Partner Universities in Japan
Name of university
Location,
Main campus
Number of
students/
Japanese
Number
of
students/
Inter
National*
From
Average cost of
living(rent 1 room
with a kitchen/
monthly, Euro)**
1
Takasaki City University
of Economics
Gunma
4,196
168
INTB
275 (city)
303 (station)
2
Rikkyo University
Tokyo,
Ikebukuro campus
20,890
536
ALIS
588
3
Sophia University
Tokyo,
Yotsuya campus
12,832
967
ALIS
692
4
Toyo University
Tokyo,
Hakusan campus
29,200
423
ALIS
562
5
Kanazawa University
Ishikawa,
Kakuma campus
10,394
497
ALIS
333(city)
411(station)
6
Doshisha University
Kyoto,
Imadegawa campus
28,899
1,292
ALIS
374
7
Kyoto University of
Foreign Studies
Kyoto
4,620
181
ALIS
336
8
Ritsumeikan University
Kyoto,
Kinugasa campus
35,204
1,194
ALIS
330
9
Kobe University
Hyogo,
Rokkodai campus
16,581
1,132
ALIS/
INTB
410
10
University of Tokushima
Tokushima,
Shinkura campus
7,644
226
ALIS
295
*
**
The number of international students includes exchange students.
Average cost of living is calculated by the standard estate agent, not limited to international students only.
The rate of Euro is as of 10th January 2014. (1 euro is 142.73 yen). Also, the rent of a property is decided by
the conditions, such as “distance from the station”, “age of the property”, “surrounding environment”,
“sunlight exposure” and “building structure construction”.
Location of Partner Universities
Japan is 9 hours
Ahead of Ireland
(No Summertime in Japan)
Map of JAPAN
Distance between Ireland and Japan
Miles: 6000 / Kilometers: 9500 (approx)
14 hours by flight without transfer (approx)
Kanazawa University
-Kakuma campus-
Kansai Region
Komatsu Airport
Kanto Region
Haneda Airport
Tokushima Airport
Narita Airport
Kansai Int’l Airport
<from Kansai (ex.Kyoto) to Kanazawa>
approx: 3 hours by train
<from Kanto (ex.Tokyo) to Kanazawa>
approx : 4 hours by train / 1 hour by air
<from Kanto (ex.Tokyo) to Kansai (ex.Osaka)>
approx: 2 hours 30 min by train(Bullet train) / 1 hour by air
Partner Universities
1
Takasaki City University of Economics
2
Rikkyo University
3
Sophia University
4
Toyo University
5
Kanazawa University
6
Doshisha University
7
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies
8
Ritsumeikan University
9
Kobe University
10 University of Tokushima
Principal Access (mainly, summary)
By train and Bullet train from Narita Airport.
By train or bus from Narita Airport.
By bus from Komatsu Airport, or
By train or bus from Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya, or
By Bullet train from Tokyo (debut in 2015).
By train or bus from Kansai International Airport, or
By Bullet train from Tokyo.
By train or bus from Kansai International Airport, or
By Bullet train from Tokyo.
By train or bus from Kansai International Airport, or
By airplane from Haneda Airport or the others.
Japan’s biggest international airport is Narita Airport in Chiba Prefecture (located near Tokyo), followed by
Kansai (Osaka), Haneda (Tokyo), Nagoya (Aichi Prefecture) and Fukuoka (Fukuoka Prefecture).
Kanto Region
Takasaki City University of Economics
Tokyo Area
Rikkyo University
-Ikebukuro campus-
Sophia University
-Yotsuya campusToyo University
-Hakusan campus-
Kansai Region
University of Tokushima
-Shinkura campus-
Kobe University
-Rokkodai campus-
Kyoto Area
Ritsumeikan University
-Kinugasa campus-
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies
Doshisha University
-Imadegawa campus-
Outline of the area
Takasaki City University of Economics –TCUE–
-Takasaki CityTakasaki is a city in Gunma Prefecture, and has a population of 380,000. One of only eight landlocked prefectures in
Japan, Gunma is the northwest prefecture of the Kanto plain. Takasaki is a regional transportation hub because its
main train station, Takasaki Station, is the junction of several rail lines as well as Shinkansen (Bullet train) stop. It
takes only one hour from Tokyo. Takasaki is also famous as the hometown of the Daruma doll, theoretically
representing the Buddhist sage Bodhidharma and in modern practice a symbol of good luck.
Takasaki is situated in inland Japan, the difference in temperature in the summer compared to the winter is large,
and there is less precipitation. This is because of the kara-kaze(“empty wind”), a strong, dry wind which occurs in the
winter when the snow falls on the coasts of Niigata(neighbouring prefecture). The wind carrying clouds with snow
are obstructed by the mountains, and it also snows there, although the high peaks do no let the wind go past them.
For this reason, the wind changes into the kara-kaze.
Rikkyo, Sophia, Toyo University
-TokyoTokyo is the capital of Japan. At over 12 million people in the official metropolitan area alone, Tokyo is the core of
the most populated urban area in the world. This huge, wealthy and fascinating metropolis brings high-tech visions
of the future side with glimpses of old Japan. Tokyo’s districts vary wildly by character, from the electronic blare of
Akihabara to the Imperial gardens and shrines of Chiyoda, from the hyperactive youth culture mecca of Shibuya to
the pottery shops and temple markets of Asakusa. Tokyo is classified as lying in the humid subtropical climate zone
and has four distinct seasons. Summers are usually hot and humid with a temperature range of about 25-30C (86100F), though it can sometimes climb into the middle thirties. Winters are usually mild, with temperatures generally
ranging from 0-10C (32-50F), though occasional cold spells can send temperatures plummeting below zero at night.
