Delivering Delights: The Uber Eats Experience in Japan - A Personal Journey

Delivering Delights: The Uber Eats Experience in Japan - A Personal Journey

I have been doing Uber Eats in Japan for two years now. My experience with Uber Eats as a delivery person in Kobe has been a lot of fun. I started working with Uber Eats in April 2024. In the beginning, I had to send in some important documents. These documents included my passport, my foreign registration card that shows I can work legally in Japan,  and insurance for my scooter. After submitting my documents I did this I found out that there is another step for people who are not from Japan, like me to follow with Uber Eats.

I had to go to Uber's office in person for them to check my documents. This is something Uber does to make sure all foreign delivery partners are legally allowed to work in Japan. The closest Uber compliance office was in Osaka. I had to go all the way to Osaka, which was a little far. This trip showed me the effort it takes to be an Uber Eats delivery partner.

After I did the in-person verification, Uber told me to take a driving test on my phone. The driving test is a part of signing up to be a delivery person with Uber. They want to make sure all delivery partners know how to drive. This is really important when you are driving in cities because the streets are very busy and the traffic can be confusing. Uber wants to make sure that all of their delivery partners know the driving practices.

I finished the test. It was a success. So I waited for a day or two to get the confirmation. The test was really important so I was waiting for the result of the test.

I passed and got the okay to join the Uber Eats team as a delivery partner. Now I am a part of the Uber Eats team and I deliver around Kobe bringing food to people who order from Uber Eats. So far I like my job as an Uber Eats partner.  I get to see places and meet new people working for Uber Eats.

So if you want to start working with Uber Eats in Japan. To get started there are things you need to do first before you can start. The following are the essentials for starting your Uber Eats adventure, in Japan. You need to make sure you have these things taken care of before you can start delivering with Uber Eats.

Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

Vehicle: The way you want to deliver things will decide what you need to use. You might need to use a bicycle, moped, scooter or car. If you want to use a scooter it has to be a kind. If the engine is not too big under 125cc you will need a drivers license and insurance for the scooter. You have to get these things for scooters, like that.

To get started you need to show an identification card and a picture of yourself. The kind of vehicle you use to deliver things will decide if you need to bring papers. You might need to show a vehicle registration certificate and insurance for your delivery vehicle.

To work in Japan you need to have a residency status that lets you get a job. This means you have to be a Permanent Resident or the Spouse or Child of a Japanese National. You can also be a Long-term Resident. Have some other kind of residency status that says you are allowed to work in Japan. The thing is, you must have a residency status that permits employment like one of these:

* Permanent Resident

* Spouse or Child of a Japanese National

* Long-term Resident

Required Documents for Uber Eats Japan Delivery Partners

For all delivery methods you will need:

ID documents for foreign nationals (if applicable)

Photograph of the required documents

Profile photo without sunglasses, masks, or hats

For delivery by foot or bicycle:

• Identification Card (身分証明書)
  

  
  
  
  

For delivery by moped:

Driver’s license(運転免許証)

License Plates (ナンバープレートの写真)

Automobile liability insurance certificate (自賠責保険証)

Light vehicle registration certificate (自動車損害賠償責任保険証明書)

For delivery by small two-wheeled vehicle or kei-car:

Driver’s license (運転免許証)

Vehicle inspection certificate (車検証または軽自動車届出済証)

Optional insurance or mutual insurance certificate

(任意保険または自動車共済証書)

I needed a delivery bag so I got one from Uber Eats Japan's website. This was a deal for me than buying from other places, like Amazon Japan. The delivery bag is not something to carry food in. It shows that Uber Japan cares about the service it provides. The delivery bag makes sure the food is safe and warm until it gets to the customer. Uber Japan uses these bags to guarantee that the food stays at the temperature.

On the job that is where the real learning happens. You do not have to go to a classroom to learn everything. Learning Japanese is very important because you will have to talk to customers on the phone. When you are on the phone with customers it is not about taking orders or finding out where they live. You also get to talk to them and get to know them a bit even if it is just a short conversation. This is a part of the job and it is something that you will do every day. On the job learning is what will really help you to understand how things work. Japanese language skills are necessary for, on the job learning because you will be using them all the time when you are talking to customers.

Using the Uber Eats application is pretty easy when it comes to payments and orders. Uber Eats gives you the option to take cash payments. You can just go completely cashless. I like using the cashless option because it's so much easier. I do not have to look for exact change. This is really helpful on days it makes the whole thing a lot faster and smoother when you use Uber Eats. Uber Eats is great, for this reason.

