Compassionate leave for family emergencies back home is granted on an individual basis. Free Japanese language lessons are available at most branches. The levels range from basic to advanced. LCs may attend according to their work availability. The best way send money to your home country is by international postal money order.
Bank drafts take one month to clear Japanese banks.
A few international banks will also transfer money on your behalf if you hold an account with them. Interac provides a free supplemental insurance policy to all full-time LCs. LCs may also arrange for their own private insurance. I've heard it is expensive to obtain a telephone line in Japan. The monthly line rental fee and any long distance charges are automatically deducted from the LC's paycheck.