If you are in Japan in Jan, it is good to go shopping because there are 30 to 50% off in everywhere.
I wonder if you have heard "Fukubukuro (Lucky bag) "which is secret bags with random items at a reasonable price. It is one of New Year's customs in Japan. If you are lucky, you'll get very good items with a good price.
Tokyo
http://www.timeout.jp/ja/tokyo/feature/8470
Kansai
http://www.walkerplus.com/event_list/201401/ar0700/3.html
Showing posts with label Daily Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Daily Life. Show all posts
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Monday, December 30, 2013
Japanese New Year's eve
New Year's eve is a very special day for Japanese. People polish up their entire house and do a big grocery shopping. Let me list up the things Japanese have to do before celebrating the New Year.
1. Prepare New years cards (Nangajo) and post them before 12/25. (It will be arrive at Jan 1st.)
2. Clean up the entire house. (wipe windows and doors, clean the bath room, toilet and kitchen including the kitchen fan, polish the floor, change the Fusuma and Shoji (Japanese sliding doors) paper and so on)
2. Decorate the doors, cars, bicycles, toilets, Kitchen with the traditional New Year ornaments.
3. Go grocery shopping to prepare special traditional New Year food (Osechi).
4. Eat soba noodles (Toshikoshi soba) for dinner.
5. Have a bath and wear new underwear.
6. Go to temples to ring or listen the bell to say good bye the previous year.
7. Go to a shrine to pray for their family's health and fortune in New Year. (This is after count down.)
1. Prepare New years cards (Nangajo) and post them before 12/25. (It will be arrive at Jan 1st.)
2. Clean up the entire house. (wipe windows and doors, clean the bath room, toilet and kitchen including the kitchen fan, polish the floor, change the Fusuma and Shoji (Japanese sliding doors) paper and so on)
2. Decorate the doors, cars, bicycles, toilets, Kitchen with the traditional New Year ornaments.
3. Go grocery shopping to prepare special traditional New Year food (Osechi).
4. Eat soba noodles (Toshikoshi soba) for dinner.
5. Have a bath and wear new underwear.
6. Go to temples to ring or listen the bell to say good bye the previous year.
7. Go to a shrine to pray for their family's health and fortune in New Year. (This is after count down.)
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Watch out on a street!
Please watch out on the street. Unfortunately the numbers of the following crime and accident are increasing in Japan, especially in Osaka.
Bag Snatching
On August 27th, Osaka Prefectural Police are distributing "Jitensha Maekago Covers", which cover the front basket of bicycles, on the street to raise awareness of snatchers. It is embarrassing but the crime rate of snatchers is highest in Osaka so when you ride a bicycle I recommend using the basket cover to prevent theft. You can purchase the covers and there are many type available in the shops.
Collisions
When you walk in Japan you'll notice that pedestrians and bicycle riders are using the same paths. Because of that, the number of accidents involving a collision between cyclists and pedestrians are increasing. In the worst case, the victim of a collision could hit their head and become unconscious. I'm sure you don't want to be in this situation so when you are on the street please pay some attention to everyone around you.
For cyclists:
For pedestrians:
Learn about the penalties of riding bicycles dangerously here:
http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/fukei/foreign/koki_k_t/jitensha/
More information:
http://www.tokyobybike.com/2009/02/of-bicycle-laws-in-japan-and-other.html
http://kanko.city.kyoto.lg.jp/bicycle/en/rule/
http://www.tofugu.com/2012/12/11/how-to-ride-a-bicycle-in-japan/
Bag Snatching
On August 27th, Osaka Prefectural Police are distributing "Jitensha Maekago Covers", which cover the front basket of bicycles, on the street to raise awareness of snatchers. It is embarrassing but the crime rate of snatchers is highest in Osaka so when you ride a bicycle I recommend using the basket cover to prevent theft. You can purchase the covers and there are many type available in the shops.
Collisions
When you walk in Japan you'll notice that pedestrians and bicycle riders are using the same paths. Because of that, the number of accidents involving a collision between cyclists and pedestrians are increasing. In the worst case, the victim of a collision could hit their head and become unconscious. I'm sure you don't want to be in this situation so when you are on the street please pay some attention to everyone around you.
For cyclists:
- Do not ride a bicycle with 2 people.
- Lite the front light at night.
- Do not ride a bicycle when you drunk.
- Do not use a mobile phone while you are operating your bicycle.
- Do not use an umbrella when you are riding a bicycle.
For pedestrians:
- Don't use a mobile phone while walking
- Listen for bicycle bells
- Look around before quickly changing directions
- In areas that have them, walk on the pedestrian side of the path
Learn about the penalties of riding bicycles dangerously here:
http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/fukei/foreign/koki_k_t/jitensha/
More information:
http://www.tokyobybike.com/2009/02/of-bicycle-laws-in-japan-and-other.html
http://kanko.city.kyoto.lg.jp/bicycle/en/rule/
http://www.tofugu.com/2012/12/11/how-to-ride-a-bicycle-in-japan/
Monday, August 26, 2013
Discount days at the movie theater
In the Japanese movie theaters, foreign language movies are usually
shown in the original language with Japanese subtitles, but some movies,
especially for family, may be dubbed into Japanese, so when you are
going to see a movie, check whether it is subtitled or dubbed.
