Tokyo International Friends & Events 東京国際交流会
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Everything expats and foreigners need to know about daily life in Japan. Housing, transport, money-saving tips, Japanese apps, healthcare, schooling for international families, and practical advice for making Japan feel like home. Written by people who actually live here.
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.
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.
Japan now lets Taiwan, South Korea and 8 other nationalities apply for a second Working Holiday visa. Full eligibility rules, the 2026 timeline, and exactly how to apply for round two.