Global Major Cities Guide

Support services for learning Japanese and accessing translation or interpretation help.

Sections

1. Language Support in Finance

Managing finances in Nagoya as a non-Japanese speaker involves opening bank accounts, accessing ATMs, and understanding financial documents. Here’s how to navigate these:

Banking Services

Major Banks with English Support:
- MUFG Bank (Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group): Offers English-speaking staff at select branches in Nagoya. Their website and online banking services are also available in English.
- SMBC (Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation): Some branches in Nagoya provide English-speaking staff, and their ATMs have English-language options.
- Shinsei Bank: Known for being foreigner-friendly, with English-speaking staff and online banking in English.
- Japan Post Bank (Yucho Ginko): While not all branches have English-speaking staff, their ATMs and website offer English options.
Opening a Bank Account:
- Requirements:
  - Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
  - Passport
  - Proof of Address (e.g., utility bill or rental agreement)
  - Hanko (personal seal) – though some banks accept signatures for foreigners.
- Procedure:
  - Visit a branch with English support (call ahead to confirm availability).
  - Fill out forms (some banks provide English translations).
  - Account setup is usually completed within the same day or a few days.
- Costs: Most banks do not charge for opening an account, but some may have fees for specific services (e.g., international transfers).
ATMs:
- ATMs in Nagoya often have English-language options. Look for machines at:
  - Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
  - Post offices
  - Bank branches
- International Cards: ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post Bank accept foreign cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.).
Money Transfers:
- Western Union: Available at some convenience stores and financial service providers.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise): A cost-effective online service for international transfers.
- Bank Transfers: Banks like MUFG and SMBC offer international remittance services, but fees can be high (¥2,000–¥5,000 per transfer).

2. Language Support in Local Services

Local services in Nagoya include utilities, healthcare, transportation, and government offices. Here’s how to access them with language support:

Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water)

Setting Up Utilities:
- When moving into a new residence, you’ll need to contact utility providers to set up electricity, gas, and water.
- Chubu Electric Power (Electricity): Offers English support via their website and customer service line.
- Toho Gas (Gas): Limited English support; consider asking your landlord or a Japanese-speaking friend for assistance.
- Nagoya Waterworks Bureau (Water): No direct English support, but their website has some English instructions.
- Costs: Initial setup fees vary (¥1,000–¥3,000), and monthly bills depend on usage.
Tips:
- Use translation apps like Google Translate or Pocketalk during phone calls.
- Some real estate agencies offer utility setup services for foreigners.

Healthcare

Hospitals and Clinics:
- Nagoya has several hospitals with English-speaking staff, such as:
  - Nagoya University Hospital
  - Nagoya Central Hospital
  - Meijo Hospital
- Costs: Healthcare in Japan is subsidized if you’re enrolled in the National Health Insurance (NHI). Expect to pay 30% of the total cost for most treatments.
- Finding English-Speaking Doctors:
  - Use the Aichi Medical Interpretation System or websites like Japan Healthcare Info (JHI) to locate English-speaking doctors.
Pharmacies:
- Major pharmacy chains like Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Sugi Pharmacy may have staff who can assist in English or use translation apps.

Transportation

Public Transport:
- Nagoya’s subway, buses, and trains have English signage and announcements.
- The Nagoya Transportation Bureau website provides route maps and schedules in English.
- Costs: Subway fares range from ¥210–¥340 per trip. Consider getting an IC card (e.g., manaca) for convenience.
Taxis:
- Some taxi companies in Nagoya offer English-speaking drivers. Look for taxis with a “Foreigner-Friendly Taxi” sticker.

Government Offices

Nagoya International Center (NIC):
- A key resource for foreign residents, offering free multilingual consultation services (including English) for issues like visa applications, taxes, and housing.
- Location: Near Nagoya Station.
- Services: Interpretation, translation, and cultural orientation.
- Costs: Free for most services.
Ward Offices (Kuyakusho):
- Each ward office in Nagoya has a foreign resident support desk with English-speaking staff or translation services.
- Services include registering your address, enrolling in health insurance, and obtaining a My Number card.
- Tips: Bring all necessary documents and arrive early to avoid long waits.

3. Additional Language Support Resources

Nagoya International Center (NIC):
- Offers free Japanese language classes and cultural workshops.
- Provides a list of volunteer interpreters for various needs.
- Website: Nagoya International Center
Language Apps:
- Use apps like Google Translate, DeepL, or Yomiwa for real-time translation.
- Voice Translation Devices: Devices like Pocketalk are widely used in Japan and can be purchased at electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera.
Community Support:
- Join local expat groups on platforms like Facebook (e.g., “Nagoya Expats”).
- Attend events at the Nagoya International Center to meet bilingual locals and other foreigners.

4. Cultural Considerations

Politeness: Japanese culture places a high value on politeness. Even if you’re struggling with the language, a smile and a simple “Sumimasen” (Excuse me) or “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you) go a long way.
Patience: Processes may take longer due to language barriers, so allocate extra time for tasks like opening a bank account or visiting government offices.
Hanko (Personal Seal): While signatures are becoming more accepted, having a hanko can simplify many procedures.

5. Estimated Costs

| Service | Cost (Approx.) | |------------------------------|----------------------------| | Bank Account Setup | Free | | Utility Setup Fees | ¥1,000–¥3,000 per service | | Healthcare (with NHI) | 30% of treatment cost | | IC Card (manaca) | ¥2,000 (¥500 deposit) | | Interpretation Services | Free (via NIC) |

By leveraging the resources above, you’ll find it easier to navigate Nagoya’s financial and local services landscape, even with limited Japanese proficiency. Let me know if you need further assistance!