OHAYO Blog
Guides and stories about living in Tokyo, from the OHAYO team.
Jobs in JapanJapan Social Insurance and Pension Guide 2026 for International Students and Graduates Starting Work
A complete guide for foreign students and graduates starting employment in Japan in 2026, covering National Health Insurance cancellation, company social insurance, pension requirements, and lump-sum refunds.
Undergraduate admissionPart-Time Work Rules and Permission in Japan for International Students (2026)
Learn the official immigration rules, application requirements, required documents, prohibited jobs, and timelines for obtaining part-time work permission in Japan as an international student in 2026.
Language schools2026 Guide to Japanese Language School Scholarships for International Students in Japan
Learn about scholarships available to Japanese language school students in 2026, including JASSO Honors Scholarship eligibility, monthly amounts, and application procedures.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday 2026: Essential Post-Arrival Procedures and Rules for Newcomers
A guide for 2026 Japan working holiday makers on residence card issuance, work restrictions, special re-entry permits, and finding accommodation.
Jobs in JapanUnderstanding Work Visa Application Agency Renewal in Japan for 2026: A Guide for Foreign Staff and Graduates
Learn the official renewal process for application agent certificates in Japan for 2026, including deadlines, required documents, photo specifications, and submission rules.
Graduate schoolJapan Residence Permit Fee Changes 2026: Guide for Foreign Students and Researchers
Starting October 1, 2026, Japan introduced tiered fees for residence status applications and revised online payment options. Learn how the new duration-based rates and cashless methods affect international students and graduate researchers.
Undergraduate admission2026 EJU 2nd Session Domestic Venue Updates in Japan for International Students
JASSO has announced updated domestic examination venues for the 2nd session of the 2026 EJU on November 8, 2026. Learn about key dates, exam locations, subjects, and housing tips for international students in Japan.
Language schoolsResidence Card Damage and Replacement in Japan (2026): Guide for Students
Learn how international students and foreign residents in Japan can replace a damaged residence card or unreadable IC chip in 2026, including required documents, fees, and procedures.
Working holidayIreland to Japan Working Holiday Visa Guide for 2026: Eligibility, Quota, and Application
A complete guide for Irish citizens applying for the Japan Working Holiday visa in 2026, covering eligibility criteria, the 800-visa quota, document checklists, and arriving in Tokyo.
Jobs in JapanChanging Jobs and Residence Status in Japan: 2026 Guide for International Students and Graduates
A clear guide for international students and graduates in Japan on notifying immigration after changing jobs, applying for work status changes, and using Designated Activities for job hunting in 2026.
Graduate schoolJapan National Health Insurance Guide for International Graduate Students (2026)
A complete guide to Japan's National Health Insurance for international graduate students in 2026, covering enrollment procedures, premium reductions, coverage limits, and supplemental student insurance.
Undergraduate admission2026 Japanese Student Visa Guide: What to Do After University Acceptance in Japan
A step-by-step guide for international students entering Japanese universities in 2026, covering COE application, financial proof, visa issuance, and arrival procedures.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Visa for Hong Kong Residents in 2026: Quota, Eligibility, and Application Guide
A comprehensive 2026 guide to Japan's Working Holiday Scheme for Hong Kong residents, covering the 1,500 annual quota, age limits, prohibited jobs, resident cards, and initial housing steps.
Jobs in JapanJapan Internship Visa Rules in 2026: A Guide for Foreign Students
Learn the 2026 visa and status of residence requirements for unpaid and paid internships in Japan, whether you study at a Japanese university or an overseas institution.
Undergraduate admissionMeikai University Admissions 2026: Japanese Department Guide for International Students in Japan
Planning to apply to Meikai University's Department of Japanese in 2026? Learn about degree details, EJU and JLPT requirements, pre-arrival selection, and finding housing in Japan.
Language schoolsJapan Student Visa 2026: New Language Proficiency Rules for Tokyo & Japan Language Schools
In 2026, Japan revised language proficiency requirements for Student visa applicants. Studying 150 hours is no longer enough; test certificates or interviews are now mandatory.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Visa for German Citizens in 2026: Requirements and Application Guide
A comprehensive 2026 guide for German citizens applying for the Japan Working Holiday visa, covering age requirements, funding proof, document checklists, and practical tips for settling in Tokyo.
Jobs in JapanRenting a Home in Japan in 2026: Official Guidance for Foreign Workers and International Students
Preparing to move or work in Japan in 2026? Learn about housing structures, government resources from MLIT, disaster preparedness, and practical steps for foreign workers and students.
