How to Get an ETC Card in Japan

Oct 19, 2023 By Justin Hanus

To pay the expressway tolls in Japan, it helps to have an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) card. This allows you to make automatic cashless payments instead of needing to stop at tollbooths and pay in cash. There are even special lanes at the tolls for holders of ETC cards, which...[ Click to read more ]

Child-Proof Your Home in Japan Without Damaging Your Property

Oct 06, 2023 By Admin

Welcoming a child into your home is a joyous occasion, but it also requires a shift in perspective. Suddenly, seemingly harmless everyday objects can become potential hazards. Japan, with its unique living arrangements and cultural nuances, is no different in this respect. This guide will help you child-proof your home...[ Click to read more ]

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Family Disaster Preparation, Survival, and Response in Japan

Sep 21, 2023 By Ray Proper

No one wants to be part of a disaster, but if you have to, Japan is one of the best places to do it. From building codes to government and civil procedures, the Japanese government has built pretty good infrastructure for use "in an emergency." While they do a good...[ Click to read more ]

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Big Traffic Brother Is Watching You

Aug 30, 2023 By Justin Hanus

In many places the eternal battle between motorist and traffic cop is carried on like a game of cat and mouse with law enforcement lying in wait for its prey undetected behind a billboard or at the bottom of a hill. Not so in Japan where the task is turned...[ Click to read more ]

Japan Travel Insurance: The Tokio Omotenashi Policy

May 09, 2023 By Admin

Japan travel insurance through the Tokio Omotenashi Policy can be purchased online and covers travelers who experience a sudden illness or injury while visiting Japan for up to 31 days. If the policyholder needs to see a doctor or if a visit to the hospital or emergency room is necessary,...[ Click to read more ]

Hatsumode in Hiroshima – Shrines to Visit for New Years and the Tondo Festival

Dec 26, 2022 By Hugh Cann

There are two main traditions marking the beginning of the new year in Hiroshima. Hatsumōde is the first visit of the year to a shrine and takes place throughout Japan. Later in the month is the tondo festival, which is just in Hiroshima. Hatsumōde The first visit of the year...[ Click to read more ]

Shinsei Bank to be renamed SBI Shinsei Bank

Dec 16, 2022 By Admin

Many of our clients use Shinsei Bank and should be aware that Shinsei Bank is to be rebranded as SBI Shinsei Bank from January 4th, 2023. This may impact your Remittances, and fund transfers addressed to Shinsei Bank.  Remittances and fund transfers from other financial institutions designating “Shinsei Bank” as...[ Click to read more ]

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Bringing or Importing Medicines into Japan

Dec 06, 2022 By Ray Proper

When traveling to another country, laws can radically differ from your home country. This is especially true in Japan concerning prescription and OTC medicines. Medicines one may find no problem back home can be non-existent here, and other medications can be why you were arrested. We have compiled some links and...[ Click to read more ]

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Coronavirus / COVID-19 in Japan

Mar 23, 2022 By Admin

While there is no reason to panic, there is cause to be concerned about the spread of the Covid-19 / Coronavirus in Japan. The general recommendations are that everyone takes the following precautions: Avoid close contact with sick people. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash with soap and...[ Click to read more ]

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My Number – The Social Security and Tax Number System in Japan

Jan 08, 2022 By Jason Gatewood

Starting in October of 2015, all citizens and lawful residents were issued a number called a 個人番号 kojin bangō which is also colloquially called My Number, even by Japanese speaking people -- マイナンバー. The numbers will basically be used as a "unique identifier" in a database, which is pretty much what it...[ Click to read more ]

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