Living in Japan

Introduction to Japanese culture, government, language, child care, and other elements of Japanese life.

Learning Japanese for Free: Great Online Tools

Learning Japanese Apps

There are a lot of great free online materials…

Art, Music, Culture, Dance Classes in English in Tokyo

Classes Tokyo

There are many classes and lessons in Tokyo av…

Osaka vs Tokyo - What are the differences?

Tokyo Osaka

Tokyo and Osaka are often compared. If you loo…

Driving on Japan’s Highways and Toll Roads

Cars

For those new to driving in Japan, using the highways and toll roads can be an exciting opportunity to see some of the best of the country’s destinations that public transportation doesn’t offer convenient access to. It can also be a daunting prospect if you aren’t used to the way Japanese roads work. This guide covers everything you need to know to have a fun and rewarding experience driving on Japan’s major roadways, including information and tips on everything highway related, including toll roads, road signs, accessing highways, and service stations.

By PLAZA HOMES

Japan Traffic Violations: Demerit Point System & Ticket Colors

Cars

Whether you have an international permit or a Japanese driver’s license, Japan’s driving rules remain the same — as do the punishments if you’re caught violating them. If you’re concerned about staying on the right side of the law while behind the wheel, keep reading to find out the basics on Japan’s traffic violations and ticketing system, so you don’t get caught unawares and possibly lose your license.

By PLAZA HOMES

Parking in Japan: What to Know before Getting on the Road

Cars

As with anywhere in the world, driving to any destination involves finding a parking spot for your vehicle. When driving in Japan, especially in highly populated cities like Tokyo, finding a parking spot make take some time and planning. Drivers who are new to Japan may also need to bear in mind parking rules and practices common to locals. This guide covers information and tips on parking signs, different places to park, rules, and parking etiquette, to help make the end of your journey a stress-free experience.

By PLAZA HOMES

Driving Stickers in Japand

Cars

Have you ever seen driving stickers on cars in Japan? There are very specific stickers that are required by law to be placed on cars belonging to certain classes of drivers. The reason you see these is because they are there to tell other drivers to be cautious around vehicles bearing these symbols.

By PLAZA HOMES

Japan's National Pension System

While Japan offers many protections for workin…

English-Speaking Chauffeur Service Providers in Tokyo

Cars Tokyo

While Tokyo's public transportation is convenient and inexpensive, there are times when you require persona…

Gas Stations in Japan - How to fill up

Cars

If you own a car or for whatever other reason need to drive in Japan, then you have no doubt become acquainted with the Japanese gas station. Originally, Japanese gas stations were full-service only, with a few attendants waiting around for customers and then providing their service energetically with a smile. Self-service gas stations are becoming more and more common these days.

By PLAZA HOMES