Japan
Country Wide Information
Banking and Finance
- ๐งATMs and Cash Withdrawals
Details on accessing cash through ATMs, including international card compatibility and fees.
- ๐ฆBank Account Setup
Information on how to open a bank account in Japan, including required documents and procedures.
- ๐ณCredit and Loans
Information on obtaining credit cards, personal loans, and mortgages in Japan.
- ๐ดCurrency and Payment Methods
Overview of Japan's currency (yen), cash usage, and popular payment methods like credit cards and digital wallets.
- ๐ก๏ธInsurance Systems
Explanation of financial insurance options, including health, life, and property insurance in Japan.
- ๐ธMoney Transfers
Guidance on domestic and international money transfer options, including bank transfers and remittance services.
- ๐Savings and Investments
Overview of savings accounts, investment options, and financial planning in Japan.
- ๐งพTaxes and Tax Identification
Introduction to Japan's tax system, including the need for a My Number card for tax purposes.
Citizenship
- ๐พCitizenship
Guidelines and requirements for acquiring Japanese citizenship, including naturalization processes and dual citizenship policies.
- ๐Immigration Policies
An overview of Japan's immigration laws and policies, including entry restrictions, quotas, and recent updates.
- ๐ Residence Permits
Details on obtaining and maintaining residence permits for long-term stays in Japan, including renewal and status changes.
- ๐Visa Types
Overview of the different visa categories available for entry into Japan, including tourist, work, student, and family visas.
- ๐ผWork Permits
Information on permits required for foreign nationals to work legally in Japan, including eligibility and application processes.
Culture and Customs
- ๐ฃDining Customs
An overview of table manners, use of chopsticks, and dining etiquette in Japan.
- ๐Gift-Giving Culture
The significance of gift-giving, appropriate occasions, and the importance of presentation in Japan.
- ๐Greetings and Etiquette
Understanding the importance of bowing, polite language, and formalities in Japanese social interactions.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage and Communication
The importance of learning basic Japanese phrases and understanding non-verbal communication cues.
- โจ๏ธOnsen and Bathing Culture
The customs and etiquette of using public baths and hot springs in Japan.
- ๐Public Behavior
Expected behavior in public spaces, including quietness on public transport and proper waste disposal.
- โฉ๏ธReligious Practices
The role of Shinto and Buddhism in daily life, and customs related to visiting shrines and temples.
- ๐ธSeasonal Traditions
Key national celebrations and seasonal events, such as New Year, cherry blossom viewing, and Obon.
- ๐Traditional Clothing
An overview of traditional Japanese attire, such as kimono and yukata, and their cultural significance.
- ๐ผWorkplace Culture
An introduction to Japanese work ethics, hierarchy, and the importance of punctuality and teamwork.
Economy
- ๐ฆBanking and Finance
Details on opening a bank account, using ATMs, and understanding Japan's financial system.
- ๐Business Environment
Overview of Japan's business culture, entrepreneurship opportunities, and regulatory environment for starting a business.
- ๐ Cost of Living
An overview of living expenses in Japan, including housing, transportation, food, and utilities.
- ๐ณCurrency and Payment Methods
Information on the Japanese yen, cash usage, credit cards, and digital payment systems.
- ๐ผEmployment System
Overview of Japan's labor market, work culture, and employment practices, including full-time, part-time, and contract work options.
- ๐ก๏ธSocial Security System
Explanation of Japan's social security programs, including health insurance, pension, and unemployment benefits.
- ๐ฐTaxation
Information on Japan's tax system, including income tax, consumption tax, and social security contributions.
- ๐ขTrade and Exports
Insights into Japan's role in global trade, major export industries, and trade policies.
Education System
- ๐Compulsory Education
Details about the mandatory education period in Japan, which includes elementary and junior high school (ages 6 to 15).
- ๐Cultural Norms in Schools
Explanation of cultural practices in Japanese schools, such as cleaning duties, school uniforms, and respect for teachers.
- โ๏ธEntrance Exams
Information about the competitive entrance exams required for high school and university admissions in Japan.
- ๐Higher Education
Details about universities, vocational schools, and other post-secondary education options in Japan.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage of Instruction
Details about Japanese being the primary language of instruction and the availability of international schools for non-Japanese speakers.
- ๐ขPublic vs. Private Schools
Explanation of the differences between public and private schools in terms of cost, curriculum, and accessibility.
- ๐
School Calendar
Overview of the academic year in Japan, which typically starts in April and ends in March, including major holidays and breaks.
