John Cross
John Cross
Expat at Mailmate
Canadian Expat living in Japan. I ended up at Mailmate after I forgot to pay my electricity bill once and they turned off the electricity in my apartment. They probably sent a warning in the mail but I don't think I would have recognized it.
Japan’s Pension Refund for Foreigners in 2026
Life in Japan July 31st, 2026

Japan’s Pension Refund for Foreigners in 2026

Here’s the big picture and then 2 step-by-step guides to reclaiming your money after leaving Japan.
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John Cross
John Cross Expat at Mailmate
Tenshutsu Todoke: How to Submit a Moving-out Form in Japan
Life in Japan July 24th, 2026

Tenshutsu Todoke: How to Submit a Moving-out Form in Japan

What is tenshutsu todoke? When should I submit it? Can I use a proxy? We cover 3 methods, give you a step-by-step guide, and answer all your pressing questions.
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John Cross
John Cross Expat at Mailmate
Japan Rules: What No One Tells You About Thriving in Japan
Life in Japan June 4th, 2026

Japan Rules: What No One Tells You About Thriving in Japan

There's a sign in Roppongi that says "because there are rules, there is freedom." After 10 years in Tokyo, entrepreneur Jonathan Siegel finally understands what it means. A conversation about the rules no one explains, the logic behind them, and what happens when you stop resisting.
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John Cross
John Cross Expat at Mailmate
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