Movie theaters also have discount ticket days.
<First day/Movie's day>
The 1st of every month is Movie Day and adult tickets are discounted to 1,000 yen.
<Lady's day>
Every Wednesday is Lady's Day and the usual 1,600-1,800yen ticket cost is discounted to only 1,000 yen for women.
<TOHO Cinema's day>
On the 14th of each month the adult ticket cost is 1,000 yen at TOHO Cinemas.
<Movix day>
Each month on the 20th the adult ticket cost is only 1,000 yen at the Movix Cinemas.
<Fufu 50 discount>
In Japanese "Fufu" means a married couple. If a couple buy tickets together and one of them is over 50 years-olds, one ticket is discounted to 1,000 yen. You don't need to prove that you are married but you do need to prove your age.
Movie theaters also have discount ticket days.
<First day/Movie's day>
The 1st of every month is Movie Day and adult tickets are discounted to 1,000 yen.
<Lady's day>
Every Wednesday is Lady's Day and the usual 1,600-1,800yen ticket cost is discounted to only 1,000 yen for women.
<TOHO Cinema's day>
On the 14th of each month the adult ticket cost is 1,000 yen at TOHO Cinemas.
<Movix day>
Each month on the 20th the adult ticket cost is only 1,000 yen at the Movix Cinemas.
<Fufu 50 discount>
In Japanese "Fufu" means a married couple. If a couple buy tickets together and one of them is over 50 years-olds, one ticket is discounted to 1,000 yen. You don't need to prove that you are married but you do need to prove your age.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
General rule in Japan vol.2
Taking off shoes:
I think that most foreigners know the taking-off-shoes rule in Japan. There is a small space when you enter the house/apartment, or temples to take off your shoes and put on slippers before going inside. Even some Japanese restaurants have this system. Slippers are usually small for western men. When you visit a Japanese home or temple, check whether your socks have any holes and take extra socks with you for rainy days or sweaty summers.
Restrooms:
Public restrooms in Japan are very clean. Also the toilet features advanced technology to make us comfortable but there are many buttons to press for each function so it can be hard to find which button is for flushing!
Have you heard "Washlet" and "Otohime" system?
Japanese toilet has several functions such as a seat warmer, or a bidet to clean your bottom, or the Otohime, which is the sound of splashing water so people can't hear you.
Bath room:
In a hotel, a bath tub and shower are a single unit but in Japanese houses, bath tub is purely to just warm your body in hot water (usually about 40 degrees C). When you wash your hair and body you have to wash in the space next to the bath tub.
Futon on the balcony:
One Japanese custom is to put futons outside to dry. You may see some people hang their futon over their balcony. Many newer apartment forbid the hanging of futons over the balcony so if you want to dry your futon under the sun please hang it inside the balcony and not higher than the balcony wall.
Some people bang their futon to get rid of mites inside the futon but actually it is not practical. Using a vacuum cleaner is a much better way to do it.
I think that most foreigners know the taking-off-shoes rule in Japan. There is a small space when you enter the house/apartment, or temples to take off your shoes and put on slippers before going inside. Even some Japanese restaurants have this system. Slippers are usually small for western men. When you visit a Japanese home or temple, check whether your socks have any holes and take extra socks with you for rainy days or sweaty summers. Restrooms:
Public restrooms in Japan are very clean. Also the toilet features advanced technology to make us comfortable but there are many buttons to press for each function so it can be hard to find which button is for flushing!
Have you heard "Washlet" and "Otohime" system?
Japanese toilet has several functions such as a seat warmer, or a bidet to clean your bottom, or the Otohime, which is the sound of splashing water so people can't hear you.
Bath room:
In a hotel, a bath tub and shower are a single unit but in Japanese houses, bath tub is purely to just warm your body in hot water (usually about 40 degrees C). When you wash your hair and body you have to wash in the space next to the bath tub.
Futon on the balcony:
One Japanese custom is to put futons outside to dry. You may see some people hang their futon over their balcony. Many newer apartment forbid the hanging of futons over the balcony so if you want to dry your futon under the sun please hang it inside the balcony and not higher than the balcony wall.
Some people bang their futon to get rid of mites inside the futon but actually it is not practical. Using a vacuum cleaner is a much better way to do it.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Withdrawing cash and opening a bank account in Japan
When you want to withdraw cash at the ATM with your international cash card in Japan, you need to look for an ATM machine which accepts "PLUS" or "Cirrus" (which is written beside the ATMs). You can use ATMs at post offices, Seven Bank at the convenience store "Seven Eleven" or Citi banks. Some other Japanese banks' ATMs also accept international cash card but not all.
Post office
http://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_index.html
Seven bank
http://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html
Citi bank
http://www.citibank.co.jp/en/banking/branch_atm/
How to open a bank account:
If you want to open a bank account in Japan, you need to go to a special counter at the bank.
