Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Tokyo

What is special or unique about your city?

Tokyo, the financial center and political capital of Japan, is unlike any city in the world. It has a fascinating, energetic blend of both high-technology and tradition. While Tokyo is very huge, there are still many hidden treasures to discover. This includes the city's many museums, concert halls and cultural exhibits from all over the world.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Transferees remark on how large and modern Tokyo is -- but they also comment on the abundant greenery in some locations. Politeness and friendliness of the people is also noted. Among the challenges, language issues (especially in written communication) often complicate an expat's stay in Tokyo.

Are these impressions likely to change?

With regards to the size of Tokyo, newcomers actually find that they become very familiar with certain sections of the city, and can identify with their neighborhood. Initial observations of politeness can sometimes be challenged on busy trains or crowded shopping areas, but the overall friendliness and safety factors are still appreciated.

What is the local language?

Japanese.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

Fairly easily in central Tokyo. Recently, many more signs have appeared in English.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Use common sense and be a good neighbor. Follow garbage disposal rules. Remain calm and never lose your temper. Take your shoes off when entering someone's home.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Tokyo has all four seasons. Spring and autumn are very nice. Summers tend to be very hot and humid. Winters are rather dry and chilly in Tokyo. For those with allergies, there is a lot of pollen in the air during springtime.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Tokyo’s cost of living compares to New York City or London, with some differences in categories. Housing that meets foreign standards is expensive. On the bright side, the people are quiet and helpful, and the city has something for everyone.

Useful Links

Tokyo Convention and Visitors Bureau www.tcvb.or.jp/english/ Japan National Tourist Organization www.jnto.go.jp/eng Daily Yomiuri Newspaper www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy Japan Times Newspaper www.japantimes.co.jp Metropolis Magazine www.metropolis.co.jp

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Every foreign resident must have a valid resident visa and also register as an alien with his or her local municipality.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are many types of visitor and resident visas; single/multiple entry, short/long term, work, student and dependent visas. Your visa will depend upon your circumstances and history. Working Visas come in different categories, such as "Specialist in Humanities" (for teachers, lawyers and other consultative occupations), "Business Manager", “Engineer”, “Intra-Company”, and specialized visas such as diplomatic visas. Spouses and minor, unmarried children can apply for dependent visa. Student visas require the school to provide documents. Depending on where you are from, tourist visas are valid for one week to three months.

What is required to obtain these visas?

The process is complex, but straightforward. A document called a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) will enable your local Japanese embassy to put a visa sticker in your passport. The visa will then request immigration authorities at the port of entry to give you a landing permit so that you may stay in Japan and engage in the activities that have been authorized. You will need a re-entry permit to leave the country and return on the same visa. Without this permit, your visa will be cancelled upon departure. Alien registration is required. Contact Crown Tokyo for more information. For work visas, your company must provide requested documentation. You will need to provide originals of documents such as diplomas, proof of employment, birth and marriage certificates, etc. Tourist visas can be applied for at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your home country if you come from a country where they are necessary.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Spouses with a dependent visa can work (permission needed), but are limited by job qualifications and other factors. Dependent visa generally only allows up to 28 hours of work per week. Foreign language tutoring is a popular option for some spouses as a part-time job. For full-time work, the spouse’s employer must become the sponsor for a work visa. Many spouses find satisfaction in unpaid volunteer work and education.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

At this time in Japan, resident ID is primarily the Alien registration card (ARC). Once you arrive on proper resident visa, within 90 days, you must go to your local municipal office and apply for an Alien Registration Card. This will take one month for the plastic card to be issued. The ARC must be carried at all times and will be required at banks, police stations and other places.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

You must apply for a re-entry permit if you wish to travel outside Japan without having your visa cancelled. It is also advisable to register with your home country's embassy upon arrival. If you bring your pet into Japan: please check pet import regulations as soon as possible, since rules are very strict and quarantine applies for most countries (up to six months). Additional permits and licenses include a driving license, bicycle license, dog registration, etc. These require ARC, and are not critical during the first weeks.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Do not bring the usual banned items (weapons, illegal drugs and pornography). Also, certain drugs that are legally prescribed in other countries are not sold in Japan and may require proof of doctor’s prescription. Before moving to Japan, please check on the availability of prescription and even non-prescription drugs that are important to you and your family. Automobiles are also very difficult to import due to standards, etc.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

When arriving in Japan, please declare unaccompanied baggage (which includes your sea and air shipments) at customs. You will need this form stamped by customs to clear your shipment. The airline will provide the necessary forms.

