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What's happening at Shin Housing
Resident stories, area guides, and news from our properties across Japan.
Area guidesLiving in Adachi-ku, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Adachi-ku is one of Tokyo's most affordable and underrated wards. Located in the northeast, it offers spacious apartments, good transport links to central Tokyo, and a growing international community — all at rents well below the city average.
Shin Housing team · 5/17/2026
Area guidesLiving in Shinagawa, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Shinagawa is one of Tokyo's most convenient addresses — a business hub with direct Shinkansen access, excellent domestic and international transport links, and a growing residential community. This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Shinagawa.
Shin Housing team · 5/17/2026
Area guidesGrocery Shopping in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Navigating supermarkets and food shopping in Japan can feel overwhelming at first — different products, unfamiliar labels, and an entirely new system. This guide covers everything foreign residents need to know about grocery shopping in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/17/2026
Area guidesHow to Convert a Foreign Driving Licence in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you hold a foreign driving licence and want to drive in Japan, you'll need to convert it to a Japanese licence at a driving licence centre. This guide explains the process, required documents, and what to expect on the day.
Shin Housing team · 5/17/2026
Area guidesJapan's Train System Explained: Suica, Pasmo, and Commuter Passes for Foreign Residents
Japan's train system is one of the world's best — and a daily part of life for Tokyo residents. This guide explains IC cards (Suica and Pasmo), commuter passes, and how to navigate Tokyo's railways with confidence.
Shin Housing team · 5/16/2026
Area guidesHealthcare in Japan for Foreign Residents: National Health Insurance, Finding a Doctor, and Hospital Tips
Japan's healthcare system is among the best in the world. This guide covers National Health Insurance enrollment, how to find a doctor as a foreigner, hospital etiquette, and practical tips for navigating medical care in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/16/2026
Area guidesJapanese Apartment Etiquette: Noise Rules, Garbage Sorting, and Getting Along with Neighbors
Living in a Japanese apartment comes with unwritten rules that are important to follow. This guide covers noise etiquette, garbage sorting schedules, neighbor relations, and practical tips to be a considerate resident in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/16/2026
Area guidesUnderstanding Japanese Work Culture: What Foreign Residents Need to Know
Navigating the Japanese workplace can be challenging for foreigners. This guide covers essential aspects of Japanese work culture — from business etiquette and hierarchy to overtime norms and communication styles — to help you thrive in your career in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesSetting Up Utilities in Japan: Electricity, Gas, Water, and Internet for Foreign Residents
One of the first tasks when moving into a new apartment in Japan is setting up utilities. This guide explains how to register for electricity, gas, water, and internet — what documents you need and what to expect as a foreign resident.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesJapanese Convenience Stores (Konbini): The Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Japan's convenience stores — known as konbini — are unlike anything in the world. Open 24/7, they offer food, ATMs, bill payment, printing, and much more. This guide covers everything foreign residents need to know to make the most of Japan's iconic konbini culture.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesUnderstanding Japanese Work Culture: Hierarchy, Overtime, and Office Etiquette for Foreign Employees
Working in Japan as a foreigner comes with a learning curve. This guide explains Japanese workplace hierarchy, group decision-making, overtime culture, business card etiquette, and how to thrive professionally in a Japanese company.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesJapan's Healthcare System Explained: How to Use Health Insurance as a Foreign Resident
Japan's healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and all foreign residents are required to enroll in public health insurance. This guide explains how Japanese health insurance works, how to enroll, how to visit a clinic, and what costs to expect.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesGetting a Driver's License in Japan as a Foreign Resident: Full Guide
Whether you want to convert your home country license or obtain a new Japanese driver's license from scratch, this guide covers every step of the process — including documents, tests, driving schools, and tips for passing the practical exam.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesFinding a Job in Japan as a Foreigner: Job Search Tips, Visa Sponsorship, and Top Industries
Japan offers excellent career opportunities for foreigners in many industries. This guide covers the best job search platforms, how to find companies that sponsor work visas, which industries hire the most foreigners, and how to prepare a Japanese-style resume (rirekisho).
