Surviving the First Month in Japan: Apartment, SIM, Bank, Koban
The First Month: Why It Matters
When I first landed in Tokyo's Shinjuku, everything felt overwhelming. But with the right preparation, you can avoid many hassles. This guide covers the essentials: apartment, SIM, bank, and koban (police box).
Finding an Apartment: Where to Live?
Share House vs Solo Apartment
For Bangladeshi students, a share house is a great start. Areas like Ikebukuro or Shin-Okubo in Tokyo have options for 40,000–60,000 yen per month. Solo apartments require a guarantor and deposit, which can be tough in the first month.
How to Search?
- Check SUUMO or Homes.jp (in Japanese)
- Look for posts in Bangladeshi Facebook groups
- Ask your university's housing office
One of my students, Shaheen, found a share house in Shinagawa for 50,000 yen, then moved to Osaka University later.
SIM Card & Internet: Staying Connected
You can buy a prepaid SIM at the airport, like Mobal or Sakura Mobile. For long-term, regular plans are better. Unlimited data plans cost around 3,000 yen per month.
Recommended Providers
- IIJmio – cheap and reliable
- Rakuten Mobile – English support available
- LINEMO – free data with LINE app
Also consider a pocket WiFi like Huawei E5785 for portable internet.
Opening a Bank Account: Managing Money
You need a Japanese address and phone number to open a bank account. Japan Post Bank (Yūcho Ginkō) is easiest for the first month. Later you can switch to Mizuho or SMBC.
Process
- Bring your passport and residence card
- Show your visa status
- Fill out English forms (some branches)
My student Rasheed opened an account at SMBC in the first month, but had to fill forms in Japanese. So JLPT N4 helps.
Koban: How to Use the Police Box
Japan's koban (police box) isn't just for crime. You can go there if you're lost, lost something, or need help. For example, the Shibuya koban in Tokyo is open at night.
What to Do?
- Report lost items (wallet, phone, etc.)
- Ask for directions with a map
- Dial 110 for emergencies
Police are friendly but English is limited. Learn some Japanese: "Maigo ni narimashita" (I'm lost).
Bangladeshi Community: Where to Get Help
You might feel lonely at first, but Japan has a large Bangladeshi community. In Tokyo's Shin-Okubo, there are many halal restaurants and shops. In Osaka, Bangladeshi students also gather.
My advice: In your first week, visit a mosque or Bangladeshi association. For example, Tokyo Camii (Shibuya) has friendly people who help.
Final Words: Be Patient, Keep Learning
The first month will be tough, but once you get through it, you'll enjoy Japan's beauty. So take it step by step. If you have questions, contact us anytime.
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