Sample Kansai Utility Bills and Usage Notices
Dec 04, 2023 By Admin
In Japan, residents are signed up for water, electricity, gas and Internet as utility payments - with the exclusion of some properties that have no gas, and are all electric (or "all-denka"), or have Internet costs included as part of the rent. Electricity, gas and Internet are billed monthly, while...[ Click to read more ]
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 ]
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Osaka
Sep 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Halloween Horror Nights is one of the biggest annual events at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. From the popular street zombies to frightening mazes, it features numerous attractions just for the season. Some are available all day, but many of the horror-themed events start at 6:00 p.m. Know what to...[ Click to read more ]
Mountain Treks in Kansai
Aug 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Japan is well-known for its vibrant and colorful city life, but beyond its urban sprawl, there is some magnificent natural scenery that makes the place a hiker’s paradise. The Kansai region, home to cities such as Osaka and Kyoto, has an abundance of mountains across its districts. With autumn fast...[ Click to read more ]
Boat Trips in Kansai
Jul 24, 2023 By Justin Hanus
With so many picturesque waterways spread across the region, Kansai is the perfect Japanese location for a boat trip. Whether you fancy a relaxing cruise or a white-knuckle downriver jaunt, there are no shortage of boating opportunities. Here is a choice selection of trips guaranteed to provide a winner of...[ Click to read more ]
Fruit Picking in Kansai
Jul 23, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Picking fresh fruit is a popular – and refreshing – pastime in Japan. In the Kansai region, there are many farms and orchards where you can roam around and pluck produce straight from the plant. You pay either by weight or time slot, depending on the farm. Some farms, in...[ Click to read more ]
Seeing Noh Theater in Kansai
Jun 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus
A combination of music, dance, and poetry, Noh theater dates back to the 14th century, making it the oldest dramatic form in Japan. The performances are based on ancient myths and often feature a supernatural being who has taken human form to narrate the story. Many performances are technically nogaku,...[ Click to read more ]
Skate Parks in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
Japan is experiencing something of a skateboarding wave since it showcased the sport during the recent Tokyo Olympics. Many purpose-built skateboarding facilities have sprung up over the last few years, from sponsored all-weather indoor parks to free outdoor parks. Here is a small selection of places to try out your...[ Click to read more ]
Renewing Child Allowances in Japan
Jun 20, 2023 By Admin
With Japan’s birthrate in rapid decline, the government of Japan has stepped in to offer a monthly allowance per child to reduce the economic burden placed on families raising young children and encourage the growth of families. This article relates to renewing this child allowance, which must be done annually....[ Click to read more ]
Best Beaches in Kansai
May 19, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Japan is not one of the first countries that spring to mind when you think of beach culture, but in fact, the country has plenty of beautiful coastlines, with the Kansai region boasting many memorable beaches consisting of pale sand and lush turquoise water. Fancy a dip this summer? Here...[ Click to read more ]
