Embassies
Be sure to register with your Embassy /Consulate upon arrival.
The USA embassy web-site is an excellent source of general information about living in Japan for all nationalities.
Local Ward Offices
Your local Ward or city office is a source of information.
Visit to obtain detailed information on living in your area.
| Kanto, Tokyo | |
| Minato-ku | http://www.city.minato.tokyo.jp/e |
| Shibuya-ku | http://www.city.shibuya.tokyo.jp/eng |
| Setagaya-ku | http://www.city.setagaya.tokyo.jp/english |
| Meguro-ku | http://www.city.meguro.tokyo.jp/english |
| Saitama | http://www.pref.saitama.jp/index_e.html |
| Chiba | http://www.pref.chiba.jp/english |
| Yokohama | http://www.city.yokohama.jp/en |
| Kansai, Osaka | |
| http://www.city.osaka.jp/shimin/english/index.html | |
Immigration
This website has a clear map and information to assist you in obtaining or renewing your Re-entry permit etc. Allow 3-4 hours for the initial visit and then 1 hour for the pick-up. Ensure you have all your documentation required by referring to the appropriate section on the website.
| Tokyo | Tokyo Regional Immigration Office |
Drivers License
An International driver's license is valid for one year. Regulations for acquiring a Japanese driver’s license vary according to your country of origin.
The following website in English has proved helpful.
| Metropolitan Police Department |
Japan Automobile Association provides road services and maps (Japanese) as well as translation services for your License as required when applying for a Japanese drivers license.
| Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) |
Sightseeing Information
Japan National Tourist Organization is an excellent source of downloadable information.
| Japan National Tourist Organization |
TIC (Tourist Information Center's) found in major cities, rail stations and at Narita airports offer a range of services and travel information/literature for free.
Outdoor Japan is the site for all things outdoors, including skiing.
| Outdoor Japan | |
| Ski Japan/Snowboard Japan |
Restaurant Search
A variety of sites are useful for locating Restaurants in Japan.
Most are based in Tokyo.
| Tokyo Food Page | |
| English OK! Japan Shop Directory | |
| Global Dining |
Major Stores in Kanto and Kansai Areas
Warehouse type shopping
| Costco | |
| An American based membership store with a large range of Japanese and imported goods. | |
| Ikea | |
| A Swedish home wares store with two Kanto locations at present. | |
Discount Electrical Appliances
| Yodobashi Camera | |
| BicCamera | |
| Llaox |
Department Stores
| ISETAN Foreign Customer Service | |
| Provides a foreign customer service in its Shinjuku store. Mitsukoshi, Takashimaya, Seibu, Keio, Odakyu, OIOI, Tokyu, Tokyo Hands and Parco are also department stores found throughout the country. Limited English assistance available but most have store directory information in English. |
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Bookstores
| Kinokuniya | |
| Tsutaya | |
| Kinokunia and Tsutaya are large national bookstores which stock other language publications. | |
Transport Services
Community Organizations in Tokyo
For Women
| College Women's Association of Japan | |
| Foreign Executive Women | |
| Foreign Nurses Association | |
| Tokyo Union Church Women's Society | |
| Being a Broad |
General
| French Association in Japan | |
| American Chamber of Commerce Japan | |
| Australian Society | |
| Japan-British Society | |
| Tokyo English Life Line | |
| YMCA |
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