In pop culture, Japan may be internationally known for its unique gadgets – think toilets with too many button functions -, anime, and having enviably punctual trains; but what people don’t often associate Japan with are natural disasters. A disaster-prone country owing to its climate, topography, and unfortunate geographical location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan is no stranger to Mother Nature’s wrath. Throughout the year, the country …

Introduction The recent Covid-19 pandemic has seen people fall on hard times, whether it be a loss from a struggling business or loss from a job no longer available. The consequence of such losses can trigger other issues such as food insecurity, unemployment, and an inability to pay rent. In Japan, the government provides Jukyo Kakuho Kyufukin or Rent Relief Grants and Housing Security Benefits, which is a scheme …

When renting an apartment or house in Japan, unless utilities are included in the rent, it is customary for the tenant to be responsible for managing the utilities of the property. This includes making and signing contracts, paying the bills; and either transferring or terminating their accounts upon moving out as it is standard for utility contracts to be ongoing without a specific expiry date.

Many of us are now preparing our apartments for the colder months. This winter in particular it is very important to be as efficient as possible with keeping our homes warm. Since apartments in Japan don’t hold the heat or cold very well, it can make running the air-con heating a very expensive process. Warm clothes and layers of clothing will make a big difference. It’s also worth investing …