Gasoline in Japan should be a lot more expensive right now given global oil prices — it isn't, because the government is spending reserve funds to hold the national average near ¥170/liter. Here's what's actually happening and what it means for your budget.
Japan’s Paper Health Insurance Card Is Gone: What Every Foreign Resident Must Do (2026)
Japan's paper health insurance card is no longer accepted as of August 2026. Here's exactly how foreign residents get a Myna Hokensho or Shikaku Kakuninsho — and how to fix the name-mismatch problem that trips up so many of us.
Japan’s ¥324 Billion Fraud Warning (2026): The Financial Scams Every Foreign Resident Should Know
Japan's National Police Agency logged ¥324.1 billion in fraud losses in its latest annual figures — fake police calls, social media investment schemes, and romance scams. Here's how these actually work and how foreign residents can avoid becoming a statistic.
Japan’s Food Tax Cut to 1% (2027): What Foreign Residents Need to Know Now
Japan's Cabinet has approved cutting the consumption tax on food from 8% to 1% for two years starting April 2027. Here's exactly what's been decided, what still needs Diet approval, and how residents can save on groceries right now.
Tokyo EV & Hybrid Subsidies 2026: Up to ¥1.3M+ Back on Your Next Car
Tokyo is subsidizing electric and hybrid vehicle purchases by up to ¥1.3 million per car — and it stacks with national subsidies. Here's who qualifies, how much you can actually get back, and how to apply.
Tokyo Nightlife Warning 2026: Drink-Spiking & Credit Card Fraud in Kabukicho, Roppongi & Shibuya
UK officials have issued a warning about drink-spiking and credit card fraud targeting visitors in Tokyo's Kabukicho, Roppongi, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro nightlife districts. Here's exactly how the scam works and how to protect yourself and your guests.
Haneda Airport’s New Terminal 1 Satellite 2026: What Opens September 1
Haneda Airport's Terminal 1 is getting its first major expansion in 33 years. Here's what opens on September 1, 2026, which flights use it, and what it means if you're flying through Tokyo this fall.
Tokyo Disney & Universal Studios Japan Price Hikes 2026: What to Know Before You Go
Tokyo Disneyland, DisneySea, and Universal Studios Japan are all raising ticket prices this fall — and one of Disney's last free perks disappears this month. Here's exactly what's changing, when, and how much more you'll pay.