Relocating to Japan: A Practical Guide
- MWM DX-Admin
- May 4
- 10 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Moving to Japan is a rewarding experience, but it helps to be prepared. From daily life and housing to customs and cultural tips, this guide offers key insights to help you settle in quickly and confidently.
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🛬 1. Preparing for the Move
Visa & Immigration Requirements
Before relocating to Japan, securing the correct visa is essential. The most common visa types include:
Work Visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services)
Intra-Company Transferee Visa (for corporate assignments)
Dependent Visa (for accompanying spouses or children)
Student Visa, Spouse of Japanese National, and others
Most work and long-term stay visas require a Japanese sponsor, usually an employer. The application involves gathering documents such as a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), passport, photos, and employer-issued paperwork. Processing time can vary, so it’s wise to begin the process 2–3 months in advance.
Momentum Worldwide Movers can help guide you through the initial documentation process or connect you with immigration partners for more complex visa needs.
Pre-Move Planning Checklist
International relocations come with many moving parts. Here’s a quick list of key items to prepare:
Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Approved visa and COE
Certified copies of important documents (birth, marriage certificates)
International driver’s permit (if you plan to drive)
Medical records and prescriptions
Copies of vaccination history for children (often needed for school registration)
Scans and backups of key documents in cloud storage
Notify your bank and mobile provider of international activity
Start planning at least 8–12 weeks in advance, particularly if moving with children or pets.
Language Considerations
While major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama are becoming more English-friendly, Japanese is still essential for daily tasks, especially in smaller towns or government offices.
You don’t need to be fluent, but learning the basics will make a huge difference. Consider:
Apps like Duolingo, Bunpo, or LingoDeer
Community language classes often provided by city offices
Hiring a private tutor or enrolling in online group lessons
Even simple greetings and phrases can go a long way in establishing goodwill with neighbors and service providers.
🏠 2. Housing & Living Arrangements
Finding a Home in Japan
Japan’s housing market operates differently from many Western countries, and first-time movers are often surprised by the level of formality and costs involved.
Key differences and considerations include:
Apartment Types: Most housing in Japan consists of apartments (called manshons or apaato), ranging from basic one-room units to multi-bedroom family homes. Western-style houses are rarer in major cities.
Key Money & Deposits: It’s common to pay several months’ worth of upfront fees, including:
Shikikin (security deposit)
Reikin (non-refundable “key money” or gift to the landlord)
Agent Fee (usually one month’s rent)
Guarantors: Most landlords require a Japanese guarantor (hoshōnin) or a guarantor company, especially if you’re a foreigner without a long credit history in Japan.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Most rental properties in Japan are unfurnished, without even lighting fixtures or appliances. Furnished options are limited and more expensive, often targeting short-term stays.
For corporate clients, we often coordinate directly with HR teams or relocation consultants to secure suitable housing options before arrival. For individuals, Momentum can help connect you with English-speaking agents who understand the unique needs of expats.
Utilities & Setup
Once you’ve secured a property, the next step is arranging utilities—usually done individually rather than bundled.
Here’s what you’ll need to set up:
Electricity (denki): Japan uses 100 volts, and depending on your region, either 50Hz or 60Hz. Common providers include TEPCO (Tokyo), KEPCO (Kansai), and others.
Gas (gasu): Most homes use city gas or propane. A technician will likely need to visit to turn it on.
Water (suidō): Usually managed by the local municipal office. You can set this up when registering your address.
Internet: Fiber-optic (Hikari) is widely available. Providers like NTT, SoftBank, and AU offer packages. You’ll need a Japanese bank account or credit card to set up an account in most cases.
Mobile Phone: Major carriers include SoftBank, Docomo, and AU, along with cheaper MVNO options like Rakuten Mobile or IIJmio. Foreign residents need a residence card to sign up for a long-term mobile plan.
Garbage Separation & Local Rules
Japan has a highly organized and strict garbage system. Improper disposal can lead to warnings or fines.
Key points:
Sorting Rules: Garbage is separated into burnables, non-burnables, plastics, PET bottles, cans, glass, and more.
Collection Schedule: Each category has a designated day. Missing your day may mean storing the garbage for another week.
Special Bags: Some cities require residents to purchase designated colored garbage bags for each category.
Oversized Items: Large items like furniture or appliances must be disposed of through special request services, often for a fee.
City or ward offices provide multilingual guides explaining how to sort and dispose of waste properly. Momentum often supplies clients with a copy of the local garbage guide at move-in.
🏫 3. Daily Life & Integration
Transportation & Getting Around
Japan has one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world, and for most residents, it’s the primary way to get around—especially in cities.
Key tips:
IC Cards: Rechargeable smart cards like Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA can be used on trains, subways, buses, vending machines, and even some stores.
