Life in Japan Guides
Practical guides written by people who work at Rakuten and have helped dozens of colleagues settle in Japan. Each guide covers what you actually need to know — no fluff.
Your First Week in Japan — Complete Checklist for New Residents (2026)
Day-by-day checklist for your first week in Japan. Ward office, bank account, phone, health insurance, and everything else — in the right order.
How to Open a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreigner (2026)
Complete guide to opening a Japanese bank account. Which banks accept foreigners, what documents you need, and how long it takes — by Rakuten insiders.
Ward Office Guide for Foreigners in Japan — What to Do on Day 1 (2026)
Everything you need to do at the ward office (区役所) when you arrive in Japan. Address registration, health insurance, and common mistakes — by Rakuten insiders.
Japan SIM Card Options for Foreigners — Comparing Carriers (2026)
Compare Japan's mobile carrier options for foreign residents. Cost, coverage, English support, contract terms, and which one is actually best for newcomers.
Rakuten Points for Beginners — How to Earn, Spend & Save in Japan (2026)
Complete guide to the Rakuten Points ecosystem for foreigners in Japan. SPU, Rakuten Pay, how to maximize your points — by Rakuten insiders.
Rakuten Link: The Ultimate Guide to Free Calls
How to make free domestic and international calls. 66 countries supported. 2GB overseas data included.
Rakuten SPU: Maximizing Your Points
Get +4x points on Rakuten Ichiba just by having a mobile plan. Earn up to 18x total.
Rakuten Mobile Network: Coverage & Platinum Band
The truth about Rakuten's 99.9% coverage, the new Platinum Band (700MHz), and roaming partners.
Ready to get a phone?
Our main guide walks you through setting up Rakuten Mobile step by step — with an exclusive employee referral bonus of up to ¥14,000.
See the Setup Guide