Q&A
Questions about life in Japan answered by those who live it
Hot Topic
6 Answers
What sakura apps / websites are you using in 2024?
What websites or Apps are you using to keep track of the bloom stages of cherry blossoms in 2024? I usually use a mix of Tenki.jp, Yahoo and Jorudan and another one that I have forgotten! (I delete them at the end of each season to free up space on my phone). I occasionally use the app from JMA, but I don't like its set up. Are there any other Apps or websites you recommend? TIA
on Mar 14
On Going
11 Answers
Best cafe outside the chains stores?
I know that cafes like Starbuck's, Tully's, and Doutor's supply a consistent cup of coffee, but I'm looking for that cafe that is mom & pop or a place that has one location that you stumbled upon and love. What's your go-to drink or what would you recommend?
on Feb 21
Questions [living]
4 Answers
Trousers/pants for girls with POCKETS
Hi! My daughter is starting elementary school very soon and we’re looking for pants with pockets for her to put her tissues and hand towel in. We’re already familiar with the cute detachable pockets that can be clipped on the outside, but it would be great if we could get some pants that already have pockets. I’m not opposed to her using her brother’s hand-me-downs, but they don’t tend to end their time with him in the best condition. I’m also not opposed to looking in the aisles for what is deemed boyswear, but she does like cute, pretty designs. Has anyone had any luck with this? She still takes 110 or 120 cm, depending on the shop and style of clothes. Thanks!
on Mar 19
6 Answers
What sakura apps / websites are you using in 2024?
What websites or Apps are you using to keep track of the bloom stages of cherry blossoms in 2024? I usually use a mix of Tenki.jp, Yahoo and Jorudan and another one that I have forgotten! (I delete them at the end of each season to free up space on my phone). I occasionally use the app from JMA, but I don't like its set up. Are there any other Apps or websites you recommend? TIA
on Mar 14
3 Answers
Kanto area easily accessible Hina Matsuri 2024
Many places in the Kanto area are starting to display dolls for Hina Matsuri. Which ones do you recommend that are worth seeing and easy to access by train? I'm considering a long trip to Makabe in Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture. I'd have to take a bus or rent a bicycle from the nearest major hub because I'm not a driver.
on Feb 11
5 Answers
What's in your toshikoshi soba?
What do you put in your toshikoshi soba? One year I sauteed some chicken and naganegi to start a broth augmented with tsuyu, cooked the soba separately, and served the broth with kamaboko slices.
on Dec 30
2 Answers
Transferring Pension
I'm currently sorting through EVERYTHING I bought back from Japan with me, so you'll get all your new blogs soon. I came across some documents that I actually completed when I came back from Japan, which was to do with pensions. This took me a while to figure out because it was complicated. Would you like to know how to transfer your pension to you from Japan? People say you can't. The things is... you can.
on Dec 8
6 Answers
Would you like me to continue?
You'll never believe this... it's now 2023 and I left Japan nearly 6 years ago. I didn't post on this site for an extremely long time. In fact, I almost forgot I had this account. Whilst I don't have a Japanese phone number anymore (which means I can't convert my points) I was wondering if anyone who sees this post would like me to continue talking about Japan? If so, what would you like me to talk about?
on Nov 25
1 Answer
How to get rid of these little crawlies?
We suddenly found these little crawlies around a wooden cabinet we got from Nitori. This is the first time we have seen them. I was wondering if anybody knows how to get rid of them permanently. Thank you so much!
on Nov 17
7 Answers
Tail end of the year budgeting
For many expats, the tail end of the year is one of the most expensive seasons. We've got birthdays, Christmas, and so on in our family, and costs add up! Not to mention as the weather starts cooling down, we end up running our heat sources more and those aren't cheap, either! If the winter months are also expensive for you, what are some ways you budget for it?
on Oct 13
5 Answers
Can I change my user name?
Will it cause any problems if I change my user name? The only reason I want to change it is because when I write reviews I think it looks like they are all in Saitama! Because the Saitama is more prominent than the actual location. And seen as I write about other prefectures than Saitama it might be less confusing if I change my user name. I probably should have done it years ago! Photo just for aesthetics!
on Sep 21
5 Answers
Photo uploading issues
Is anyone else having issues when they try to upload photos to blogs/reviews? I keep getting a message saying upload failed, and I've tried from my computer and my phone (and also tried the "turn it off and turn it on again" approach!) Thanks for any insight!
on Sep 9
6 Answers
Looking for English speaking gynecologist.
Hello If anyone has any information, I would be grateful if you could let me know. My friend (she doesn't understand Japanese at all) is looking for an English-speaking gynecologist. Since she is looking for primary doctors I am thinking that a clinic in town, not a big hospital, would be better. The area we are looking for is around Mito City, Naka City, Hitachinaka City, Tokai Village, and Hitachi City in Ibaraki Prefecture. If anyone knows, please reply. Thank you
on Sep 4
3 Answers
What magazines with Japan content do you recommend reading?
The question is in the title. Do you recommend any online or printed magazines for lifestyle, culture, food, or language learning? Why do you recommend them?
on Aug 28