Snow is rare, but on those rare occasions (once every few years) when Tokyo is hit by a snowstorm, much of the
train network grinds to a halt. The famous cherry blossoms bloom in March-April.
Kanazawa University
-Kanazawa cityKanazawa, the biggest city in the Hokuriku region has a population of 463,000, and is a castle town that was ruled
over by the Maeda family for three centuries. The development of its special products like rice, sake, sweets, was
due to its temperate and rainy climate with heavy snow in winter. The city is surrounded by the Japan Alps, Hakusan
National Park and Noto Peninsula National park. Two rivers run through the city; the Sai is said to be a lively
masculine river and the Asano to be a sweet, feminine river. Such a natural background of great beauty gives the city
a relaxed feeling. Since the Kaga Clan invited many artists and craftmen to this area, it achieved a high level of
craftsmanship that continues to flourish to this day. The buildings that gave birth to these traditions stand tranquilly
and blend in with the modern atmosphere in Kanazawa to create a charming ancient castle town. In 2015, a new
bullet train will connect Kanazawa with Tokyo. The new train will cut the travel time from 4 hours including transfers,
to 2 hours 30 minutes without any transfers.
Kanazawa’s weather is temperate though rainy. Average temperatures are slightly cooler than those of Tokyo
though, with means approximately 4C (39F) in January, 15C (59F) in April, 25C (77F) in July and August, 15C (59F) in
October, and 5C (41F) in December. The city is distinctly wet, with an average humidity of 73% and 193 rainy days in
an average year.
Doshisha, Kyoto University of Foreign Studies-KUFS-,
Ritsumeikan University
-KyotoKyoto, the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, is well known throughout the world as a repository of Japanese art and
cultural tradition. Kyoto is home to some of Japan's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some of which
are located right at the doorstep of Ritumeikan University, Doshisha University and KUFS. Traditional Japanese
festivals including the “Gion Matsuri”, one of Japan's largest and most famous, are held in Kyoto every year. The city
enjoys a harmonious blend of the ancient and the modern, allowing students the opportunity to experience all
aspects of Japanese culture and society. In addition to being a base of traditional industry, higher education, and
tourism, Kyoto is also home to a number of cutting-edge high tech companies such as KYOCERA Corporation and
Nintendo to name a few.
Japan has four distinct seasons and Kyoto is one of a few places that have clearer differences than other places of
the archipelago. Generally, it is very hot in summer and cold in winter. It is also humid in summer. They say that they
have less wind in summer and feel hotter than the actual temperature, which can get close to 40C (the maximum
temperature recorded in August, 2013 was 39.0 degrees C, or 102.2 degrees F). In winter, the temperature
frequently goes below freezing and snow flies occasionally.
Kobe University
-Kobe cityThe City of Kobe is located to the west of centre on the Mainland of Japan. It is accessible by land, sea, and air to
domestic and international destinations. It takes 2 hours and 50 minutes to get to Tokyo by Shinkansen (Bullet
Train), and 1 hour and 20 minutes by plane. Within easy reach of Kobe, there are several famous cities with many
historical sites and spots of interest, such as Himeji, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. Ever since it was opened to the world,
Kobe has developed as a cosmopolitan port city where people, goods, and information from around the globe are in
constant motion. Now, Kobe has a population of 1.5 million including 45,000 foreign residents from as many as 115
different countries, and is well known throughout Japan as being an "international city." With diverse population of
foreign residents and the resulting facilities and amenities established by and for such foreign communities, Kobe is
uniquely qualified to support a comfortably refined lifestyle for any individual from any country. Sandwiched by Mt.
Rokko in the north and the Inland Sea of Seto in the South, Kobe is endowed with its overall mild climate averaging
16.7C (62.0F) with four seasonal changes.
University of Tokushima
-Tokushima areaNaruto City, located near Tokushima City, has a long suspension bridge that connects Shikoku with Awaji Island.
Tokushima was connected with Honshu by the Akashi Straits Bridge in 1998. Naruto is also famous for great
whirlpools which result from the rapid tidal currents in the Naruto Straits. Tokushima Prefecture is widely known for
the “Awa Odori,” the leading summer dance festival in Japan. “Awa Odori” brings the streets of Tokushima to life
every summer, from August 12 to 15. The climate of Tokushima Prefecture is relatively mild, but varies due to its
north-south length of 100 km. The northern area, including Tokushima City where the university is located, features
the warm and dry “Setonaikai” (Inland Sea) climate with annual precipitation of less than 1,500 mm. The southern
area with its beautiful coastlines features the warm and wet “Pacific Ocean” climate. The alpine area of the Shikoku
Mountains with Mount Tsurugi in the centre features the cold and wet Sea of Japan climate (mountain climate). It
sometimes snows in winter.
Matters worthy of special mention
Immigration Procedures (Pre Departure)
-What you needThe official offer pack from University you have been accepted into
A valid passport
Visa from Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Ireland
-Status of residenceStatus of residence is categorized according to types of activities, statuses and positions that foreign residents are
allowed to undertake in Japan. There are 27 types of statuses of residence and the following is the one which is
applicable to international exchange students for study in Japan.
Type of educational institution: Exchange programs (less than 1 year)
Status of residence:
College Student
Term of residence:
1 year and 3 months / 1 year / 6 months
-Applying for visasVisas can be applied through the procedure outlined below.