Graduate schoolJapan Higher Education Support Guide 2026: MEXT Tuition Rules for International Students
An overview of Japan's MEXT Higher Education Tuition Support System in 2026, covering designated eligible institutions, tuition reduction rules, and recent updates for prospective students.
Undergraduate admissionUnderstanding EJU Scoring and Japanese University Admissions (2026) for International Students
Learn how Japanese universities use EJU scores, how score equating works across sessions, and what English proficiency or entrance exam requirements international students face in 2026.
Language schoolsJapan Japanese Language School Training List 2026: Guide for Foreign Workers and Students
The Immigration Services Agency of Japan published a June 2026 survey list of Japanese language institutions for the new Nurturing Employment system starting in 2027. Learn about A1/A2 requirements, school accreditation types, and housing prep.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Visa for French Citizens in 2026: Quota, Eligibility, and Application Guide
Everything French youth need to know about Japan's working holiday visa in 2026: the 1,800 annual quota, age requirements, job restrictions, and application steps.
Jobs in JapanGuide to Japan's Highly Skilled Professional Visa and Points System in 2026 for International Students and Graduates
Learn how Japan's Highly Skilled Professional points system works in 2026. Discover the benefits, point calculation rules, and application steps for international graduates.
Graduate schoolA 2026 Guide to English-Taught Master's Programs in Japan for International Students
If you want to earn a graduate degree in Japan without speaking fluent Japanese, English-taught master's programs offer an excellent pathway. Learn about the costs, requirements, and steps to apply in 2026.
Undergraduate admissionGuide to 2026 EJU Exam Registration in Japan for International Students
Learn the exact dates, registration methods, photo requirements, and housing tips for the 2026 Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU).
University exchangeHousing Options in Japan for International Students in 2026: Dorms vs. Private Apartments
Planning your study abroad in Japan for 2026? Learn the differences between university dormitories and private apartments, including costs, guarantor requirements, and how to secure your housing.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Visa for Dutch Citizens: 2027 Applications Open in January (2026 Guide for Working Holiday Makers)
The application window for the 2027 Japan-Netherlands Working Holiday Visa opens on January 4, 2027. Learn about the eligibility requirements, document checklist, and application steps.
Jobs in JapanMoving to Japan in 2026: Residence Card, Address Registration, and Housing Guide for International Graduates
Starting a new job in Japan in 2026? Learn the essential steps for registering your address, obtaining your residence card, and planning your housing timeline.
Graduate schoolNavigating the Student Visa Process for Japan Graduate Studies in 2026: A Guide for International Students
Planning your graduate studies in Japan for 2026? Learn about the student visa application process, the role of the Certificate of Eligibility (COE), required documents, and how to prepare for your move.
Undergraduate admissionApplying to Japanese Universities in 2026: A Guide to EJU, Exams, and Admission for International Students
Planning to enter a Japanese university in 2026? Learn about the EJU exam dates, registration timelines, tested subjects, and scholarship opportunities for international students.
Language schoolsExtending Your Stay in Japan in 2026: How to Change Your Student Status of Residence
Learn how to transition from a student visa to a work or job-hunting visa in Japan in 2026. Discover the required documents, timelines, and steps to extend your stay.
Working holidayJapan's 2026 Working Holiday Visa Guide for Maltese Citizens and Young Travelers
Starting January 1, 2026, Japan and Malta launch a new Working Holiday partnership. Learn about the eligibility criteria, application steps, and rules for Maltese citizens.
Jobs in JapanGuide to Japan's National Pension and Student Exemptions in 2026 for International Students and Graduates
Learn how to navigate Japan's National Pension system in 2026. This guide covers enrollment rules, student payment exemptions, and transitioning your status when you start working.
Graduate schoolWorking in Japan After a Master's or Doctoral Degree: Status of Residence Options in 2026 for International Graduate Students
Discover the main work visa options and job-hunting extensions available in 2026 for international students completing a master's or doctoral degree in Japan.
Undergraduate admission2026 Guide for International Students: Visa, Arrival, and Housing in Japan
Preparing to study in Japan in 2026? Learn the exact timeline for your student visa, arrival procedures, resident registration, and how to secure housing before you land.
Language schoolsTransitioning from Japanese Language School to University or Vocational School in Japan: A 2026 Guide for International Students
Learn how to transition from a Japanese language school to a university or vocational school in Japan in 2026. Discover the required Japanese proficiency levels, student visa procedures, and essential life steps.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Visa Guide 2026: UK Youth Mobility Rules and Tokyo Housing
Planning a working holiday in Japan from the UK in 2026? Learn about the updated two-year rule, eligibility criteria, application steps, and how to secure your Tokyo apartment.