Useful Links

Immigration Information Center www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/index.html Visa information (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html Tokyo Metropolitan Government www.metro.tokyo.jp/ENGLISH Tokyo Metropolitan Police www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.jp/foreign/submenu.htm Tokyo Fire Department www.tfd.metro.tokyo.jp/eng/index.html Japan Post (Postal Services) www.post.japanpost.jp/english/index.html Customs http://www.customs.go.jp/english Animal Quarantine Service http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/english/ Plant Protection Station http://www.pps.go.jp/english/index.html

 

What is the local currency?

The Japanese yen.

What denominations does it come in?

Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen Bills: 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 yen (Note: 2,000 yen note is not very common) Many vending machines accept notes as well as coins.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Go to official windows at airport and banks. Hotels tend to charge a higher fee.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Consider Japan as primarily a cash society. Automatic bank transfers for regular bills, such as utilities, are also popular. Cash and credit cards are both used. However, small restaurants and shops often do not accept credit cards. In addition, paper checks are not used.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Always carry cash. You will use it for transportation, local shops and medical facilities. Credit card use is increasing: department stores and some restaurants accept credit cards. It is recommended that upon moving to Japan, you apply for a credit card from a bank in Japan (such as Citibank).

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Direct debit bank transfers are often used. Utility bills can also be paid at convenience stores such as 7-11 and Lawson.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Only legal residents (not short term visa holders) can open a bank account. A home address (not hotel) and Alien registration card are also required. Citibank, HSBC or Shinsei bank are popular among foreigners.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Yes. Citibank, HSBC, Shinsei, UFJ Mitsubishi and Mitsui-Sumitomo banks all have English-speaking staff available in central Tokyo. However, not at all branches.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

There are no checking accounts. Non Japanese bank cards are not accepted at most ATMs.

What are typical banking hours?

Weekdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please check the bank websites (some Citibank, HSBC or Shinsei bank branches have out of hours banking). After these hours, you can use ATM machines at banks or convenience stores.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Not all bank ATMs are available 24 hours a day.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Always carry cash in Japan. Stored value card (Suica & Pasmo) are getting popular (see Transportation). Convenience stores have banking facilities (conditions vary, not all accept foreign bank or credit cards).

Useful Links

Citibank www.citibank.co.jp/en/index.html HSBC www.hsbc.co.jp/1/2/home Shinsei Bank www.shinseibank.com/english/index.html Currency conversion www.oanda.com/convert/classic World Currency Shop www.tokyo-card.co.jp/shop/wcs-shop-e.html

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Get at least two reputable real estate agents. Please contact Crown Tokyo. Proximity to school or the school bus route is important to families. For all transferees, proximity to transportation is an issue. Certain neighborhoods have higher concentrations of foreigners, and thus shops and facilities catering to foreigners. Expat housing contracts need to be corporate contracts. If your company does not have corporate entity status in Japan or will not sign a contract on your behalf, please contact Crown Tokyo for advice.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Tokyo is broken into 23 municipalities which are known as "ku". Minato-ku and Shibiya-ku are two of these where many international shops and some international schools are located. Apartment complexes (mid to high rise) are available, as well as single family houses in the suburb.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Rent only.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Deposits equivalent to three to six months rent are common, and tenants also pay a commission to the real estate agent. This commission is generally equivalent to one month's rent plus tax. Non refundable key money (1-2 months rent) is sometimes required.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are not included in the rent. Average is about 10 % of the rent.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Tokyo is very safe for such a large city, but the usual precautions should not be abandoned when moving to Japan. Like any place, there are house robberies, pickpockets, etc.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

