From the elegant formality of a Japanese tea ceremony to the neon overload of the Shibuya district, it’s hard to define the Japanese experience: Lanterns celebrating Sakura, vending machines, anime, trash fashion, and then… the cool interior of a temple and the noise melts away.
Don’t for a moment be afraid of getting lost amongst in the chaos. At Kyoto Train Station the concourse throngs with bakeries selling incredible cakes for in-transit guests to bring their hosts. Hospitality is as much a part of the culture here as ‘Kawaii’. You’ll soon feel right at home.
Japan’s healthcare system was ranked tenth best by the World Health Organization. A Social Insurance Card entitles the holder and their dependents to pay only 30% of their medical fees. The National Health Insurance System provides for those not covered by Social Insurance, but if you’re working, you’ll have a Social Insurance Card.
English speaking doctors are widely available in Tokyo and most other major cities.
To open a bank account in Japan you will need an Alien Registration Card. Non citizens who stay in Japan for 90 days or more must register for one at their local city or ward office. Once you have been issued with a card, bring your passport and visit any national, regional, or local bank to set up an account. If you do not speak Japanese, Citibank and Shinsei offer banking services in English.
Most Japanese banks do not accept international cards in their ATM machines. However, 7/11 Convenience Stores and the Japanese Post Office, which form a very wide national network, will accept most major credit and debit cards.
Most properties are rented or leased through a real estate agency. If you don’t speak Japanese there are several estate agents in the major cities that provide services in English and specialize in relocation. Ask your Michael Page consultant if they can recommend an estate agent.
Japan has a comprehensive system of train and subway lines and is the most railway using nation per capita in the world. In Tokyo most commuters will use the Tokyo Metro or Japan Railways to get to work. Overcrowding can verge on the comical, but the services are so punctual that delays of more than a few minutes are considered newsworthy.
The Japanese, particularly in Tokyo, find public transportation more than adequate. If you do want to drive, you must obtain an international driving permit from your home country, qualifying you to drive in Japan for up to one year. If you plan on staying longer you must obtain a Japanese Driver’s Licence - fortunately Japan has treaty agreements with many countries which will allow you to obtain a Japanese license without taking a written or practical examination.