Jobs in JapanHow Japan's New 2026 Employment Subsidies Benefit International Students and Graduates
Learn how the October 1, 2026 revisions to Japan's employment environment subsidy encourage companies to offer multilingual support, regular check-ins, and better retention plans for international graduates.
Graduate schoolArriving as an International Research Student in Tokyo: Your 2026 Guide to Visas, Registration, and Housing
A comprehensive 2026 guide for international research students arriving in Tokyo, covering Student visa timelines, airport procedures, resident registration, and finding a place to live.
Undergraduate admission2026 Guide to Undergraduate Scholarships in Japan for International Students
Learn how to secure undergraduate scholarships in Japan for 2026, including the MEXT scholarship, JASSO honors program, application timelines, and exam requirements.
University exchangeExtending Your Study or Switching Programs in Japan: A 2026 Guide for International Students
Planning to extend your exchange program or switch to a full degree in Japan? Learn about the 2026 procedures for updating your status of residence, notifying authorities, managing scholarships, and finding housing.
Language schoolsMoving to Tokyo in 2026: A Step-by-Step Timeline for Language School Students
Planning to study at a Japanese language school in Tokyo in 2026? Learn the complete timeline from receiving your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and applying for your Student visa to registering your address and setting up health insurance.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Guide 2026: Housing, Residence Cards, and Address Registration
Planning a working holiday in Japan in 2026? Learn how to register your address, obtain your residence card, and find the perfect furnished monthly apartment in Tokyo.
Jobs in JapanSpecified Skilled Worker Status in Japan: 2026 Guide to Requirements and Exams
Planning to work in Japan? Learn about the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa requirements, language tests, and 2026 exam schedules for international graduates.
Graduate schoolGuide to October 2026 Graduate School Admission in Japan for International Students
Planning to enter a Japanese graduate school for the October 2026 term? Learn about academic requirements, English-taught programs, tuition costs, and how to find a thesis advisor.
Undergraduate admissionPlanning Your Higher Education in Japan: 2026 Tuition and Admission Guide
Planning to study in Japan in 2026? Learn about the official tuition fees for national, public, and private universities, along with key academic and language requirements for international students.
University exchangePart-Time Work Rules for Exchange Students in Japan (2026 Guide)
Planning to work part-time while studying in Japan? Learn about the essential Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted, working hour limits, and realistic earning expectations for 2026.
Language schoolsGuide to JLPT Registration and Test Dates in Japan (2026)
Planning to take the JLPT in Japan? Learn the step-by-step registration process through JEES, key updates on CEFR levels, certificate fees, and test structures for 2026.
Working holidayCanada to Japan Working Holiday: 2026 Guide to Eligibility and Application
Planning a working holiday in Japan from Canada in 2026? Learn about the age limits, required savings, document checklist, and how to apply for this visa.
Jobs in JapanJapan's 2026 Immigration Fee Revisions: What International Students and Job Hunters Need to Know
Starting October 1, 2026, Japan's Immigration Services Agency has revised fees for residence status changes, extensions, and permanent residency. Learn about the new rates, cashless payment options for online applications, and fee reduction guidelines for students and job hunters.
Graduate schoolFunding for Doctoral Students in Japan: 2026 Guide to Scholarships, RA, and TA
Planning to pursue a graduate degree in Japan? Discover how you can fund your studies in 2026 through the MEXT Research Scholarship, Research Assistant (RA) positions, and Teaching Assistant (TA) roles.
Undergraduate admissionSecuring Your Japanese University Spot from Abroad: EJU Pre-Arrival Admission Guide for 2026
Learn how to secure your Japanese university admission from abroad in 2026 using the EJU pre-arrival system, including exam schedules, locations, and scholarship options.
University exchangeGuide to Student Visa and Entry Procedures for Japan in 2026
Planning to study in Japan in 2026? Learn about the 'Student' status of residence, essential application steps, and critical updates, including the new photo requirements.
Language schoolsKey Changes to Japan's Residence Fees in 2026
The Immigration Services Agency has revised fees for residence status changes and extensions starting October 1, 2026. Learn how these changes affect students and job seekers.
Working holidayNew Zealand to Japan Working Holiday in 2026: Eligibility, Age Limit, Quota, and How to Apply
A comprehensive guide for New Zealand citizens applying for the Japan Working Holiday Visa in 2026, covering eligibility, age limits, required documents, and application steps.
