Kata in Japan

Getting set up in Japan

Getting set up in Japan

Getting Set Up in Japan

Moving to Japan involves several administrative steps that must be completed soon after arrival. Here are the most important things to do when settling in Japan.

Register Your Address

 

When you arrive in Japan and move into an apartment, you must register your address at your local city hall within 14 days.

You will need:

  • Passport

  • Residence Card (在留カード)

  • Address information

After registering, your address will be printed on the back of your Residence Card.

National Health Insurance

If you are staying in Japan for more than 3 months, you usually need to enroll in the National Health Insurance system.

This allows you to pay only 30% of medical costs, while the government covers the rest.

In Japanese this is called:

国民健康保険

Readings:こくみんけんこうほけん (Kokuminkenkouhoken)

You can apply for it at your local city hall.

Open a Bank Account

Opening a bank account is important for:

  • paying rent

  • receiving salary

  • paying bills

Some banks are easier for foreigners.

Examples include:

  • Japan Post Bank (I use this one, you can register online)

  • Shinsei Bank

  • Sony Bank

You will usually need:

  • Residence Card

  • Phone number

  • Address in Japan

  • Personal seal (sometimes)

Get a Phone Number

A Japanese phone number is required for many things:

  • opening a bank account

  • renting an apartment

  • job applications

Popular providers include:

  • Rakuten Mobile (I use this one I think is very affordable)

  • SoftBank

  • NTT Docomo

Set Up Utilities

When moving into an apartment you must usually set up:

  • electricity

  • gas

  • water

  • internet

Electricity and gas companies will ask for:

  • your address

  • move-in date

  • phone number

Internet installation may take 2–4 weeks. (You can skip this step if your apartment comes with internet!)

Planning Your Budget

Once you’re settled with your apartment, utilities, and phone, the next step is to understand how much it actually costs to live in Japan. From rent and groceries to transportation and leisure, knowing the typical expenses will help you plan your stay more comfortably.

Check out our full guide here: [Cost of Living in Japan]