• Japan Student Visa : The Complete Checklist of Documents in 2025

    Introduction The dream of studying in Japan is an exciting adventure, but one administrative step can feel intimidating: preparing the Japan student visa application. Before diving into the list of documents, it’s crucial to understand several key points about how schools are recognized. First, the Japanese Immigration Services Agency rates language schools based on a strict trust scale. The top-rated institutions, often called “excellent schools,” benefit from a simplified submission process. However, this is an advantage for the school, not for you. To maintain their status, these schools are extremely thorough and will require you to provide a flawless application. Second, in a recent development, Japan’s Ministry of Education (MEXT)…

  • Getting Connected: The Best 5 Phone Plans in Japan for New Students

    Arriving in Japan is an exhilarating experience! Once you’ve navigated immigration and settled into your accommodation, one of the first practical steps is figuring out the best phone plans in Japan for students. Staying connected is essential for everything from using maps and translation apps to keeping in touch with family and friends back home. More importantly, having a Japanese phone number is often a mandatory requirement for many other administrative procedures, such as opening a bank account. Choosing the right phone plan can seem daunting with so many options available. This guide will walk you through the best choices for new students, considering ease of application, cost, and data…

  • Your First 14 Days in Japan: The Essential Arrival Checklist

    Congratulations and welcome to Japan! The excitement of starting this new adventure is immense. But after you land, the big question is what to do after arriving in Japan? To get started on the right foot, there are a few crucial administrative steps to complete within 14 days of settling into your permanent residence. It might seem daunting, but don’t worry. This Japan arrival checklist will guide you step-by-step through each stage for a simple and stress-free setup. Step 1: Registering Your Residence Card (The Top Priority) This is the most important step in setting up life in Japan, as it officially establishes you as a resident and unlocks all…

  • How to Open a Bank Account in Japan for Students (2025 Guide)

    Welcome to Japan! As you settle in for your studies, one of the first essential tasks you’ll face is setting up your finances. This guide will show you exactly how to open a bank account in Japan for students. The process can seem daunting, especially with the language barrier and local rules, but we’ve simplified everything into easy, actionable steps. Follow this guide, and you’ll have your new Japanese bank account in no time. The First Thing to Know: Japan’s 6-Month Resident Rule Before you even walk into a bank, you must understand a critical rule in the Japanese banking system. For banking purposes, foreigners are categorized in two ways:…

  • Where to study in Japan? Which Region of Japan is Right for You?

    So, you’ve made the exciting decision to study in Japan! Now comes the next big question: where to study in Japan? While Tokyo often grabs the spotlight, Japan’s incredible diversity means each major region offers a unique experience, culture, and lifestyle. Choosing the right city is just as important as choosing the right school. It will define your daily life, the people you meet, and the memories you make. This guide compares the best student cities in Japan to help you make the right choice. Once you have an idea of your preferred city, you can explore our [comprehensive guide on the documents required for a student visa]. Hokkaidō (北海道):…