WOW THAT'S JAPAN 2 BLOG

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 capit...

 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 gen...

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: 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. Coverage : The card is accepted on major trains, subways, private rai...

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 ch...

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: Download the App : Users can download the PayPay app on their smartphones. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices. Link Your Bank Account : Once you’ve installed the ...