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After arrival in Japan

Welcome to Japan! After you've arrived and settled into your new accommodation, it's time to explore the surroundings and adapt. However, there are some important things to take care of in the first few days and weeks. Here's a checklist for the initial period in Japan.

Alien Card

The Alien Card is your identification card in Japan, especially important for Work and Travelers. You must apply for it within the first three months by providing proof of your address. If you've booked your accommodation, it's best to inquire at the Foreign Office about which local government office in Tokyo is most accessible for you.

Mobile

In Japan, mobile phone contracts often run for two years. For Work and Travel, it's better to buy a prepaid contract and top it up monthly. While these are simple, they allow for calls and emails. You can do this at any Big Camera, Labi, or similar electronics wholesaler.

Internet

Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is also available in hostels and many public places. If you have trouble with the internet, you can go to an internet café.

Phone & Mail

There are public telephone booths and mailboxes everywhere in Japan. You can get phone cards at supermarkets and convenience stores. Mail without a fixed address may be stored at a post office.

Learning important Kanji characters

To shop at the supermarket, it's helpful to learn some Kanji. It's also useful to know Katakana for foreign words to avoid confusion while shopping.

Contact with other Work and Travelers

If you're attending a language school, it's easy to meet new people. Otherwise, hostels and the internet are good places to meet other travelers.

Contact home

Don't forget to get in touch with your parents and friends to let them know you've arrived safely and settled in.

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