Sid in Japan

Congratulations! You’ve been accepted into the JET Program, and in just a few months, you’ll be moving to Japan to start your journey as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) or CIR (Coordinator for International Relations). But between now and departure, there’s a lot to prepare for—mentally, physically, and logistically.

To help you get ready, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to do before you board that plane to Japan.

April: Post-Interview Results

Tell People: You should let people know that you’ve accepted a position working overseas! This is a very exciting time and I’m sure there are people who will want to celebrate with you. While some people may feel sad or upset about you leaving, telling them early can help them plan to have quality time with you before you leave. Additionally, tell the people who wrote your letter of reccomendation! They helped you along your journey and will be very proud of you for getting in. If you can, write them a nice card or postcard while you’re in Japan as well.

JET Paperwork: The paperwork you need to do for the JET Program is fairly easy to complete, but may take some time. Get started and turn them in early if you can!

Start Studying Japanese: Even if you’re placed in an area with other English-speaking coworkers, learning some basic Japanese will make your life much easier and you will make a good first impression. Focus on everyday vocabulary, hiragana/katakana, and a self-introduction. Apps like Anki, Bunpro, or WaniKani can help. Textbooks like Genki or Minna no Nihongo can be good starting points but may be hard to focus on while you’re busy preparing for your Japan adventure. If you’re a CIR, then you’re already ahead of the game!

Make a Home Country Bucket List: You might not be back home for a long time, so take time to do things you love. Visit favorite restaurants, go on road trips, and take in the sights. Additionally, if there’s something cool near where you live and you think, “It’s always there, I’ll go later,” make plans to go now! Take pictures so you can show off your home to your new coworkers and students. This is a great way to do some cultural exchange!

Take Photos of Everything: Speaking of taking photos of your home… Capture memories of your home, family, pets, and everyday life! These pictures will be comforting when you feel homesick, and they’re great for self-introductions once you arrive in Japan.

Make a Japan Bucket List: Research places you want to visit, foods to try, and experiences to have while in Japan. This can help you stay excited and set travel goals for your time abroad.

Start Getting Rid of Stuff: You have a lifetime of accumulated things. Don’t leave everything till the last minute! Start getting rid of things you don’t need, like clothes, books, knick-knacks, etc.

May: Post-Placement Announcement

Research Your Placement Prefecture & City: JET placements vary widely. Some are in big cities, others in tiny villages. Look up your prefecture’s climate, transportation options, and local attractions. Join Facebook groups or Discord servers for your prefecture to connect with other JETs.

Spend Time with Family & Friends: Make plans to see people before you leave. It’ll be a while before you can visit home again.

Get Your Affairs in Order: You should renew your passport and/or driver’s license if needed (it should be valid for at least the next few years). Check your student loans and see if you can defer payments. Look up the procedures to notify your bank that you’ll be living abroad (so your card doesn’t get flagged). I recommend keeping your home bank account open! If necessary, set up a power of attorney for financial or legal matters (if you’re not sure if you need this… then you probably don’t). If you have any pets, arrange for their care. You won’t be able to take them with you when you first arrive and the process for bringing pets into the country is quite difficult.

June: Get Ready

Start Thinking About Packing: Typically, you’re allowed two checked bags, a carry-on, and a personal item on your flight, so pack wisely. Consider what daily essentials you need immediately versus what you can buy in Japan.

Decide What to Ship: I recommend shipping a box ahead of your arrival. Pack it early and see how much it will cost and how long it will take to ship your box. Ask your workplace if you can ship your box there!Think about what winter clothes you want to bring. It will be summer, so you won’t need them right away… But winter is just around the corner! Some areas of Japan get a bit brisk in the autumn, so if you’re from a warmer region you might want it sooner. Shipping heavy coats ahead of time can save luggage space and save time finding something to fit in-stores (especially if you’re outside the typical Japanese size range.

Check Japan’s Electrical System: Japan uses 100V outlets, and some appliances (like hairdryers and electric razors) may not work properly. Buy compatible electronics or plan to get them after arrival.

July: Get Set

Say Your Goodbyes: Hold a farewell party or spend quality time with close friends and family.

Set Up Messaging Apps: LINE is Japan’s most-used messaging app. Download it before you go. If your parents are unfamiliar with messaging applications, try to set them up with it. Other applications like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Discord are also useful for staying in touch with people back home.

Figure Out Your Phone Plan: Check if your phone is unlocked and compatible with a Japanese SIM card. Research providers like Mobal, Sakura Mobile, or LINEmo for temporary SIMs. Some companies, like Mobal and Sakura, offer special deals for JETs and you can usually pick up the SIM card during orientation. If you prefer, you can wait until arrival and get a contract with a major carrier (SoftBank, Docomo, AU) later.

Double-Check Important Documents: JET will help you fill out your visa paperwork, but you will need to carry it (and other important documents) on the airplane with you. So, make sure you have a folder or document holder that is easily accessible! If you need to bring in any prescription medication, make sure you fill out a Yunyu Kakunin-sho at least two weeks before departure (but it is recommended to do this way before then). Additionally, other documents like a birth certificate, social security card, government IDs, medical records, diplomas, etc. may be important after you arrive, so account for them in your luggage.

Get Your IDP: Get your International Driver’s Permit as close to your departure date as possible! It is valid for one year. You will need to get a Japanese driver’s license before this expires, so make sure your driver’s license is up to date (see May). Additionally, check what is needed to convert your home country license to a Japanese license.

Get in Contact with Your Predecessor: You may or may not be contacted by them via email. Most placements allow for them to contact you. But, few don’t allow this sort of contact. Check your email (and spam folder) often!

August: GO!

That’s it! You’re in Japan! Here’s a few things you might want to do immediately after your arrival.

Attend Orientation & Meet Your Supervisors: JET’s Tokyo Orientation will introduce you to Japanese work culture, teaching strategies, and everyday life. Once you reach your placement, your school and supervisor will help you settle in.

Open a Bank Account & Register at the City Office: Your supervisor will guide you through these processes. You’ll need to register your address at the city hall, set up a Japanese bank account (often required for salary deposits, and get a residence card if you haven’t received one at the airport.

Buy Home Essentials: Your predecessor may leave you some things, but you’ll likely need to buy bedding, kitchenware, or appliances. Stores like Nitori, Don Quijote, and Daiso have affordable home goods.

Connect with AJET and Other Local Communities: AJET provides resources, events, and social connections. They can help with culture shock, lesson planning, and finding a support network.

Final Thoughts

Moving abroad is both exciting and overwhelming, but with careful planning, you’ll transition smoothly into life in Japan. Take things one step at a time, ask for help when needed, and enjoy the adventure.

Welcome to JET!