iOS/Android App
Offers easy search and easy connection to existing free Wi-Fi
hotspots across Japan in over 130,000 locations.

Internet service providers
AsahiNet (Asahi Net, Inc.)

Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi
Mobile phone carriers in Japan also offer packages that include
home Internet service and mobile Wi-Fi. You can get a package
when you apply for your mobile phone contract. For more
information, continue to the section on mobile phones in Japan.

FUSION GOL (Fusion Communications
Corp.)
KDDI/DION (KDDI Corp.)
NTT Communications Corp.
SonixNet ISP (Assist Solutions Corp.)

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Mobile Phones in Japan
Temporary mobile phone plans areavailable at Haneda and Narita airports
at stalls like Softbank Global, andAnyFone Japan.
Japan's three main networks (SoftBank, docomo,and au) require you to sign a two-year contract, but
it is possible to buy unlocked smartphones andlonger-term SIM card contracts from electronics
stores. The advantages of the unlocked smartphoneinclude lower monthly charges, shorter contract
terms, and potentially cheaper fees for earlycancellation.

Simple prepaid phones are another option for
those who are not living in Japan long enoughto fulfill a two-year service contract. For more
information on SIM providers and unlocked cell
phones please visit the links below.
Japan's Data and Voice SIM Providers Compared(Long-Term Options):
Where to Buy SIM Free (unlocked) Phones inJapan:
When applying for a mobile phone with a twoyear contract, you should bring your residencē o) to show that you have a valid
card (Zairyū Kаdvisa to be in Japan for longer than two years.

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The three main mobile phone carriers, Softbank, docomo, and au,
all provide 3G, 4G LTE, and increasingly 5G networks in andaround Tokyo, so you should not experience service issues withany of them. However, the process of signing up to a mobile
phone plan is not as straightforward as it is in many Westerncountries.
It is equally complicated and confusing for the Japanese. The
following are some factors to be aware of:
1. Mobile phone rate plans are notoriously complicated andopaque.
2. Calling plans are expensive compared to rates offered in manyother countries. However as of January 1, 2021 the Japanese
government has instructed all carriers to reduce their fees,
which is slowly happening.

5.Language can be a barrier, depending on
what store you visit, but the major electronic
retailers, such as BIC Camera and Yodobashi
Camera, provide English support, particularly
in major shopping districts.
6.To apply and to pay your monthly bill, youwill need a Japanese bank account or credit
card.
For more information on the step by step
process of obtaining a mobile phone plan, visit
this resource: Mobile Phone Process & Overview
Japanese Mobile Phones: Plans, Coverage,
and Services

3. Major carriers require binding contracts and charge a contract
termination fee.
4. There is a lot of paperwork required to sign a contract.

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Postal & Courier Services

Domestic
Japan Post

The postal service in Japan isrelatively inexpensive and very
dependable.

Yamato Transport Co., Ltd.
Sagawa Express Co., Ltd.
International:
DHL Japan, Inc.

There are post offices all over the country, including in manysmall towns and villages. The cost of posting a standard size
letter of up to 25g domestically is ¥84, and for a postcard, ¥63.
The Japan Post's English website is full of information on its
services and prices. There are a number of commercial couriercompanies offering convenient and efficient services. These
services can deliver suitcases to and from the airport, skis andsnowboards to the ski lodge, and surfboards to the beachhouse, all at reasonable rates. There is also a special service
called "cool-bin" for sending refrigerated and frozen goods.
Many couriers allow you to select the date and time of yourpreferred delivery.

EMS (Japan Post)
FedEx Express
UPS JapanYour Guide - Utilities & Communication

181

Employee
Benefits
Your Guide
A handy guide to healthinsurance, pensions andemployee benefits at woven bytoyotaEmployee Benefits
Allowance• Housing support up to ¥50,000 per month as long as
you are a signer of the contract either you rent or own.
• Commuting

Defined Contribution (DC)

Legal Benefits• Japanese 401K system• Company matching• Unemployment Insurance• Worker’s Compensation
Insurance

Special Paid Leave & Congratulatory Money• 6 weeks before giving birth, 8 weeks after giving birthfor single pregnancy• Sick Leave: 6 days
• Condolence, Marriage, Child’s wedding
Rental Car Support• ¥100,000 per year for Toyota rental car service
Japanese Health Insurance
Refer to the following page →Toyota Motor Health Insurance Society• Annual Health Check-up• Medical expense 30% paid by individuals. (e.g. Costestimates for a doctor visit for flu: Approx￥2,000)

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184

Health Insurance Enrollment Scheme
Arrive in Japan andbecome a resident
April 15th

Start working
May 1stNational Health Insurance

Toyota Motor Health Insurance Society

Premium

Premium

Premium All paid by
individuals

Premium 5.3% out of 8.3% paid by ER, 3% out of
8.3% paid by EE (*Refer page 6 for premium rate)Your Guide - Employee Benefits

185Premiums
National Health Insurance
Municipally Controlled

Toyota Motor Health Insurance Society

Who pays premium?

All paid by individuals

Employer: 5.3%
Employee: 3%(Total premium rate for FY2021 is 8.3%)

How to pay premium

Pay by yourself

Deduction from monthly paycheck

How is premium
decided?

Based on local tax paid

Standard Monthly Remuneration (SMR)* × Premium Rate**

Premium amount whenfamily grows

Increase*SMR includes overtime payment,
allowances,and standard bonus**Premium rate is decided by Toyota motor
health insurance society

Same (no increase)Your Guide - Employee Benefits

186

Medical Service Regime
Employer
Toyota Motor Health
Insurance Society

5.3% premium rate

Hospitals

3% premium rate

Medical service

Payment 30%
Employee(Insured)

Claim payment 70%

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187

Benefit Station
Benefit Station provides a ‘life support’service, allowing its members to accesscertain benefits, such as discounts, whenusing the services of various companies.

Membership Special
You get 5,000 Benepo (‘Benefit Points’)* per year
in January. (5,000 Benepo = ¥5,000)*Points will be prorated according to the month you joined the company

Use it for fitness purposes on the way home fromwork, dining out with friends, enjoying a movie,
spending leisure time with family, trips, childcare,and long-term care services!

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188

PensionsBase salary x 7.5% goes to the fund the company preparesfor you every month. The fund will be allocated into:• Defined Contribution (DC)• Lump Sum Retirement Money

Employer's contribution and investment profit are tax
exempt. Individual contributions will be deducted fromyour pre-tax salary.
If you do not join the DC, you are eligible to receive it as anadvance payment for retirement and would then be subject
to payroll taxation.

ExampleIf your base salary was ¥1,000,000 per month, the totalmonthly pension contribution would be ¥75,000 (defined
contribution of ¥28,000* plus retirement money of¥47,000).
*DC amount is set based on your grade/title

Your Guide - Employee Benefits

189woven by toyota © 2023