Banks open from 9 am to 3 pm, Mon to Fri., but they will be very crowded on the 10th, 15th, 25th and the end of the month because those days are paydays for many companies.
To open a bank account in Japan you will require the following things:
・Resident card, driver's license or a public health insurance card to confirm your address in Japan
・Passport
・Inkan, Hanko (persona name seal/stamp)
・Fill out the application forms.
・Initial deposit (Usually people put 1000 yen to start the account, but there is no minimum amount so you can deposit 1 yen.)
In Japan, there are 2 types of accounts. One called Futsu (ordinaly/savings account) and Toza (checking account usually for company use).
Some banks accept your signature instead of your seal.
When the bank completes the process, you'll receive your bank book which will keep your bank records and a cach card will usually be sent to your address within a week.
You may want to ask some help your Japanese friend or work mates to go to the bank because unfortunately the workers at the banks or post offices are not good English speaker.
Citi bank (will require the monthly maintenance fee) and Shinsei bank have service in English.
Shinsei bank
http://www.shinseibank.com/english/
Citi bank
http://www.citibank.co.jp/en/banking/branch_atm/
Public information site for how to open a bank account:
Osaka
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/services/11.html
http://www2.ofix.or.jp/english/pdf/8-4.pdf
Kobe
http://www.kicc.jp/kicc/guide/bank/index_eng.html
Private information site for how to open a bank account:
http://www.thejapanguy.com/how-to-open-a-japan-post-bank-account/
http://www.digi-joho.com/en/living-japan/165-opening-bank-accounts.html
Post office
http://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_index.html
Seven bank
http://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html
Citi bank
http://www.citibank.co.jp/en/banking/branch_atm/
How to open a bank account:
If you want to open a bank account in Japan, you need to go to a special counter at the bank.
Banks open from 9 am to 3 pm, Mon to Fri., but they will be very crowded on the 10th, 15th, 25th and the end of the month because those days are paydays for many companies.
To open a bank account in Japan you will require the following things:
・Resident card, driver's license or a public health insurance card to confirm your address in Japan
・Passport
・Inkan, Hanko (persona name seal/stamp)
・Fill out the application forms.
・Initial deposit (Usually people put 1000 yen to start the account, but there is no minimum amount so you can deposit 1 yen.)
In Japan, there are 2 types of accounts. One called Futsu (ordinaly/savings account) and Toza (checking account usually for company use).
Some banks accept your signature instead of your seal.
When the bank completes the process, you'll receive your bank book which will keep your bank records and a cach card will usually be sent to your address within a week.
You may want to ask some help your Japanese friend or work mates to go to the bank because unfortunately the workers at the banks or post offices are not good English speaker.
Citi bank (will require the monthly maintenance fee) and Shinsei bank have service in English.
Shinsei bank
http://www.shinseibank.com/english/
Citi bank
http://www.citibank.co.jp/en/banking/branch_atm/
Public information site for how to open a bank account:
Osaka
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/services/11.html
http://www2.ofix.or.jp/english/pdf/8-4.pdf
Kobe
http://www.kicc.jp/kicc/guide/bank/index_eng.html
Private information site for how to open a bank account:
http://www.thejapanguy.com/how-to-open-a-japan-post-bank-account/
http://www.digi-joho.com/en/living-japan/165-opening-bank-accounts.html
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
General rule in Japan
I've heard about some disputes between foreign residents and Japanese neighborhoods over 2 issues. Garbage and Noise. It simply come to a cultural gap or misunderstanding.
<Garbage>
Japanese government is trying reduce the garbage quantity and recycle resources as much as possible but garbage collection is controlled by local governments.
You have to be careful because each region has different garbage disposal rules because there are no nation-wide rules. Your apartment complexes might hire a private garbage services for their residents and have more rules you need to follow. Don't forget to ask about how to sort your garbage.
Sorting garbage is a headache for new comers (I can understand that feeling because when I was working in Shizuoka the separating garbage rule was much more complex than in Osaka so I had to think about how to separate it before throwing anything away every time.) and you may feel like too much trouble but when you learn the rules and get used to them, it becomes easier for you.
As an example, you need to purchase designated garbage bags to throw away garbage in Kobe, but not in Osaka. Find out more here:
Osaka city
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/kankyo/english/life/life01.html
Kobe City
http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/life/recycle/waketon/img/english.pdf
<Noise>
When I lived in Australia, I didn't mind the noise from neighbours but when I came back to Japan, I sometimes had trouble with neighbours' noise such as washing machine, vacuum cleaner, high heel sound in the corridor etc. I wonder the building materials and environment are different?
You may need to lower the volume between 10 pm to 8 am. Talking on the balcony is also not a good idea. Balconies echo your voice to your neighbours and they can hear your conversation quite clearly.
I don't say that all Japanese are quiet but I noticed that Japanese rarely have visitors and when they do, they tend to have a smaller group of visitors. (It is not always true though.) I think that complaints occur mostly because there isn't enough communication due to the language barrier. If you know each other, you or neighbour don't mind the noises which come from next door. So my suggestion is to try to greet your neighbours when you see them.