When there is a “certificate of eligibility for a status of residence” issued
Before applying for a visa, students intending to study in Japan will have their Japanese host university apply for the
“certificate of eligibility for a status of residence” on behalf of the student. This is issued to them at Regional
Immigration Bureaus in Japan. With this “certificate of eligibility” in hand, students will then personally apply for
visas at the Japanese Embassy in Ireland. The “certificate of eligibility for a status of residence” is a necessary
document and a visa will not be issued without it.
Immigration Procedures (After Arrival)
-Non-Japanese RegistrationForeigners who plan to stay in Japan for more than 90 days are required to apply for the Non-Japanese Registration
Card within 90 days from the date of entry in Japan, at the city/ward office in the area you are residing in.
1 - Registration procedures
Applications must be personally made at the ward/municipal office of their respective areas by filling in the NonJapanese Registration form and attaching 2 copies of photographs.
2 - Duty to carry the Non-Japanese Registration Card at all times and duty to return it upon permanent exit from Japan
The Non-Japanese Registration Card has to be collected within the specified time as notified during the application.
It is important that this Card is carried at all times and presented to authorized officials such as immigration officials
or police officers when requested. Except when re-entry into Japan has been approved, it must be surrendered to
the immigration officer at the port of exit.
3 - Permission for engaging in activities outside the status of residence scope
The “College Student” status of residence is granted for the sole purpose of studying in Japan and as such does not
permit work. If planning to work part-time, a written consent from your host university must be obtained before
applying for “Permission to Engage in Activities other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence Previously
Granted” at the nearest Regional Immigration Bureau.
4- Procedures for temporary exit from Japan
Students in Japan planning to return to Ireland or visit other countries for a short period during their term of
residence must apply for a re-entry permit at Regional Immigration Bureaus before leaving Japan. Pay attention to
this requirement because failure to do so will necessitate you to apply for another visa at an oversea Japanese
Embassy or Consulate.
5- Extending term of residence
Term of residence must be extended at Regional Immigration Bureaus when planning to stay in Japan longer than
the term of residence initially applied for during the entry into Japan. (Usually, applications are received 2 months
before its expiration). Illegally remaining in Japan will result in punishment and deportation.
Living Cost and Price
How much will clothes, food, housing and miscellaneous expenses cost me in Japan? What if I become sick? Will the
lifestyle be that different? Just thinking of these makes you worried? You may experience wave of discoveries,
surprises or bewilderments from the moment you step into Japan until you are used to it.
1- Currency and price of goods
The Japanese currency is the Yen (¥). The 4 denomination of bills are ¥10,000, ¥5,000, ¥2,000 and ¥1,000 while the
6 denominations of coins are ¥500, ¥100, ¥50, ¥10, ¥5 and ¥1. Cash payment is common in Japan though many
shops do accept credit cards. Cheques are not normally used in Japan for payment of everyday expenses.
Note1: Exchange of major currencies can be done at banks handling foreign currency exchange.
The exchange rate is standard at any bank.
Note2: The Japanese Government confirmed they will raise the consumption tax from April 2014.
This means the prices may increase in 2014.
Japan is well-known as one of the countries with an expensive cost of living. The following is a few examples of the
average of cost. (Calculated at 1 euro = ¥142)
Restaurant (amount) / Average (euro)
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurants
/ 5.88
Combo Meal at McDonalds or Similar
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course
/ 29.42
Cappuccino (regular)
Domestic Beer (0.5liter draught)
/ 2.88
Coke/Water (0.33liter bottle)
Imported Beer (0.33liter bottle)
/ 3.47
Guinness (1pint)
/ 4.60
/ 2.59
/ 0.94/0.76
/ 6.34
General supermarket Items (amount) / Average (euro)
Milk (regular), (1liter)
/ 1.30
Lettuce (1head)
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)
/ 1.29
Water (1.5liter bottle)
Rice (white), (1kg)
/ 3.27
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)
Eggs (12)
/ 1.48
Domestic Beer (0.5liter bottle)
Local Cheese (1kg)
/ 10.84
Imported Beer (0.33liter bottle)
Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless), (1kg) / 5.70
Toilet paper (12roles)
Apples (1kg)
/ 3.77
Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro)
Oranges (1kg)
/ 3.28
Movie ticket
Tomato (1kg)
/ 3.88
Starbucks (Grande coffee)
Potato (1kg)
/ 2.21
Starbucks (Venti Coffee Frappiccino)
/ 1.35
/ 0.96
/ 9.35
/ 2.02
/ 2.25
/ 2.24
/ 3.07
/ 12.69
/ 2.67
/ 3.52
2 - Cost of Living
The average monthly expenses of an international student (including all students) are shown below. The cost of
living in Tokyo is significantly higher than those in other cities. National Average ¥138,000 is 977 euro per month.
*The exact living costs will depend on the lifestyle of students.
Part time work
Based on a survey conducted by JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization), about 76% of international students
having the “College Students” status of residence are working part-time, a large portion works in the food service
industry, followed by sales and marketing, language teacher, clerical work, and others. The hourly wage varies
according to locations but those working in food services are getting about ¥800 to ¥1,200 (5.64 to 8.46 euro) an
hour. Assuming that the maximum of 28 hours a week is fully used up to work; their earning will be around ¥22,400
to ¥33,600 (158 to 236 euro). To work part-time, you must first obtain your university’s consent and receive the
approval to engage in activities outside the scope of your status of residence from the nearest Regional Immigration
Bureau. Upon obtaining these approval you may work part-time under the conditions that.
(Working part-time without having necessary approvals, exceeding the permitted number of hours or working
outside of the permissible scope will get you penalized and/or deported.)
(1) the part-time work does not affect your studies.
