Explore Japan’s konbini: 24/7 lifelines offering food, ATMs, bill pay, medicine, even disaster support—why they matter for expats, tourists & locals.

I’ve always believed it’s better to understand than to fear. Curiosity led me to the Tokyo Fire Department’s Disaster Prevention Hall (Honjo Bosai-kan), where visitors can experience a seismic intensity 7 earthquake. I’ll share what I experienced and the lessons I learned.

Discover how kawaii (cute) culture in Japan goes beyond characters—shaping communication, tech, business, and everyday life.

A complete guide for foreigners on inheritance, wills, and Japanese tax law—explaining koseki, heirs, iryubun, exemptions, and cross-border estate planning.

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 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 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.

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!

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.

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.

If you're relocating to Japan—or already living here—you might be wondering: How can I truly belong while still being myself?

Here’s your guide—packed with real-world tips, timelines, and personal lessons—so you don’t repeat the mistakes we made!