- ๐ซSchool Levels
Overview of the structure of Japan's education system, including elementary, junior high, high school, and higher education.
- โฟSpecial Education
Overview of support systems and schools available for children with special needs in Japan.
- ๐ฐTuition and Fees
Information about the costs associated with public and private education, including tuition, uniforms, and other expenses.
Emergency Services
- ๐ขEmergency Alerts System
Overview of Japan's nationwide alert system for disasters and emergencies, including mobile alerts.
- ๐Emergency Numbers
Key nationwide emergency contact numbers, such as 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services.
- ๐ Evacuation Centers
Information on designated evacuation centers and shelters during natural disasters or emergencies.
- ๐ฅFire and Rescue Services
Accessing fire services and rescue operations in case of fires or other emergencies.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage Support in Emergencies
Services and resources available for non-Japanese speakers during emergencies, such as multilingual hotlines.
- ๐ฅMedical Emergencies
Information on accessing emergency medical care, including hospitals and ambulance services.
- ๐ช๏ธNatural Disaster Preparedness
Guidelines and resources for earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons, which are common in Japan.
- ๐ฎPolice Assistance
How to contact and interact with the police for emergencies, lost items, or reporting crimes.
Government Structure
- ๐Education System
Overview of Japan's national education system, including public schools, higher education, and language programs.
- ๐ฅHealthcare System
Details on Japan's universal healthcare system, including health insurance and medical services.
- ๐Immigration
Covers visa types, work permits, residence permits, citizenship, and immigration policies for entering and staying in Japan.
- ๐๏ธPolitical System
Overview of Japan's government structure, including the roles of the Emperor, Prime Minister, and Parliament.
- ๐จPublic Safety
Details on Japan's law enforcement, emergency services, and disaster preparedness systems.
- ๐ก๏ธSocial Security
Covers Japan's social security system, including pensions, unemployment benefits, and welfare programs.
- ๐ฐTaxation
Information on national taxes, including income tax, consumption tax, and social security contributions.
- ๐Transportation System
Information on Japan's nationwide transportation infrastructure, including trains, buses, and air travel.
Healthcare System
- ๐ฅAccess to Healthcare Facilities
Japan has a wide network of hospitals and clinics, with no referral required to visit specialists, though additional fees may apply.
- ๐Emergency Medical Services
Emergency services, including ambulances, are free of charge, but hospital treatment costs still apply.
- ๐Health Checkups
Annual health checkups are encouraged and often mandatory for employees, with costs typically covered by employers or insurance.
- ๐ฉบHealth Insurance System
Japan operates a universal healthcare system where residents are required to enroll in either Employee Health Insurance or National Health Insurance.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage and Communication
Many healthcare providers in Japan primarily speak Japanese, so language support services or interpreters may be necessary for non-Japanese speakers.
- ๐ฐMedical Costs and Coverage
Healthcare in Japan is subsidized, with patients typically paying 10-30% of medical costs depending on age and income.
- ๐Prescription Medications
Prescription drugs are covered under Japan's health insurance system, with patients paying a portion of the cost.
- ๐Vaccination Policies
Japan has a national vaccination program, with certain vaccines recommended or required for residents and visitors.
Immigration and Visas
- ๐พCitizenship
Guidelines on acquiring Japanese citizenship, including naturalization requirements and dual citizenship policies.
- ๐Immigration Policies
An overview of Japan's immigration laws and policies, including entry restrictions, overstaying penalties, and recent updates.
- ๐ Residence Permits
Details on obtaining and maintaining residence permits for long-term stays in Japan, including renewal and status changes.
- ๐Visa Types
An overview of the various visa categories available in Japan, including tourist, work, student, and family visas.
- ๐ผWork Permits
Information on permits required for foreign nationals to work legally in Japan, including eligibility and application processes.
Overview
- ๐ณBanking and Finance
Guidance on opening a bank account, managing finances, and understanding Japan's banking system.
- ๐ฐCost of Living
An overview of living expenses in Japan, including housing, food, transportation, and other costs.
- ๐Education
Details about Japan's education system, including schools, universities, and language learning opportunities.
- ๐ผEmployment
Overview of Japan's job market, work culture, and employment regulations for foreigners.
- ๐ฅHealthcare
Overview of Japan's healthcare system, including national health insurance and medical services.
- ๐ Housing
Information on finding accommodation, rental processes, and housing regulations in Japan.