(2) the earned income is meant to supplement your academic cost and necessary expenses and not for
saving or for remittance overseas.
(3) the part-time work engaged in is not in adult entertainment businesses.
(4) the part-time work is within the permitted number of hours as below,
University: number of hours = within 28 hours a week (up to 8 hours a day during long school holidays)
You may get information at your university or at “Hello Work” public employment security offices on available parttime positions.
Accommodation
Accommodation options for international students are diverse. There are accommodations operated by JASSO
(Japan Student Services Organization) and student housing operated by local governments and universities. About
76.8% of international students stay in private housing. When looking for private housing, you can inquire from your
university’s international student office or you may get a real estate agent to look for a place in the area you plan to
stay in. The data of below is a reference data.
Japanese lifestyle and housing has become more westernized throughout the years. Despite these changes,
Japanese still remove their shoes at the main entrance and many houses still maintain the multi-purpose room called
the “Washitsu” (Japanese room).
Though most rooms are not furnished, those facing south or with windows on the east side fetches higher rent
because it is warmer and brighter. Other determining factors are its distance from the train station and age of the
building. The “shiki-kin” (returnable deposit) and “rei-kin” (non-returnable fee) system differ by area. When the
rental contract is signed, the rent, “shiki-kin” and “rei-kin” equivalent to a few months of rent must be paid.
Money Matters
-No tippingThere is no tipping in any situation in Japan, taxi, restaurants, personal care.
-BankBanks in Japan operate similarly to banks in other countries. There are a variety of institutions, ranging from large
international banks to smaller regional ones. The large domestic banks include Japan Postal Bank, Mizuho, TokyoMitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo, Resona, Citibank and Shinsei Bank. Furthermore, several online banks, most notably
Seven Bank, have recently gained popularity and offer their customers banking via the internet and a network of
ATMs. Banks provide their customers with services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, transfers, foreign exchange
and investment services. Most banks are open from 9:00 to 15:00, and close on weekends and national holidays.
ATMs tend to have longer operating hours and tend to be available on weekends and holidays. An increasing
number of ATMs are available 24 hours.
Opening an Account: Foreign residents can open a bank account as long as they hold a Residence Card. Some banks
may require a personal seal [In Western countries, it is common to put a signature on documents, but in Japan, you
usually have to stamp your personal seal (called an “inkan” or a “Hanko”) instead. Although there are many
instances where signatures are accepted recently, for the majority of important documents your seal will definitely
be required even if you have signed your name. In Japan, there is a “hanko-ya” (seal shop), where you can have your
seal made, in every town. A seal cost anywhere around ¥1,000 (around 7 euro) and take about 1 week to make.
When making a seal for yourself, you will need to use the Japanese letter (Japanese syllabary) for your last name.].
Only signatures are accepted at some banks. Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open an account and
do not charge a fee to maintain it. Interest rates on regular accounts are very low, often fractions of a percent. Once
you have applied, your bank book and ATM card will be sent via mail. Conversely, you can close your account in
person at any branch with your cash card, bank book, residence card and personal seal (if required).
Bank Transfers (“Furikomi”): Electronic bank transfers (“furikomi”) are one of the key services offered by Japanese
banks. They are a very common way for individuals and businesses to transfer money between each other and to
pay bills. Transfers can be made at the teller, ATM or via the internet, and are processed on the same day if made
within business hours. A fee of typically ¥200 to ¥500 (1.4 to 3.5 euro) is paid by the sender. It is also possible to
transfer money from an account outside of Japan to a Japanese account via international wire transfer; however, it
can be a somewhat complicated process that usually costs several thousand yen in handling fees.
ATMs: Japanese ATMs allow their users to withdraw, deposit and transfer money, as well as update their bank
books. While the number of 24 hour ATMs is increasing, most ATMs maintain business hours and are closed for a
few hours each night.
Other Services: Banks provide a variety of other useful services. Payments of bills such as phone and utility bills and
taxes can be made at banks or can be set up to be automatically withdrawn from an account. Most banks can also
exchange foreign currencies.
Credit Cards: Although not as popular as cash, credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and shops
across Japan. Residents of Japan can apply for credit cards such as VISA, Mastercard, JCB and AMEX through
Japanese banks and other institutions. Approval standards are relatively strict, and credit cards may be difficult to
obtain by foreigners without permanent residence, a Japanese spouse or a tax history in Japan. Japanese credit card
bills must be paid in full every month and are usually automatically withdrawn from a bank account. When making
purchases, the card holder can choose to make the payment interest free at once (“ikkatsu Barai”) or divide it evenly
over a number of months (“bunkatsu barai”), in which case interest is charged.
Customs and Manners
-Inside the houseWhen you enter a Japanese house or a “ryokan” (traditional Japanese inn), outdoor shoes are always replaced by
slippers at the doorway (“genkan”). Slippers are provided by the host. When entering a room with “tatami” floor (a
type of mat used as a flooring material in traditional Japanese style rooms), slippers are removed as well. “Tatami”
should only be stepped on with socks or in bare feet. Finally, there are special toilet slippers for exclusive usage
inside the washroom. The usual house slippers are left outside the door while using the washroom.
-Japanese toiletsThere are two types of toilets in Japan: "Japanese style" and "Western style". Public washrooms are often equipped
with both toilet styles, although some older facilities might have only Japanese style toilets, while some newer
facilities might have only Western style toilets. The toilets in most public homes and hotels are Western style.
