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The fastest way to sound clever about Japan. Articles, resources, and step-by-step guides that make it easier to work, live, and do business in Japan.
A Complete Japan Area Code Guide: Calling To & From Japan
Life in Japan August 20th, 2026

A Complete Japan Area Code Guide: Calling To & From Japan

Learn everything about the Japanese phone codes with this Japan area code guide.
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer
Earthquake-Resistant Buildings in Japan: Engineering, Investment, and Financial Benefits
Properties & Akiyas August 20th, 2026

Earthquake-Resistant Buildings in Japan: Engineering, Investment, and Financial Benefits

Learn how investing in earthquake-proof real estate offers financial benefits, legal compliance, and long-term market value.
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Aguri Osada
Aguri Osada ライター
Japan E-Visa: The Complete Guide to Applying Online (2026)
Out and About, Life in Japan August 20th, 2026

Japan E-Visa: The Complete Guide to Applying Online (2026)

Everything you need to apply for Japan's e visa in 2026. Eligible countries, required documents, step-by-step application walkthrough, updated fees, and the common mistakes that get applications cancelled before they're even reviewed.
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Yuriko Matsuoka
Yuriko Matsuoka Staff Writer
Japan Tax Rate and Income Tax Brackets: What Foreigners Actually Pay (2026)
Life in Japan August 19th, 2026

Japan Tax Rate and Income Tax Brackets: What Foreigners Actually Pay (2026)

Confused by your Japanese payslip? This guide breaks down Japan's 2026 income tax brackets, resident tax, and what foreigners actually end up paying.
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Yuriko Matsuoka
Yuriko Matsuoka Staff Writer
How to Print at 7-Eleven in Japan (From 10 Yen a Page)
Life in Japan August 14th, 2026

How to Print at 7-Eleven in Japan (From 10 Yen a Page)

Learning how to print at 7/11 in Japan is part of everyday life here.
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer
A Simple Residence Card Renewal Japan Guide For Foreigners

A Simple Residence Card Renewal Japan Guide For Foreigners

Get everything you need to know about the residence card renewal Japan process as a foreigner.
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer
7 Types of Japanese Medicine To Know When Living In Japan
Life in Japan August 13th, 2026

7 Types of Japanese Medicine To Know When Living In Japan

Confused on the type of Japanese medicine to buy? This guide is just for you.
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer
Residence Tax In Japan For Foreigners: An Easy 2026 Guide
Life in Japan August 13th, 2026

Residence Tax In Japan For Foreigners: An Easy 2026 Guide

As a foreigner living in Japan, you’re legally required to pay residence tax (住民税, jūminzei). We'll walk you through understanding the basics and the two most important things to be wary of with residence tax payment.  
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Ruby Doan
Ruby Doan Staff Writer
Japanese House Construction: Akiya Renovation Costs and Methods in Japan
Properties & Akiyas, Life in Japan August 13th, 2026

Japanese House Construction: Akiya Renovation Costs and Methods in Japan

Is it worth it for Japanese house construction on an Akiya home?
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer
Employees’ Health Insurance in Japan, Explained (2026)
Business in Japan, Life in Japan August 12th, 2026

Employees’ Health Insurance in Japan, Explained (2026)

Are you obligated to cover health insurance for your Japanese employees? Here’s what every business owner ought to know about employees’ health insurance in Japan. 
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Amy Yamashita
Amy Yamashita Community Specialist
Forgot to Pay Electricity Bill in Japan? What to Know & Do
Life in Japan August 12th, 2026

Forgot to Pay Electricity Bill in Japan? What to Know & Do

In Japan, paying utility bills can be a hassle. But it doesn’t have to be.
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John Cross
John Cross Expat at Mailmate
Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners (2026 Guide)
Life in Japan August 12th, 2026

Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners (2026 Guide)

Confused about Japan's health insurance system? Discover everything foreigners need to know to navigate Japan's healthcare with ease!
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
The Best SmartEX Shinkansen Guide To Buy Tickets Online
Out and About August 12th, 2026

The Best SmartEX Shinkansen Guide To Buy Tickets Online

A step-by-step guide on how to use Smart Ex Shinkansen site.
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Tom Imura
Tom Imura Contributing Writer
Driver's License Reciprocity in Japan: How to Convert Your Foreign License
Life in Japan August 7th, 2026

Driver's License Reciprocity in Japan: How to Convert Your Foreign License

Two types of international driving permits, countries with bilateral driver's license agreements with Japan, plus how to convert your foreign driver's license to a Japanese driver's license. 
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Nozei Shomeisho: Your Guide to Japan's Tax Certificate

Nozei Shomeisho: Your Guide to Japan's Tax Certificate

Nozei shomeisho (納税証明書) is a document that serves as proof of payment of taxes in Japan. Read on for a quick explanation of what it is and how to get one.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
How to Pay National Health Insurance in Japan
Life in Japan August 7th, 2026

How to Pay National Health Insurance in Japan

A complete guide to paying National Health Insurance (NHI) in Japan, including payment methods, deadlines, and tips for managing health-related mail.
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Aguri Osada
Aguri Osada ライター
Japan Property Tax And More: An Easy Guide For Foreigners

Japan Property Tax And More: An Easy Guide For Foreigners

Learn everything you need to know about Japan property tax and more.
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer
Renovation Cost in Japan: A Complete Guide for Homeowners
Properties & Akiyas August 7th, 2026

Renovation Cost in Japan: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

Discover the true costs of renovating a house in Japan, from Akiya properties to full home renovations.
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Aguri Osada
Aguri Osada ライター
Shipping from Japan to Philippines: Cost Table for Japan Post
Life in Japan, Japan Post August 6th, 2026

Shipping from Japan to Philippines: Cost Table for Japan Post

Bookmark this page for Japan Post’s pricing charts for any time you need to know shipping costs from Japan to Philippines in a hurry.
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MailMate Team
MailMate Team  Executive Updates
How To Earn Money Online In Japan: 7 Best Ways To Do So
Business in Japan August 6th, 2026

How To Earn Money Online In Japan: 7 Best Ways To Do So

Find out how to earn money online in Japan for that little extra cash.
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Tammy Dang
Tammy Dang Staff Writer

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