<Garbage>
Japanese government is trying reduce the garbage quantity and recycle resources as much as possible but garbage collection is controlled by local governments.
You have to be careful because each region has different garbage disposal rules because there are no nation-wide rules. Your apartment complexes might hire a private garbage services for their residents and have more rules you need to follow. Don't forget to ask about how to sort your garbage.
Sorting garbage is a headache for new comers (I can understand that feeling because when I was working in Shizuoka the separating garbage rule was much more complex than in Osaka so I had to think about how to separate it before throwing anything away every time.) and you may feel like too much trouble but when you learn the rules and get used to them, it becomes easier for you.
As an example, you need to purchase designated garbage bags to throw away garbage in Kobe, but not in Osaka. Find out more here:
Osaka city
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/kankyo/english/life/life01.html
Kobe City
http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/life/recycle/waketon/img/english.pdf
<Noise>
When I lived in Australia, I didn't mind the noise from neighbours but when I came back to Japan, I sometimes had trouble with neighbours' noise such as washing machine, vacuum cleaner, high heel sound in the corridor etc. I wonder the building materials and environment are different?
You may need to lower the volume between 10 pm to 8 am. Talking on the balcony is also not a good idea. Balconies echo your voice to your neighbours and they can hear your conversation quite clearly.
I don't say that all Japanese are quiet but I noticed that Japanese rarely have visitors and when they do, they tend to have a smaller group of visitors. (It is not always true though.) I think that complaints occur mostly because there isn't enough communication due to the language barrier. If you know each other, you or neighbour don't mind the noises which come from next door. So my suggestion is to try to greet your neighbours when you see them.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Osaka ben - Osaka dialect
In Japan, the standard Japanese dialect is Tokyo-ben (Tokyo dialect) but there are many other regional dialects and special words across Japan.
In the Kansai area it's called Kansai-ben (Kansai dialect), but it is not just one dialect. People in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and so on all use slightly different words and accents.
Osaka-ben is not taught in text book's so you may have difficulty understanding it in the beginning but you'll get use to it soon. Why don't you go out and learn Osaka-ben from Osaka people?
There are several sites teaching Osaka-ben.
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/english/osaka_dialect/index.html
http://hougen.u-biq.org/osakaben.html
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/about/dialect.html
In the Kansai area it's called Kansai-ben (Kansai dialect), but it is not just one dialect. People in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and so on all use slightly different words and accents.
Osaka-ben is not taught in text book's so you may have difficulty understanding it in the beginning but you'll get use to it soon. Why don't you go out and learn Osaka-ben from Osaka people?There are several sites teaching Osaka-ben.
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/english/osaka_dialect/index.html
http://hougen.u-biq.org/osakaben.html
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/about/dialect.html
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Accommodation in Osaka Vol.5 - utility
When you move in, first of all you need to contact utility companies to start using their services.
Electricity - Kansai Electric Power (Kanden or Kepco)
http://www1.kepco.co.jp/english/guide/index.html
To contact your local Kanden office, look for the envelop placed near the breaker or meter in your home. It has your customer number and office telephone number.
Business hours: Mon-Fri 9：00-17：00
Gas - Osaka Gas: http://www.osakagas.co.jp/en/index.html
【Customer Service Center】Tel:0120-0-94817 Mon-Sat 9：00-19：00 Sunday/Holidays 9：00-17：00
Water - Each area has a seperate service provider
Osaka city water: http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu030/english/
【Customer Service Center】Tel：06-6458-1132 Mon-Fri 8：00-20：00
Higashi Osaka city water: http://www.city.higashiosaka.lg.jp/category/12-0-0-0-0.html
To contact to your local office, fill out the form "Water Service Application (postcard)" which was left in a plastic bag near the entrance and return the card via postal mail.
【Customer Service Center】Tel：06-6724-1221 Mon-Fri:
Sakai city water: http://water.city.sakai.lg.jp/foreign/index_en.html
【Customer Service Center】Tel：072-251-1132 Mon-Fri: 8:45-19:00 Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: 9:00-17:00 (Closed Jan. 1st to 3rd)
Kobe city water: http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/foreign/english/index.html
To contact to your local office, fill out the form "Water Service Application (postcard)" which was left in a plastic bag near the entrance and return the card via postal mail.
【Customer Service Center】Tel：078-341-5451 Mon-Fri (except holiday) 9：00-17：15
for Chuo-ku, please check the telephone number from following site for other regions.
*They may visit your home to start the service. On a certain day each month, your meter is checked and a notification of usage is left in your mail box. Then they send the bill to your address a few days later. You can pay it at the bank, post office or convenience store. Also you can arrange to pay it with your credit card or Japanese bank account when you fill out the application form.
Telephone - NTT West
http://www.ntt-west.co.jp/english/
Call the NTT West Service Center (116) or use the NTT Internet Reservation Service to apply.
