Eating out is extremely cheap in Japan and there are thousands, millions?! Its been well over a year since weve moved to Tokyo. it is now a very common theme scattered throughout all cities of Japan. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Last updated: November 2020.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Tokyo | Expat Arrivals The delivery costs vary depending on your area, so try and go to the closest one (one recently opened in Harajuku, and a new one is set to open in Shibuya). Japan is one of the few countries where people walk around at night and can feel relatively safe. TokyoGas is your most likely provider, although you can shop around (keep in mind that deals in Japan just arent in the same league as many places; think buy one for $5, buytwo for $9.99! as an example ). I love it because its safe, clean and has great public transport. This is a great blog! Hi there! Besides the public transportation there are a lot more things convenient in Japan! Its not cheap, but the abundance of taxis makes it a convenient and quick option. You can either find a spot through a letting agency or directly through the landlord, but there are some challenges. Get Essential Information on Protecting Your Assets. Homestays are another option with a few differences to share housessee our comparison article. Good article. Although you are meant to do this within two weeks of moving to Tokyo, if you knowyour current place is temporary and will be moving again soon, dont worryjust do so as soon as you have a permanent home. Don't you like shopping for clothes?
The Pros and Cons of Living in Tokyo - Storytellers Tokyo is full of sight-seeing, be it historical places, modern places, or nature. Interesting facts about Tokyo 1.The silence: When you walk around the busy streets of Tokyo (unless you're at Shibuya crossing or a very touristy area), you will be shocked by how quiet it is. Tokyo is surprisingly clean. Check this site out for a more in-depth breakdown On the crime rate in Tokyo. The delivery is often cheap or free when buying from big shops like Biccamera, Amazon, etc. If you arrive on a tourist visa and somehow find yourself a job and end up actually moving to Tokyo instead of just visiting, youll need to head to your local immigration office to apply for a change of status, although your company will most likely help you with this. Because of the vast train and subway network in Tokyo, you dont really need to own a car. Thought leaders from across Japan's energy sector gathered in Tokyo last week to discuss the role energy will play in adapting the country's cities to a challenging . The truth is Tokyo is a great place to live for multiple reasons including the citys peace and security, cleanliness, infrastructure, convenience, and an abundance of things to do. From Shin-Matsudo to Ueno takes 20 minutes and 35 minutes to Tokyo. Some train lines run every four minutes or less. Note: watch your weight its easy to put on a few pounds when you first get to Tokyo.
Salary question about Living in Tokyo : r/Tokyo - Reddit This is very important, and must be kept on you at all times (there are tales of $1000 fines if youre stopped without it). If you have brought your unlocked phone with you from home, an MVNO is your best bet, as you can even have a proper phone number with them (not just data only). The first company will offer the type of internet, like Hikari-fibre (fibre-optic) or ADSL, with some still offering cable. See our Japanese banks comparison article for more. 3. Some employers stipulate that you have an account with a specific bank (probably to reduce their own fees),but if you have to do this, theres no reason you cant open a second account elsewhere thats easier to use. After arriving at the airport, you'll be whisked away in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and dropped off right on the doorstep of your accommodation. The littering and sanitation issues that exist in America are non-existent in Japan. Thats right, Tokyo is renowned for its interconnected, convenient, and speedy service. In other countries cute stuff is considered to be for children and isn't seen outside toy stores.
Living in Tokyo: How to Avoid Culture Shock - Transitions Abroad There is quite an interesting short documentary about this topic titled Japans Independent Kids. Ive also heard that decorating your umbrellas handle with tape/stickers etc also helps. Of note are the firefly festivals and the impressive Torigoe Matsuri. Attending a Tokyo festival or holiday celebration is a great way to immerse yourself with the Japanese people and culture. For under 500 yen, you can walk into a 7-11 and get a fairly decent bento box. Were Alex & Tomek. The main difference in Japan, compared to most places, is that you actually need two companies to get internet: the internet connection company (like NTT East Flets or AU) and the internet service provider (OCN, Asahi Net, SpinNet). This blog is written by American students spending a semester or year studying abroad at Temple Universitys campus in Rome, Italy. Tokyos Amazing Transportation Systems, The Ultimate Guide to getting a job as a foreigner. In Your Face Advertising on Tokyo Buildings.