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesJapan's Train System Explained: How to Navigate Public Transportation as a Foreign Resident
Japan's public transportation system is one of the world's most efficient and punctual. This guide covers how to use trains, buses, and IC cards, explains the different rail networks, and gives practical tips for daily commuting and long-distance travel as a foreign resident.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesSeasonal Events in Japan: A Monthly Guide to Festivals, Nature, and Traditions for Foreign Residents
Discover Japan's rich calendar of seasonal events — from spring cherry blossoms to winter illuminations. This monthly guide helps foreign residents plan ahead and fully experience Japanese culture throughout the year.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesJapan's Public Transportation System: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Master Japan's world-class public transportation system with this complete guide. Learn how to use trains, buses, and IC cards like Suica and Pasmo, navigate rush hour, read route maps, and travel efficiently anywhere in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesJapanese Healthcare System: How to See a Doctor, Get Insurance, and Access Medical Services as a Foreign Resident
Navigate Japan's healthcare system with confidence. This guide explains how national health insurance works, how to find English-speaking doctors, what to bring to a clinic, how to get prescriptions filled, and how to handle medical emergencies in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesDisaster Preparedness in Japan: How Foreign Residents Can Stay Safe During Earthquakes, Typhoons, and Other Emergencies
Japan is one of the world's most disaster-prone countries. This essential guide helps foreign residents prepare for earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and tsunamis — covering emergency kits, evacuation routes, disaster alert apps, and what to do when a disaster strikes.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesShopping in Japan: From Supermarkets and Department Stores to 100-Yen Shops and Online Shopping
Discover how to shop smart in Japan — from navigating supermarkets and department stores to finding bargains at 100-yen shops, using point card systems, and mastering online platforms like Amazon Japan and Rakuten for convenient home delivery.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesSocial Life and Making Friends in Japan: A Guide for Foreign Residents
Building a social life in Japan as a foreigner takes effort but is deeply rewarding. Discover practical ways to meet people, join communities, navigate cultural differences in friendship, and create a fulfilling social network during your time in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesHealthcare and Medical System in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Navigating Japan's healthcare system as a foreigner can feel overwhelming. This complete guide covers health insurance enrollment, finding English-speaking doctors, hospital visits, and managing your health needs in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesPublic Transportation in Japan: Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Japan's public transportation system is one of the world's most efficient. This guide covers trains, buses, IC cards, navigating apps, and everything you need to get around Japan with ease as a foreign resident.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesBanking and Financial Services in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Opening a bank account in Japan as a foreigner is easier than you think. This guide covers the major banks, required documents, online banking, money transfers, credit cards, and everything you need to manage your finances in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesJapanese Etiquette and Customs: Essential Guide for Foreign Residents in Japan
Understanding Japanese etiquette helps you build respect and harmony in daily life. This guide covers bowing, shoe etiquette, onsen rules, dining manners, gift-giving, and essential customs every foreign resident in Japan should know.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesSeasonal Events and Festivals in Japan: A Year-Round Guide for Foreign Residents
Japan's calendar is rich with seasonal festivals, national holidays, and cultural events. This guide walks foreign residents through the most important events throughout the year — from cherry blossom season to New Year celebrations and summer matsuri.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesWorking Culture in Japan: What Every Foreign Employee Needs to Know
Japan's workplace culture has unique norms around hierarchy, communication, overtime, and teamwork. This guide helps foreign workers understand Japanese office culture, navigate workplace relationships, and thrive in their careers in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesNatural Disasters in Japan: Essential Safety Guide for Foreign Residents
Japan experiences earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis regularly. This essential safety guide helps foreign residents understand Japan's disaster warning systems, prepare emergency kits, find evacuation routes, and stay safe when disaster strikes.
Shin Housing team · 5/15/2026
Area guidesLiving in Shinjuku, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo's most iconic districts — a place where neon-lit streets, peaceful shrines, international restaurants, and excellent transport links all coexist. This guide covers everything foreign residents need to know about living in Shinjuku.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026- Area guides
Opening a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreigner: Step-by-Step Guide
Opening a bank account in Japan can be challenging for foreign residents, but it's essential for daily life. This guide walks you through the required documents, recommended banks for new arrivals, and tips for hassle-free banking in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026 - Area guides
Learning Japanese: Best Apps, Resources, and Study Tips for Foreign Residents in Japan
Learning Japanese is one of the most rewarding investments a foreign resident can make. This guide covers the best apps, textbooks, language schools, and daily study habits to help you make rapid progress — whether you're a complete beginner or an intermediate learner.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026 
Area guidesJapanese Apartment Contracts: Key Terms, Deposits, and What Foreign Residents Must Know
Signing an apartment lease in Japan involves unique terms like shikikin, reikin, and guarantors. This guide demystifies Japanese rental contracts, explains all the key fees, and tells you exactly what to watch out for as a foreign resident renting in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026
Area guidesJapanese Food Culture: Must-Try Dishes, Dining Etiquette, and How to Order at Restaurants
Japan's food culture is one of the richest in the world. This guide introduces must-try Japanese dishes, explains dining etiquette, teaches you how to order at different types of restaurants, and helps you navigate menus and food customs as a foreign resident.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026
Area guidesManaging Your Finances in Japan: Bank Accounts, Taxes, and Money Tips for Foreign Residents
Get a complete overview of managing your money in Japan — from opening a bank account and setting up automatic bill payments to understanding the tax system, filing returns, and smart money-saving tips for foreign residents.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026
Area guidesGrocery Shopping and Food in Japan: Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
From supermarkets to konbini and ethnic food stores, Japan offers a rich food landscape. This guide helps foreign residents navigate grocery shopping, find familiar ingredients, understand food labeling, and enjoy Japan's food culture.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026
Area guidesJapanese Language Learning Tips for Daily Life: A Practical Guide for Foreign Residents
Learning Japanese opens doors to deeper connections and greater independence in Japan. This practical guide covers the best apps, study methods, essential phrases, and daily habits that help foreign residents make real progress in Japanese.
