Nagoya

๐Ÿ“ฎ

Postal Services

Sections

Overview of Postal Services in Nagoya

Japanโ€™s postal system is highly efficient, reliable, and user-friendly. The Japan Post (ๆ—ฅๆœฌ้ƒตไพฟ, Nippon Yลซbin) operates the postal services across the country, including Nagoya. Post offices in Nagoya are well-distributed, and many offer services in English, making it easier for visitors and immigrants to use them.

Services Offered by Japan Post

  1. Mailing Services:

    • Domestic Mail: Letters, postcards, and small packages can be sent within Japan.
    • International Mail: Options include airmail, surface mail, and economy air (SAL).
    • Express Mail Services (EMS): Fast international delivery with tracking.
    • Yu-Pack: A domestic parcel delivery service.

  2. Financial Services:

    • Many post offices double as banks, offering savings accounts, ATMs, and money transfers.

  3. Other Services:

    • Purchase of stamps and postcards.
    • Redelivery services if you miss a package delivery.
    • Seasonal services like New Yearโ€™s greeting cards (nengajo).

Costs for Domestic and International Mailing

Domestic Mailing Costs:

  • Postcards: ยฅ63 (standard size).
  • Standard Letters:
    • Up to 25g: ยฅ84.
    • Up to 50g: ยฅ94.
  • Yu-Pack (Parcel Delivery):
    • Prices depend on size and distance. For example, a small package (60cm combined dimensions) within Nagoya costs around ยฅ810โ€“ยฅ1,330.

International Mailing Costs:

  • Postcards: ยฅ70 to any country.
  • Letters:
    • Up to 25g: ยฅ120โ€“ยฅ150 (depending on destination).
    • Up to 50g: ยฅ190โ€“ยฅ240.
  • EMS (Express Mail Service):
    • Starts at ยฅ1,400 for small parcels (up to 300g) and increases based on weight and destination.
  • Surface Mail (cheapest option): Takes longer but is cost-effective for heavy packages.

You can calculate exact costs using the Japan Post International Mail Calculator.

Procedures for Sending Packages

  1. Prepare Your Package:

    • Use sturdy packaging. You can purchase boxes and envelopes at the post office.
    • Clearly write the recipientโ€™s address in the correct format (see below for tips).

  2. Address Format:

    • For domestic mail: Write the recipientโ€™s postal code (7 digits), followed by the address in Japanese or English.
    • For international mail: Write the address in English, with the country name in capital letters at the bottom.

  3. Visit a Post Office:

    • Bring your package to the counter. Staff will weigh it and provide you with shipping options.
    • For international mail, you may need to fill out a customs declaration form (available at the counter).

  4. Payment:

    • Pay the postage fee in cash or with a Japanese credit/debit card.

  5. Tracking:

    • For parcels and EMS, youโ€™ll receive a tracking number to monitor your shipment online.

How to Locate Post Offices in Nagoya

  1. Using Japan Postโ€™s Website:

  2. Popular Post Offices in Nagoya:

    • Nagoya Central Post Office:
      • Location: Near Nagoya Station.
      • Hours: 9:00 AMโ€“7:00 PM (weekdays), 9:00 AMโ€“5:00 PM (weekends).
      • Services: Full range of postal and banking services.
    • Sakae Post Office:
      • Location: In the Sakae shopping district.
      • Hours: Similar to Nagoya Central Post Office.

  3. Convenience Stores:

    • Many convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, Lawson) offer basic postal services like mailing letters and small packages.

Cultural and Local Tips

  1. Politeness:

    • Staff at post offices are very polite and helpful. A simple โ€œArigatou gozaimasuโ€ (thank you) goes a long way.

  2. Language:

    • While many post offices in Nagoya have English-speaking staff, smaller branches may not. Carrying a written note with your request in Japanese can be helpful. For example:
      • โ€œใ“ใฎ่ท็‰ฉใ‚’ใ‚ขใƒกใƒชใ‚ซใซ้€ใ‚ŠใŸใ„ใงใ™โ€ (Kono nimotsu o Amerika ni okuritai desu โ€“ I want to send this package to the USA).

  3. Seasonal Postcards:

    • During the New Year season, sending nengajo (New Yearโ€™s greeting cards) is a popular custom. You can buy and mail these at post offices.

  4. Missed Deliveries:

    • If you miss a delivery, youโ€™ll receive a redelivery notice (fuzai haitatsu tsuchi). You can request redelivery online, by phone, or at the post office.

  5. Post Office Hours:

    • Most post offices operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. Larger branches, like Nagoya Central Post Office, have extended hours and are open on weekends.

  6. Stamps as Souvenirs:

    • Japan Post offers beautifully designed stamps featuring Japanese culture and landmarks. These make great souvenirs or gifts.

Conclusion

Using postal services in Nagoya is straightforward and efficient. Whether youโ€™re sending a postcard to a friend or shipping a package internationally, Japan Post offers a variety of options to suit your needs. Familiarize yourself with the procedures, and donโ€™t hesitate to ask for help at the counter if needed. With this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the postal system in Nagoya!