* For English, Portuguese, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean interpretation
call NTT WEST Information (Tel. 0120-064-337 Toll free)
(Monday-Saturday) 9am to 5pm
Most houses and apartments already have a line installed so you just need to contact them to get a telephone number. If your apartment/house doesn't have telephone line, you need to make an appointment for installation.
They send a bill every month to your address. You can pay it at the bank, post office or convenience store. Also you can arrange to pay it with your credit card or Japanese bank account when you fill out the application form.
Mobile phone:
Softbank: http://www.softbank.jp/mobile/customer/
AU: http://www.au.kddi.com/
Docomo: http://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/
You need to go to the shop to purchase a mobile phone. You need to show several forms of ID and credit card/cash card or your Japanese bank account details.
1. Japanese driver's licence
2. Passport
3. Japanese health cover card
4. Japanese resident card
5. Credit card or bank book
I recommend you to take several IDs with you because each company has a slightly different rules to confirm your ID's in Japan.
Their payment will be charged to your credit card or your Japanese bank account.
You need to aware that it may take quite long time (like 2 hours) to complete the whole process.
Home Internet:
NTT Flet's Hikari: http://flets-w.com/english/
Usen: http://www.usen.com/index.html
Zaq: http://zaq.ne.jp/
and others
Please check which internet line has been installed at your apartment/house. If it's already installed, you just need to apply for the internet account. If it is not installed yet, you need to make an appointment for the installation. You might need to wait for a few days in that case.
Instead of applying broadband at home, you can apply for wireless internet at the major appliance store such as Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camere, Yamada denki.
TV:
J-com: http://www.jcom.co.jp/pack.html
Skyperfect: http://www.skyperfectv.co.jp/osusume_pack/basic/
If you want to get a special TV package to watch English/foreign language TV programs, you can apply for J-com (CATV), eo Hikari, Skyperfect, or Wow wow etc. They usually lease the tuner (You need to return when you cancel the service) to watch their TV programs. Depending on your apartment, you may need to have a satellite dish to receive their signal.
Osaka Living Guide
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/services/index_en.html
Kobe Living Guide
http://www.kicc.jp/kicc/guide/water/index_eng.html
Electricity - Kansai Electric Power (Kanden or Kepco)
http://www1.kepco.co.jp/english/guide/index.html
To contact your local Kanden office, look for the envelop placed near the breaker or meter in your home. It has your customer number and office telephone number.
Business hours: Mon-Fri 9：00-17：00
Gas - Osaka Gas: http://www.osakagas.co.jp/en/index.html
【Customer Service Center】Tel:0120-0-94817 Mon-Sat 9：00-19：00 Sunday/Holidays 9：00-17：00
Water - Each area has a seperate service provider
Osaka city water: http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu030/english/
【Customer Service Center】Tel：06-6458-1132 Mon-Fri 8：00-20：00
Higashi Osaka city water: http://www.city.higashiosaka.lg.jp/category/12-0-0-0-0.html
To contact to your local office, fill out the form "Water Service Application (postcard)" which was left in a plastic bag near the entrance and return the card via postal mail.
【Customer Service Center】Tel：06-6724-1221 Mon-Fri:
Sakai city water: http://water.city.sakai.lg.jp/foreign/index_en.html
【Customer Service Center】Tel：072-251-1132 Mon-Fri: 8:45-19:00 Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: 9:00-17:00 (Closed Jan. 1st to 3rd)
Kobe city water: http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/foreign/english/index.html
To contact to your local office, fill out the form "Water Service Application (postcard)" which was left in a plastic bag near the entrance and return the card via postal mail.
【Customer Service Center】Tel：078-341-5451 Mon-Fri (except holiday) 9：00-17：15
for Chuo-ku, please check the telephone number from following site for other regions.
*They may visit your home to start the service. On a certain day each month, your meter is checked and a notification of usage is left in your mail box. Then they send the bill to your address a few days later. You can pay it at the bank, post office or convenience store. Also you can arrange to pay it with your credit card or Japanese bank account when you fill out the application form.
Telephone - NTT West
http://www.ntt-west.co.jp/english/
Call the NTT West Service Center (116) or use the NTT Internet Reservation Service to apply.
* For English, Portuguese, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean interpretation
call NTT WEST Information (Tel. 0120-064-337 Toll free)
(Monday-Saturday) 9am to 5pm
Most houses and apartments already have a line installed so you just need to contact them to get a telephone number. If your apartment/house doesn't have telephone line, you need to make an appointment for installation.
They send a bill every month to your address. You can pay it at the bank, post office or convenience store. Also you can arrange to pay it with your credit card or Japanese bank account when you fill out the application form.
Mobile phone:
Softbank: http://www.softbank.jp/mobile/customer/
AU: http://www.au.kddi.com/
Docomo: http://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/
You need to go to the shop to purchase a mobile phone. You need to show several forms of ID and credit card/cash card or your Japanese bank account details.
1. Japanese driver's licence
2. Passport
3. Japanese health cover card
4. Japanese resident card
5. Credit card or bank book
I recommend you to take several IDs with you because each company has a slightly different rules to confirm your ID's in Japan.
