Below is a list of popular traffic signs as seen in Japan. A driver must display this mark on the car for one year after obtaining a driver’s license. Displayed on cars driven by a person over 70. Not obligatory.…
The Expat's Guide to Japan
Everything you need to know about living and working in Tokyo & Yokohama
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Riding a Bicycle in Japan
Bicycles in Japan, especially the ubiquitous “mama-chari,” the (often) single-gear bike equipped with a basket and rack, are a convenient form of transportation ideal for running errands and making short trips in Japan’s urban areas, and cycling is often grouped…
Driving a Car in Japan
Driving in Japan will show you many aspects of the city and countryside that are inaccessible by public transport. Be cautious, because roads and highways in urban areas can be very crowded. Driving Rules Drive on the left side of…
Driver’s License in Japan
You can drive using a foreign license with an International Driving Permit or an official translation (depending on your country) for the 1st year, but you must get a Japanese driver’s license after the 2nd year. To transfer to a…
Sanja Festival
Sanja Festival (三社祭) is one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals. The parade centers around three portable shrines (mikoshi) which are carried towards Asakusa Shrine. The festival attracts up to 2 million visitors every year, and is a truly quintessential Japanese experience,…
Expressways in Japan
The expressway (“Kosoku-doro” / “高速道路” or “Jidoushado” / “自動車道”, in Japanese) is probably a much quicker option for long distance travel. For the most part, you will have to pay to use them. Charges are either flat-rate or distance-based. For…
In Case of Car Accidents
Try to keep the scene as it happened. Rescue anyone who is injured. Call “119” (Ambulance) if there is anyone injured. Call “110” (Police) and explain the location and situation. Move the vehicle if it gets in the way of…
Japan Rail Passes
There are a number of JR Passes aimed at tourists that allow for unlimited travel on designated services. In addition to the Japan-wide JR Rail Pass, the various member companies of the Japan Rail Group offer passes valid for travel…
Inter-city Travel by Highway Bus
Inter-city coach transportation by “highway bus” (or “kosoku bus,” 高速バス) is an attractive budget option for long distance travel in Japan. Highway bus fares can be significantly cheaper than airplane or shinkansen tickets, and routes between major cities and tourist…
Internet for Travelers
Internet access Internet in Japan is fast and reliable and most accommodation for tourists will have internet access. If in doubt, confirm with your accommodation provider before reservation. For those who need access on the go, there are a number…
Types of Shop
Department Stores Japan’s world class department stores carry a similar range of products to their Western counterparts. The top floors usually have a selection of international restaurants, while bustling food markets in the basement floors are filled with beautiful selections…
Sumida Aquarium
One of the main attractions of the Tokyo Skytree – relatively small but you’ll enjoy many creatures and interesting exhibits with very modern design.…
Shopping Customs in Japan
Along with hotels and restaurants, shops in Japan pride themselves on their high standard of customer service. The shopping experience is generally a straightforward one, but there are a few customs and peculiarities you should be aware of in advance.…
Shopping Districts
Tokyo and Yokohama have a number of districts where many shops specialise in a particular kind of item. Use this guide to find out where to shop based on what you’re looking for. Fashion and Brand Goods Tokyo is one…
Decks Tokyo Beach
150 shops, restaurants and an indoor amusement park.…
DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
A new shopping/amusement facility in Odaiba that opened in 2012, famous for the giant Gundam statue outside.…
KITTE
A wide variety of shops and restaurants spread across 7 floors of this sophisticated shopping mall. Here you will find Japanese regional cuisine along with a variety of fashion and lifestyle goods retailers.…
MARK IS minatomirai
This shopping mall is located in the center of Minato Mirai. Chic fashion boutiques and name brand shopping are joined by a wide selection of Japanese and international restaurants.…
Marunouchi Building
The Marunouchi building is located in the center of the Marunouchi – a district constantly bustling with people on weekdays and weekends. The building is a stylish and exciting spot for shopping, dining, cultural and entertainment activities.…
Omotesando Hills
This Omotesando landmark is home to about 100 stores offering the latest in fashion and lifestyle items as well as a number of exquisite restaurants.…
Queen’s Square Yokohama
A shopping complex with a music hall, gallery, and a hotel overlooking the Yokohama Bay Area.…
Roppongi Hills
A mega-complex consisting of boutiques, restaurants, a hotel, a cinema, museums and an observation deck. The observation deck in Roppongi hills called “Tokyo City View” has floor-to-ceiling windows, an 11-meter-high vaulted ceiling and offers a marvelous view of Tokyo Tower…
Shin-Marunouchi Building
Inspired by the concept of “Marvellous moments”, Shin-Marunouchi Building offers visitors a selection of about 150 stores, each bursting with originality and refined elegance.…
The Yokohama Landmark Tower
At 296.33m in height and with 70 floors, this is the 2nd tallest building in Japan, and is home to a shopping mall, a hotel, and Japan’s oldest stone-built dockyard (National Cultural Asset).…
Tokyo Building TOKIA
TOKIA is a utopia for discerning adults. All day, any day, TOKIA offers visitors amusement in the form of restaurants, live music and beauty care.…
Tokyo Midtown
Tokyo Midtown features a variety of stores, restaurants, bars, museums, a hotel, greenery and more.…
Don Quijote Roppongi
A retail chain with stores across Japan, Don Quijote sells discount food, cosmetics, clothing, homewares and jewellery, available tax free to tourists…
COSTCO (Kawasaki)
Costco is an American “members only” warehouse club, dedicated to offering the best possible prices.…
Motomachi Union Main Store
Motomachi Union carries a wide variety of foreign imported foods.…
National Azabu
Organic vegetables, wines and groceries from around the world including a wide selection of cheeses. Also sells household items, books and English cards. Signs and service in English. Delivery available.…
NISSIN World Delicatessen
Nissin World Delicatessen has an established reputation for the range and quality of its meat, sausage and ham products. You can also find wine from all over the world, as well as a wide selection of international foods and ingredients.…
Vinos Yamazaki
In a “straight from the cellar” style, they offer a rich assortment of wines and cheeses. Don’t miss out their large collection of Japanese sake too.…
Wine Shop ENOTECA Hiroo
Enoteca regularly stocks around 1,000 kinds of wine with an emphasis on French and Italian varieties.…
bonraspail Queen’s Isetan Yokohama
An organic food store selling everything from bagels to smoothies…
Natural House
The main branch of this renowned organic store has the largest stock of organic and health foods in Tokyo. In addition to fresh produce, they also offer deli, bento, natural cosmetics, medicinal herbs and more.…
Natural Mart
Natural Mart offers only organic and natural products including foods and beauty care items.…
Daimaru Tokyo
A department store by Tokyo station. The sweets counters on 1F and B1F are particularly popular.…
Isetan Shinjuku Store
One of the most traditional and famous department stores in Japan, Isetan is known for their impeccable service and variety of quality products. Their “Guest card” allows foreign residents who are short-term stay to enjoy a 5% discount on some…
Matsuya Ginza
Their selection of international designer brands range from Louis Vuitton to Fendi and Celine.…
Seibu Shibuya
The Shibuya branch of Seibu department store delivers plentiful fashion items, gifts and children’s goods.…
Takashimaya Shinjuku
Houses a plethora of Japanese and international luxury brands and a gorgeous gourmet department. Be sure not to miss out on their sweets. Also, be sure to check out Takashimaya’s dedicated web page including delivery, free Wi-Fi access and for…