Western style toilets in Japan often feature options such as a heated ring, a built-in shower and dryer and an
automatic lid opener. Both Western and Japanese style toilets usually have two flush modes: "small" and "large",
differing in the amount of water used. When using the washroom in a private home or “ryokan”, you will often find
toilet slippers for exclusive use inside the washroom. Leave your usual slippers outside the washroom, and do not
forget to change back into them, afterwards, to avoid an often committed cultural faux pas.
-Visiting shrines and templesBehave calmly and respectfully. Show your respect by making a short prayer in front of the sacred object. Do so by
throwing a coin into the offering box, followed by a short prayer. When entering temple buildings, you may be
required to take off your shoes. Leave your shoes on the shelves at the entrance or take them with you in plastic
bags provided at some temples. Wear nice socks. Photography is usually permitted at shrines and on the temple
grounds. It is forbidden indoors at some temples. Watch for signage.
-Table mannersSome restaurants and private homes in Japan have low tables and cushions on the floor, rather than Western style
chairs and tables. These are usually found on tatami floors.
Some Table Rules
(1) Blowing your nose in public, and especially at the table, is considered bad manners.
(2) It is considered good manners to empty your dishes to the last grain of rice.
(3) Talking about toilet related and similarly unappetizing topics during or before a meal is not appreciated
by most people.
(4) It is considered bad manner to burp.
Some Chopsticks Rules: Chopsticks are used to eat most kinds of Japanese foods, with some exceptions. Some of the
most important rules to remember when dining with chopsticks are as follows:
(1) Do not stick chopsticks into your food, especially not into rice. This is only done at funerals with rice that
is put onto the altar.
(2) Do not pass food directly from your set of chopsticks to another's. Again, this is a funeral tradition that
involves the bones of a cremated body.
(3) Do not spear food with your chopsticks.
(4) Do not point with your chopsticks.
(5) Do not move plates or bowls around with your chopsticks.
(6) If you have already eaten with your chopsticks, use the opposite end to take food from a shared plate.
Knives and forks are used for Western food only. Spoons however, may be used with certain Japanese dishes such as
donburi or Japanese style curry rice. A Chinese style ceramic spoon is sometimes used to eat soups.
-GreetingIn Japan, people greet each other by bowing. A bow ranges from a small nod of the head to a long, 90 degree bend
at the waist. When bowing to someone of higher social status, a deeper, longer bow indicates respect. Conversely, a
small head nod is casual and informal. However, most Japanese do not expect foreigners to know proper bowing
rules and so a nod of the head is usually sufficient. It is also common to bow to express thanks, to apologize, to make
a request or to ask someone a favour. Shaking hands is uncommon among the Japanese, but again, exceptions are
made for foreigners.
-SuperstitionIn Japan there are certain things one does not do because they are thought to cause bad luck. A few examples are:
The number four: The number four is considered inauspicious because it is pronounced the same as the word for
death. Therefore, one should not make presents that consist of four pieces, etc. In some hotels and hospitals the
room number four is skipped.
Sleeping towards the North: Do not sleep towards the North because bodies are laid down in funeral like that.
Cut nails at night: If you cut your nails at night, you will not be with your parents when they die.
Black cat: There are also some imported superstitions such as believe that black cats crossing the street in front of
you cause bad luck.
In many shrines, temples and souvenir shops, amulets are sold that are supposed to bring luck, safety or good
fortune. There are amulets for money, health, love, success on exams, safety on the streets, etc. Small pieces of
paper that predict your future are also available. These pieces of paper are tied around the branch of a tree after
reading; either to make the good fortune come true or to avoid the predicted bad fortune.
Public transportation
-BusThe following is about local and short-distance buses in Japan and how to use them. In Tokyo, Osaka and other large
cities, buses serve as a secondary means of public transportation, complementing the train and subway networks. In
cities with less dense train networks like Kyoto, buses are the main means of public transportation. Buses also serve
smaller towns, the countryside and national parks. Major cities are, furthermore, linked by highway and long
distance buses.
Bare fare*
Bus
0.85 to 1.41 euro ( depends on area)
How to use a bus
Using buses in Japan can be intimidating to you because there are usually few English displays or announcements,
and there are different systems of ticketing depending on the company. Below is a description of the most common
system, followed by notes about exceptions:
(1) Enter the bus through the back door (or front door if there is only one door).
(2) When entering, pick up a ticket from a small machine. A number is printed on the ticket, which you will
later use to determine your fare.
(3) A display above the driver shows the next stop and the fares for that stop in yen. To deter mine your fare,
match the number on your ticket with the number and fare on the display.
(4) When your stop is approaching, press one of the buttons on the wall to signal the driver that you wish to
get off at the next stop.
(5) If you do not have the exact fare, use the changing machine to get small coins.
(6) When getting off, put your ticket and the exact fare into the box next to the driver.
In many cities or city centres, for example in central Tokyo and Kyoto, a flat fare applies, i.e. you always pay the same
price regardless of how far you travel. This means that you do not have to worry about steps 2) and 3) in the above
description. Of course, there are a few exceptions to the above outlined system. The most prominent exception are
the Tokyo Metropolitan Buses, where you are supposed to enter through the front door, pay a flat fare when
entering, and exit through the rear door.
-TrainFour major islands in Japan, Honshu (including 9 universities, except Tokushima), Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku
(Tokushima), are covered by an extensive and reliable network of railways. Trains are a very convenient way for you
to travel around Japan. About 70% of Japan's railway network is owned and operated by the Japan Railways (JR),
while the remaining 30% belongs to dozens of other private railway companies, especially in and around
metropolitan areas.
