Just in Case - DeepJapan

Advice about Just in Case

Black or Dark Suits/Dresses

If you are in Japan during a funeral, a dark suit should be worn for men, along with a black tie. Very inexpensive black ties can be found for men in most men's clothing stores and department stores. For women, black or dark dresses.(44 words)

Sweet42.195

Keep your attire dark

Some women may wear a dark colored kimono but recently I've noticed that most women wear a black formal dress. Men wear a dark suit with a white shirt and a black tie.(33 words)

Kenji

Seven Eleven (24 Hours) or Post Office (8am-8pm)

Seven Eleven better if you need money in a pinch anytime of the day, otherwise the Post Office.(18 words)

Steve

For English books, Bookoff in Jiyugaoka and Naka Meguro

Since the closure of Bookoff Cafe in Shiroganedai, the Bookoffs in Jiyugaoka and Naka Meguro are probably best equipped with English books. So it seems that these shops picked up most of the used books from Shiroganedai.It should be said that Jiyugaoka recently (February 2014), is offering …(62 words)

Steve

Name Drop

Usually when I meet Japanese people, even though I speak Japanese, they may be hesitant to properly introduce themselves to me, particularly if it is a group with multiple people and one distinct leader, or connection between my group and theirs. One thing I try and make a point of is coming across…(200 words)

KurtisW

Check the vicinity

It is not as though earthquakes are constantly happening in Japan, it is just that they are more frequent statistically. Being slightly more aware and prepared is thus advisable, but the precautions don't need to be excessive. One thing however to keep in mind is where you will go in the event of a…(142 words)

KurtisW

Need Medical Help in Japan

This website is a Tokyo city website dedicated entirely for foreign patients seeking medical help in Tokyo. Perfect for you! It is in English and you can search for any hospital in Tokyo. There is also a phone number you can call incase you cannot find a hospital and another number you can call to …(79 words)

GenS

Try to use exact change, or the nearest tenth above

There may be some other ideas about how to physically use the change after the 1, 5, and 10 yen coins have piled up on you, but I always advise to use the change as efficiently as possible before it gets to that point. One tip I have for how to use your change properly is to always try and match th…(97 words)

KurtisW

Tissue Paper Advertising in Japan

I am sure that you have seen the people around the train stations and other locations throughout many cities passing out small packs of tissue papers to nearby travelers.When offered, I usually take one from them for I feel bad since most people ignore them and will not take one. Especially dur…(258 words)

AustinA

What to Do When An Earthquake Hits Japan

I often tell my friends that Japan might be one of the best places to be in an earthquake. Why? Nooo, you say! “I don't want it to happen when I am in town!” “Cant it wait till I leave?”. Hmmm, Mother Nature is usually pretty unpredictable and actually can be quite surprising in her timing and conc…(761 words)

Key is to greet in Japanese and with a sincere humble intent

Japanese greet often amongst themselves though it is not like in US or other countries where even if you dont know anybody people say "Hey hello - whats up" or something. But typically there are daily greetings like Good Morning (Ohayo Gozaimasu) or Good Night (Oyasumi Nasai) etc. - which perhaps…(281 words)

suku

Seven Eleven and Post Office

Seven Eleven will be the best place. You can find Seven Eleven stores almost every town, especially in Tokyo and the east part of Japan.But, it's sometimes hard to find Seven Elevens in certain western areas like Shikoku island. In that case, find a post office. You can withdraw money with your f…(75 words)

Try McDonald's and Starubucks

I've seen some McDonald's equipped with free AC outlets. The one in Yoyogi has a counter with ac outlets per seat. Also some Starbucks have free ACs. Newer Shinkansen (bullet train) also has AC outlets per seat so you can use your laptop all throughout your journey to Kyoto!(49 words)

taro

Men In Black

When going to a funeral in Japan.Wear a black suit and a black tie.Also bring along a Jyuzu it is believed that the round stones keep away spirits that you don't wish to take home.(37 words)

Yuuki I

Forgot to pack underwear! Go to Uniqlo!