Their payment will be charged to your credit card or your Japanese bank account.
You need to aware that it may take quite long time (like 2 hours) to complete the whole process.
Home Internet:
NTT Flet's Hikari: http://flets-w.com/english/
Usen: http://www.usen.com/index.html
Zaq: http://zaq.ne.jp/
and others
Please check which internet line has been installed at your apartment/house. If it's already installed, you just need to apply for the internet account. If it is not installed yet, you need to make an appointment for the installation. You might need to wait for a few days in that case.
Instead of applying broadband at home, you can apply for wireless internet at the major appliance store such as Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camere, Yamada denki.
TV:
J-com: http://www.jcom.co.jp/pack.html
Skyperfect: http://www.skyperfectv.co.jp/osusume_pack/basic/
If you want to get a special TV package to watch English/foreign language TV programs, you can apply for J-com (CATV), eo Hikari, Skyperfect, or Wow wow etc. They usually lease the tuner (You need to return when you cancel the service) to watch their TV programs. Depending on your apartment, you may need to have a satellite dish to receive their signal.
Osaka Living Guide
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/services/index_en.html
Kobe Living Guide
http://www.kicc.jp/kicc/guide/water/index_eng.html
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Hospital info in Osaka & Kobe
I hope you don't get sick or injury while you're staying in Japan, but
if you need to see a doctor you can find doctors who can speak English
on the following sites. Unfortunately, there are not many doctors who
can speak English fluently so you may want to ask your Japanese friend
or work mates to go to the hospital with you. If you take medicine
regularly it is a good idea to take the medicine with you to show the
doctor. The name of medicine in your country and Japan may be different.
Osaka city: Scroll down the page and click the ward name where you live.
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/sick/11.html
Osaka pref.
http://www.mfis.pref.osaka.jp/ap/qq/sho/pwenglshsr01_001.aspx
http://www.pref.osaka.jp/iryo/medicalinfo/index_e.htm
Osaka university: very useful site
https://iss-intl.osaka-u.ac.jp/supportoffice/eng/living/medical.php
http://www.pref.osaka.jp/iryo/medicalinfo/setumei/osaka_c.htm
Kobe
http://web.qq.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/hyogo/ap/qq/sho/pwmedengsr01_002.aspx?kbn=1
http://web.qq.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/hyogo/ap/qq/men/pwtpmenult01.aspx
Kyoto
http://www.mfis.pref.kyoto.lg.jp/ap/qq/sho/pwenglshsr01.aspx
Inhos for Kansai area
http://inhos.net/area/kansai.html
AMDA
http://eng.amda-imic.com/index.php
Osaka city: Scroll down the page and click the ward name where you live.
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/sick/11.html
Osaka pref.
http://www.mfis.pref.osaka.jp/ap/qq/sho/pwenglshsr01_001.aspx
http://www.pref.osaka.jp/iryo/medicalinfo/index_e.htm
Osaka university: very useful site
https://iss-intl.osaka-u.ac.jp/supportoffice/eng/living/medical.php
http://www.pref.osaka.jp/iryo/medicalinfo/setumei/osaka_c.htm
Kobe
http://web.qq.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/hyogo/ap/qq/sho/pwmedengsr01_002.aspx?kbn=1
http://web.qq.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/hyogo/ap/qq/men/pwtpmenult01.aspx
Kyoto
http://www.mfis.pref.kyoto.lg.jp/ap/qq/sho/pwenglshsr01.aspx
Inhos for Kansai area
http://inhos.net/area/kansai.html
AMDA
http://eng.amda-imic.com/index.php
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Cheep daily goods store in Osaka
In the beginning of your new life in Japan, you may need to buy many items, such as cutlery, plates, cups etc. There are several shops which sell good quality items for only 105 yen each.
Daiso
http://www.daiso-sangyo.co.jp/
CanDo
http://www.cando-web.co.jp/
Seria
http://www.seria-group.com/
Lawson Store 100
http://www.99plus.co.jp/
<Shop with reasonable price>
Tiger
http://www.tiger-stores.jp/
Asoko
http://www.asoko-jpn.com/
Daiso
http://www.daiso-sangyo.co.jp/
CanDo http://www.cando-web.co.jp/
Seria
http://www.seria-group.com/
Lawson Store 100
http://www.99plus.co.jp/
<Shop with reasonable price> Tiger
http://www.tiger-stores.jp/
Asoko
http://www.asoko-jpn.com/
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
International Schools in Kansai
There are several international schools available in the Kansai area due to
increasing numbers of expat families, international marriages and
Japanese parents who want to send children to international school to
gain English ability while they are still young.
They tend to be expensive and the school starting date is different to Japanese schools (Japanese schools start in April.). The curriculum will be smiler to schools overseas and children can enjoy an international atmosphere with children from various cultures.