Fare (to 1 station)
Train
0.92 to 1.20 euro(depends on area)
How to use a train
Tickets for short distances are available from ticket machines that are installed at each train station whereas tickets
for long distances and reservations are dealt with at ticket offices at major stations. To use the train, first purchase a
ticket at a vending machine or ticket window. After buying the ticket, you can proceed through the ticket gate. Insert
the ticket into the slot, walk through the gate and pick up the ticket on the other side. If you insert an invalid ticket,
the gate will close and alarm will sound. You must keep the ticket since it must be returned at your destination. Most
stations display station names in both Japanese and alphabet lettering on platform signboards.
Japan Railways (JR): Japan Railways (JR Group) is the successor of the national Japanese National Railways, which
was privatized in 1987. The JR Group is made up of six regional passenger railway companies, which are JR Hokkaido,
JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Shikoku, and JR Kyushu. Together they operate a nationwide network of urban,
regional and interregional train lines, night trains and Shinkansen (bullet trains).
Note: The train lines in Kanto Area (Tokyo and Takasaki) are operated by JR East.
JR West operates a network of railway lines in Kansai Area, including Kyoto, Kobe and Kanazawa.
Tokushima is covered by a network of JR Shikoku.
Private Railway Companies: Dozens of private railway companies exist in Japan. The smaller ones consist of just one
line, while others operate quite extensive railway networks.
Major Private Railway Companies in Kanto Region
Tobu
Odakyu
Tokyu
Keisei
Seibu
Keikyu
Keio
Operates an extensive network of railway lines into the suburbs and prefectures north
of Tokyo (Access to Nikko)
Operates three lines from central Tokyo to western Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture
(Access to Hakone)
Operates a network of two main lines and several shorter lines in the south of Tokyo
(Access to Yokohama)
Operates a main line and several branch lines from Tokyo to Chiba Prefecture (Access
to Narita Airport)
Operates a network suburban railway lines west of central Tokyo (Access to Chichibu)
Connects Tokyo with Yokohama and southern Kanagawa Prefecture (Access to
Haneda Airport)
Operates a network of railway lines west of central Tokyo (Access to Takaosan)
Major Private Railway Companies in Kansai Region
Hankyu
Operates an extensive railway network in the southern Kinki region, serving Osaka,
Kyoto, Nara, Ise and Nagoya
Operates a network of railway lines in southern Osaka and Wakayama Prefecture
(Access to Kansai Airport)
Operates several lines in northern Osaka and connects Osaka with Kobe and Kyoto
Keihan
Operates on main line, connecting Osaka with Kyoto and several shorter lines
Hanshin
Operates one main line between Osaka and Kobe, and a few short branch lines
Kintetsu
Nankai
-IC CardSuica, Pasmo, Icoca and seven more of Japan's most popular IC cards are compatible with each other. It is now
possible to travel on almost all trains, subways and buses in most of Japan's largest cities with just a single of these
cards.
What is an IC card?
IC cards are rechargeable cards (e.g. “LEAP CARD in Dublin) that can be used to conveniently pay fares on public
transportation and to make payments at a rapidly increasing number of vending machines, shops and restaurants by
simply touching the card on a reader. More than two dozen train and bus operators across Japan have started
issuing their own IC cards since 2001.
Validity
The following major IC cards have become compatible with each other in 2013.
Suica: is the prepaid IC card by JR East for JR trains in the Greater Tokyo, Niigata and Sendai regions
Pasmo: is the prepaid IC card of Tokyo's railway, subway and bus operators other than JR.
Icoca: is the prepaid IC card of JR West for JR trains in the Greater Osaka, Okayama and Hiroshima regions.
Icoca is also compatible with a few minor IC cards in Western Japan, such as the Paspy card for non-JR
transportation in Hiroshima; however, compatibility with these cards remains limited to Icoca.
Pitapa: is the IC card of the Kansai Region's railway and subway operators other than JR. Unlike the other
nine cards, Pitapa is a post-paid rather than prepaid card and not easily available to foreign tourists. Pitapa is
also compatible with a few minor IC cards in Western Japan; however, compatibility with these cards
remains limited to Pitapa.
What is covered and what is not?
These cards are valid on virtually all trains, subways and buses in Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nagoya and
Fukuoka and several other areas with the following exceptions:
(1) Travel outside or between IC card areas: Both, the origin and destination stations have to be located
inside the IC card's coverage area. Furthermore, it is not possible to use an IC card to travel between
disjoined IC card areas. For example, you cannot use it to travel between Tokyo and Sendai or between
Tokyo and Nagoya.
(2) Shinkansen (Bullet Train): It is not possible to use regular IC cards for riding the shinkansen.
(3) Limited express trains requiring a supplement fee: When riding a limited express train that requires a
supplement fee, travellers can use the IC card to pay the base fare when passing through the ticket gates,
but they need to purchase the supplement ticket separately at a ticket machine or ticket office.
(4) Airport and Highway Buses: Most airport limousine buses and highway buses cannot be paid by IC card.
(5) Kyoto City Buses: The city buses in Kyoto are among the last and most prominent means of transport in
Japan's major cities that still do not accept payment by IC cards.
How to use IC cards?
When passing automatic ticket gates, touch the card onto the card reader for about one second (rather than
inserting it into the ticket slot). The applicable fare will be automatically deducted when you exit through the ticket
gate at your destination station. When riding buses, card readers are placed at the entrance and/or exit of the bus. A
card cannot be shared by multiple travellers at the same time.
Is there a discount over regular tickets?
No, IC cards generally do not provide any discounts over regular tickets.
Where to get an IC card?