NEWS HOUR @ 8PM | JUNE 26, 2023 | AITLIVE | NEWS HOUR @ 8PM - Facebook Tokyo, even though a huge metropolis, is not an exception. There are even incidents of sexual assault. Please note that prices can change in the future. Travel tips and tricks for keen travelers. You will be required to use this number for tax returns, employment and when you send money from Japan via services such as Wise and Goremit. You can eat the most expensive sushi you can afford, or just a riceball from the convenience store. A cat in Ueno Park enjoying cherry blossom season. It reminds me of the first time I cam to Japan. Home Sickness: It Comes, but It Also Goes, black and brown representation in Italian art, communicating abroad in stressful situations, confronting issues with American holidays, contrasting American and French college life, looking at my home country from the outside, medicinal plants of the southern hemisphere, recreating my favorite traditions in France, Venice and the art history of southern Italy, Mrida: My Introduction to a Beautiful and Historic Yucatecan City, Finding My Heritage in an Unexpected Place, Challenging Stereotypes: Unveiling the Living Mayan Culture. Armed withthe aforementionedresidence card, passport and a copy of your new permanent address, head to your local ward office to register as a resident. Japantics from Nagasaki, Japan on March 04, 2016: Great article. Thanks for writing this hub! But let's explore the 8 things about living in Tokyo, that I think are the most impactful. Poppy from Enoshima, Japan on May 27, 2018: I always find festivals to be horribly overcrowded in Tokyo. Get your yukata and picnic basket ready here's our guide to festivals both big and small! Want a stress-free and cost-effective Tokyo airport transfer? While these are all true, there are other practicalities to be aware of when making the Land of the Rising Sun your new home. The buildings are exquisite. These services can be a lifesaver especially if you dont speak any Japanese. Check out the video below. People in shared housing may not have to worry about this as most bills are often included in the rent. This is what makes it so expensive. Crime rates in Tokyo are extremely low especially when compared to other major cities around the world. Although Nittori is cheaper in some cases, you may be more familiar with Ikea and it has a discount section near the tills, which can be a goldmine for ex-display furnitureplus who doesnt love meatballs for lunch? The fact of the matter is, that generally, people in Japan do not litter. Visit our bookstore to purchase it today! 1.
12 Things I Love about Living in Japan - GaijinPot Blog But if you get sick of Japanese food, Tokyo has about everything if you know where to look. You do lose a few things though, the main one being privacy.
Top tip: Finesse your first trip to the grocery store with our guide on grocery shopping terms. I wont deny that finding fresh fruit and veggies can be difficult in Tokyo, especially if youre on a tight budget. Are you a geek? Sadly I was once pick pocketed in Tokyo but I guess I was just unlucky! People will always try their best to help you out when you are lost and will even ask others or walk you to your destination! So far, my favorite food that Ive eaten was homemade matcha ice creameverything matcha flavored in Tokyo is heavenly. Cost Of Living Index By Country Cost of Living Estimator Basket of Goods and Services Update Data for Your City Property Price Index (Current) Quality of Life Index (Current) Quality of Life Index by Country Health Care Index (Current) Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) 392.19 590.00 150.00 Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) If youre shopping in Japan for the first time and feeling a bit apprehensive/confused, have a quick read of our general guide to shopping for beginners. For decorating tips, heres how you can maximize space in small Japanese apartment. There are so many places to eat out that even if you would eat in a different place every day it would take you years to try everything. Its distinctive red color and exaggerated face make them unmistakable amongst the other traditional Japanese toys and charms. There are myriad options, and most are expensive. Mummy is boring. There are basically no places that are not safe to go to at any time. I just go to the station, pick the platform and wait a few minutes for the train to arrive. From deliciously sauted yakitori to the creamy goodness of a hot bowl of ramen, Im always satisfied food-wise here. Even if there are clearly no vehicles in sight, people tend to wait until the walking signal turns green. Go to a themed cafe. But lets explore the 8 things about living in Tokyo, that I think are the most impactful. With the only rules being that everything has to be free and the receiver has to collect (or pay shipping), its a simple trade space with plenty of action. Theres no such thing as being bored in Tokyo. Yifei Matsunaga, 29 Training staff (Japanese) Best, I like concerts and performances in