They tend to be expensive and the school starting date is different to Japanese schools (Japanese schools start in April.). The curriculum will be smiler to schools overseas and children can enjoy an international atmosphere with children from various cultures.
http://allabout.co.jp/gm/gc/189375/
http://www.gcn-osaka.jp/child/cc04-04.html
http://www.ins-navi.com/region/kinki.html
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Japanese Lesson
Unfortunately there are not many people who can speak English in Osaka
so it will ease your life in Japan if you can understand some Japanese.
There are several Japanese schools and volunteer groups in Osaka.
Please check the information on the following site if you are interested in learning Japanese.
Japanese language schools:
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/facilities/11.html
Volunteer groups of Japanese language classes:
http://u-biq.org/nihongo_osaka.html
There are several Japanese schools and volunteer groups in Osaka.
Please check the information on the following site if you are interested in learning Japanese.
Japanese language schools:
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/contents/wdu020/enjoy/en/facilities/11.html
Volunteer groups of Japanese language classes:
http://u-biq.org/nihongo_osaka.html
Monday, July 8, 2013
Beer Gardens in Osaka
In summer, office workers often go to beer gardens after work in Japan. Usually they are located on the rooftop of the building to get a nice breeze on hot days. The first rooftop beer garden was started in Umeda, Osaka in 1953.
Most beer gardens served beer or drinks with a big jug at a fixed price and all you can eat and drink buffet style for 2 hours.
・Hankyu Department Store in Umeda
http://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27011320/
・Beer Garden Yaen in Shin-hankyu Building in Umeda
http://www.yaen.com/
・Hankyu Terminal Building in Umeda
http://www.hankyu-hotel.com/hotel/osakashh/restaurant/25kXee9SE4/
・Hanshin Department Store in Umeda
http://www.hanshin-dept.jp/hshonten/beer/
・Suntory Rooftop Beer Garden in Umeda
http://www.dynac50.jp/co/news/docs/20130520p01.pdf
・Shinsenkaku Osaka Ekimae First Building in Umeda
http://www.shinsenkaku.co.jp/image/130630beergarden2013.pdf
・Kintetsu Department Store in Uehonmachi
http://www.d-kintetsu.co.jp/store/uehonmachi/2013skyviking/index.html
・Takashimaya Department Store in Numba
http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/osaka/beergarden/
Most beer gardens served beer or drinks with a big jug at a fixed price and all you can eat and drink buffet style for 2 hours.
・Hankyu Department Store in Umeda
http://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27011320/
・Beer Garden Yaen in Shin-hankyu Building in Umeda
http://www.yaen.com/
・Hankyu Terminal Building in Umeda
http://www.hankyu-hotel.com/hotel/osakashh/restaurant/25kXee9SE4/・Hanshin Department Store in Umeda
http://www.hanshin-dept.jp/hshonten/beer/
・Suntory Rooftop Beer Garden in Umeda
http://www.dynac50.jp/co/news/docs/20130520p01.pdf
・Shinsenkaku Osaka Ekimae First Building in Umeda
http://www.shinsenkaku.co.jp/image/130630beergarden2013.pdf
・Kintetsu Department Store in Uehonmachi
http://www.d-kintetsu.co.jp/store/uehonmachi/2013skyviking/index.html
・Takashimaya Department Store in Numba
http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/osaka/beergarden/
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Scenes of summer
It is very hot and humid the Japanese summer so people try many way to cool off.
Green curtain (drape) - A sudare is a bamboo blind placed in front of the balcony doorway. This has been replaced by a new trend of growing vegetables like bitter melons or cucumbers on their balconies. When they grow, they will cut the heat and the sun's rays like a green curtain on the balcony and people can eat them too.
Fuurin - A wind bell (chime) is hung from eaves to
create a cooling sound in the wind. This is one of the
traditional ways that Japanese use to feel cool in summer.
They are usually made of iron, glass or ceramics.Kaya (Mosquito net) - This is put in the bedroom to avoid mosquito's bites in the summer because people keep windows and balcony doors open. These days most people are living in an apartment which is smaller than house and use air-conditioners. This will mostly be seen in the country side.
Uchimizu - You will see people sprinkling water around their house in the evenings. As the water evaporates it cools the road and it is also a means of purifying the entrance for visitors and guests.
Using glassware - In Japanese culture, people often change their home's interiors such as curtains, cushion covers, bed lines etc. Being cooler is not enough, it also has to look cooler. Glass bowls and plates are often used in the summer for this reason.
Uchiwa, Sensu (fan) - There are many varieties of uchiwa and sensu. You may receive free uchiwa with an advertisement printed on it from someone on the street. Sensu (Japanese folding fan) come in many varieties from reasonable priced to very expensive crafted ones. The designs and size are different for women and men. It will be a good souvenir.
Parasol, gloves - You will see many woman wearing long gloves and carrying a parasol on a street. This phenomenon starts can be seen from April every year until late October. Many Japanese women don't like getting a suntan. ( I personally think that some women are overprotecting themselves from the sun.) It is said that black will cut the most UV so it is a popular colour for parasols in Japan.