Train System: Punctual, clean, and extensive. Apps like NAVITIME or Google Maps (Japan) help with route planning.
Taxis: Reliable but expensive. Some drivers may not speak English, so having your destination written in Japanese is helpful.
Owning a Car: Not usually necessary in big cities, but helpful in rural areas. You’ll need a parking certificate (shako shomeisho), Japanese license (or international driving permit), and must navigate local regulations.
Cycling: A popular option. Bikes must be registered, and some areas have strict parking rules or require bike insurance.
Health Insurance & Medical Services
Japan offers high-quality medical care, but navigating the system as a foreigner can be daunting.
Health Insurance Options:
National Health Insurance (NHI): Available for most residents not covered by a company plan. Covers 70% of medical costs.
Employee Health Insurance: Offered through your employer. Often includes pension contributions and better access to facilities.
Private Insurance: Sometimes used as a supplement, especially by expats on short-term assignments.
Medical Access:
English-speaking clinics and hospitals exist in larger cities but can be limited in smaller towns.
It’s common to go directly to a specialist (no referral needed), but hospital visits often require longer wait times.
Pharmacies (yakkyoku) are widespread. Prescription meds are affordable with insurance, but availability may differ from your home country.
Momentum provides clients with a list of recommended English-speaking clinics in major cities.
Schools & Childcare
Japan offers a range of educational options depending on your child’s age, language ability, and your length of stay.
International Schools:
Common in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya.
Curricula include IB, American, British, German, French, etc.
Tuition can be expensive, so company-sponsored packages may be needed.
Public Schools:
Excellent academic reputation.
Japanese-language immersion and local community integration.
Admission may require Japanese language support or a transition period.
Childcare Options:
Hoikuen (nursery schools): Accept infants to preschoolers. Placement may be competitive in urban areas.
Yōchien (kindergartens): Focus on education and development from age 3 to 6.
For families, Momentum can connect you with bilingual relocation consultants who assist with school visits, enrollment, and translation support.
🛍️ 4. Culture, Customs & Etiquette
Everyday Etiquette
Japanese society is known for its politeness, formality, and respect for social harmony. Understanding basic customs can go a long way in making a positive impression.
Key etiquette to be aware of:
Bowing: Used for greetings, thanks, apologies, and respect. A simple forward bow of the head is sufficient for casual interactions.
Shoes Off Indoors: Always remove shoes when entering a home, temple, certain traditional restaurants, and even some offices or clinics. Indoor slippers are often provided.
Quiet Public Behavior: Speaking loudly on phones or in public spaces is frowned upon. Silence is expected on trains and in elevators.
Personal Space: Japanese people tend to value space and privacy, especially in crowded areas.
Cash-Based Transactions: While credit cards are becoming more common, cash is still preferred in many places. Always carry some cash, especially outside major cities.
Gift-Giving Culture
Gift-giving is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and is often used to express gratitude, respect, or goodwill.
Common gift-giving occasions:
Omiyage: Souvenirs brought back from travel, often food, given to coworkers or friends.
Seasonal Gifts: Offered during summer (ochūgen) and winter (oseibo) seasons to thank business partners, landlords, or teachers.
New Neighbors: A small welcome gift like dish soap or hand towels is often given when moving into a new building.
Presentation is just as important as the gift itself. Many stores offer free wrapping services that align with traditional aesthetics.
Taboos and Cultural Don’ts
Avoiding cultural missteps helps smooth your integration and build positive relationships.
Things to avoid:
Pointing: Considered rude. Use an open hand gesture instead.
Tipping: Not customary and can be seen as inappropriate in restaurants or taxis.
Public Displays of Affection: Hand-holding is usually fine, but kissing or hugging in public may draw uncomfortable attention.
Chopstick Misuse: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice (symbolizes death) or pass food chopstick-to-chopstick (resembles funeral rituals).
Blowing Your Nose in Public: This is generally avoided. Step away discreetly if needed.
Taking time to observe and mirror the behavior around you is often the best way to learn.
Work Culture for Expats
Understanding Japanese workplace culture is critical for corporate transferees and professionals.
Key characteristics:
Formality & Hierarchy: Respect for titles and seniority is essential. Decisions may move slower than in Western firms, as consensus is often valued over speed.
Punctuality: Being on time—or five minutes early—is the standard for meetings and appointments.
Business Cards (Meishi): Always present and receive cards with two hands, and take a moment to read the card before putting it away.
Nomikai (Drinking Culture): Socializing after hours is common in some industries. While not mandatory, participation is often seen as team bonding.
Non-Verbal Communication: Silence may indicate thoughtfulness rather than disagreement. It’s important to read between the lines and listen carefully.
