In a previous post (link), I shared the steps for applying to the NIMS-GRA (National Institute for Materials Science – Graduate Research Assistantship). In this post, I will continue sharing my experience after submitting the application for the NIMS-GRA program. Applying for NIMS-GRA Confirmation Email After applying, you will receive a confirmation email regarding the […]
NIMS-GRA application process Read More »
This time, I would like to share my experience enjoying a meal at Ali’s Kebab, a restaurant located near Otonuma Park, Tsuchiura. The location is easily accessible, and you can find it through this link. The restaurant is famous for its kebabs, which I find unique, offering three types of meat: chicken, lamb, and beef.
Tsuchiura – Ali’s Kebab Read More »
In February 2020, after returning from Mito to register my visa change from researcher to student, I decided to stop by Doho Park in Tsukuba. Upon arriving, I was surprised to see dozens of ducks gathering around an elderly man. It turned out that he was feeding the ducks, which numbered around fifty. This was
Unexpected Encounters: Ducks and an Elderly Man at Doho Park Read More »
In my previous post, I shared my experience transitioning from a researcher visa to a student visa. The process was simple; I just needed to visit the immigration office to register the visa change and then return on the designated date, which happened to be April 1st. That day was unforgettable for me. Upon arriving
A New Visa, A New Spring: My Journey Through Mito’s Cherry Blossoms Read More »
This time, I will share my personal experience of changing my visa from ‘researcher’ to ‘student’ in Japan. At the end of January 2020, I had the opportunity to come to Japan earlier, about two months before April. The purpose of this early arrival was to adapt to the new environment and become familiar with
My Experience Transitioning from Researcher to Student Visa in Japan Read More »
This time, I will share my experience of purchasing a phone number and data plan in Japan. In this digital era, life without the internet feels incomplete as all information can be accessed easily through it. While we can use laptops or computers with Wi-Fi, it’s not always practical. With a smartphone, everything becomes easier,
Choosing the Best Phone Provider in Japan: My Personal Experience Read More »
In this post, I will discuss how to find accommodation in Japan, whether it’s a house (一戸建て), apartment, or mansion. 1. Types of Accommodation in Japan If you are considering renting a house (一戸建て), the cost tends to be higher since you will be renting the entire building. A house offers more privacy and space—ideal
Renting in Japan: Everything You Need to Know About Housing Options Read More »
In this post, I want to share my experience of opening a bank account in Japan. Japan offers many bank options, and this time I’ll share my experience of opening accounts at three commonly used banks: Joyo Bank (常陽銀行), Yucho Bank (ゆうちょ銀行), and Sumitomo Bank (三井住友銀行). Choosing the Right Bank Choosing the right bank depends
How to Open a Bank Account in Japan: My Experience with Joyo, Yucho, and Sumitomo Banks Read More »
This time, I will discuss the importance and practicality of having a My Number Card (マイナンバーカード). Essentially, the My Number Card is an official identification card containing your personal tax number. This number is used for taxation purposes and other public services. In addition to taxation, the My Number Card can also be integrated into
Why You Should Have a My Number Card: Benefits and Practical Uses Read More »
In this post, I will share the mandatory procedures that must be done by newcomers to Japan. As an example, I will use the services at Tsukuba City Hall, but this procedure also applies in other cities with slight variations. Registering Your Address The first procedure you need to complete is registering your residential address.
Japan Newcomers’ Checklist: Address Registration and Health Insurance Made Easy Read More »