Any season, the place to go is Uniqlo - they have sizes for just about everyone now (didn't use to), and their stuff is basic, well made, reasonably priced, and simple enough to go with most peoples' styles. I have taken people there several times when they've arrived in Japan without a key piece …(90 words)

William Nealy

Sorry, but...no..

In Japan, the most common gesture you will likely see is the small “X” that people will make with their index fingers, somewhat like a cross. This is for all intents and purposes a relatively polite way of saying no; or more specifically, no, we’re closed, or no, you cannot enter here. It may feel …(175 words)

KurtisW

Tokyo Union Church is great for English Language Services in Japan

If you are planning to shop at Omotesando Hills or go to the Oriental Bazaar, Tokyo Union Church is situated just along the main Omotesando road on the left when you have Harajuku ahead of you. This is the church where many expats go and it would be a familiar protestant service for visitors from t…(106 words)

Post Offices Take Most Cards

Tokyo post offices accept most foreign ATM cards and can be found in all Japanese cities. They usually have a couple machines and they are often available after the main post office closes. Look for the red T-shaped sign or ask a Japanese person for the yuubinkyoku.(47 words)

KurtisW

Safety in Japan

I have heard from some of my foreigner friends that in some countries, people would rather avoid getting involve with the police than seek justice for a small problem. In Japan, you don't have to worry about the police taking advantage of you. Although they can be a hassle at times do the the amoun…(281 words)

GenS

A Nearby Combini in Japan

If you are in desperate need of a map or guidebook, look for a nearby convenience store (they are everywhere). You will definitely find one. However, selection is limited and finding an English guidebook or map would be rare. If you want an English guidebook or map, you will have a better chanc…(121 words)

GenS

Look for the "Uketsuke", Hospital Care in Japan

Although my experience at hospitals in other countries is limited, I don't think the process at a Japanese hospital is particularly unique. All you have to do when you get to a hospital is to find the "uketsuke" (front desk), which is usually located right by the entrance, and talk to a nurse about…(212 words)

GenS

Hospitals in Japan

You will be lucky to find a hospital with good English support in Tokyo. Good hospitals are everywhere in Tokyo but only the larger ones will have English support. However, there is no problem if you access this page:http://www.himawari.metro.tokyo.jp/qq/qq13enmnlt.aspThis site is made to p…(126 words)

GenS

Signs to be Improved

Most signs in Tokyo, at least, all of the major ones crucial for navigating, have English transcriptions. However, sometimes it may be a bit confusing seeing just the transcriptions of the words, and not the actual meaning.For example: "yamate-'doori'", doori means street, but as of now only th…(140 words)

KurtisW

Be polite in the train - a follow-up of other posts

I would also add in the don't list:- do not sleep and fall on your neighbor; their shoulders are not pillows- do not put the music to high on your headphonesand some do, please, ...- do step into the train and really go inside - do not stop at the very in trance of the car- do give your…(218 words)

Claire

Yuzuyu (bathing with Yuzu) in winter.

There are a lot of customs in Japan and many of them are associated with healthy life. One of the examples is the yuzu bath in winter, known commonly as yuzuyu. It is said to improve blood circulation, guard against colds, warm the body, and cure neuralgia and pain in the lower back. I hope you wil…(96 words)

Hideki Tazawa

In Praise of Shadows

Japan has raised lavatory facilities to a palatable topic. Hygiene is very important here, and of course, toilets should reflect your concern. Even if you are in the wildest place of Japan, in a rush, don't worry, you will always find a clean, hygienic, welcoming toilet. If you are in crowded area…(431 words)

Claire

Japan: entirely another planet for advertisement

If you are in Japan, you have seen it. It is everywhere. It is either fixed or mobile. Sometimes fixed in mobile environment like the handles in trains. I am talking about advertisement. For this, Japan is another planet. Well you do find the straightforward ones like beer or laundry powder…(274 words)