100 Volt Alternating Current, 50 Hz cycle in Eastern Japan (Tokyo) -- and 60 Hz cycle in Western Japan (Kobe, Osaka area). Bringing large appliances is generally not recommended, as the voltage may be different and expat properties may supply the necessary large appliances. Small appliances may not work correctly due to the difference in the current and/or the cycle. Some do work, others wear out quicker than they normally would and some may not perform as well as usual. It is recommended to purchase hair dryers, vacuums cleaners, microwave ovens, etc. in Japan.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Landlords do not provide curtains, drapes or light fixtures, and expect the tenant to remove them prior to vacating the premises. Apartments and houses are usually in excellent condition and the tenant is expected to pay for restoring it to that same condition.

Useful Links

Oakwood Serviced Apartments www.oakwoodtokyo.com Mori Living www.moriliving.com Ascott Group Serviced Apartments www.the-ascott.com Asahi Homes Serviced Apartments www.asahihomes.co.jp/e ANA Intercontinental Hotel www.anaintercontinental-tokyo.jp/e/ Imperial Hotel www.imperialhotel.co.jp Okura Hotel www.okura.com Westin Hotel www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/ Park Hyatt Tokyo tokyo.park.hyatt.com Grand Hyatt Tokyo tokyo.grand.hyatt.com Cable TV (Minato-ku & Shinjuku-ku) www.cabletv.co.jp/english JCom Cable television/broadband www.jcom.co.jp/english.html Satellite TV www.skyperfectv.co.jp/en Softbank (mobile phone) www.softbank.jp/mb/en AU-KDDI (mobile phone, international calls, internet, etc) www.kddi.com/english/index.html BFlets (optical fiber Internet) www.flets.com/english Bureau of Waterworks www.waterworks.metro.tokyo.jp/eng/index.html Tokyo Gas www.tokyo-gas.co.jp/index_e.html TEPCO - Tokyo Electric Power Company www.tepco.co.jp/en/index-e.html

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Nearly all expats choose private international schools, to enable their children to resume their education in other countries without prejudice.

What are some examples of these schools?

Please contact Crown Tokyo for a detailed list. Choice of schools includes: American School in Japan - grades pre-school through 12th (campus location requires bus travel for most kids, but facilities are spacious) British School French School German School - in Yokohama Nishimachi - from K through grade 9 Tokyo International School International School of the Sacred Heart - girls' school Seisen - girls' school (IB program) St. Marys - boys school Yokohama International School - IB program St-Maur in Yokohama

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

It depends on the school and grade year. Please contact Crown Tokyo for details.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Public transportation, school bus and by parent's vehicle.

When does the typical school year start and end?

International schools run from August until June.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Local Japanese education is very different from what the child may need to know upon returning to the home country or third country. If you are considering local Japanese schools, please consult with the local board of education beforehand (in Japanese).

Useful Links

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology www.mext.go.jp/english/index.htm The American School in Japan www.asij.ac.jp Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama www.dsty.jp Lycee Franco-Japonais de Tokyo www.lfjt.or.jp The British School in Tokyo www.bst.ac.jp Tokyo Korean School www.tokos.ed.jp Tokyo Chinese School www.tcs.or.jp International School of the Sacred Heart www.issh.ac.jp Tokyo International School www.tokyois.com Nishimachi International School www.nishimachi.ac.jp St. Mary's International School www.smis.ac.jp Seisen International School www.seisen.com Aoba-Japan International School www.aobaonline.jp K. International School Tokyo www.kist.ed.jp Global Indian International School www.globalindian.org.sg/jp-tokyo India International School of Japan www.iisjapan.com Yokohama International School www.yis.ac.jp St Maur International School www.stmaur.ac.jp ISS International Secondary School www.isstokyo.com/pages/653912/index.htm Temple University Japan www.tuj.ac.jp/newsite/main/index.html Sophia University www.sophia.ac.jp/E/E_toppage.nsf Keio University www.keio.ac.jp International Christian University www.icu.ac.jp/index_e.html Waseda University www.waseda.jp/top/index-e.html

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.