Ueno, and at Suntory Hall, so that is great, unlike Okayama, where I used. Matsudo is active in the area of parenting support and medical support. By this I mean just, in general, that living some time in a completely different culture will enrich your life a lot. Its a beautiful time with bright colors, an exciting culture, and interesting customs. Moving to a country that accommodates, and even encourages foreigners, makes it so much easier. It's amazing what you can find down a small alleyway in the middle of big city areas. The daruma doll has been a big part of Japanese culture since ancient times. Military bases and schools alike need English teachers for their students. Many vending machines and shops also accept IC cards as a payment method. Tokyo is a food heaven with every kind of restaurant you can possibly imagine. The Japanese mask has an important place in Japanese culture. 10 Best things about living in Tokyo Japan. Instead of tossing trash street-side, most recycle their trash leaving the streets clean and beautiful. Forgetting your purse or wallet somewhere is also not normally a cause of great concern, chances are someone turned it in if they didn't simply leave it there. You can also grab yourself a rice ball, a fresh pair of underwear print some documents out, and go to the toilet all in about 5- 10 minutes. For boutique shopping, visit these smaller furniture shops along Meguro-Dori. It will be wonderful for me snd my parents. We really hope you will find it useful. From $1.30 onigiri from a convenience store, through $10 ramen at a local ramen shop, to $50$100 (or more) fine dining experiences. With your house and life sorted after moving to Tokyo, youll be itching for some social interaction no doubt, so have a look at our events pages for an idea of whats on in the city. It translates to plum rain because it is during the season when plums start to ripen! 2. It features a unique mix of the old and modern that blends perfectly. If you live in Japan, you will also be required to recycle, and must keep an eye on the garbage collection schedule - combustibles on Tuesdays and Fridays, maybe, PET bottles on Wednesday, and so on. Hopefully we get more information about Tokyo. Every place you will visit in Tokyo will have their own unique shops so you will never be bored! However, Japan has a plethora of parks and outdoor areas that make exercise or getting outside a blast. You can see old temples and shrines, or maybe the Imperial Palace where the current Emperor lives. Traveling the world is full of adventure finding that one country, in that one spot, youll never forget. Depending on your spending habits and standards you can make Tokyo work for you. Lastly, for a taste of back home, check out these import stores in Tokyo. However, when you are in a pinch to get somewhere quickly or its just pouring rain, just grab a taxi. But most importantly, we hope to inspire you, share our tips with you, and build your confidence and skills to allow yourself to have a life you want, where you want. More into natural beauty? 4. Sponsored posts are clearly labeled with a "Sponsored" tag. Check out how to get one here! Living in Tokyo means that youll be among the largest expat community in Japan. [], Tatami is super unique to Japan and considered to be one of the best ways to experience Japanese culture at home. A list of some free or affordable Tokyo events worth attending in July 2023! Would love to know your thoughts. It is also now used as your visa, rather than the one in your passport which will no longer be updated if you change status (only the card will)so keep it on you and keep it safe. Indeed, Tokyo is the world's biggest urban environment, holding more than a quarter of Japan's entire population. Can't speak Japanese? All Rights Reserved. Consider a low-cost shared taxi.
10 things you should know about living in Tokyo - Angloinfo These stores are also good for the cleaning basics, with bin-bags, those sink-drain nets and countless other bits and bobs like magic sponges! Great! Want to get a FREE Japanese candy box? I think the common misconception about Japanese food is that its all about fish and seafood. Otaku Wonderland If you've got a nerdy side Tokyo is your city. To make your house more of a home, including those cute little socks for chairs (your neighbors will thank you), head to the nearest 100-yen store for little pieces and decorations. Tokyo is known for being a lively and futuristic metropolis. Shall we? Have you ever visited Tokyo, lived here or would like to check it out one day? More and more housing options are becoming available in Tokyo, with flexible contracts and different needs being catered to. Hey, Japanese cuisine has more than its share of high-calorie and unhealthy dishes, no matter what your image might be. With monthly rental agreements, no additional fees, fully furnished rooms and utilities included, it can make your move to Tokyo that much simpler. Japanese people are great at recycling. Having cash on you is an essential part of living in Tokyo.
