Help! I'm going to Japan for 6 months!

[Manekineko 200]

Well, I'm going to Sakai (near Osaka) for 6 months, starting this April, as a visiting researcher at local Graduate School of Engineering. This will be my first visit to Japan, so obviously I'm excited! And a little freaked. ;-) And being a control freak that I am, I'd like to prepare as much as possible...

So, I welcome any tips from previous visitors and current residents to Japan. What should I remember to pack? Is Mastercard widely enough accepted in Japan (bigger stores and ATM machines) or should I get another credit card (and which one) while I can? How many Forumers live in the neighbourhood? ;-)

Of course I'd like to see at least a couple of hon-basho days, but I'm not sure how much free time I will have (and of course I'll just miss the Osaka basho)... I intend a pilgrimage to Kokugikan, of course, but Nagoya is closer.

What do electric outlets look like? Someplace on the Net it's mentioned some US plugs are compatible, so could I use European/US adapter there? Will I be totally lost with my very rudimentary Japanese? How much are living costs (food and toiletries)?

Well, I'm sure I'll be able to think of other annoying questions later. Thanks!

[Doitsuyama 1,150]

- I didn't make use of MasterCard or Visa, my plain old EC/Maestro card with PIN code was good to withdraw money from ATM at the post office.

- Take shoes which are easy to get in and out, avoid shoelaces. Pack light as it is HOT even in September and October, and you'll need the spare room for all the nice things you'll bring back.

- Japanese plugs look similar to US but I'm not sure if a US adapter works. I bought a European/Japanese adapter right at the airport. And of course take only 110V capable gadgets with you, unless you want to buy and carry a weighty and expensive converter.

- Oh, and ask Mikko how to learn Japanese in four months. My Japanese wasn't good enough for more than simple questions, but at least I was able to read all the signs, station names etc, so kanji learning seems to be practical.

Edited December 3, 2007 by Doitsuyama

[aderechelsea 107]

i cannot really help you mush because i didn't stay that long but if i remember correct my Mastercard had problems at most stores. A normal ATM card will do just fine for withdrawing cash.

some Japanese are helpful. The English speaking natives are scarce ...

[sekihiryu 51]

Credit cards are perplexing in Japan, my NZ Visa card is mostly useless: I have tried it at a bunch of stores - big ones like Midori Electrical and Softmap Electrical, gas stations and it wasn't accepted - the computer system only accepts Japan issued cards for whatever reason, it did though work at Uniqlo clothing store.

I have a Japan issued credit card (luckily)so thats not a problem now for me. Get used to using cash again, its still the standard here, I hardly use my card except for net purchases, I deal with cash 95% of the time, cash cash cash.

The JP bank(formerly the Post office) accepts international cards at ATM'S so JPbank are everywhere, there are are also Int ATM machines scattered over the place.

Electrical sockets are two parallel vertical blades 100V - (no third earth prong) besides this is Japan! you dont need to bring anything electrical with you unless its a computer, everyday appliances likes hairdyers are dirt cheap, taking stuff to Japan, well it would be like taking sand to the Sahara.

Food in supermarkets is actually pretty cheap once you know where to shop, toiletries? I am guy and a non-metrosexual one so couldnt tell you much about that!

Edited December 3, 2007 by sekihiryu

[nirumaruyama 0]

Cash is all you will ever need. It might be worth you opening a bank account/post office account - but you will need your supervisor to help you out with that. If you are going to be living in an apartment rather than dorms you will need to have a bank/post office account so that you can pay your electrcity/water charge/gas/telephone bills out of.

Osaka should be good for buying clothes as there are enough gaijin in that neck of the woods but I found shirts impossible to get and I'm a slim 188 cm tall. So you may need to think about bringing a few business shirts with you. And a dark suit - don't leave for Japan without it!

Living in Japan is not that expensive, especially compared to some European countries, such as Ireland. I don't know if you are getting paid for your time in Japan but if you are don't waste energy converting it into dollars - you are getting paid in in yen and for the most part you will be spending it in Japan so there's no point comparing costs across countries. I found food quite cheap but in more built up places such as Osaka fresh veg and meat can be more expensive. You'll soon find the cheapest places. I think toiletries are about the same, I guess. Shower gel and toothpaste and the like are readily available. Who needs more than that!