Cool bottom quilt sheet - This modern technology is a cool sheet which you put on the bed mattress. According to the advertisement it will release your body heat to the air quickly. I've never used it but summer is becoming hotter each year so I might buy one and see how I feel.
Monday, June 24, 2013
Driving a car in Japan Vol.1
You don't need a car to look around big cities like Osaka, Kobe and Kyoto. However, it is nice to drive in the country side occasionally.
Driving a car in Japan is a little tricky for foreigners so let me explain some road rules in Japan.
1. Drive on the left side on the road.
2. Follow the speed limit shown on road signs or markings. (You may think that it is too slow to drive but if you exceed the speed limits you can expect a huge fine and a hard time with the police.)
3.Park your car in the proper car parking spot. (There are many coin parking lots in Japan and you may face a 15,000 yen fine for just 5 minuets of illegal parking. )
3. Driving after drinking alcohol is very strictly prohibited. You'll be arrested and other passengers will also be fined knowing that the driver was drink driving.
4. All passengers have to wear a seat belt.
5. While driving a car, driver can't use a cell phone.
The minimum age for driving in Japan is 18 years old and you will need to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a Japanese Driver's License.
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Summer Sale in Japan
There are 2 big sale (People call it "Bargain" in Japan) seasons, summer and winter, in Japan.The winter sale starts from 1/2.
The summer sale starts from 7/1.
It's going to be crowded but you may be able to buy cloths, shoes etc at a very reasonable price.
Main shopping areas are around Umeda, Namba and Shinsaibashi stations in Osaka.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Accommodation in Osaka Vol.4
Before you make a decision, you need to confirm the lease conditions, because after you give the Tetsuke-kin (initial deposit) to the realtor (to keep the room for you), it will not be return and will be kept as a cancellation penalty.
1. If you are a cat lover, check the house rules to see if tenants are allowed to keep pets. Also, what kind of pets are allowed.
2. Japanese house leases are usually for 2 years. It will usually be automatically renewed but some owners require tenants to pay a lease renewal fee which is about 1 month's rent.
3. Is the house cleaning cost included in the non-returnable deposit or not.
4. If it is a furnished apartment, who is responsible for maintenance and repair costs.
Please be aware that the moving-out inspection is very severe in Japan. The damage you may think is small can lead to a big repair cost.
For example:
Holes in the wall (You cannot put nails or push pins into the walls.)
Deep scratches or dents on the floor.
Stains in the drawers, wall paper, floor etc.
If you lose a key, the owner may require a change of locks for security reasons and it will cost around 15,000 yen.
You can request some support from public organizations.
Counseling on Housing Osaka Municipal Housing Information Center:
http://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/
Osaka Prefecture Town Planing department.
http://www.pref.osaka.jp/
Osaka Information Service for Foreign Residents.
http://www.ofix.or.jp/life/
Osaka International House
http://www.ih-osaka.or.jp/
Kobe International House
http://www.kicc.jp/kicc/kicc/
Kyoto International House
http://www.kcif.or.jp/
UR(Urban Renaissance Agency)
http://www.ur-net.go.jp/
J&F Networks
http://www.jafnet.co.jp/
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Accommodation in Osaka Vol.3
When you have found the room you like on the Internet, advertisement etc, you might need to visit a real estate agent and look around some rooms. After you decide the place to move in, you need to put some pay an initial deposit (tetsuke-kin) to officially reserve that room for you for a while.
Please be aware that if you decided to not take that room the tetsuke-kin will not be returned to you, but once your contract has been completed, it will become a part of the Key money.
To preparing documents and money to rent the place, you will need the following things.
Documents:
1. IDs (Alien registration certificate, Passport copy, etc)
2. Proof of earning (Copy of monthly salary statement, Annual income certificate, etc)
3. Seal "Hanko"or"Inkan"
4. Seal certificate "Inkanshomei" issued by the local ward office
6. Guarantor's income certificate
7. Guarantor's seal certificate
The initial fee will be around 6 months' worth of rent.
1. Shiki-kin - Refundable Deposit (approx. 1-3 months' rent, but can be higher)
2. Rei-kin - Not refundable (approx. 0-3 months' rent, but can be higher)
3. Chukaitesu-ryo - Realtor's fee usually 1 months rent plus consumption tax (5% as of June 13, 2013)
5. Maeyachin - Rent pay in advance
6. Kyoeki-hi - Maintenance Fee
Depend on the place you may be required to pay more or less than the above.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Accommodation in Osaka Vol.2
There are several types of accommodation in Japan.
Usually furnished or partially furnished - Guest houses, Share houses, Gaijin houses, Service apartments, Monthly apartments.
Usually unfurnished - Apartments (Usually called "Manshon" in Japan), Houses
One room - only 1 room with combined kitchen, living and bed room.
3LDK - 3 bed rooms, living room and dining kitchen areas. (The number indicates the number of bed rooms, L-Living room DK-Dining kitchen)
Room size is measured by the number of tatami mats. (Tatami-mat size is about 190x80cm or smaller)
Land size is measured in tsubo (1 tsubo is about 3.3 ㎡).
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