10 Best things about living in Tokyo Japan - TokyoTreat Blog Once you have chosen a plan and type, youcan choose an internet service provider; some are paired with companies, for example, OCN is linked to NTT and therefore has English support, and is easy to use. And hundreds more. For your own space, with no one wandering into your kitchen and making toast at 3am or taking a shower shortly after, a private place is the answer. There are ways to avoid some of those costs, and well go into that below. Here is probably the most extensive ebook on Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Eliminating Your Taxes, Protecting Your Assets And Regaining Privacy Over Your Life And Investments. Having said that, I love the food here. Living in Tokyo doesnt have to be as expensive as you think. Sometimes both parents come together, even. Because of that, we buy online regularly, especially chemicals, non-perishables, and all those heavy things like a bag of rice or a case of sparkling water. Building structures in Japan are unlike any other in the world. Leaving home and moving to the biggest city in the world can be a bit of a daunting prospect, but dont worrywe have you covered! Once you have an address after moving to Tokyo, you can start with the essentials like a bank account and phoneboth of which are pretty vital for life here. Everyone has their own reasons for wanting to go, whether it is to get anime goodies, to visit temples or to buy the latest harajuku fashion there are certain things that everyone would agree on that makes Tokyo a great place. They are always on time, clean, quiet and they run every few to several minutes. To open an account you will need your residence card and passport, and they will tell you that you need a hanko (a small personal seal used in place of a signature here). But then this page doesn't have how many population is in Tokyo. Additionally, content such as tours and tickets, hotels and apartments are commercial content. When there's a delay it's usually not for long either! Japan is one of the few countries where people walk around at night and can feel relatively safe. The transport network in Tokyo has an additional convenience of the IC card (Suica or Pasmo card), so you dont have to buy a ticket each time you use a train or a bus. I know that j-walking is technically illegal in the U.S., but everyone j-walks and it isnt considered taboo. Sometimes you miss interaction with people who are culturally similar to you, who understand your sense of humor and who you find it easier to get along with. Even though people from Tokyo are known to be a bit colder towards strangers than people from other cities in Japan like Osaka, I still think they are very polite! But why is the crime rate so low in Tokyo? Im sure every person has their own perspective on Tokyo. Also the idea of wearing face masks while sick has long been custom in Japan. I hope you can visit Tokyo really soon! To find why we started this site, check out the Tokyo Cheapo Manifesto. (5000 more month), but the ability to save more in Osaka due to the lower costs of living vs. Tokyo is something to consider. The first great thing about Tokyo is that it's really really safe. Anime, manga and video game fans are spoiled with the sheer amount of stores, events and publicity their passion gets. Unlike other cities, where the car horns, engine revs, and people shouting make up the background noise, Tokyo is virtually silent. These are cities of 100,000 to 200,000 people, dense at the . Trying to figure out what bin your old toothbrush or used can of hairspray goes in can be a pain, but you'll feel much better about your waste when you take the step to be greener. There is food, games, performances, and people wearing yukata (a light cotton kimono). We don't endorse any of the companies we link to but we are selective in terms of the companies that we choose. Salaries are somewhat low here in Japan. 1. This includes services like moving companies, doctors as well as real estate companies. Tokyo is the most well-known city in Asia, and one of the biggest cities in the world. However, many people are able to mitigate accommodation costs by living further away from the main Tokyo area. We break down just a few of the many reasons that you should live in Tokyo.
Pros And Cons Of Living In Japan - QUESTION JAPAN More than likely youre not going to see your wallet again. Once youve seen something you like, have a read of our transport guide so you know how to get there fast and cheap. If youre not easily creeped, you could consider renting out a jiko bukken apartmenta space where someone has died of unnatural causes or some other unpleasant thing has occurred. For a country with no public trash cans, its unbelievable that Tokyo is so clean, maybe its because of the samurai trash collectors on the video above. Trains come every few minutes and are almost always on time. You may decide youd prefer to stick to phone data or portable wifiso be sure to do a little extra research into these options before committing to anything. Tokyo not only has delicious Japanese food, but lots of international food as well. This article will try to capture the significance of the Asian culture, more specifically Japanese culture. Watch the video below to for 100 things to do in Tokyo! If you have a newstove or dont know how to connect the one already in your apartment, the gas person is a great one to askthey will connect it for you quickly. Smoking in Japan is more common than you may think. Talk about Convenience! Next to the huge districts of Shibuya and Harajuku there's Yoyogi park where you can relax and surround yourself with nature. Its possible to lessen that a bit by going a bit earlier or later if possible, or using a less crowded car (car closer to the platforms exits on big stations are obviously more popular). We cover all the basics including things to do in Tokyo,
This article sure opened my eyes to what is offered in Tokyo. Remember to check which line youll need though, as it matches up with one of the two cardsthe article linked above explains further. Parks are usually close or only a quick train trip away. As long as your wallet is full, shopping in Tokyo can be a blast. Tokyo is definitely the most convenient city Ive ever lived in. There is little reason to get your own vehicle. Keep up the good work! And if youre searching for the best area to stay in Tokyo, being close to the station also means getting excellent food. Check out Akihabara, the "Electric Town" known for its computer parts and cartoons. From the streetlights of Tokyo to the food at a small hole-in-the-wall sushi restaurant, you will not be disappointed with your life abroad in Japan. I hope you enjoyed this article on 10 Things Youll Love About Living in Japan. For example in the cafes, most people leave their laptops on the table when going to the toilet. Although a hard majority of the country lives in urban areas (and over 30% of those people are in Tokyo alone! The latter is easier if youre going to be managing your money closely, as you can control when to pay (bills are often sent out pretty early, often withtwo weeks until payment is required). Then make sure to check out our Bookstore we have titles packed full of premium offshore intel. While we strive to prove that living in Japan can be cheap, there are some things thatthis country is expensive for, and moving can be one of them.
