Your Starter kit in Japan
Konnichiwa and welcome to Japan! I’m Samurai-san, and I’m thrilled to guide you through the exciting adventure of starting your new life in the Land of the Rising Sun.
In this blog series, I’ll walk you through the essential steps you should take during your first week to one month in Japan. I’ll be writing from the perspective that you have a visa without work limitations and that you already have a place to stay. If this doesn’t apply to you, don’t worry! We’ll cover those situations in future posts, and I’m here to help you navigate Japan no matter where you’re starting from.
Step 1: Getting Your Residence Card
In this step, we’ll cover why your Residence Card is crucial for your stay in Japan and how to get it. This card will be your primary ID, so it’s important to get it sorted from the beginning.
Step 2: Opening a Japanese Bank Account
Step 2 focuses on setting up your finances. I’ll guide you through the process of opening a Japanese bank account, which is essential for managing your money and receiving your salary.
Step 3: Getting a Japanese SIM Card or Mobile Plan
In Step 3, we’ll explore your options for staying connected. Whether you need a SIM card or a mobile plan, I’ll help you find the best solution for your communication needs.
Step 4: Registering at Your Local Ward Office
Step 4 is about registering your address at the local ward office. This step is important for accessing various services and officially establishing yourself as a resident.
Step 5: Getting Health Insurance
In Step 5, we’ll dive into the types of health insurance available to you. I’ll explain why it’s important and guide you on how to get the coverage you need.
Step 6: Get Your My Number
Before starting your job hunt, it’s important to secure your My Number (マイナンバー). The My Number system is Japan’s social security and tax identification system. This 12-digit number is necessary for many aspects of life in Japan, including employment, banking, and taxes. Here’s how to get it:
Step 7: Learning the Basics of Public Transportation
In Step 7, we’ll cover the basics of Japanese public transportation. I’ll help you get familiar with trains, buses, and subways, and how to use your Suica or Pasmo card effectively.
