Money & Cards

Tax Return in Japan 2026: File for ¥0 with Best 3 Accounting Software (English Hack Guide)

Struggling with Japanese 'Kakutei Shinkoku'? We compare the top 3 accounting software (Yayoi, freee, Money Forward) for foreigners. Learn how to file taxes for free using our DeepL translation hacks. Updated for 2026 tax season.

Best Credit Card in Japan for Foreigners (2026): Rakuten vs EPOS vs Nexus

The best credit card in Japan for foreigners, compared: Rakuten, EPOS, and Nexus. We explain the input-error traps that get foreigners rejected and how to build credit even with a short stay or limited Japanese.

Cashless Japan 2026: PayPay vs. Rakuten Pay - Which App Should You Download?

There are dozens of payment apps in Japan, but you only need two: PayPay and Rakuten Pay. We explain why these two are essential, the 'Foreign Credit Card Trap,' and how to maximize your points to save money on daily life.

Can foreigners open a Rakuten Securities NISA in Japan?

Foreign residents with a residence card and Japan address can often apply for Rakuten Securities NISA — approval is decided by the broker, not this guide. We cover English UI limits, name matching, student cases, and what changes if you leave Japan.

【2026】Costco Japan Rejects Visa! The Mastercard Trap & Solutions for Foreigners

Costco Japan does not accept Visa or Amex! We explain the strict 'Mastercard Only' rule, the 'Name Mismatch' trap that causes foreigners to fail credit checks, and delivery hacks (OniGO) for a car-free life in 2026. The free Rakuten Card is your best solution.

【Ends Mar 2026】Not Earning d POINTS on Amazon? The "¥5,000 Wall" Strategy & 10th Anniversary Roulette Guide

[2026 Edition] Ultimate PayPay Guide: Registration & eKYC Hacks for Foreigners + 30% Cashback Campaign

Updated for 2026! A complete guide to PayPay's max 30% cashback campaign and eKYC registration hacks for foreigners. We cover app-free Alipay+ usage for travelers, plus middle name solutions and SMS-capable SIM selection (Rakuten Mobile/Mobal) for residents.

Nenmatsu Chosei vs. Kakutei Shinkoku: The Complete Tax Guide for Foreigners in Japan

Nenmatsu Chosei vs. Kakutei Shinkoku: Which one do you need? A complete guide for foreign employees on forms, deadlines, and how to get your tax refund (often ¥100,000+).

【2026】Furusato Nozei Guide for Foreigners: Lower Residence Tax & Get Rakuten Points

A complete guide on how foreigners can do 'Furusato Nozei'. Use Rakuten to effectively pay just ¥2,000 to lower your Residence Tax and get rice or meat. Covers visa impact and the Dec 31st deadline.

How to Get Your Full Japanese Pension Refund When Leaving (¥300,000-500,000 Average)

Complete guide for foreigners leaving Japan to claim their full pension refund. Learn how to recover the "missing 20%" that most people abandon—including tax refund procedures and appointing a tax representative.

Residence Tax in Japan: Why Your Paycheck Shrinks in Year 2 & The "Leaving Japan" Trap

Residence Tax in Japan is paid in "arrears." Why does your take-home pay decrease from June of your second year? What is the "January 1st Rule" that can cost you hundreds of thousands of yen when leaving? Understand the system to avoid unpaid taxes and visa trouble. We also explain the "Furusato Nozei" trick to get gifts for effectively 2,000 yen.

Cost of Living in Tokyo 2026: Monthly Breakdown & Money-Saving Hacks

The estimated cost of living for a single person in Tokyo in 2025 ranges from ¥140,000 to ¥250,000 per month. This guide breaks down rent averages, winter utility spikes, and food inflation, while exposing the "Year 2 Residence Tax" trap and high initial move-in costs. Learn how to lower your fixed costs and save money.