Working holidayAustralia to Japan Working Holiday Visa 2026: Eligibility, Documents and Processing
Australians can get a free Japanese working holiday visa with no annual cap. Age rules, the document list, funds needed and how the six-month stay works.
Working holidaySouth Korea to Japan Working Holiday Visa 2026: Quota, Quarterly Rounds and How to Apply
Korea-Japan working holiday: 10,000 visas a year, four rounds in 2026, agency-only filing. Round 4 runs Oct 12-16 with results on Nov 24.
Working holidayTaiwan to Japan Working Holiday Visa 2026: 10,000 Places, Dates and Application Steps
Taiwan's Japan working holiday has 10,000 places a year. The 2026 second-half window runs Oct 19-30 in Taipei and Kaohsiung. Here is how it works.
Working holidayJapan Working Holiday Visa 2026: 32 Partner Countries, Age Limits and How to Apply
As of April 2026, Japan runs working holiday programs with 32 countries and regions. Who qualifies, annual caps, stay length and where to apply.
Undergraduate admissionMEXT Scholarship for Undergraduate Students (2027 Intake): Eligibility, Selection and Timeline
MEXT's undergraduate scholarship covers tuition, airfare and 117,000 yen a month. Who can apply for 2027, how embassy selection works, and key dates.
Undergraduate admissionEJU 2026 Exam Dates, Registration Windows and Test Sites (and What We Know About 2027)
The second 2026 EJU is on Sunday, November 8, with results on December 15. Full 2026 dates, sites, fees and the status of 2027 dates.
Undergraduate admissionWhat Is the EJU? Subjects, Scoring and Which Universities Use It (2026)
The EJU tests academic Japanese and basic subjects for university entry. Here is how its four subjects, scaled scores and two-year validity work.
Undergraduate admissionGetting Into a Japanese University as an International Student: Admission Route and 12-Month Timeline
Eligibility, documents, selection methods and a month-by-month plan for entering a Japanese undergraduate program, based on official Study in Japan guidance.
Language schoolsHow to Choose a Japanese Language School Safely in 2026: Official Lists and What Accreditation Means
Only schools on ISA's designated list or MEXT's accredited list can sponsor a Student visa. How to check them and what accreditation guarantees.
Language schoolsPart-Time Work as an International Student in Japan: Work Permission and the 28-Hour Rule
Students need work permission before any part-time job. Learn the 28-hour weekly cap, the 8-hour vacation rule and how to apply at the airport.
Language schoolsFirst Steps in Japan as a Student: Residence Card, Address Registration and Health Insurance
Register your address within 14 days and join National Health Insurance in the same visit. A step-by-step guide for newly arrived students.
Language schoolsJapanese Language School in 2026: Intake Periods and the Certificate of Eligibility Process
Language schools start in April and October, or four times a year. Here is how the school-filed CoE works and why you must start months early.
Jobs in JapanFree Public Job Support for International Students in Japan: Employment Service Centers for Foreigners and Hello Work (2026)
Japan's labour ministry runs free job centers for international students in four cities, plus Hello Work student corners. What they offer and how to use them.
Jobs in JapanStill Job Hunting After Graduation? Japan's Designated Activities Status Explained (2026)
No job offer by graduation? Under ISA rules, eligible graduates can switch to Designated Activities and keep job hunting for up to a year, sometimes two.
Jobs in JapanFrom Student to Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services: How the Status Change Works (2026–2027)
A job offer is only half the process. What the change from Student to a work status involves, when to apply for an April start, and what changed in 2025–2026.
Jobs in JapanJob Hunting in Japan as an International Student: Timeline and Official Support (2027–2028 Graduates)
Japanese companies hire new graduates on a shared calendar that starts over a year before graduation. Here is the timeline and where to get free help.
Graduate schoolContacting a Prospective Supervisor in Japan: What Official Guidance Says and What to Prepare
In Japan you usually find your own supervisor first. What to prepare, what to say, and the special contact rules for MEXT embassy applicants.
Graduate schoolMEXT Scholarship for Research Students (2027): Eligibility, Embassy vs University Recommendation and Timeline
Who can apply for MEXT's 2027 Research Student scholarship, what it pays, and how the embassy and university recommendation routes and timelines differ.
Graduate schoolHow Graduate School Entrance Exams Work in Japan: Eligibility, Documents, Exams and Intakes
There is no national exam: each graduate school runs its own selection. The usual steps from eligibility to documents, exams and April or fall intake.
Graduate schoolResearch Student or Direct Master's Admission? Two Routes into Graduate School in Japan
Research students (kenkyusei) are non-degree students; master's students earn a degree. How the two routes differ, connect and suit different applicants.
