What do I need to know before moving to Japan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Japan, they said...
"Before moving to Japan, expats should familiarize themselves with the language and culture. It is also important to research the cost of living in the area they plan to move to, as well as the availability of housing. Additionally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for their particular situation and make sure to obtain the necessary paperwork before arriving in Japan. Furthermore, expats should research the healthcare system in Japan and make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should be aware of the customs and etiquette in Japan, as well as the local laws and regulations," remarked another expat who made the move to Japan.
"Real estate agencies will show you everything even places that don't meet your requirements, ex:2 bedrooms instead or 3, no parking, etc... See the floor plans before seeing any of them, it will save you a lot of time. And once you have narrowed it down, visit the flat a time when you know that your nieghbors will be in.... Some flats don't have insulation and you can hear if your nieghbor just sneezed," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.
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It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
CitizenMIt's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Japan?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Japan?
- Will I be able to find a job in Japan?
- What is life like in Japan?
- What do expats in Japan appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Japan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Japan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Japan like?
- What are healthcare services like in Japan?
- What are medical services in Japan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Japan?
- What are emergency services like in Japan?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Japan?
- How are local medical facilities in Japan?
- As a foreigner living in Japan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Japan?
If you live in Japan, newcomers to Japan would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


