Japan Life

Japan living and working tips and useful information.

A Ranking of 'Japanese Common Knowledge' That Foreigners Find Surprising and Cannot Find Overseas

Japan Life /
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Sometimes, things that are considered normal in Japan can be inappropriate overseas. For example, in Japan, it is considered good etiquette to hold the bowl while eating, but in some foreign countries, this may be seen as impolite behavior. Therefore, we conducted a survey among foreigners living in Japan to explore the "Japanese customs that surprised them when they came to Japan." These foreigners talked about many Japanese customs they found surprising and cultural practices that they couldn't accept in their own countries, as well as other taboos they encountered abroad. We will present the most commonly cited instances of cultural shock in the form of rankings.

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Three Times The National Average in Japan, Why Has Kyoto's "Kyotango City" Become A City of Longevity?

Japan Life /
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The average life expectancy of the Japanese is one of the highest in the world and continues to increase year by year. In Japan, there are many places known for their longevity, and Kyoto Prefecture is one of them, celebrated as the "City of Longevity" worldwide. This time, let's take a look at the secrets of Kyotango City, a vibrant and long-lived city located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture.

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【2023】Japan Minimum Hourly Wages By Prefectures

Japan Life /
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Starting from October 2023, all 47 prefectures in the country have raised their minimum wage standards, increasing the minimum hourly wage from 39 yen to 47 yen. The national average hourly wage is 1,004 yen, which is an increase of 43 yen compared to 2022, marking the first time it has surpassed the 1,000 yen mark. This 43 yen increase is the largest increase since the system was initiated in 1978. All municipalities have responded to the national requirements, with 24 municipalities exceeding their targets. The two prefectures with the highest increase are Shimane and Saga, which have increased by 47 yen, followed by Yamagata and Tottori, which have increased by 46 yen.

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2023 "Happiness Index" Rankings of Japanese Prefectures Released, Okinawa Prefecture Maintaining Its Top Position!

Japan Life /
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The Brand Comprehensive Research Institute recently conducted the "2023 Fifth Regional Sustainable Development Goals Survey." This survey quantified the happiness levels of residents in various prefectures, their willingness to settle, their concerns, and regional issues. Below, Japan presents the "Happiness Index rankings of Japanese prefectures" derived from the questionnaire, revealing which prefectures' residents experience the highest levels of happiness.

2023 "Happiness Index" Rankings of Japanese Prefectures Released, Okinawa Prefecture Maintaining Its Top Position! Read More »

Tokyo 5 Opulent Communal Bathhouses Where for A Mere 470 Japanese Yen

Travel, Japan Life, Tokyo /
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When most individuals envision public bathhouses, thoughts of antiquated and outdated facilities often come to mind. In recent years, the emergence of avant-garde communal baths has sought to redefine this perception. Their stylish ambiance could easily be mistaken for an upscale spa or a retreat. Rest assured, these establishments promise a 360-degree transformation of the conventional image associated with public baths.

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A Narrative From A U.S. Resident: Choosing Okinawa Over Hawaii for Remote Work

Japan Life, Okinawa /
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In the first half of December 2022, I spent most of my time in Okinawa Prefecture. We stayed on Ishigaki Island for 10 nights before moving to the main island of Okinawa, where we stayed in Naha City for 5 nights.

During check-in at the hotel in Ishigaki Island, the staff at the front desk asked me, "Are you here for work?" I've heard that more and more people are inclined towards long-distance travel, but even so, 10 days might not seem like a typical vacation.

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Commonly Used Job Search Websites in Japan

Japan Life /
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When there is a need for employment among the approximately 750,000 legal Chinese residents in Japan, the country's recruitment websites can assist in finding satisfying employment. Japan Guide has compiled commonly used recruitment websites, including comprehensive Japanese job search sites, and specialized job search sites in specific fields. These job search platforms each have their

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