Shin Housing team · 5/14/2026
Area guidesJapanese Rental Costs Explained: Shikikin, Reikin, and All the Fees You Need to Know
Confused by 敷金, 礼金, and agency fees? This guide breaks down every cost you'll face when renting in Japan so there are no surprises on move-in day.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesJapan Apartment Rules Every Foreigner Should Know
Noise rules, garbage sorting, bathroom etiquette, no-subletting clauses — understanding Japanese apartment rules can prevent disputes and keep your tenancy smooth. Essential guide for foreign residents.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesHow to Set Up Utilities in Japan: Electricity, Gas, Water and Internet
Step-by-step guide to setting up electricity, gas, water, and internet when you move into a Japanese apartment. Includes provider recommendations and tips for non-Japanese speakers.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesTokyo vs Osaka: Which City Should Foreign Residents Choose?
Comparing Tokyo and Osaka for foreign residents — rent costs, lifestyle, English support, job markets, and neighborhood character. Which Japanese city is right for you?
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesJapan Earthquake Safety for Renters: What Every Foreign Resident Should Know
Learn how to stay safe during earthquakes in Japan as a renter — including emergency kits, evacuation procedures, building safety ratings, and what to do before, during, and after a quake.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesPet-Friendly Rentals in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Everything you need to know about renting a pet-friendly apartment in Japan — how to find pet-OK listings (ペット可), what fees to expect, breed restrictions, and tips for keeping your landlord happy.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesGarbage Sorting in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Japan's strict garbage sorting rules explained for foreign residents — how to separate burnable, non-burnable, recyclable, and oversized trash, plus collection schedules and what happens if you get it wrong.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesHow to Get a SIM Card and Phone Plan in Japan: A Guide for Foreign Residents
Everything foreign residents need to know about getting a SIM card or phone plan in Japan — comparing major carriers, MVNOs, prepaid options, required documents, and English support availability.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesJapanese for Renters: Essential Vocabulary and Phrases for Foreign Residents
A practical guide to Japanese words and phrases every foreign renter needs to know — from lease agreements and apartment features to talking with landlords, neighbors, and repair staff.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesLiving in Kamata & Omori, Tokyo: An Honest Guide for Foreign Residents
Looking for an affordable yet well-connected Tokyo neighbourhood? Kamata and Omori in Ota-ku offer great transport links, a vibrant local community, and some of the best value-for-money rentals in central Tokyo.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesLiving in Nerima & Ekoda, Tokyo: A Guide for Foreign Residents
Nerima-ku and the Ekoda area offer a rare combination in Tokyo: genuine affordability, leafy residential streets, a friendly community atmosphere, and surprisingly fast access to Ikebukuro and Shinjuku. Here's everything you need to know.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesLiving in Toyosu & Koto-ku, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Toyosu and Koto-ku represent modern Tokyo at its most polished — waterfront living, brand-new high-rises, world-class shopping, and fast connections to central Tokyo. Here's what life is really like in this exciting east-side ward.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesLiving in Nakano, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Nakano-ku is one of Tokyo's best-kept secrets — a vibrant, affordable ward just minutes from Shinjuku with a strong subculture scene, excellent daily conveniences, and some of the most competitive rents in the western half of the city.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesLiving in Setagaya-ku & Sangenjaya, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Discover why Setagaya-ku and Sangenjaya are among Tokyo's most beloved neighborhoods for foreign residents. From bohemian cafes to excellent transport links, this guide covers everything you need to know about living in one of Tokyo's most vibrant wards.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026- Area guides
Living in Minato-ku, Tokyo: A Guide to Azabu-Juban, Mita & Tamachi
Minato-ku is one of Tokyo's most prestigious wards, home to embassies, international schools, and some of the city's finest dining. This guide covers the Azabu-Juban, Mita, and Tamachi neighborhoods — ideal for foreign professionals and families seeking an upscale yet accessible Tokyo lifestyle.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026 
Area guidesArriving in Tokyo? Try a Short-Term Stay Before Signing a Long-Term Lease
Moving to Tokyo is exciting — but committing to a 1-year lease before you've even landed can be stressful. This guide explains why a short-term furnished stay (like those offered by our partners at Tokyo Travel) is the smartest way to start your Tokyo life.
