Surviving Your First Month in Japan: Apartment, SIM, Bank, Koban

Did you know the first month in Japan is the hardest? Yes, you read that right. Standing in front of Shibuya Station in Tokyo, seeing all the signs in Japanese and not understanding a single word, I thought, "What have I gotten myself into!" But believe me, just a month later I could fall asleep on the local train and still wake up at my stop. Today I want to share my first-month experience with you — how to find an apartment, get a SIM card, open a bank account, and use the koban (police box) when needed.

Finding an Apartment: First Steps

Finding a student apartment in Japan is easier than it used to be. Your university's international office usually provides a list of dormitories or share houses. But if you want to search yourself, you can use websites like SUUMO or Leoplace.

• Start with a guest house or share house for the first month — this gives you time to look for a permanent place.
• Typically, apartments require key money, renovation fee, and two months' advance rent. Expect to pay around 50,000 to 100,000 yen (approx. 40,000–80,000 BDT) for the first month.
• Student apartments often need a guarantor. Many universities act as guarantors; otherwise, you can use a guarantor company (about 5,000 yen per month).

One of my students found a share house in Nipponbashi, Osaka in her first week. Rent was only 30,000 yen a month, and her roommates were Malaysian and Japanese. She still keeps in touch with them.

SIM Card and Internet: Stay Connected

Getting a SIM card in Japan is no longer complicated. You can buy prepaid SIMs at the airport. But for long-term, it's better to get a postpaid plan from companies like IIJmio or Y!mobile.

• Student plans offer 20-30 GB of data for about 2,000–3,000 yen per month.
• You can get a SIM at any electronics store (Bic Camera, Yodobashi) with your passport and student ID.
• Even if you don't speak Japanese, these companies have English support — but learn how to change the language in their app beforehand.

For home internet, you can get pocket Wi-Fi from Nuro Hikari or SoftBank Air. But remember, contracts are usually 2 years — canceling early incurs a fee.

Opening a Bank Account: Money Matters

Without a Japanese bank account, it's nearly impossible to receive your part-time salary or pay rent. Japan Post Bank (Yucho) is the easiest for international students.

• With your passport, Japanese address, and residence card (zairyu card), you can open an account at any post office in about 30 minutes.
• Many banks have special student plans — like Japan Net Bank or Seven Bank — where you can do everything via mobile app.
• During the first month, carry cash because not all places accept cards. But you can load money onto a Suica or PASMO card for trains and convenience stores.

Let me tell you — some banks may be hesitant to open accounts for foreigners. Don't be discouraged; Yucho is the most reliable option.

Koban: Your Safety Friend

Japan has small police boxes in every neighborhood — called koban. They might seem intimidating at first, but they are very friendly.

• If you get lost, go into a koban and show them a map — they will guide you to your destination.
• In case of emergencies (like theft or losing something), report to the koban.
• Koban officers usually don't speak English — so use Google Translate or learn a few Japanese phrases.

A friend of mine got lost near the station one night. He went to the koban and said, "Sumimasen, maigo ni narimashita" (Excuse me, I'm lost). The police not only gave him directions but also walked him to his apartment.

Tips for Adjusting in the First Month

Everyone makes mistakes in the first month — there's no shame in that. I myself took the wrong train line and ended up somewhere else in my first week. So:

• Learn a little Japanese every day. Use Norendo or Anki apps to memorize 10 words a day.
• Familiarize yourself with your local supermarket and drug store. Don Quijote or Matsuya have everything in one place.
• Start looking for part-time work — but only after you've settled into classes and your apartment.
• Japan's weather (especially summer and winter) is different — dress appropriately.

And most importantly — have confidence. Japan has created many opportunities for international students. You are not alone — thousands of Bangladeshi students are now studying successfully in Japan.

If you're planning to go to Japan, check our eligibility page. Also, see our JLPT calendar to improve your Japanese. For any questions, contact us — we're here for you.