All guides
Cost of Living Comparison for Foreign Residents: Tokyo vs Osaka vs Fukuoka vs Nagoya in 2026
Tokyo is expensive, but it is not the only option. Osaka, Fukuoka, and Nagoya each offer distinct trade-offs in rent, food, transport, and English-language infrastructure. This guide compares actual costs across four major Japanese cities for foreign residents in 2026.
Having and Raising Kids in Japan: Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
From the ¥500,000 childbirth lump-sum payment to daycare applications and public school enrollment, this guide covers what foreign residents in Japan need to know about having and raising children — paperwork, costs, and all.
Furnished Rental vs Share House in Japan 2026: Lower Move-in Costs for Foreigners
Compare furnished rentals, share houses, and low-upfront apartments in Japan. A practical 2026 guide for foreign residents checking move-in cost, screening, furniture, internet, and address registration.
Japan utilities setup checklist: electricity, gas, water and internet after moving
Set up electricity, gas, water and internet after moving in Japan. What to prepare, where foreigners get stuck, and which contract traps to avoid.
A Complete Guide for Foreigners Buying a Used Car in Japan: Overcoming Loan Hurdles and Choosing Car Insurance
A comprehensive guide for foreigners in Japan to navigate the challenges of buying a used car, from overcoming loan screening hurdles and language barriers to choosing English-friendly car insurance and car leasing services.
![[2026 Latest] Foreigners Buying a Home in Japan! Banks That Pass Mortgage Approval Without Permanent Residency](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/s5zbl9nu/production/bbf3a809ff15709110cc4bee270f93ec908e312d-640x640.png?auto=format&q=72&fit=max&w=720)
[2026 Latest] Foreigners Buying a Home in Japan! Banks That Pass Mortgage Approval Without Permanent Residency
Complete 2026 guide for foreigners buying property in Japan without PR. Learn mortgage requirements, expat-friendly banks (SMBC Prestia, SBI Shinsei, Suruga), down payments, and required documents.
![[2026 Ultimate Guide] Moving-in Notification & My Number Card for Foreigners in Japan](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/s5zbl9nu/production/d95e405c59450999f137be1a73415cc8edf509d0-1024x572.jpg?auto=format&q=72&fit=max&w=720)
[2026 Ultimate Guide] Moving-in Notification & My Number Card for Foreigners in Japan
If you don't submit your moving-in notification within 14 days of moving, you may face penalties. This 2026 ultimate guide explains the step-by-step procedures for foreigners to register their address and manage their My Number Card without any trouble.
Is Gaimen Kirikae Impossible in 2026? How to Beat the "Hard Mode" Driving Test
The "easy" days of license conversion are over. From the new 50-question written test to the strict "acting" required for the driving exam, here is your complete guide to conquering the 2026 rules.
Uber Eats vs Wolt vs Demae-can in Japan: Which Should You Use?
Compare Japan food delivery apps: English support, coupon stacking, and how to order without a credit card. Uber Eats, Wolt, Demae-can.
![Can You Pay Initial Rental Costs with a Credit Card? Hacks to Split ¥500,000 and Screening Tips for Foreigners [2026]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/s5zbl9nu/production/382098af6696cd3eeeaacb69826796b8746831a0-1024x559.jpg?auto=format&q=72&fit=max&w=720)
Can You Pay Initial Rental Costs with a Credit Card? Hacks to Split ¥500,000 and Screening Tips for Foreigners [2026]
For foreigners who find Japanese rental initial costs (Deposit/Key Money) too expensive. We explain credit card acceptance, fee simulations for splitting a ¥500,000 payment, and 4 tips to pass the screening. Learn how to use Rakuten Card or Village House to survive moving costs.
How to Rent an Apartment in Japan Without a Guarantor (2026 Guide)
Stop getting rejected by landlords. Discover 'Best Estate'—the service that lets you rent in Japan with no guarantor, 13-language support, and overseas application.
Japan Life Hack: How to Lower Your Phone Bill to ¥650/Month (The GTN Ecosystem)
Stop paying ¥7,000 for your phone. Learn the 'GTN Ecosystem' hack to bundle your SIM, Credit Card, and Internet to pay only ¥650/month.