Tokyo International Friends & Events 東京国際交流会
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Tokyo's minimum wage rose ¥54 to ¥1,280 an hour on October 1, 2026, and at least 15 prefectures moved the same day. Here is what the raise is worth in real pay, who it covers, and what to do if your wage is below it.
Japan is raising iDeCo contribution limits across the board and extending the maximum enrollment age from under-65 to under-70, with the first change already live and the rest landing January 2027. Here's what it means for foreign residents building a retirement cushion in Japan.
The US, EU, UK, Canada and Australia have all tightened customs de minimis rules in 2026. If you sell on Mercari, ship gifts home, or buy from Japan for family overseas, here's exactly what changed and what you'll now pay.
Japan's minpaku (vacation rental) system has gone through three rounds of tightening since 2025 — stricter building standards, the closure of Osaka's year-round tokku loophole, and expanding accommodation taxes. Here's what foreign owners renting out akiya and apartments need to know before listing a property.
A dated calendar of what is already in force and what is coming for foreign residents and visitors in Japan: October 2026 fee and PR changes, the November tax-free overhaul, Tokyo's April 2027 lodging tax, June 2027 insurance screening, and JESTA in 2028.
Kyoto has announced a plan to charge tourists 350-400 yen per bus ride while residents pay 200 yen — nearly double. Here's what's confirmed, what's still just a proposal, and how to plan around it.
Which Japan eSIM or SIM should you get in 2026? Unlimited data from ¥1,650 for tourists, or a real 070/080/090 Docomo number with just your passport for new residents. Prices, setup, phone check and an honest comparison.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government runs a free, dedicated support center for foreign residents and business owners — bank accounts, paperwork, daily life questions. Here's exactly what it does and how to use it.