1. Language Skills: Although most exchange programs in Japan have classes taught in English, it is still essential to learn common phrases and expressions that will help you navigate daily life. Japanese can be a challenging language to learn, but simple phrases such as how to say excuse me, thank you, standard restaurant terms, and knowing how to order can help make it a much easier process. However, even with minimum Japanese language skills, people in Japan will do their best to help you. Translation apps are always helpful as well, with some photo apps allowing you to take photos of menus, or anything you may need to translate.
2. Cultural Etiquette: Japan has a rich cultural heritage with specific customs and etiquette. For example, bowing, not talking loudly in public spaces like the trains, and shrine etiquette. As a visitor it's important to be respectful and be aware of your surroundings.
3. Student Visa Requirements: Understand the visa application process and requirements. Mainly for Japan, it can take a few months to process all visa applications fully, so it is crucial to start early.
4. Cost of Living: Research and budget for the cost of living in your chosen city. Japan can be cheap in some areas, such as food at restaurants, but other expenses like getting around transportation and more can be expensive and add up over time. It is essential to research a budget.
5. Healthcare Insurance, and Residence Paperwork: All Japanese residents must sign up for national insurance; students should also be aware of additional documentation that must be completed upon arrival. Depending on your housing situation, a residence assistant can help students with the procedure. Even if a student is fluent in Japanese, it can still be a complicated process, so seek assistance from others.
6. Accommodation/Transportation: Understand the different housing options available, and how close those accommodations are to bus and train stations. Google Maps can help you choose the best route whether by bus, train, walking, or even taxi. Especially when it comes to picking somewhere to live, you want to know your commute to school, what main train lines are nearby, and what specific rules your place may have. Some student dormitories have curfews, or only allow students to be away from the dorm for a certain amount of time, so it is important to research the different rules.
7. Academic System: Before classes start, familiarize yourself with how your classes are run. Each school will have a unique online system they use for class registration, dorm registration, and assignments. Remember always to check the time difference, as class registration may occur before you enter Japan, and you want to ensure you submit any applications on time.
8. Garbage: One big thing about Japan is that public garbage bins are not standard unless you are at a conbini or big shopping center, Always carry a small bag to store waste you may keep throughout the day and to make sure to correctly dispose of them between combustible, burnable, plastic, and more based on where you live.
9. Emergency Contacts: The emergency contact is different in other countries. Familiarize yourself with the number you may need to contact if you are in danger and especially in Japan, where earthquakes are common knowing what to do; there are even special facilities in Japan that will stimulate an earthquake and teach you what you need to know.
10. Travel: Take advantage of your time to explore Japan. Research places you want to visit, and whether a location is suitable for a day or weekend trip. Some places only have buses and a few trains; others can use just the train. Doing research ahead of time; you may also save money. Many popular weekend trip places have discount passes; for example, Hakone has a Free Hakone Pass, where you pay a discounted price to ride the transportation in that area.
2. Cultural Etiquette: Japan has a rich cultural heritage with specific customs and etiquette. For example, bowing, not talking loudly in public spaces like the trains, and shrine etiquette. As a visitor it's important to be respectful and be aware of your surroundings.
3. Student Visa Requirements: Understand the visa application process and requirements. Mainly for Japan, it can take a few months to process all visa applications fully, so it is crucial to start early.
4. Cost of Living: Research and budget for the cost of living in your chosen city. Japan can be cheap in some areas, such as food at restaurants, but other expenses like getting around transportation and more can be expensive and add up over time. It is essential to research a budget.
5. Healthcare Insurance, and Residence Paperwork: All Japanese residents must sign up for national insurance; students should also be aware of additional documentation that must be completed upon arrival. Depending on your housing situation, a residence assistant can help students with the procedure. Even if a student is fluent in Japanese, it can still be a complicated process, so seek assistance from others.
6. Accommodation/Transportation: Understand the different housing options available, and how close those accommodations are to bus and train stations. Google Maps can help you choose the best route whether by bus, train, walking, or even taxi. Especially when it comes to picking somewhere to live, you want to know your commute to school, what main train lines are nearby, and what specific rules your place may have. Some student dormitories have curfews, or only allow students to be away from the dorm for a certain amount of time, so it is important to research the different rules.
7. Academic System: Before classes start, familiarize yourself with how your classes are run. Each school will have a unique online system they use for class registration, dorm registration, and assignments. Remember always to check the time difference, as class registration may occur before you enter Japan, and you want to ensure you submit any applications on time.
8. Garbage: One big thing about Japan is that public garbage bins are not standard unless you are at a conbini or big shopping center, Always carry a small bag to store waste you may keep throughout the day and to make sure to correctly dispose of them between combustible, burnable, plastic, and more based on where you live.
9. Emergency Contacts: The emergency contact is different in other countries. Familiarize yourself with the number you may need to contact if you are in danger and especially in Japan, where earthquakes are common knowing what to do; there are even special facilities in Japan that will stimulate an earthquake and teach you what you need to know.
10. Travel: Take advantage of your time to explore Japan. Research places you want to visit, and whether a location is suitable for a day or weekend trip. Some places only have buses and a few trains; others can use just the train. Doing research ahead of time; you may also save money. Many popular weekend trip places have discount passes; for example, Hakone has a Free Hakone Pass, where you pay a discounted price to ride the transportation in that area.