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Relocating to Tokyo is an exciting adventure—but once the thrill of arrival fades, you’ll face a series of practical challenges. Setting up your new life in Japan means handling essentials like opening a bank account, getting mobile service, and registering for utilities. Though some procedures still involve paperwork and patience, Tokyo has become far more accessible to foreigners in recent years, with many services offering English support.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the crucial steps you need to take after securing housing—ensuring your Tokyo life starts off smoothly and efficiently.
A Japanese bank account is necessary for everything from receiving your salary to paying rent and mobile phone bills. Even setting up certain government services and utilities will require a local account.
To open a bank account, prepare the following:
Residence Card (在留カード): Proof of legal residency.
Jūminhyō (住民票 / Residence Certificate): Obtainable from your ward office after registering your address.
Phone Number in Japan: Required by most banks.
Inkan/Hanko (Personal Seal): While less common now, some traditional banks still require one.
Proof of Employment or Student Status (optional but sometimes requested).
⚠️ Note: You often need a phone number before opening a bank account—yet getting a phone number may require a bank account. This paradox is frustrating but solvable by choosing foreigner-friendly providers like Shinsei Bank.
Here are the best options for foreigners:
Shinsei Bank
Entire application process available in English
No inkan required
Offers international wire transfers, multi-currency accounts
Online banking is user-friendly
Prestia SMBC Trust Bank
Excellent English support
International services, including wealth management
Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行)
Wide ATM network, available even in rural areas
Less English support, but great for utility payments and general banking
Rakuten Bank / Sony Bank
Online-only, excellent tech features
May require some Japanese proficiency for setup and support
Pro Tip: If you’re a student or unemployed, Shinsei Bank is your best bet. It’s among the few that don’t require income proof or a full-time job contract.
Japan’s mobile phone industry is known for confusing contract structures and strict ID verification. But don’t worry—more foreigner-friendly providers have emerged in recent years.
Residence Card
A valid visa (usually at least 3 months)
Japanese address
Japanese bank account or credit card
Some companies will accept foreign-issued credit cards, while others require local billing information.
NTT Docomo, au by KDDI, SoftBank
Most reliable coverage
English support at select branches
Long-term contracts (2 years is common)
More expensive
Rakuten Mobile – Offers unlimited data, contracts are more flexible
IIJmio – One of the cheapest options, Japanese required
UQ Mobile, Y!mobile, LINEMO – Lower-cost plans using major networks
Mobal – Designed for foreigners, no Japanese credit card needed
Sakura Mobile – Great for students, offers pocket WiFi and prepaid SIMs
Japan Wireless – Offers rental routers and SIMs, short-term only
Data-Only SIMs: For tablets or temporary access
Voice + Data SIMs: Needed for long-term use, contracts, and bank accounts
Prepaid SIMs: Convenient for visitors or soft landing period
⏳ Expect to spend 30 minutes to 2 hours at the store for setup, depending on your documentation and language preference.
Tokyo’s train and subway system is one of the best in the world. Clean, punctual, and far-reaching, it can seem overwhelming at first, but is actually quite intuitive.
Where to Buy: Train stations, airports, convenience stores
Deposit: Usually ¥500 (refundable)
Top-Up Methods: Ticket machines, convenience stores, mobile apps
Compatible With: All major train lines, most buses, vending machines, and convenience stores
iPhones (with Face ID or newer) and some Android models can register Suica/Pasmo in Apple Pay or Google Wallet—ideal for a tap-and-go lifestyle.
If you ride the same route daily, consider a commuter pass (定期券 / teiki-ken). It allows unlimited travel between two stations and can save you money.
After moving into your apartment, setting up basic services is essential. Here’s how to do it:
You may need to contact each provider individually. Some landlords assist with this; in other cases, you’ll get info during the key handover.
Required Info:
Address
Move-in date
Name and contact number
Bank account or payment method
You’ll receive monthly bills, which can be paid by:
Direct debit
At a convenience store
Online through your bank or app
⚠️ Gas setup often requires a technician to visit your apartment—schedule this ASAP.
SoftBank Hikari
AU Hikari
Nuro Hikari (fastest but limited availability)
Installation can take 2–4 weeks. Use pocket WiFi as a temporary solution during this gap.
Compare plans at websites like:
Kakaku.com
ISP comparison sites with English filters
Garbage disposal in Tokyo is strict and varies by ward. Common categories:
Burnable (可燃ごみ)
Non-burnable (不燃ごみ)
PET bottles / plastics
Cans, glass, paper
Your ward office provides color-coded bags or sorting pamphlets in English. Follow the rules—improper sorting may result in fines or returned garbage.
Japan’s konbini (コンビニ) are lifelines for new arrivals. 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson are open 24/7 and located everywhere.
ATMs that accept international cards (especially at 7-Eleven)
Pay utility bills by scanning your paper invoice
Buy stamps, concert tickets, and SIM cards
Print, fax, and copy documents
Pickup/drop-off packages via Yamato, Sagawa, etc.