You will rapdily pick up Japanese once you are over there. I had none before I went over and within 6 months I could hold basic enough conversations and hadn't much trouble shopping or booking trips. As long as you make the effort over there to learn you'll be fine. Don't get hung up on kanji - it's only one aspect of Japanese. All train stations and street signs are given in romaji. And supermarkets are laid out just as they are in the west so there is no danger of confusing a packet of washing up powder for sugar.

Shoes and socks - buy new socks as ones with holes can provide you with embarassing situations. Have some business shoes as well as standard shoes/runners. I you are going to be wearing shoes indoors where there are a lot of wooden floors try to get runners/shoes that don't leave a black mark on the wood (my bad!).

Osaka is going to be hot in the summer! Have a great time over there, so long as the anticipation doesn't kill you first.

[Jakusotsu 4,882]

Food in supermarkets is actually pretty cheap once you know where to shop

Seconded. The ready-made meals are delicious, cheap (about 250 Yen) and of great variety. I was positively surprised how much more cheap I could sustain myself in Tokyo than at home. (unless I actually had to pay my rent there (Sigh...) ) Eating out isn't very expensive either. For instance, we've been to the restaurant at Ryogoku station (the former "beer house") and had a good filling of chanko, sushi and some other goodies, and we payed about 1,400 Yen per person - including drinks! You won't get that in any other big city I know.

[kaiguma 0]

US plugs do not work, but maybe the adapter is slightly different - I wouldn't know. We ended up buying the US/Japan adapter at the airport which is not a smart place at all to buy such a thing... at least not in the US. Even at a duty-free shop it was twice the cost of what we had found online.

You can watch sumo on the Big-Man giganto-vision in Osaka JR Station Plaza near Kinokuniya Bookstore, so that's probably better than holing up in a hotel room or dorm, for at least one afternoon out in Osaka during each honbasho. Not sure if they still have seating and tables nearby anymore...

Ditto on laceless shoes, of which I had none.

Have fun! And take plenty of photos!

[Shomishuu 0]

Speaking as one who doesn't live there, but only visits once every several years - even though most signage in train stations has romaji, I would still definitely learn hiragana. Learning how to recognize as much basic kanji as possible will definitely be a plus (you don't have to worry about writing it - just recognize the characters in context when you see them). The reason is that you will often find yourself in out-of-the way places where romaji isn't used, and knowing hiragana and just a little kanji will save you a lot of time. It will also go a long way in 'de-mystifying' life in general. Have a great time - I am quite jealous of you right now. (Sigh...)

[Manekineko 200]

Thanks, some very useful advice there. I hope "dark suit a must" does not apply to women. (Holiday feeling...)

I started brushing up my Japanese, and I haven't forgotten as much as I feared. :-P I think I'll be OK with reading, it's listening and talking that'll be the challenge. Oh, well, that's why I wanted to go, after all.

I only planned to bring my laptop, mobile phone and a battered and much adored sony camera (mebbe I'll buy a new one there, but hey), and all their chargers are internationally 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, which was a relief (first thing I checked when I discovered Japan's electricity was 110 V).

Shoes! Good tips. I'll have to buy a pair of soft canvas easy-to-get-out-of sneakers for touristy walking...

[Doitsuyama 1,150]

mobile phone

Forget the mobile. European models don't work in Japan, at least I never heard a success story.

[Cassia 0]

I'm in Kyoto, which isn't far, and I'm sure you'll be coming here at least a few dozen times if you like temples! And I lived in Osaka for 2 years so I know it well and can help you out if you need to find/do anything in particular.

Just to echo what everyone else has said, if you need any other electricals, buy them here; they're cheap, and in the electrical district in Nipponbashi, you can find all the electrical stuff you've ever imagined... You can get adaptors there too, if you need one, especially in the Duty Free stores.

As for Visa, I don't usually use my UK card either, although it's never been refused - they just said they had to call up and confirm it. But I totally agree, cash is always the easiest way to go here.

Don't worry too much about your Japanese for general living purposes. Yes, it makes things a lot easier, but I'm ashamed to admit that my Japanese is rubbish, and I get along pretty fine, except when I have to abuse people's goodwill to get advance basho tickets! And you can get English train and subway maps with landmarks so it's very easy to get around.

It's going to be super-hot and humid in the summer. Super hot. Super humid. And if you're anything other than Japanese sized, don't plan on buying many clothes here, even in Osaka it's difficult, except for shoes - unless you have huge feet!

It's a big shame you'll miss Osaka basho, but depending on how early in April you arrive, you might be here for the jungyo at Ise Shrine.