Shin Housing team · 5/13/2026
Area guidesJapan Apartment Types Explained: 1K, 1DK, 1LDK and More
Confused by 1K, 1DK, 1LDK, 2LDK? This guide explains every Japanese apartment layout type, what the numbers and letters mean, and which size is right for you.
Shin Housing team · 5/12/2026
Area guidesMoving to Japan: Complete Relocation Checklist for Foreign Residents
Everything you need to do before and after moving to Japan — from visa applications and apartment hunting to resident registration and setting up utilities. Your complete step-by-step relocation guide.
Shin Housing team · 5/12/2026
Area guidesWard Office Registration in Japan: A Guide for Foreign Residents
Learn how to complete ward office registration (jūminhyō) in Japan as a foreigner — what documents you need, how to register your address, and why it matters for daily life.
Shin Housing team · 5/12/2026
Area guidesHow to Open a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreigner: Step-by-Step Guide
A complete guide to opening a bank account in Japan as a foreign resident — which banks accept foreigners, what documents you need, and how to use Japanese banking apps and ATMs.
Shin Housing team · 5/12/2026
Area guidesLiving in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Thinking of renting in Bunkyo-ku? Discover what life is really like in one of Tokyo's most liveable wards — green parks, prestigious universities, quiet streets, and easy access to central Tokyo.
Shin Housing team · 5/12/2026
Area guidesLiving in Ikebukuro & Toshima-ku, Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents
Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo's most dynamic and affordable major hubs — a city within a city. This guide covers living in Ikebukuro and Toshima-ku, including the quieter residential pockets of Minamiotsuka, making it ideal for foreign residents seeking convenience without the premium price tag.
Shin Housing team · 5/12/2026
Area guidesHow to Read a Japanese Apartment Listing: A Guide for Foreigners
Learn to decode Japanese apartment listings — understand key terms like 築年数, 向き, 礼金, 管理費, and more. Essential reading before signing any lease in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/11/2026
Area guidesHow to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner: A Complete Guide
Moving to Japan? Here's everything you need to know about renting an apartment as a foreigner — from upfront costs and required documents to signing your lease and moving in.
Shin Housing team · 5/10/2026
Area guidesBest Areas in Osaka for Foreign Residents
Discover the best neighborhoods in Osaka for foreign residents — from Namba and Shinsaibashi to Umeda and Tennoji. Find out which area suits your lifestyle and budget.
Shin Housing team · 5/10/2026
Area guidesJapan's Healthcare System for Foreign Residents: NHI, Clinics, and How to Get Help
Everything foreign residents need to know about Japan's healthcare system — how National Health Insurance (NHI) works, how to enroll, find English-speaking doctors, and handle medical visits in Japan.
Shin Housing team · 5/10/2026
Area guidesBest Tokyo Neighborhoods for Foreign Residents
Discover the best Tokyo neighborhoods for foreign residents — from family-friendly Setagaya to expat-popular Minato and affordable Adachi. Find your perfect area with our insider guide.
Shin Housing team · 5/8/2026
Area guidesLiving in Shibuya — an honest guide
What it's really like to live in central Shibuya: the crowds, the rent, and the best quiet streets nobody talks about.
Shin Housing team · 5/7/2026
Area guidesLearning Japanese: Practical Tips and Resources for Foreign Residents to Get Started
Start your Japanese language journey with this practical guide. Discover the best apps, textbooks, online courses, and local resources to learn hiragana, katakana, kanji, and conversational Japanese — no matter your starting level.
Shin Housing team · 5/7/2026
Area guidesRenting an Apartment in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Residents
Everything you need to know about renting an apartment in Japan as a foreigner — from understanding key money (shikikin/reikin), finding a guarantor, reading your lease, and setting up utilities to tips on passing the screening process successfully.
Shin Housing team · 4/14/2026