Buy daily food, snacks, household goods
Most accept IC cards, credit cards, QR code payments (PayPay, Line Pay), and even foreign cards.
Although Japan still uses paper for many procedures, several digital services are becoming more common:
My Number Card (マイナンバーカード) – Japan’s digital ID. Speeds up government procedures, health insurance access, and tax filing.
E-Resident Portal – For visa updates and residence renewals
Tokyo Ward Portals – Many local governments now offer English portals for taxes, housing, child support, and disaster alerts.
Always bring a copy of your residence card and jūminhyō when dealing with anything official. You’ll be surprised how often they’re needed.
Navigating your new life alone can be daunting. Thankfully, Tokyo has vibrant support communities.
Tokyo Expat Network (Facebook) – Great for local advice, services, and socializing
Meetup.com – Search for language exchange groups, social outings, or professional networking
Tokyo International Communication Committee (TICC) – Offers cultural events, language help, and support for foreign residents
Local community centers – Many offer free Japanese classes or consultations in English and other languages
Settling into Tokyo can be a complex but rewarding process. While bureaucracy and initial friction are unavoidable, today’s Tokyo is more accommodating than ever before—especially for proactive expats who leverage community, tech, and foreigner-friendly services.
✅ Start with Shinsei Bank or Mobal SIM if you’re unsure
✅ Don’t wait to register utilities—some need technician appointments
✅ Carry your documents with you for every official interaction
✅ Use convenience stores and digital tools to simplify everyday tasks
✅ Join local groups to speed up your adaptation process
With a bit of patience and planning, your new life in Tokyo will soon feel not just manageable—but thriving.
Yes, but your options are limited. Shinsei Bank and Prestia SMBC Trust Bank offer English-friendly services, including online applications and customer support. Most traditional banks require Japanese language ability or assistance from a native speaker. Online-only banks like Rakuten Bank offer good services but typically require Japanese proficiency.
You typically need a residence card, proof of address (住民票 / jūminhyō), a Japanese phone number, and sometimes a personal seal (inkan). Some banks also request proof of employment or student status. Bringing all relevant documents helps speed up the process.
In many cases, yes. Most banks ask for a valid Japanese phone number for account verification and notifications. However, some foreigner-friendly banks like Shinsei Bank may allow account creation before obtaining a local number. Still, having one improves your chances.
Providers like Mobal and Sakura Mobile are designed for expats and students. They offer English-language support, simple contracts, and no need for a Japanese credit card. While larger carriers like SoftBank or NTT Docomo have better coverage, they often require long-term contracts and Japanese documentation.
Some providers like Mobal accept foreign credit cards. However, most Japanese carriers and MVNOs require a Japanese credit card or bank account for recurring billing. Be sure to check the provider’s payment options before signing up.
Functionally, they are the same. Both are IC cards that let you ride Tokyo trains, subways, and buses, and can be used at convenience stores and vending machines. The only difference is branding and issuing company. Either is fine for most users.
Yes. If you have an iPhone with Face ID or a compatible Android phone, you can link Suica to Apple Pay or Google Wallet. This allows you to charge and use it directly from your phone. Pasmo is also supported on select devices.
Utility bills can be paid in several ways: direct debit from your Japanese bank account, in person at convenience stores, or via online banking. After move-in, your landlord or real estate agent should provide forms or instructions to register for utilities. Don’t forget to book a gas technician visit if required.
Installation typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the provider and availability of technicians. Some buildings already have contracts with certain internet providers. For short-term connectivity, consider renting a pocket WiFi from services like Sakura Mobile or Japan Wireless.
Yes. Tokyo requires residents to separate trash into categories like burnable, non-burnable, plastics, cans, and PET bottles. Each ward has its own schedule and rules. You can usually get an English guide from your ward office or real estate agency. Failure to sort correctly may lead to non-collection or fines.
Yes. Major convenience store chains like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They offer food, ATMs, bill payment services, ticket purchases, postal services, and more. They are vital resources for expats in Japan.
Yes, but only at select machines. ATMs at 7-Eleven stores, Japan Post Bank, and some airports accept foreign cards and offer English menus. Always check for international logos like Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, or Plus before inserting your card.
The My Number Card is a digital ID used for taxation, social security, and official procedures. While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended. It streamlines public services and is increasingly required for online government services and COVID-related support programs.
It’s possible, especially in central Tokyo. Many services now offer English support, signage is bilingual, and apps can assist with translation. However, learning basic Japanese will significantly improve your experience and help with tasks like banking, housing, and government paperwork.
Tokyo has many expat groups and resources. Facebook groups like Tokyo Expat Network, platforms like Meetup.com, and city offices like the Tokyo International Communication Committee offer support. Community centers also provide Japanese lessons, cultural events, and consultations for foreign residents.