Welcome your neighbors.

SETTLING IN JAPAN first thing you might think of doing after relocating to Japan is saying hello to your neighbors. Nowadays, most Japanese singles don’t bother doing this since they might not view their flats as part of a wider community. It is more typical in rural areas. However, it would be sensible and courteous to show some respect for the ancient tradition, especially considering your status as a foreigner. It will leave a fantastic impression on your neighbors and may even surprise them!

You might explain that you are moving into the next-door flat within a week of your relocation and present a small gift (towels are a common choice for Japanese folks). A smile, a short bow, and an outstretched hand (with present) may be sufficient after saying Konnichiwa or knocking, “Hello, my name is ________.” Your neighbor will probably already be aware of what is going on. The following information about yourself is something you may include: I moved in next door, tonarinihikkoshite Kinoshita. Yoroshikuonegaishimasu () means “Pleased to meet you.” Depending on where you’re from, making a point to say hello to someone you might merely pass by could seem like an odd ritual, but for many people, it nevertheless contributes to a feeling of community. You can break the ice with someone with only a few words, which may be helpful later. You can also visit 99 Math for more information.

Sort your trash

Dealing with the meticulous waste division will likely be one of the more unexpected aspects of relocating to Japan. Combustible (moerugomi) and non-combustible (moenaigomi) waste are often separated in Japan. From here, everything is determined by your city or ward; some apartment complexes even have different garbage segregation policies. Examples of combustible waste include papers, newspapers, magazines, and biodegradable rubbish (namagomi). Examples of non-combustible waste are pet bottles, cans, and breakable materials like glass. Although you may purchase specialized, separate garbage cans for your home, some flats already have them.

Certain wards or cities demand specific waste bags, which may be obtained from nearby supermarkets or convenience stores. More significant regions, such as the heart of Tokyo, need a standard plastic bag (white or transparent), which you often get when buying groceries at the neighborhood supermarket.

Furniture, electrical appliances, and other items are disposed of as “big trash,” or soda gomi. To dispose of them, you must purchase stickers, adhere them to the thing. And verify the cost on the website of the ward municipal office or with a Japanese friend or colleague. While some locations have set days for picking up soda gomi, most places ask you to plan a day. So what happens if you need to separate your garbage correctly? Even though it is quite probable that the trash haulers would disregard it and still pick it up, some trash bags could ultimately return to your apartment door. Even though garbage is sometimes challenging to explain, it is a reality in everyday life in Japan. Plaza Homes provides a more thorough waste guide to help you physically sift things out if you’re relocating to Japan, specifically Tokyo.

Care Your Pet

Although having a pet is prevalent in Japan, it is not cheap. A pet can cost anything from a few thousand yen to well over a million yen to buy. All registered pets must be immunized, which is expensive and varies by city and ward.

It has significant significance. Without the landlord’s consent, keeping a pet in your flat might result in more than just a few sideways glances from your neighbors; it can also result in eviction and the need to pay a sizable fine, which is frequently equal to a month’s rent. See this list of places to stay in the Tokyo region that allow pets.

The second consideration is what sort of pet you want once you’ve determined whether you can own one. This entails giving them sufficient nutrition and exercise and picking up after them while they are out in public. Remember to carry a plastic bag when you take them for a stroll! You might also wonder what to do if you move to Japan with dogs in tow. See our post about bringing pets to Japan for more information on that.

Avoid shouting excessively

Despite the significant quantity of noise pollution in daily life in Japan, the Japanese place the highest value on stillness. It may be found anywhere, even in lifts, workplaces, and trains. SETTLING IN JAPAN culture strongly emphasizes silence, which is often used as a means of communication.

Because Japanese apartment walls are often thin and people frequently live near one another, making loud noises after midnight is frowned upon.

It is common for neighbors to complain to the police or the landlord, who will then speak with you immediately. There are instances where individuals are kicked out of their flats due to the commotion they produce; however, often, the worst that may happen is a scolding. The straightforward maxim “Silence is golden,” while not a Japanese adage, is a great thing to remember as a visitor, especially when migrating to Japan.

Sign Up for Your Neighbourhood Group

SETTLING IN JAPAN, there are several neighborhood associations called Chounaikai or Michigan. In the case of a disaster, they are frequently in charge of planning neighborhood cleanup initiatives or providing volunteer labor. Even while you might not see belonging to your neighborhood association as being necessary to your day-to-day existence in Japan. It is definitely a benefit because it will teach you more about Japanese culture and the people.

How do they behave? Your geographic location is very important. It could entail patrolling the neighborhood and taking part in community events. Cleaning up the neighborhood once a month (or perhaps once a week), or even going to the hot springs. After relocating to Japan, it’s one method to network.

Even though it could be strange at first to be a foreigner in a chounankai almost entirely Japanese, you will become used to the routine. SETTLING IN JAPAN is advantageous because most members are older folks who speak little to no English. But you can still start a language exchange! Your arrival will be greeted with open arms if you demonstrate your desire to fit in and present a welcoming face.

Engage in Community Service

You should register your children in an international school when you relocate to Japan. There will be discussions between parents and teachers as well as school-related activities like celebrations and athletic events. You sign up for these as a local resident and parent of your kid. It’s a great strategy for meeting your neighbors and tightening your links to the community.

Whatever your family’s situation, there are several ways to participate. A few of the institutions that work to enhance your everyday life in Japan and provide you with new opportunities include voluntary organizations, athletic organizations, culinary classes, religious entities, and everything else in between. Even while it may seem unusual at first, especially in a big metropolis like Tokyo, SETTLING IN JAPAN there is likely a club or community activity that suits your interests or preferences. Plaza Homes have even put out a handy list of links to simplify locating them.