When you start doing Uber Eats delivery you need to get to know the area you are working in. This is really important for people who're new to Uber Eats delivery. You should learn where the local landmarks and stores are because this helps you find your way and it makes your deliveries faster.

You can choose to take an order or not when it comes in. Some orders are a little more complicated because you have to pick up food from, than one place. Uber Eats delivery can be managed easily if you plan carefully.

I always make sure to check my order. Confirming your order by checking the order number and talking to the shop staff is very important. Mistakes can still happen,. They happen less often when you have more experience and you pay close attention to what you are doing. When I first started I made some mistakes. I learned from them. Now I double check that each order is correct before I leave the shop. I do this with every order to make Attention to Detail is taken care of. Attention to Detail is important, to me so I take my time to get it right.

The money part of this job is really good. One good thing about it is that people do not expect you to be tipped. As a delivery partner my money comes from the orders I do. I have found that even taking the orders is a good idea because it shows me that working hard pays off. The Financial Aspect of this job is simple. I get paid every Monday. The money goes right into my bank account. The Financial Aspect is easy to understand because I set up my bank account through the app. This makes The Financial Aspect of the job easy, for me.

Quests: The Extra Mile

Uber Eats has something called Quests. This is to help its delivery partners do a job. They get money when they do well. For example if a delivery partner completes 10 deliveries they might get a bonus of 1000 Yen or even more.

Uber Eats uses Quests to motivate its delivery partners. This is so they do deliveries and earn more money. Quests are like a reward, for Uber Eats delivery partners to keep doing a job and take on more work. Uber Eats delivery partners can make money with Quests.

Independence and Flexibility Working with Uber Eats is really great because I get to be my boss.

I can choose when I want to work and how many hours I put in.

This is very important to me.

I love that Uber Eats gives me the freedom to make my schedule.

Uber Eats is a community to be a part of because it lets me work the way I want to.

I think this independence is the good thing, about working with Uber Eats.

It makes me happy to be able to work on my terms with Uber Eats.

This is more than a guide to working with Uber Eats in Japan; it's an insight into the personal growth that accompanies it. Not only will you master the basics, but you may also discover personal development in ways you didn't anticipate. It's fascinating how this app brings together people from diverse backgrounds, offering each person an opportunity to try something different. Along the journey, you might even learn some Japanese.

What is Resident Tax in Japan and who needs to pay it?住民税 JUUMINZEI

Understanding Japan's Residence Tax: A Comprehensive Guide

Living in Japan comes with the responsibility of contributing to local communities. Residence tax is a local tax paid by residents to fund public services like education and welfare.

Who Needs to Pay Residence Tax?

Anyone residing in a Japanese prefecture and municipality as of January 1st is liable for residence tax. There's a grace period for newcomers – you won't be taxed in the year you arrive, but you will be for the previous year's income if you're still in Japan on the following January 1st. Even if you leave before the bill arrives, you're still obligated to pay.

Here is an example of the residence tax bill.

Calculating Your Residence Tax

The tax amount is based on your taxable income earned between January 1st and December 31st of the preceding year. The tax office analyzes your income tax return (kakutei shinkoku 確定申告) for this period and calculates the tax based on two components:

• Per capita burden: A fixed amount set by each municipality.
• Income-based portion: A percentage of your taxable income.

Example Breakdown (hypothetical rates):

Tax Type	Rate	Per Capita Burden
Prefectural Resident Tax	4%	1,000 yen
Municipal Resident Tax	6%	3,000 yen
Forest Environment Tax (optional)	-	1,000 yen
Total	10%	5,000 yen

How to Pay Your Residence Tax

The tax office typically calculates your residence tax. However, you can use the following formula if you're curious:

Taxable Income Amount - Income Deductions = Taxable Income Amount
Taxable Income Amount × Tax Rate - Tax Amount Deductions = Income Tax Amount
Income Tax Amount + Per Capita Burden = Resident Tax Amount

There are two payment methods with different due dates:

• Lump sum payment: Due in June.
• Installment payment: Divided into four payments due in June, August, October, and January.

Payment Methods

• Special collection (salary deductions): For employees, the municipality sends the tax notice to your employer, who deducts the tax from your salary throughout the year or in a single payment.
• Ordinary collection: For freelancers, self-employed individuals, or the unemployed with income from the previous year, the city office sends a tax notice in June specifying the due date. You can pay at a post office, financial institution, or convenience store.