Momentum often provides cross-cultural support or orientation sessions for corporate assignees adjusting to Japanese workplace expectations.
📦 5. Shipping & Settling In
What to Bring vs Buy Locally
Deciding what to ship and what to purchase upon arrival in Japan depends on space, voltage compatibility, and lifestyle preferences.
What to bring:
Clothing: Sizes run small in Japan, especially for Western body types. Shoes above size 28cm (US 10) can be hard to find.
Personal electronics: Laptops, tablets, and phones are fine to bring, but check plug adapters. Japan uses 100 volts with Type A/B plugs. Some appliances may not function properly.
Bedding and linens: Japanese beds tend to be smaller. If you’re tall or have specific preferences, consider bringing your own.
Kitchenware: Specialty items (like large ovens, blenders, or cookware) may be different or more expensive in Japan.
Favorite toiletries or medications: Japan has great drugstores, but specific brands or prescription equivalents may not be available.
What to buy locally:
Large appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, and microwaves are often included in furnished rentals or easier to match to local specifications.
Furniture: Local stores like Nitori, Muji, or IKEA (Japan) provide affordable and size-appropriate furniture.
Heaters/ACs: Most homes have wall-mounted climate units already installed.
Momentum’s team can help you evaluate what’s worth shipping based on your destination and lifestyle.
Customs & Import Rules
Japan has specific regulations governing what can be brought into the country as part of a household goods shipment.
Key points:
Declaration: You’ll need to submit a customs declaration form (Yunyū Kamotsu Ninteisho) within 6 months of arriving in Japan.
Personal items: Generally duty-free if they are for personal use and not new or intended for resale.
Prohibited items: These include weapons, drugs (including certain medications), fresh food, pornography, counterfeit goods, and some plants or animals.
Electronics: Multiple high-value electronics may raise questions about resale intent and could be subject to duty.
Alcohol and cigarettes: Limited allowances exist, and exceeding them may incur customs fees.
Momentum assists clients with preparing documentation and navigating customs procedures to prevent delays.
Duties and Taxes on Household Goods
Most used household items can be imported duty-free if they are part of your relocation and declared properly. However:
New or high-value items (especially still in packaging) may be subject to inspection and taxation.
Large volumes of similar items may suggest commercial importation and lead to duties.
Vehicles can be imported but require additional approvals, registration, and may incur taxes depending on age and emissions.
Momentum provides clear checklists and customs forms in advance so you can prepare your shipment with confidence and avoid unnecessary fees.
🤝 6. Support & Resources
Expat & Community Groups
Relocating to a new country can be overwhelming without local connections. Fortunately, Japan has an active expat network that offers social support, advice, and community engagement.
Helpful communities include:
Tokyo Expat Network, Foreigners in Kansai, and Yokohama International Association
Facebook groups tailored to specific cities, parenting abroad, or hobbies
Meetup.com events for language exchange, hiking, tech, and cultural outings
International Women’s Associations (e.g., TYWCA, AFWJ)
These groups are invaluable for finding friendship, getting tips on daily life, and easing cultural adjustment.
Government & Municipal Services
When moving to Japan, you’ll need to complete some official steps shortly after arrival. Local municipal offices (shiyakusho or kuyakusho) are your first stop.
Important tasks include:
Resident Registration: File a moving-in notification within 14 days of arriving at your new address. You’ll receive a residence certificate (jūminhyō).
MyNumber Card: Japan’s national ID system, needed for taxes, health care, and certain banking services.
National Health Insurance Enrollment: If not covered by your employer, you can enroll at your city office.
Pension Enrollment: Required for long-term residents, with exemptions or refunds available depending on visa type and duration of stay.
Most city offices now offer multilingual support, printed guides, or interpreters by appointment. Some also provide free Japanese classes and cultural orientation workshops.
Professional Support from Momentum
At Momentum Worldwide Movers, we go beyond packing and logistics. Our role is to guide, support, and equip you or your employees for a smooth relocation experience, before, during, and after the move.
We assist with:
Coordinating with visa and immigration specialists
Recommending housing and school search consultants
Connecting you with trusted service providers
Supplying local guides, moving checklists, and timeline planning
Offering bilingual support for smooth communication
Whether you’re relocating as an individual, a family, or part of a corporate assignment, we ensure you’re not navigating Japan alone.
🇯🇵 Wrapping Up
Relocating to Japan is a life-changing experience filled with opportunity, growth, and discovery. The right preparation, however, makes all the difference. At Momentum Worldwide Movers, we understand the details that matter, from logistics and customs to cultural nuances and daily life.
Whether you’re moving across the world for work or personal reasons, our team is here to help your journey begin with clarity and confidence. If you’re planning a move to Japan, we invite you to get in touch. We’re ready to support you every step of the way.
Feel free to contact us for more information.
