I just arrived in Japan about one month ago. As with any transition moving overseas, there was excitement from the moment I arrived. As soon as I stepped into immigration, I was placed into a room with other foreigners (gaijin) with visas to Japan. The room was fully equipped, corner baby crib included. I waited patiently to be called. Meanwhile, an earthquake drill began. Rather than presenting a distressing bell, I heard an automated voice on the intercom instructing us to be calm. I thought everyone had to evacuate. But no one was told to do anything, so it was business as usual. The drill lasted well over an hour. I was ready to leave the airport when it ended.
The apartment that I reserved from overseas turned out to be a disappointment. It was backdated and next to a graveyard. Apparently, this set up is not unusual in Japan, but I prefer the land of the living, unless this is a zombie movie? Not the mention the neighborhood had a rusty, depressing feel to it. So my answer was no thanks, I'll pass. On the flipside, with gracious assistance from locals, I found a brand new apartment conveniently located outside of my workplace. Month to month rent is very affordable, but upon moving in, there are upfront fees which can be costly. I knew about these fees ahead of time, so this part was not a surprise.
My apartment is in a neighborhood with everything you need within walking distance: a convenient store, cheap eats, including, a decent Indian and Nepalese restaurant (my favorite cuisine), and a Katsudon place. Katsudon is a deep-fried pork cutlet served on top of rice with egg and a sauce. This restaurant also includes seafood katsu as well, such as shrimp and cuttlefish.
As for setting up a bank account in Japan, this takes forever. Expect to wait several weeks to have your account activated. The first step involves interacting with the bank teller on and off for 2.5 hours. What this means is the banking teller will provide you with a number, then you will wait to be called, then you will meet with the teller, then the teller will rub his/her head and mumble, then consult his/her associates, will read over a massive manual, then will ask for you to sit down again. This process repeats for about 2.5 hours. Next, they will mail you your bank card, which takes one to two business weeks. Upon receiving your bank card, you cannot use it immediately. You must wait for your bank book to arrive. This takes another one to two business weeks. I think you get my drift here.
Japan is a country of procedures, order and hierarchy. Gaijin (foreigners) are no exception. If anything, gaijin will be treated extra meticulously.