Important Reminders

• Leaving employment: If your residence tax was deducted through salary deductions, and you quit your job, the remaining balance will be shifted to ordinary collection. Some employers may deduct the outstanding amount from your final paycheck. Clarify tax payment procedures before resigning.
• Leaving Japan: You're still responsible for paying any due residence tax before departure. If you can't pay beforehand, appoint a tax representative authorized to pay on your behalf with the local government office.

Reducing Your Residence Tax Burden

• Foreign tax credit: If you've already paid income tax on foreign income, you might be eligible for a deduction on your Japanese income tax, which can indirectly reduce your residence tax.
• Tax treaties: Many countries have tax treaties with Japan, some covering residence tax. Residents fulfilling specific requirements, such as trainees or apprentices, might qualify for a lower or even waived residence tax by submitting the Application Form for Income Tax Convention (租税条約に関する届出書, sozei jōyaku ni kansuru todokede-sho) by March 15th.

Conclusion: Pay Your Fair Share in Japan

Residence tax helps your local community thrive. It's easy to pay, with options for installments or a lump sum. Remember deadlines and plan ahead if you leave your job or Japan. By following these tips, you'll fulfill your tax obligation smoothly.

 Navigating Cultural Taboos: What Expats Should Avoid Doing in Japan

Introduction:

Embarking on a journey to Japan, a country rich in culture and tradition, is an exciting adventure for many expats. However, it's crucial to be aware of the cultural taboos that exist in Japanese society to ensure a smooth and respectful experience. In this blog post, we'll delve into some of the taboos in Japan that expats should avoid, helping you navigate the intricate social landscape with grace and respect.

1. Removing Shoes Indoors:

In Japan, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, certain traditional restaurants, temples, and even some ryokans (traditional inns). Failing to do so can be seen as disrespectful and unhygienic. Expats should always look out for signs indicating whether shoe removal is necessary and follow suit accordingly.

2. Public Displays of Affection:

While public displays of affection may be common in some Western cultures, they are generally frowned upon in Japan. Kissing, hugging, or even holding hands in public can make locals uncomfortable. It's essential for expats to be mindful of this cultural difference and refrain from engaging in overt displays of affection while in public spaces.

3. Pointing:

Pointing directly at people or objects with your index finger is considered impolite in Japan. Instead, it's customary to use an open hand or gesture with your whole hand to indicate direction or objects. Avoiding pointing altogether can prevent unintentional offense and maintain harmony in social interactions.

4. Talking Loudly on Public Transportation:

In Japan, public transportation is often characterized by a sense of tranquility and respect for others' personal space. Talking loudly on trains or buses is generally discouraged, as it can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere and inconvenience fellow passengers. Expats should aim to keep their voices low and be mindful of their surroundings while using public transportation.

5. Pouring Soy Sauce Directly on Rice:

While it may seem harmless, pouring soy sauce directly onto a bowl of rice is considered improper etiquette in Japan. Rice holds a special significance in Japanese culture and is typically enjoyed on its own, without the need for additional flavoring. Instead, soy sauce is a dipping sauce for food such as sushi.  If you like soy sauce on your plain rice, then go ahead and do it at home.

6. Leaving Chopsticks Stuck Vertically in Food:

Leaving chopsticks standing upright in a bowl of rice or any dish is reminiscent of a funeral ritual in Japan and is considered extremely disrespectful. Expats should always lay their chopsticks flat on the chopstick rest or across the top of their bowl when not in use, demonstrating respect for the food and those around them.

Conclusion:

When living in Japan, expats should be aware of the cultural taboos that influence daily life and social interactions.  By following the local customs and showing respect, they can build meaningful connections and enhance there experiences.

Exploring Kansai with the KANSAI ONE PASS

If you’re planning a trip to the Kansai region of Japan, the KANSAI ONE PASS is your ultimate travel companion. This rechargeable IC card offers convenience, discounts, and seamless access to public transportation. It is only for foreign visitors and it is not transferable. You must show your foreign passport and it must have a temporary visitor stamp in it to get one. Let’s dive into the details of this handy card and how it can enhance your Kansai adventure!

What is the KANSAI ONE PASS?

The KANSAI ONE PASS is an IC card that simplifies your travel across the Kansai region. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Price:  The Kansai One Pass costs 3000 Yen for adults, which includes a 500 Yen deposit in which you will get back when you return the pass.  It is a prepaid card, not an unlimited pass, so you will need to recharge it as needed. The maximum top off is 20,000 Yen.

