Japan’s undeterred housing market is full of opportunity for foreign residents
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many foreign residents to think about what they want to do long-term in Japan. For some, buying property is the answer.
The downside of decision-making practices in Japan
Adherence to the rules is important in Japan. When those rules don’t work, it is sometimes easier to make a whole new set.
In the final entry of a three-part series on moving house during the pandemic, our writer masks up to meet the neighbors.
Moving house in a pandemic: The move isn’t the hardest part, the packing is
Moving into a new home doesn’t have to be stressful if you get help. What comes before and after that is tough enough.
Moving house in a pandemic: As our 6-year-old got older, we realized it was time for an upgrade
In the first of a three-part series, our writer outlines the twists and turns his family encountered when they opted to look for a new place to live.
Environmental activism is at the heart of Nagoya's international community
The search for friendship and community among foreign residents of Nagoya has become intimately tied to environmental education and activism.
Up for a chat? Clubhouse is proving helpful in sparking cross-cultural discussions with the locals
The new audio-format social media app Clubhouse has the ears of a Japanese audience, which might make it useful for non-Japanese residents looking to make connections.
Living in Japan doesn't have to break the bank
Japan is often touted as an expensive place to live. With a high quality of living, national health system, vibrant cultural scene, admirable levels of education and safety — it’s not hard to understand some of the reasons why people want to call it ...
You can't get anything past the neighborhood watchers
The eyes of the nation are upon you, and they are making sure that you put the trash out correctly.
Dealing with a dire diagnosis in a new country
When Niall Breathnach came down with a rare ailment he was sure to get several opinions before seeking a path for treatment.
My bank wants my residence card details to fight terrorism. Do I have to comply?
Banks are sending some non-Japanese customers requests to come into their branch and confirm their identities, which they say is part of a broader strategy to combat crime.
Cheap, spacious, crowd-free: Rural Japan is having a moment with the foreign community
Laura Blackhall took a risk purchasing an empty house in the Ibaraki countryside. Amid and following a pandemic, though, it's a choice that just might pay off.
