Living Guide for New Teachers
Hello, and welcome to Japan!
Arriving in a new country can be both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. Your excitement for and expectations of your new surroundings can be coupled with feelings of shock as you enter a culture entirely foreign to your own.
Accepting and understanding these differences will make for a much smoother transition into life in Japan and provide a much richer experience during your stay.
The following is a small collection of helpful hints and tips aimed at making your experience in Japan a truly rewarding and worry-free adventure.
Good luck, or in Japanese Gambatte!
When You are in Tokyo
The customs, attitudes and ideas of the local people.
Bank
A list of when the bank is open/closed, and when you can and can't access your account, options for sending money back home/transferring to other accounts.
Immigration
How to get to Shinagawa, where to renew in Tachikawa, and information on Tama City Hall.
Apartment
which appliances you will have/need and what happens if you lose the key.
free at TIC in OPA building (a list of dates and times)
Medical Care
location of English doctors, closest hospital location, etc.
Transportation
A list of train fares, maps, and times (first and last train, etc.)
Emergency Phone Numbers
police, fire, ambulance, etc.
Internet Cafes
location and hours of closest internet cafes
City Maps
where to get copies of maps of numerous areas in Tokyo.
Telephone
The Japanese staff cooperates for the purchase of a mobile phone.
Stores and Restaurants
A list of numerous useful restaurants, supermarkets, and stores, along with their locations and hours
English Event Guides
A list of English Event Guides, where to get them, etc.
Travel Information
location of tourist office, booking flights/hotels, good/bad times to travel
Japanese Customs
a brief list of important "dos" and "don'ts" while living in Japan
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