Practical guide for leaving Japan: cancel contracts, sell property, ship items, notify the city office, and avoid last-minute surprises. Includes a free checklist.

If you're preparing to leave Japan, for whatever reason, I hope this guide helps you wrap things up smoothly with less stress.　

Unemployed in Japan as a foreign worker? This guide explains who qualifies for unemployment benefits, how to apply, what to watch for with visas, and how Hello Work can support you. Learn how to navigate the system with confidence.

If you’re not aware of the types of leave available to you, you might miss out on valuable benefits. In Japan, taking time off can feel complicated—especially for working parents or caregivers navigating unfamiliar rules.

Japan offers various types of paid and unpaid leave—but many people hesitate to take them. This post explains the basics, from legal rights to workplace culture, and offers tips to help you make the most of your time off in Japan.

Japan is a safe country when it comes to crime, violence, and terrorism. However, natural disasters are a different story. Earthquakes, typhoons, and active volcanoes are an unavoidable part of life here. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential information, practical steps, and useful resources to help you stay ready.

Adjustment disorder is common but manageable. This blog shares practical tips and a key message: protecting your well-being starts with you.

Need legal help in Japan? Learn how attorneys work, key differences from the U.S., and what expats should know before hiring an attorney.

Moving to Japan means adapting your cooking — from compact kitchens to new ingredients. This post shares practical tips to blend Japanese and Western styles, plus a free Cooking Conversion Cheat Sheet!

But during my time working in both Japan and the U.S., I was often struck by how differently compliance is approached — not just in policy, but in mindset. The contrast between Japan and the U.S. reveals a lot about Japanese culture and corporate norms.

Once upon a time, retirement marked the end of the road— a quiet time to rest before the end of life. But today, it can last decades!!  

In this post, we’ll break down what makes Japan feel safe, how it compares to other countries, and what this sense of security means for everyday life.

If you're thinking about moving to Japan — either as a student, professional, or with your family — understanding the Japanese education system is essential.

Medical emergencies are stressful—especially when you're living in a foreign country like Japan. This guide helps expats navigate Japan’s emergency medical system. Learn what to expect and how to avoid surprises.

Facing rental issues in Japan? This guide helps you troubleshoot common disputes—like noise, subletting, and move-out costs—with free forms to protect yourself.

A deeper understanding of Japanese work culture can be incredibly helpful—especially when you're preparing for an interview.

A practical guide to international marriage in Japan—covering legal steps, cultural challenges, family dynamics, and everyday life tips for cross-cultural couples.

You don’t need to be ultra-rich to live a rich life in Japan. Compared to the U.S., wealth here often feels more attainable, more grounded. In the U.S., “wealth” can feel elusive, tied to constant striving. But in Japan, it may be easier to find your own version of wealth.

If you're planning to bring your pet to Japan, I hope our story helps you prepare. It's all about planning ahead and knowing what to expect. You can download the free Dog Relocation Checklist Japan from the Freebie Shelf.

Moving to Japan for work or retirement is a big step. But once you’ve settled in, the next challenge begins: building a real, fulfilling life here. In this post, I’ll share some of our own experiences and what I recommend to others trying to make Japan truly feel like home.