University exchangeNational Health Insurance for International Students in Japan: Enrollment, Coverage and Costs (2026)
Staying in Japan three months or more? How students join National Health Insurance within 14 days, what the 30% copay covers, premiums and the cost cap.
University exchangeJASSO Student Exchange Support Program 2026: 80,000 Yen a Month for Short-term Exchange in Japan
JASSO pays 80,000 yen a month, not repayable, to selected exchange students on approved 8-day to 1-year programs. Eligibility, selection and 2026 figures.
University exchangeMEXT Scholarship for Japanese Studies Students: Eligibility, Routes and the 2026 Timeline
MEXT's Japanese Studies track funds about a year in Japan. Eligibility, embassy vs. university routes, the 117,000-yen stipend and the 2026 timeline.
University exchangeComing to Japan as a University Exchange Student: How It Differs From Degree Study (2026)
How exchange study in Japan differs from degree study: the five short-term formats, typical lengths, Student status rules and part-time work limits.
Where to Stay in Tokyo for a Month: Neighborhoods by Median Monthly Price (2026)
A neighborhood guide for a 30-night stay in Tokyo, organized by the median all-in price of furnished monthly apartments in each ward in our 2026 snapshot, from about ¥100,000 in Koenji to whole houses in Shinagawa.
No Key Money, No Guarantor: What You Actually Pay for a Furnished Monthly Apartment in Tokyo
A line-by-line breakdown of the upfront cost of a furnished monthly apartment in Tokyo, with a worked example, compared with the key money, deposits, agency and guarantor fees of a conventional lease.
Monthly Apartment vs Hotel vs Airbnb vs Share House in Tokyo: What 30 Nights Really Costs (2026)
Staying in Tokyo for a month? Here is how the four ways to book compare on the total bill, space, paperwork and flexibility, using median 2026 prices from furnished monthly apartments by Tokyo ward.
Minato Area Guide: Living in Tokyo's Dynamic Heart
Discover Minato, Tokyo's premier district for monthly stays. Explore its iconic landmarks, diverse dining, and seamless transit options.
A Guide to Ota: Tokyo's Gateway of Hot Springs and Culture
Discover Ota, Tokyo's southernmost ward. From historic temples and black-water hot springs to easy airport access, find your perfect monthly stay.
Toshima Area Guide: Living in Tokyo's Dynamic Hub
Discover Toshima, a dynamic Tokyo ward blending the bustling hub of Ikebukuro with the historic charm of Sugamo, perfect for your mid-term stay.
A Local Guide to Itabashi: Tokyo's Charming Northern Ward
Explore Itabashi, one of Tokyo's most affordable residential wards. Discover its historic shopping streets, lush green spaces, and vibrant local culture.
Shinjuku Area Guide: Tokyo Living for Monthly Guests
Discover Shinjuku's best sights, dining, and shopping. Learn how to navigate Tokyo's most vibrant hub during your mid-term stay with OHAYO.
Shinagawa Area Guide: Tokyo's Gateway of Heritage and Innovation
Discover Shinagawa, where Tokyo's historic post-town heritage meets cutting-edge developments like Takanawa Gateway City and convenient transit.
Edogawa Ward Guide: Nature, Culture, and Local Life in Tokyo
Discover Edogawa, Tokyo's green eastern ward. From waterfront parks to "Little India" and convenient transit, find out why it is perfect for mid-term stays.
Suginami Area Guide: Tokyo's Creative and Cultural Hub
Discover Suginami, a vibrant Tokyo ward home to vintage fashion, legendary ramen, and historic shrines, perfect for your next mid-term stay.
Discover Nerima: Tokyo's Green Haven of Anime and Magic
Explore Nerima, Tokyo's greenest ward. Home to the Harry Potter studio tour, legendary anime history, lush parks, and local farming experiences.
Taito Area Guide: Tokyo's Historic Heart for Monthly Renters
Discover Taito, Tokyo's cultural heart. From historic temples in Asakusa to the vibrant streets of Ueno, explore this guide for mid-term renters.
Sumida Area Guide: Living in Tokyo's Historic East Side
Discover Sumida, Tokyo's vibrant neighborhood blending historic charm and modern icons. Here is your complete guide to living in Sumida for a month or more.
Tokyo Monthly Apartments: A Beginner's Guide to Mid-Term Stays
Discover how easy it is to rent a monthly apartment in Tokyo. Learn about the move-in process, daily living tips, and finding your home on OHAYO.