IC cards can be purchased at ticket machines and ticket counters at the corresponding railway stations. The initial
cost consists of a refundable deposit of ¥500 (3.54 euro) plus an initial amount to be charged onto the card.
How to recharge IC cards?
IC cards can be recharged at ticket machines and special re-charging machines found at railway stations and other
strategically meaningful locations. The maximum amount to be charged onto a card is ¥20,000 (141.79 euro).
How to check the current balance?
The current credit balance is shown on a small display whenever you pass a ticket gate or make a payment at a store.
Furthermore, the balance can be checked at ticket machines together with a usage history.
How to get back the 500 yen refundable deposit?
Bring your card to the ticket counter of the issuing operator in order to get back your ¥500 deposit. Unused credit
can also be refunded.
Is there an expiry date?
Cards become invalid if they are not used for ten years.
-TaxiTaxis are an expensive and unnecessary alternative to the efficient public transportation, however, taxis are often
the only way of getting around once trains and buses stop operating around midnight, resulting in a sudden increase
in their demand, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, when long lines and waiting times at taxi stands at train
stations are not uncommon. In smaller cities, the countryside and in Kyoto, public transportation tends to be less
convenient, thus taking a taxi from the nearest train station to your destination can be a good alternative. If you
travel in groups of three or more people, taxis can also be an economical option on shorter distances.
How to use a taxi
To hail a taxi, either go to a taxi stand (usually located in front of train stations) or flag one down at a location where
it is safe for it to stop. A plate on the dashboard in the lower corner of the windshield indicates whether a taxi is
vacant or not. Usually, a red plate indicates that the taxi is vacant, while a green plate indicates the opposite. During
the night a light on the roof of a taxi can indicate that the taxi is vacant. You can also call a taxi by phone; in large
cities there is usually no additional charge for calling a taxi while in more rural areas a small fee may be charged.
When you get on a taxi, note that the vehicle's left rear door is opened and closed automatically by the driver. You
are not supposed to open or close the door by yourself, except when using a different door. Furthermore, you are
not supposed to tip taxi drivers. If your destination is not a well-known place, it is recommended to give your driver
the address of your destination on a piece of paper or - even better - point it out on a map. In some regions,
especially popular tourist areas, taxis are available for charter as sightseeing taxis with the taxi driver doubling as the
tour guide. Although the language barrier might be a problem, in some areas there are taxi drivers with English skills
or sightseeing taxi services targeted specifically at foreign tourists.
Taxi types and fares
Taxi fares differ slightly according to region, company and size of the vehicle. You would typically encounter three
classes of taxis. “Large taxis” have engine capacities above 2,000cc and carry up to five passengers. “Medium taxis”
and “Small taxis” are the most numerous, have engine capacities 2,000cc or less, and carry up to four passengers.
Medium and small taxis only differ in the length of the vehicle and therefore the size of the passenger compartment.
When using a standard four-passenger taxi, fares typically start around ¥550 to ¥710 (3.89 to 5.03 euro) for the first
2 kilometers and increase by around ¥80 to ¥90 (0.56 to 0.63 euro) for every additional 300-400 meter you passed.
The cost also increases when the taxi is not moving for a prolonged time. Late in the evening (typically 10pm to
5am), rates are raised by typically 20%. Eventual expressway toll fees incurred during the trip are added to the fare.
Taxi (Starts. Normal Tariff)
Tokyo, Takasaki
Kanazawa
Kyoto
Kobe
Tokushima
5.03 euro
(2km)
4.95 euro
(1.7km)
4.60 euro
(2km)
4.67 euro
(1.8km)
3.89 euro
(1.5km)
-Mobile phoneJapan is a leader in mobile phone technology and usage. In addition to calling, email and messaging, mobile phones
are packed with features such as internet browsers, games, cameras, televisions, electronic wallets/train passes,
GPS/navigation and music players. Because of these features, mobile phones have become an important and integral
part of everyday life. The biggest Japanese mobile phone companies are NTT Docomo, au by KDDI, and Softbank.
There are also a few smaller carriers, some of which provided specialized services such as prepaid service and mobile
internet.
Do foreign phones work in Japan?
Most of newer mobile phone models can be used in Japan. Most importantly, there is no GSM network in Japan, so
GSM-only phones do not work.
How to get a mobile phone in Japan? (Prepaid Phones and SIM Cards)
Prepaid phones start around ¥3,000 (21.26 euro). Credit, which is used for outgoing calls, email, internet, etc.
depending on what features your phone supports, must be purchased in advance. With most companies, incoming
calls are free and outgoing calling rates are comparable to those of rental phones. Not all prepaid SIM cards support
mobile internet. Credit can be bought at cell phone stores and convenience stores, and is typically valid for 60 days
from activation. Phone numbers remain active as long as you have valid credit in your account, but will expire after
three months to a year without use.
Subscription Plans
With subscription plans you pay for your usage at the end of a monthly billing cycle as opposed to prepaid phones
where you buy your usage before you use it. Phones may be free or subsidized although that typically requires a 2
year service contract. Alternatively, the phone may be purchased at full price in which case service is available on a
month-to-month contract.
All the latest and most advanced phones are available with subscription plans and the selection of handsets is huge.
Subscription plans are only available to residents and require a residence card and a Japanese bank account.
-ElectricityThe voltage in Japan is 100 Volt, which is different from Ireland (230V AC). Japanese electrical plugs have two, nonpolarized pins. The frequency of electric current is 50 Hertz in Eastern Japan (including Takasaki, Tokyo, Yokohama,
Tohoku, Hokkaido) and 60 Hertz in Western Japan (including Kanazawa, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Tokushima,
Kyushu); however, most equipment is not affected by this frequency difference.
