Hi TimSean! Unfortunately I can't answer all of your questions (and may also be too late!), but here's what I can tell you:

1. As I came to Japan through the JET program, I don't know the process intimately, as the embassy did all of the work for me, but I do know that you need to have a job lined up before you come, as that company has to be willing to "sponsor" your visa (i.e. guarantee you a job)

2. I've had a few friends that have worked as cooks in Japan, but they did have previous Japanese experience and/or contacts in Japan. That said, they have mentioned other people that worked with them that didn't speak any Japanese, and a few of them only learnt the language after arriving.

3. Apartments in Osaka and Tokyo are amongst the most expensive in the world. Osaka - expect to start from 50000 or 60000 Yen per month for a very small apartment. I live in Kobe in a nice area, and I share a flat with a friend. We each pay 50000 a month for a 2 bedroom place.

4. I can't imagine it will be easy to get permits for your animals, although I have no knowledge to base this on besides that they tend to be fairly strict in regards to customs. I would advise you to contact the embassy to ask about that.

Hope that helps!

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