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Japan Expat Guides

Real, practical guides for foreigners living in Japan. No fluff.

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New to JapanStart Here

Your first-week survival guide

Residence card, bank account, health insurance, housing — everything you need in week one.

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Making Friends in JapanMost Read

The honest guide for foreigners

Why it's hard, what actually works, and how to build a real social life in Japan.

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Language Exchange in JapanPopular

Find Japanese speakers & partners

How to find a language exchange partner, what apps work, and how to make it last.

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Expats in TokyoCity Guide

The world's most complex city

Neighborhoods, community, hidden networks, and making real friends in the city that has everything.

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Expats in OsakaCity Guide

Japan's most welcoming city

Osaka is warmer, louder, and more open than Tokyo. Here's how to make the most of it.

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Expats in FukuokaCity Guide

Small city, big community

Japan's most livable city for foreigners. Cheaper, friendlier, and more connected than you'd expect.

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