One thing: the Japanese like giving little gifts. Bring little things from home, snacks, soap, something typical, just as a gesture for hosts, neighbors, whoever. And bring photos of home to share something of your life.

If you've got any Osaka-specific questions, I'll try and answer them!

I'm sure you'll have a great time.

[Otokonoyama 2,735]

I only planned to bring my laptop, mobile phone and a battered and much adored sony camera (mebbe I'll buy a new one there, but hey), and all their chargers are internationally 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, which was a relief (first thing I checked when I discovered Japan's electricity was 110 V).

Shoes! Good tips. I'll have to buy a pair of soft canvas easy-to-get-out-of sneakers for touristy walking...

With some Japanese electronic goods, I've found them cheaper in North America than in Japan. Something to do with local taxes, exchange rates, and the domestic industries here being protected from much competition (could be more/deeper reasons). For example, flat screen TVs and digital cameras are cheaper back in Canada (same Japanese brands/models). I'm not sure how the prices differ from those in Europe.

Try this site to find the lowest prices on domestic electronics in Japan:

http://kakaku.com/

[nirumaruyama 0]

honestly - a dark suit is still a must even for women!

[Sasanishiki 57]

Although you miss Haru Basho there should still be some sumo in the vicinity as Sakai is where the Nishi-NIhon amateur sumo is based. The park is walking distance from the Sakai station on the Nankai train line. I suspect that you won;t be living too near there as there wasn't a great deal of housing around that past of town.

[ilovesumo 12]

Citibank is useful, helped me a lot when I had to pay rent before payday and couldn't.

Students get no credit card here :-)

[Shibouyama 1]

[ilovesumo 12]

But they do not tell how not to ....... on your shoes/clothes...

best way is- try to find a western style one... :-D

[Manekineko 200]

Ah, we have had squat-style toilets here for ageees. Some can still be found on bus and train stations (much easier to clean, just hose them down) and some more remote tourist spots. I think I'll manage. :-D

[Manekineko 200]

Well, it's only fair to let you know that I am in Japan for some 10 days already, and settled in Sakai. Now I finally have some time to worry where and how to buy tickets for a Tokyo hon-basho (but that's a subject for another topic). Thank you all for your tips, they have been invaluable!

I love Japanese food! :-)

[That-Satsu-Guy 1]

Sorry to chime in late, but if you study for about a two hours a day, then go out and use what you studied, in three months you should be able to speak Japanese well enough to survive unassisted. In six months you will have a false sense of confidence in your Japanese and start giving advice to others just like I'm doing right now.

I studied in Hirakata city in northern Osaka for a year. It was one of the best times of my life. Osaka food is the best. Make sure you try 551 Horai "butaman" you'll never forget.

Edited April 15, 2008 by That-Satsu-Guy

[Jonosuke 28]

I love Japanese food! :-)

I am happy to hear that.

Because if you do, you can literally venture out to many places from street vendors, convenience stores, Japanese fast food joints like Sukiya, Matsuya and Yoshinoya to those food floors in department stores. Of course if one is in Osaka, Tako-yaki is a must but I am sure you already had it.

As Asashoryu mentioned often, Osaka is well known for a great variety of incredible inexpensive food. They don't call it "Kui-Daore" (dropping dead from over eating) for nothing.

However if you have tons of money, you should head to Kyoto for some refine cuisine at one of those secluded restaurants, not only for presentation, unique service but for the food that reflects the season and ingredients. A truly amazing experience.

Enjoy!

Edited April 15, 2008 by Jonosuke

[Manekineko 200]

Sorry to chime in late, but if you study for about a two hours a day, then go out and use what you studied, in three months you should be able to speak Japanese well enough to survive unassisted.

Well, I intended to do something like that, but I find the time is just galloping away from me. I spend most of my day at Uni (where I communicate in English, lazy bum I). I know I should practice my Japanese on my colleagues there, but they prefer practicing their English on me. (Laughing...)

try 551 Horai "butaman" you'll never forget.

Great gyoza too. I miss Osaka food

Noted, thank you.

Because if you do, you can literally venture out to many places from street vendors, convenience stores, Japanese fast food joints like Sukiya, Matsuya and Yoshinoya to those food floors in department stores. Of course if one is in Osaka, Tako-yaki is a must but I am sure you already had it.

Yes, and okonomiyaki (first time I really overate in Japan!). Just love that taste... I already tried most of the stuff one can find in stores, and very kind colleagues have been taking me to lunch to all sorts of good and inexpensive places 'round the Uni.

