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Life in Japan on a Student's Budget

Studying abroad in Japan? Just because you're living on a student's budget doesn't mean you won't be able to make the most of your time in the Land of the Rising Sun!

Winter Tips for Visiting Japan

While Japan is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, red leaves in the autumn and countless festivals in summer, Japan is also a veritable winter wonderland! Here are some tips for making the most of your time in Japan in its coldest season.

Travel Dates to Avoid in Japan

Japan is great all year-round, but there are some dates that are more expensive and more popular than others! Find out when NOT to travel in Japan if you want to avoid large crowds and price hikes!

Celebrate 2019 Cherry Blossom Season with Coke

Coca-Cola Japan unveiled new sakura-themed bottles for cherry blossom season in 2019.

10 Faux Pas Japanese Train Commuters Hate

Numerous train etiquette guidelines exist in Japan, and though most people follow them religiously even the most polite of passengers can unintentionally make their fellow commuters feel uncomfortable.

Beppu: Home of 100 Tattoo-Friendly Hot Springs

Onsen—Japanese hot springs—are an awesome part of any visit to the Land of the Rising Sun! 100 facilities in the city of Beppu are making it easier for international visitors with tattoos to enjoy this quintessential part of Japanese culture!

How to Get a Working Holiday Visa for Japan

A working holiday visa enables residents form certain countries to spend a whole year living, working and traveling in Japan. So what are you waiting for? Learn how to get that application started now!

Battling Child Poverty One Offering at a Time

Nearly 1,000 temples throughout Japan are banding together to help combat child poverty thanks to devotional offerings and the charitable organization, the 'Otera Oyatsu Club.'

Snow, Craft Beer and a Western Take on Winter

Australian native Daniel Bacon manages several successful businesses in Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, and a founding partner of Hakuba Brewing Company, a craft beer brewery based in the same area. What does it take to attract international tourists?

Talking Trash: How to Toss Your Garbage

Japan is pretty serious when it comes to sorting garbage, and it can be tough to understand if you're new to the country or don't speak Japanese. We're here to help you sort through the rules of sorting and throwing away your trash!

How Inheritance Tax Hits Foreigners in Japan

If you’ve lived here for more than 10 years—even without a permanent visa—you may be on the hook for taxes on inheritance anywhere in the world.

Racing to the Future: Accessibility in Japan

As Japan gears up for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic & Paralympic Games, government agencies look to Kyushu's Oita Prefecture as an innovator and model of accessibility and barrier-free tourism.

The First Cherry Blossom Forecast of 2019

Just 10 days into 2019, the Japan Meteorological Agency released their first forecast for the upcoming cherry blossom season!

From France to Tokyo: Working in Japan

Frenchwoman Samantha Lassaux is a sales manager for Meiji Shrine’s event hall, known as the 'Meiji Kinenkan.' Lassaux talks about her work at the historic venue, which was built in the Meiji Period and originally served as a state guesthouse.

Questions to Ask Before Moving to Japan

Japan is a dream destination for many. But before immigrating, be sure to ask yourself these important questions.

Everyday Costumes from 'Mundane' Halloween

The next-level costumes spotted in Shibuya have been gaining increasing buzz throughout the years, but elsewhere in Japan there's a contest that celebrates people dressed up in common, everyday clothes found around the country.

How to Buy a (Cheap!) House in Japan

Looking for affordable property in Japan? With a few tips (and by thinking beyond Tokyo) you may be able to snag a lovely house, apartment or tract of land for a steal! But of course, terms and conditions apply.

Life in Japan: Where to Begin when Moving In

On the hunt for a new apartment? Even without the language barrier, moving in Japan can be pretty tricky. Fortunately, we're here to help!

Saying 'Sayonara' to Japan? It'll Cost Ya!

As of January 7, 2019, Japan has launched a departure tax that applies to both residents and visitors leaving Japan.

All About Pensions in Japan

We answer important questions about Japanese pensions: who has to contribute, how much you have to pay, when you can receive benefits and how much you can get back?

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