2. Coverage: The card is accepted on major trains, subways, private railways, and buses in the Kansai area. That means you can ride all trains and buses in the Kansai region.

3. No Ticket Hassle: Say goodbye to buying individual tickets for each ride. With the KANSAI ONE PASS, just touch the card at the ticket gate, and you’re good to go! The fare is automatically calculated, making your journey smooth and efficient.

4. Special Benefits: Beyond its convenience, the KANSAI ONE PASS offers additional perks. By showing the card at participating sightseeing spots, you can receive discounts and other services. It’s like having a magic wand for savings!

5. For Foreign Visitors: The KANSAI ONE PASS is exclusively designed for foreign visitors. If you’re exploring Kansai, this card is tailor-made for you.

How to Use the KANSAI ONE PASS

1. Touch and Go: At the ticket gate, simply touch the card to the reader on the right side for more than one second. No need to buy a ticket every time you board a train or bus.

2.  Rechargeable: The card is rechargeable, and         there’s no expiration date. Keep it handy for             your next Kansai trip. Plus, it’s refundable with        a handling fee if needed.

3.  Discounts Galore: Present your KANSAI ONE      PASS at participating facilities and shops to             unlock discounts. Whether you’re shopping,             dining, or sightseeing, the card opens doors to         savings.

KIX Special Benefits

When you arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX), don’t forget to show your KANSAI ONE PASS for special offers! Duty-free shops and other facilities within KIX may provide discounts or other services. It’s a warm welcome to the Kansai region.

Conclusion

The Kansai One Pass simplifies your travel, saves you money, and enhances your overall experience in this captivating region of Japan.

What is the cost of luggage forwarding in Japan?

What is the Cost of Luggage Forwarding in Japan?

If you are planning to travel in Japan, you might be wondering how to deal with your luggage. Japan is famous for its efficient and convenient public transportation system, but it is not very luggage-friendly. Most trains have limited space for large suitcases, and dragging your bags around crowded stations and streets can be a hassle.

Fortunately, there is a solution: luggage forwarding services, also known as TA-Q-BIN. These are parcel delivery services that allow you to send your luggage from door to door, usually overnight, for a reasonable price. You can enjoy traveling light and easy, without worrying about your bags. The most famous one is Yamato Transport.

How Does Luggage Forwarding Work in Japan?

Luggage forwarding in Japan is very simple and reliable. You can arrange it through your hotel, ryokan, or convenience store. All you need to do is fill out a form with your name, address, phone number, and destination. You can also choose the delivery date and time, and add insurance if you wish. Then, you pay the fee and hand over your luggage. You will receive a receipt with a tracking number, which you can use to check the status of your delivery online or by phone.

Your luggage will be delivered to your destination by the next day, or sometimes even the same day, depending on the distance and time of shipment. You can send your luggage to another hotel, ryokan, airport, or even a private residence. You can also send it in the opposite direction, from your destination to your departure point, as long as you allow enough time for delivery.

How Much Does Luggage Forwarding Cost in Japan?

The cost of luggage forwarding in Japan depends on the size, weight, and destination of your luggage. The prices vary slightly among different service providers, but they are generally affordable and competitive. Here are some examples of the average fees (cash) for sending one piece of luggage within Japan, as of February 2024:

• Small (up to 60 cm and 2 kg): 1060 yen
• Medium (up to 80 cm and 5 kg): 1,350 yen
• Large (up to 100 cm and 10 kg): 1,650 yen
• Extra large (up to 120 cm and 15 kg): 1,970 yen
• Oversize (up to 160 cm and 25 kg): 2,360 yen

The fees are calculated based on the total length, width, and height of your luggage in centimeters. If your luggage exceeds the size or weight limit, you may have to pay an extra charge. The fees also increase if you send your luggage to remote areas, such as Hokkaido, Okinawa, or some islands.

You can check the exact fees for your luggage and destination on the websites of the service providers, such as Yamato Transport, [Sagawa Express], or [Japan Post]. You can also use online calculators, such as [this one], to estimate the cost of luggage forwarding in Japan.

Why Use Luggage Forwarding in Japan?