Claire

Good Smoking Rule in Japan

Many years ago, my Dad as well as some of my other family members from the US were stationed in various parts of Japan from just after WWII. When I was with them, one of the questions they often ask me is about cigarette smokers and proper manner for smoking in Japan.During their assignments in…(272 words)

AustinA

Used: "Good Day Books" in Gotanda/ New: "MARUZEN" in Otemachi

If you would like to buy a used English book, I recommend "Good Day Books" in Gotanda which is 15 minutes from Tokyo station on the Yamanote line. This book shop has various kinds of books. Check the map:http://www.gooddaybooks.com/contents/home/new_location?language=englishIf you would like …(92 words)

makiko715

Yurindo has a great selection of English books

I go to Yurindo to purchase or pick up an English book. Although you cannot compare the selection to a Barnes and Noble, it has a range of classics to recent books from fiction to nonfiction. I often go to the “osusume” or the recommendation section to find books that I may want to read. If you are…(76 words)

RieS

Go to a "dagashiya" to buy some souvenirs!

Other than donating the change to a local or national charity, I recommend going to a dagashiya and buying candies and other sweets for your friends and family back home. Japanese sweets are incomparable to those of other countries due to its creativity and variety. Perhaps you should avoid stickin…(101 words)

RieS

Church services in English

St. Paul International Lutheran Church near Iidabashi station in Tokyo has English services and Sunday School for children too. Friendly people and services just like back home, you will find many nationalities and Japanese who attend regularly. Communion is held every Sunday. You can find infor…(52 words)

Kevin

Where are ATMs that accept my foreign issued bank card in Tokyo?

Japanese post offices in most major Japanese cities accept foreign-issued bank cards and credit cards.(15 words)

mark

Convenient words, "Otsukaresama desu"

"Otsukaresama desu" is one of the most convenient greetings you can use at the office. This words can be used almost anytime in the office and any of your colleagues including your boss. When you come across someone in day time or when you are going home in the evening.(50 words)

juninada

harsh or soft?

In an informal occasion, for example if asked to enter a restaurant or bar by an employee or if a waiter is asking whether you would want another drink or dessert, the most simple and straightforward way would be to say, "kekkoudesu" (meaning "no, it's okay") would be okay. This does not sound as h…(103 words)

RieS

Career Counselling

I support and help Japanese & non-Japanese with career coaching support. Feel free to contact me at bconkle@gettbac.com to schedule an appointment and let me help you develop your career in Japan.(33 words)

Career Coach Brent

You forgot to pack underwear?!

Uniqlo stores are everywhere, but in a real pinch, try the convenience stores. Many of the Family Mart's carry selected items from the Mujirushi (MUJI) line. I've picked up underwear, pajamas, and toothbrushes at convenience stores on many different occassions - the "konbini" saved me!(45 words)

Emmie

Maruzen in Marunouchi

Maruzen is one of the big bookstore chain with Kinokuniya.The one in Marunouchi is in Oazo building, 20 meters away from Tokyo station Marunouchi North exit. They have everything you would want: all kind of literature, and also a huge collection of art and science, including economics and b…(103 words)

Claire

Turkey Day Tokyo Style!

Many restaurants do Thanksgiving specials now- a big change from just 10 years ago! I must admit that I am biased. I own a small restaurant called "Kimono wine and grill" which is a euro american bistro. We do an Awesome Thanksgiving! truly one of the best and most affordable here in Tokyo. We do o…(128 words)

LShannon

Japan Festivals for December and January.

There would be opportunities to join a community Mochi-zuki making event at the annual year-end/year-beginning season (in Japanese it is called Nen-matsu, Nen-sho). Please ask the hotel concierge or someone who speaks English where your City office is. Then, you can go over to the City office and i…(130 words)