August 2026– date –
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How Direct Debit Works in Japan: Setting Up Kōza Furikae Without Missing a Bill
A practical guide for foreign residents setting up kōza furikae in Japan. Learn how direct debit differs from bank transfer, what you need to apply, and what to do when a withdrawal fails. -
Japan Payroll Insurance in 2026: A Practical Guide to Employee and Employer Contributions
A practical guide for foreign employees, their families, and employers who need to understand Japan’s 2026 health insurance, pension, employment insurance, long-term care, and childcare-related payroll contributions. -
Paying a Japanese Bill at a Convenience Store: A First-Timer’s Guide to Payment Slips
A practical guide for new residents in Japan who need to pay utility bills, taxes, insurance charges, or other invoices at a convenience store. Learn how to read a payment slip, choose a payment method, keep proof, and handle expired or damaged barcodes. -
Annual Paid Leave in Japan: Eligibility, Timing, and How to Request It
A practical guide for foreign employees in Japan covering paid-leave eligibility, available days, request procedures, employer restrictions, expiration, and part-time work rules. -
Utility Meter Readings in Japan: How to Check Estimates and Your Final Bill
A practical guide for foreign residents who need to understand electricity, gas, and water meter readings in Japan, including estimated charges, billing corrections, and move-out checks. -
Checking Overtime Pay in Japan: Rates, Calculations, and Records
A practical guide for foreign workers who need to calculate overtime pay in Japan, read their payslips, and document working hours. It explains premium rates, fixed overtime, late-night work, exceptions, and where to seek official help. -
Blocked Drain in a Japanese Rental? A Safe Step-by-Step Guide
A practical guide for renters in Japan dealing with a blocked sink, shower, or washing-machine drain. Learn what you can safely check, when to call management, who may pay, and how to avoid costly repair trouble. -
Before You Accept a Job in Japan: A Practical Contract Checklist
A plain-English guide for foreign residents reviewing a Japanese employment contract. Learn how to check salary, fixed overtime, working hours, transfers, renewal terms, benefits, and immigration restrictions before accepting a job. -
Drinking Tap Water in Japan: A Safety Check Before You Buy a Filter
Japan’s public tap water is normally safe to drink, but building tanks, private wells, plumbing, and local notices can change the answer. This guide helps new residents decide when to drink it, use a filter, or contact the water supplier. -
Furusato Nozei Explained: How Foreign Residents Can Claim the Tax Deduction
A practical guide for foreign residents who want to use Japan’s furusato nozei system. Learn who can benefit, how to estimate your limit, which claim method to choose, and which 2026 rules and deadlines to check.