Luggage forwarding in Japan has many benefits for travelers. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider using it:

• It saves you time and energy. You don’t have to carry your luggage around, wait in line at the baggage check-in or claim, or look for lockers or storage facilities. You can travel faster and more comfortably, and enjoy more sightseeing and activities.
• It saves you money. You don’t have to pay for extra baggage fees on trains, buses, or flights. You also don’t have to pay for taxis or other transportation to get to your accommodation. The cost of luggage forwarding is usually cheaper than these alternatives, especially if you travel long distances or with multiple bags.
• It gives you peace of mind. You don’t have to worry about losing, damaging, or stealing your luggage. You can trust the professional and secure service of the luggage forwarding companies, which have a high reputation and customer satisfaction in Japan. You can also track your luggage and contact the customer service if you have any questions or problems.

Tips for Using Luggage Forwarding in Japan

If you decide to use luggage forwarding in Japan, here are some tips to make the most of it:

• Plan ahead. You should book your accommodation in advance, and confirm the address and phone number. You should also check the delivery schedule and deadline of the luggage forwarding company, and make sure you send your luggage at least one day before your arrival or departure. You can also reserve the service online or by phone, if you prefer.
• Pack smart. You should pack your luggage according to the size and weight limit of the luggage forwarding service. You should also pack your essentials, such as passport, money, medication, and valuables, in your carry-on bag. You should also label your luggage clearly with your name, address, phone number, and destination.
• Enjoy your trip. You should take advantage of the luggage forwarding service to travel light and easy in Japan. You can explore the country with more freedom and flexibility, and experience the culture and nature without any burden.

Conclusion

Luggage forwarding in Japan is a convenient, economical, and reliable service that can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. You can send your luggage from door to door, usually overnight, for a reasonable price. You can travel faster, cheaper, and more comfortably, and focus on the fun and beauty of Japan. Luggage forwarding in Japan is definitely worth trying, and you might never want to travel any other way again.

PayPay: Japan’s Leading Cashless Payment Service

Exploring PayPay: Japan’s Leading Cashless Payment Service

Modern technology and tradition collide in the busy streets of Tokyo, where payment systems have undergone a transformation. Introducing PayPay, the electronic payment service from Japan that has completely changed the way consumers pay for goods and services. We'll explore the world of PayPay in this blog, including its history, functions, and the reasons it has become a necessary component of daily life in Japan.

The Birth of PayPay

In June 2018, Yahoo Japan and SoftBank Group launched PayPay as a joint venture. Promoting cashless transactions and fostering a smooth customer and merchant experience is their goal. They have undoubtedly been successful.

How Does PayPay Work?

At its core, PayPay is a QR code-based payment system. Here’s how it works:

1. Download the App: Users can download the PayPay app on their smartphones. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices.

2. Link Your Bank Account: Once you’ve installed the app, link your bank account securely. This allows you to load funds into your PayPay wallet.

3. Scan and Pay: When making a purchase at a store, simply scan the merchant’s QR code using your phone’s camera. Confirm the payment, and voilà! The transaction is complete.

4. Earn Rewards: PayPay often runs promotions and cashback offers, making it even more enticing for users. You can earn points and discounts by using the service.

Why Choose PayPay?

1. Convenience: No need to carry cash or credit cards. Your phone becomes your wallet, and payments are a breeze.

2. Wide Acceptance: PayPay is widely accepted across various stores, restaurants, and even vending machines. It’s become a ubiquitous sight in Japan.

3. Security: PayPay employs robust security measures to protect your transactions. Plus, you can set a PIN or biometric authentication for added safety.

4. Promotions: Regular promotions and discounts sweeten the deal. Who doesn’t love getting a little something back with every purchase?

Competition and Alternatives

While PayPay dominates the Japanese market, it’s not alone. Other popular cashless payment apps include:

• LinePay: Integrated with the Line messaging app, LinePay offers seamless transactions and loyalty points.
• Mercari Pay: From the creators of the popular Mercari marketplace, Mercari Pay is gaining traction.
• Rakuten Pay (Rpay): Rakuten, Japan’s e-commerce giant, also has its own payment service.
• Apple Pay and Google Pay: These global players have made their mark in Japan too.

The Future of PayPay

As Japan increasingly adopts cashless payments, PayPay is positioned for continued expansion. Its user base is growing, and more businesses are adopting the system. Whether you’re purchasing a bento box at a nearby convenience store or indulging in designer fashion, chances are you’ll be pulling out your phone to scan that PayPay QR code. So, the next time you’re in Japan, consider giving PayPay a try—it’s not merely a payment method; it represents a cultural shift toward a more efficient and interconnected society.