However if you have tons of money, you should head to Kyoto for some refine cuisine at one of those secluded restaurants, not only for presentation, unique service but for the food that reflects the season and ingredients. A truly amazing experience.

I can believe it, I heard about it already. Alas, I don't have money to burn... ;-)

I suppose I will keep asking for Japan-related advice and tips on this topic...

I'll have 4 days weekend on May 3-6 (end of Golden Week), and I intend to avoid crowds by going to Tokyo while everyone escapes from it (and 3-4 days should be just about enough to get an impression of the capital without dropping dead from exhaustion). Of course, I'd like to meet any SF members who will be in town then... and make a pilgrimage to Kokugikan. ;-)

As for Natsu basho, I can only get away on weekends: first Saturday and Nakabi Sunday sounds the best. Is there any chance I can find a ticket at this late date?

ps. Oh, and if any of you are interested in my photos, there is a blog (in Croatian) with selected photos, and the whole bunch can be seen at Photobucket

Edited April 21, 2008 by Manekineko
ps

[Cassia 0]

'As for Natsu basho, I can only get away on weekends: first Saturday and Nakabi Sunday sounds the best. Is there any chance I can find a ticket at this late date?'

http://www.sumo.or.jp/eng/ticket/hanbai_jokyo/index.html

This was the situation as of today (allegedly), although it depends which sales outlet you speak to. If you, or someone else, call the Kokugikan ticket office direct, instead of going to a local convenience store, you should get tickets easily and they'll deliver them to you.

I would advise, although I'm sure others will disagree, getting the cheapest upstairs Arena seat C but then actually staying downstairs and standing at the back during juryo and makuuchi. Then you can catch the rikishi coming in and out while still watching the action.

[Itachi 330]

Sorry to chime in late, but if you study for about a two hours a day, then go out and use what you studied, in three months you should be able to speak Japanese well enough to survive unassisted.

Well, I intended to do something like that, but I find the time is just galloping away from me. I spend most of my day at Uni (where I communicate in English, lazy bum I). I know I should practice my Japanese on my colleagues there, but they prefer practicing their English on me. :-(.

Yes, your Japanese friends and colleagues will probably want you to use English for their benefit but you can still practice on those who can't speak English at all or have no interest in it. Go shopping in out of the way places where few gaijin are found (there must be somewhere). Take a taxi and strike up a conversation with the driver. Get your hair cut at some old guy's neighbourhood shop - you will have free conversation for as long as it takes! After a couple of hours struggling to communicate, you'll really appreciate those colleagues who let you speak English for a while.

These strategies probably work better in small town Japan than in the big cities. That kind of goes along with the theme of avoiding crowds that you mentioned earlier.

Do you play Go or Shogi? I found myself in a Go parlour in some back alley neighbourhood in Osaka one time and they were very friendly and talkative. I think the guy I played knew about 5 phrases of English and he was the official translator for the club.

Edited May 2, 2008 by Itachi

[Manekineko 200]

http://www.sumo.or.jp/eng/ticket/hanbai_jokyo/index.html

This was the situation as of today (allegedly), although it depends which sales outlet you speak to. If you, or someone else, call the Kokugikan ticket office direct, instead of going to a local convenience store, you should get tickets easily and they'll deliver them to you.

D'oh! I should have checked NSK page myself. Thank you so much, I now have my tickets. (Clapping wildly...) I also saw tickets can be bought through a vending machine at Lawson - not a bad solution for someone like me, who can stagger through written Japanese but is helpless when faced with spoken.

Yes, your Japanese friends and colleagues will probably want you to use English for their benefit but you can still practice on those who can't speak English at all or have no interest in it. Go shopping in out of the way places where few gaijin are found (there must be somewhere). Take a taxi and strike up a conversation with the driver. Get your hair cut at some old guy's neighbourhood shop - you will have free conversation for as long as it takes! After a couple of hours struggling to communicate, you'll really appreciate those colleagues who let you speak English for a while.

Tell me about it. I can manage uttering a couple of key words from time to time, and can understand key words repeated slowly to me. "Kono" and "kore" accompanied by pointing are my favorite props. Thank goodness for TV news and soaps, they help my hearing recognition a lot. At least I managed to buy some stamps in solid Japanese. :-D

Do you play Go or Shogi?

Alas, no. Good tips, nonetheless...