- ๐Immigration
Information on visa types, work permits, residence permits, citizenship, and immigration policies in Japan.
- ๐พLanguage and Culture
Insights into Japanese language, customs, etiquette, and cultural norms for newcomers.
- ๐จSafety and Emergency Services
Information on safety measures, emergency contacts, and disaster preparedness in Japan.
- ๐Transportation
An introduction to Japan's public transportation system, including trains, buses, and domestic travel options.
- ๐Utilities and Services
Overview of essential utilities like electricity, water, gas, and internet services in Japan.
Public Holidays
- ๐Cultural Significance
The cultural and historical importance of Japan's public holidays, reflecting traditions and national identity.
- ๐Golden Week
A series of consecutive public holidays in late April and early May, one of the busiest travel periods in Japan.
- ๐๏ธHoliday Calendar
The annual schedule of public holidays in Japan, including fixed and variable dates.
- ๐
National Public Holidays
An overview of Japan's nationwide public holidays, which are established by law and observed across the country.
- ๐New Year Holidays
The most significant holiday period in Japan, celebrated from late December to early January.
- ๐ฏ๏ธObon Festival
A traditional holiday period in mid-August for honoring ancestors, widely observed across Japan.
- ๐Substitute Holidays
A system where a public holiday is observed on the next weekday if it falls on a Sunday.
Tax System
- ๐Consumption Tax
A nationwide tax on goods and services, similar to a value-added tax (VAT), currently set at 10%.
- ๐ขCorporate Tax
A tax on the income of companies operating in Japan, with rates varying based on company size and income.
- ๐Filing and Payment Procedures
The process for filing tax returns and paying taxes, including deadlines and methods for residents and non-residents.
- ๐ฐIncome Tax
Japan's income tax system applies to both residents and non-residents, with progressive tax rates based on income levels.
- ๐Inheritance and Gift Tax
Taxes applied to inherited assets or gifts, with rates depending on the value and relationship to the giver.
- ๐ Resident Tax
A local tax paid annually by residents of Japan, calculated based on the previous year's income.
- ๐ฉบSocial Insurance Contributions
Mandatory contributions for health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance, deducted from salaries.
Transportation System
- โฟAccessibility Services
Transportation options and facilities for individuals with disabilities, including accessible trains, buses, and stations.
- โ๏ธAir Travel
Domestic and international air travel options, including major airports and low-cost carriers operating within Japan.
- ๐ดBicycles and Cycling
Cycling as a common mode of transport, including bike-sharing services, cycling rules, and parking facilities.
- ๐Driving and Licensing
Information on driving in Japan, including international driving permits, obtaining a Japanese license, and road rules.
- โด๏ธFerries and Water Transport
Ferry services connecting Japan's islands and coastal cities, as well as other water-based transportation options.
- ๐ณIC Cards
Rechargeable smart cards like Suica and Pasmo, used for seamless travel on public transportation and even for small purchases.
- ๐Public Transportation
Japan's extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, and subways, which are widely used across the country.
- ๐Railway System
The backbone of Japan's transportation, featuring high-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains) and local train networks connecting cities and regions.
- ๐Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Overview of taxi services, fare systems, and the limited availability of ride-sharing apps in Japan.
- ๐Transportation Etiquette
Cultural norms and etiquette to follow while using public transportation, such as keeping quiet and respecting priority seating.
Work Rights
- ๐ซDiscrimination and Harassment
Laws and policies addressing workplace discrimination and harassment, including gender equality and power harassment.
- ๐Employment Contracts
Overview of the types of employment contracts in Japan, including full-time, part-time, and temporary work agreements.
- ๐Foreign Worker Protections
Specific rights and protections for foreign workers, including equal treatment and support systems.
- ๐คLabor Unions and Collective Bargaining
Rights related to joining labor unions and engaging in collective bargaining in Japan.
- ๐ฐMinimum Wage
Information on the national and regional minimum wage requirements in Japan.
- ๐๏ธPaid Leave and Holidays
Explanation of annual paid leave, public holidays, and other leave entitlements for workers in Japan.
- ๐ฉบSocial Insurance
Overview of mandatory social insurance programs, including health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance.
- ๐Termination and Resignation
Guidelines on employee rights and employer obligations during termination or resignation processes.
- โฐWorking Hours and Overtime
Details about standard working hours, overtime regulations, and legal limits on work hours in Japan.
- โ ๏ธWorkplace Safety and Health
Information on workplace safety standards and health regulations to protect employees in Japan.