Living in Japan: What You Need to Know Before You Move - InterNations Dont believe the lie that you need a teacher.
Is Tokyo a Good Place To Live? The TRUTH. - Citybooked You're probably fine! You should exercise careful judgement with any online purchase.
This blog and its content are administered by Temple University Education Abroad and Overseas Campuses. If you want to know more about how public transport works in Tokyo, check out our guide on how to use trains in Tokyo for essential basics and useful tips and tricks. I think it all ties to the necessity of convenience and the busy working lives of people in Tokyo. They end up touching or rubbing their victims on the train as if it was accidental and most of the time its outright blatant what their intentions were. It is so quiet in fact, that Ive almost gotten hit by several cars because I havent been paying attention. Tokyo is the biggest city in the world with so many places to discover. Japan does an outstanding job accommodating those that dont speak their language. There is always a place to learn the language, and in some cities/towns they offer Japanese language lessons for free. Kaitenzushi, the "conveyor belt" sushi restaurant. 1. These are rechargeable cash cards which you swipe in and out of the station with (like the Oyster card in London or the Octopus card in Hong Kong), saving you a few yen andmost importantlythe hassle of buying tickets each time. Check out The Ultimate Guide to getting a job as a foreigner in Japan for more information Im securing a job while living in Tokyo. Everyone gets invited! As Japan is yet to bring in any form of anti-discrimination law, landlords seem to be perfectly within their rights to refuse to rent to foreigners, and very often do. And if youre searching for the. Sounds like a great place to visit. I love most of the Japanese food, especially ramen, nigiri sushi, udon, okonomiyaki. Give them a call, remember to set up your bills in your preferred way, and enjoy your access. Tiny shrines can also be found next to convenience stores, hidden between apartment buildings, almost anywhere. It's worth noting that handguns are illegal in Japan, which may also make you feel safer walking by yourself. I had some of the best burgers, spaghetti carbonara and steaks ever actually here in Tokyo. It also pays to keep an eye on parts of Tokyo that are getting cheaper, and focus your search efforts in those areas. 3. I dont think it would be possible for many parents that often have a long commute and long working hours to always pick up their kids from school. Maybe you like noodles, like soba, udon or ramen. Read on to find out. Tokyo has many famous chain shops that most countries have like H&M and Zara but they also have tiny boutiques and their own chain stores. If you've got a job lined up, you're in luck. You can find high-end Michelin star restaurants or inexpensive meals to satisfy your cravings. Sukiyaki () is one of Japanese favorites' cold-weather food, where an assortment of fresh veggies and thinly sliced meat cooked in a sweet and salty soy sauce-based broth in a simmering hot pot. Tokyo Lifestyle Blog for the best Eating, Drinking, and Living in Tokyo, Tips and suggestions based on experience spanning across 4 decades and 3 stints in Tokyo, Life! Fried food? Get your letter and immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter in Tokyo. Its usually far ahead and beyond what you can get in many other countries. If you compare the average Japanese meal with the average American meal, Japanese meals are far healthier. Japan loves its holidays and celebrations, and everyone is invited to the party! Look at the table below to get an idea of how safe Tokyo is compared to London. 2. It is not a legal requirement, no matter what they try and tell you, so stick to your guns. 9. 10. If you fell in love with Tokyo and decide you want to move here, these are 10 things that I find awesome about the Tokyo life! Some areas are definitely more business-oriented like Nishi-Shinjuku and other more residential-oriented like Nakano. Imagine living in Tokyo and having every type of Japanese food available to you at your fingertips. Pre and post-pandemic Tokyos residents have face masks imprinted on their idea of cleanliness and hygiene. Most Japanese food is cooked with natural ingredients. However, even some of those fees paired with delayed payment from work (for example, if you start mid-month, itmay be overeight weeks until you receive your first full paycheck), it can be an expensive timeso be prepared with enough money to see you through the first couple months (ideally brought in cash). Everyone gets invited! But we do occasionally get to have more breakfasts together as the Tokyo offices open later than Australian offices do, for sure. You can get anywhere in Tokyo easily and even as a foreigner the system is easy to understand.
Sustainable Cities: Challenges and Opportunities in Japan If you are moving from your current country to Japan, here are 10 things youll love about living there.
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