Get a SIM Card
You'll need a phone number for everything — bank accounts, utilities, ward registration. Get this sorted on Day 1 at the airport or a nearby electronics store.
Register at Your Ward Office
Required within 14 days of arrival. Bring your passport and residence card. You'll receive your Resident Record (住民票) which you'll need for almost everything else.
Open a Bank Account
Needed for rent, salary, and utilities. JP Post Bank is the easiest for newcomers. Bring your residence card and passport.
Set Up Utilities
Electricity, gas, and water for your new apartment. Your landlord or agent may have already arranged these — check before signing up.
Learn Your Garbage Schedule
Japan has strict sorting rules — burnables, plastics, PET bottles, and more. Your neighbors will notice if you get it wrong. Each ward has its own schedule.
Enroll in Health Insurance
National Health Insurance (国民健康保険) is mandatory for all residents. Sign up at your ward office — it covers 70% of medical costs.
Apply for My Number Card
Your personal ID number (マイナンバー) is used for taxes, insurance, banking, and more. Apply at your ward office or online — it takes 1–2 months to arrive.
Set Up Home Internet
Fiber (光回線), pocket WiFi, or home router — pick what fits your stay length and budget. Fiber is fastest but takes 2–4 weeks to install.
Find Your Local Supermarket
Stock up on essentials and discover Japanese groceries. For familiar international brands, check out Nissin, Hanamasa, or Gyomu Super.
Get a Transit IC Card
Suica or PASMO — tap to ride trains, buses, and even pay at convenience stores and vending machines. Get one at any station kiosk.