Daily Life
-FoodLocal supermarkets are relatively inexpensive if you stick to Japanese food such as seasonal vegetables, seafood,
soya bean products and rice. If you visit supermarkets shortly before closing time in the evening, you can purchase
remaining perishable products at big discounts.
There are plenty of restaurants where you can have a full meal for between ¥500 and ¥1,000 (between 3.52 and
7.05 euro). Noodles (ramen, soba and udon), domburi (for example, beef domburi), curry rice, bibimba (Korean style
domburi), hamburgers and many more types of dishes are available at such inexpensive restaurants. Look for them
around and inside large train stations and in business areas.
During lunch hours, many restaurants offer inexpensive teishoku (set menus) at around ¥1,000 (7 euro). Lunch boxes
(obento), which are sold in convenience stores and department stores, train stations and at temporary stands in
business areas are also a good deal.
-Everyday good and servicesClothing departments of supermarket chains such as Ito Yokado or discount clothing stores such as Uniqlo offer
inexpensive clothing. The availability of large sized clothes may become a problem if you are over 180 cm tall or a big
person. Department stores and boutiques are more expensive.
Japanese hair dressers are famous for their great service and high prices. However, there are also places where you
can get a quick haircut for around ¥1,000 (7 euro).
While naturally not famous for high quality, 100 Yen Shops (e.g. 1 euro shop) sell a large range of products including
stationery and kitchen goods at ¥105 each (consumption tax included) and can be very cost-efficient.
Insurance
-National Health Insurance (Mandatory)Foreigners who will be staying in Japan for a period of more than 1 year must subscribe to the “National Health
Insurance”. You have to register for the National Health Insurance at your nearest local city/ward office and pay the
insurance premium.
The insurance premium has to be paid monthly once registration is completed. The premium varies according to
local councils. However, most of the time, the premium is about ¥18,000 to ¥20,000 (about 127.98 to 141.41euro)
per year.
Once registered with the National Health Insurance, you will only need to pay 30% of the total medical bill. When
receiving treatment for injuries or illnesses, you have to present your insurance card to be eligible for the discounted
payment.
Note1: All exchange students have to join Japanese National Health Insurance after you arrive in Japan.
Note2: The medical cost for treatments not covered by the insurance scheme has to be paid in full at your
own expense.
Note3: City of Kyoto is providing the National Health Insurance Subsidy System to foreign students of the
universities in Kyoto City. It gives you ¥700 per month.
-University’s Insurance (Mandatory)All universities require all enrolled students to sign up for the “Personal Accident Insurance for Students Pursuing
Education and Research (PAS)” to cover them against unexpected accidents during regular curricular activities on
school premises and extracurricular activities off school premises as well as the commute to school.
Moreover, as long as you hold the above insurance, you will be required to sign up for the “Liability Insurance for
Students Pursuing Education and Research coupled with PAS” (LSR Course A). However, it depends on universities
whether you sign up or not for the LSR Course A. Students will be covered up to the limit of payment against
damages for which, during the period of this insurance, you may be held legally liable to pay in Japan or abroad for
injuring a third party or damaging any property belonging to a third party during their curricular activities, school
events, extracurricular activities, or commuting to and from them.
Note1: The fee of the PAS “Personal Accident Insurance for Students Pursuing Education and Research” is
¥1,000 per year (7 euro).
Note2: The fee of the LSR Course A “Liability Insurance for Students Pursuing Education and Research
coupled with PAS” is ¥340 per year (2.45 euro).
Note3: Some universities may take on the full amount of the fee. It depends on universities.
-Accident and property InsuranceBenefits covering medical treatment for injuries incurred from accidents that are not covered by health insurance,
medical treatment for injuries to other people and compensation for property damage are provided by Accident
Insurance and Individual Compensation Insurance.
Accident Insurance covers injuries incurred in daily living, traffic accidents and during travel. Individual
Compensation Insurance covers property damage or injuries to other people due to your own negligence. For more
information concerning enrollment in these types of insurance plans, direct your inquiries to your university.
Useful links
Gathering Information
When selecting your university as your study destination, ensure that it is done according to your specific and
detailed study plan. If you are not thorough enough in your preparation, you may face problems such as not having
your chosen subjects offered in that university. Gathering the latest and accurate information is crucial.
-Sources of InformationJASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) website: Provides lots of basic information on study in Japan.
Other contents: Living in Japan, guide on study in Japan.
URL: http://www.jasso.go.jp/
Gateway to study in Japan website: Provides lots of comprehensive information on study in Japan.
Other contents: Events, Message from students studying in Japan before.
URL: http://www.g-studyinjapan.jasso.go.jp/en/
Embassy of Ireland in Japan website
URL: http://www.irishembassy.jp/
Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan website
URL: http://www.mofa.go.jp/
Japan National Tourism Organization website: Provides information on transportation in Japan.
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/transportation/
Partner universities website: as below
Partner Universities
URL
1
Takasaki City University of Economics
http://www.tcue.ac.jp/english/
2
Rikkyo University
http://english.rikkyo.ac.jp/
3
Sophia University
http://www.sophia.ac.jp/eng
4
Toyo University
http://www.toyo.ac.jp/site/english/
5
Kanazawa University
http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/e/
6
Doshisha University
http://www.doshisha.ac.jp/en/
7
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies
http://www.kufs.ac.jp/english_site/
8
Ritsumeikan University
http://www.ritsumei.ac.jp/eng/
9
Kobe University
http://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/
10
University of Tokushima
http://www.tokushima-u.ac.jp/english/