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

Stepping into Japan for the first time can feel like walking into a dream—or a maze. Everything around you—the language, the people, the shops, the train schedules—is brand new. When I first arrived in Tokyo, walking out of Shinjuku Station with all those neon signs made my head spin. But believe me, within a few weeks things start to click. In this blog, I'll walk you through four essential tasks for your first month: finding an apartment, getting a SIM card, opening a bank account, and visiting the koban (police box).

1. Finding an Apartment and Signing a Lease

Renting a place in Japan is a bit different from other countries. You have options like 'Living with Japanese' or home stays, share houses, and regular apartments. I usually tell students to start with a share house—it's cheaper and gives you more chances to practice Japanese.

Share House vs. Apartment

In a share house, utility bills and internet are usually included in the rent. On the other hand, renting your own apartment often requires a guarantor, which can be tricky for foreigners. Some companies like Leo Palace or Dormy offer special plans for international students.

• Rent: Outside Tokyo: 40,000–60,000 yen; inside Tokyo: 60,000–80,000 yen (approx. 48,000–96,000 BDT).
• Guarantor fee: Usually one month's rent.
• Key money: You need to pay 2–3 months' rent upfront.

For share houses, check our list of universities and choose a nearby area. For example, Tokyo's Ikebukuro area has many affordable share houses.

2. Getting a SIM Card and Mobile Plan

Getting a SIM in Japan is pretty easy nowadays. But first, know that both prepaid and postpaid plans are available. With a student visa, postpaid is usually easier, but you can start with prepaid too.

Recommended Carriers

• IIJmio or Rakuten Mobile—cheap and foreigner-friendly.
• Y!mobile—a bit more expensive but good English support.

You'll need your passport and residence card to buy a SIM. At the store, ask for 'gakusei (student) plan' to get a discount. I used IIJmio myself for the first month—2,500 yen for 20 GB of data, which was plenty.

Another tip: renting a pocket Wi-Fi router is also popular. But starting with a SIM is better because you'll need a Japanese phone number for opening a bank account later.

3. Opening a Bank Account

Without a bank account in Japan, you can't receive your part-time job salary. So open one as soon as possible. Most banks recommend 'Yucho Bank' (Japan Post Bank) for international students.

What You Need

• Passport and residence card
• Your Japanese address (apartment address)
• A hanko (personal seal)—though signatures are now accepted too

Go to the bank and say 'koza o hirakitai' (I want to open an account). You'll fill out some forms—all in Japanese—so it's good to bring someone along. I opened my first account in Shin-Okubo, where there were Nepali staff, so communication was easier.

Once your account is open, you can deposit your scholarship money. Remember, interest rates in Japan are nearly zero, so don't keep too much cash there—keep your spending money separate.

4. Koban (Police Box) and Emergency Services

Japan's koban (police box) isn't just for crime prevention; it's also a community information center. If you're lost or have a question, you can pop in and ask for help. They usually don't speak English, but showing a map or picture works.

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 110
• Ambulance/Fire: 119

There's also an 'English Helpline' (03-3501-0111) available 24/7. During my first month, I once left my bag on a train—I went to the koban, and within 30 minutes they found it. Honestly, Japan's police are very trustworthy.

5. Other Important Tasks

In your first month, also take care of these:

• Update your residence card address: Register at the ward office within 14 days of moving in.
• Enroll in National Health Insurance: It's about 2,000 yen per month, but a lifesaver in emergencies.
• Get permission for part-time work: Submit the 'Permit to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted' form at immigration.

Keep an eye on the JLPT calendar—you can even register for the exam in your first month. And if you run into any trouble, contact us. We often hold orientations where we teach these things hands-on.

The first month is tough, but remember—you'll learn a little every day. I couldn't figure out how to get a point card at the supermarket my first week. But now I jokingly call Japan my second home. Yours will feel that way too. Just be patient and don't hesitate to ask for help.

Wishing you a great start to your Japan journey!