10 Things Every Expat Should Do During Their First Month in Osaka
10 Things Every Expat Should Do During Their First Month in Osaka
Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between settling into your new apartment, starting work, and learning how things operate in Japan, it's easy to overlook some of the simple tasks that will make everyday life much easier.
Whether you're coming to Osaka as an English teacher, student, digital nomad, or for another job opportunity, here are ten things we recommend doing during your first month in Japan.
1. Learn Your Local Neighborhood
One of the best things about Osaka is that almost every neighborhood has everything you need within walking distance.
Spend an afternoon exploring around your apartment and find:
- Your nearest supermarket
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson)
- Drugstores
- ATMs that accept international cards
- Restaurants and cafés
- Parks and gyms
Getting familiar with your neighborhood will quickly make Osaka feel like home.
2. Get an IC Transportation Card
If you plan to use trains or buses regularly, purchase an IC card such as ICOCA.
Instead of buying individual tickets, simply tap your card at the station gates. You can also use it at many vending machines, convenience stores, and even some restaurants.
It saves time and makes getting around Kansai incredibly easy.
3. Register at Your Local Ward Office
If you're staying in Japan long-term, you'll need to register your address at your local ward office.
You'll usually receive your residence certificate and can enroll in National Health Insurance if required.
Although the paperwork may seem intimidating, most ward offices are used to helping foreign residents.
4. Open a Japanese Bank Account
Receiving your salary, paying bills, and setting up automatic payments is much easier with a Japanese bank account.
Many employers will help new staff through this process, but it's worth asking in advance what documents you'll need.
5. Download Useful Apps
Several free apps will make daily life much easier:
- Google Maps
- Google Translate
- PayPay
- Yahoo! Transit
- Japan Travel by NAVITIME
These apps help with transportation, payments, navigation, and translating Japanese signs or menus.
6. Try Local Restaurants
Osaka is known as "Japan's Kitchen" for good reason.
Don't limit yourself to chain restaurants.
Visit small local eateries and try dishes like:
- Okonomiyaki
- Takoyaki
- Kushikatsu
- Udon
- Fresh sushi
Many hidden neighborhood restaurants offer fantastic meals at very reasonable prices.
7. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases
You don't need to become fluent overnight, but learning simple expressions goes a long way.
Useful phrases include:
- Thank you
- Excuse me
- Where is...?
- How much is this?
- Please
Even making a small effort is usually appreciated by local residents.
8. Separate Your Garbage Correctly
Japan takes garbage separation seriously.
Depending on where you live, rubbish may be divided into:
- Burnable
- Non-burnable
- Plastic
- PET bottles
- Cans
- Glass
Following the collection schedule will help you avoid problems with neighbors and building management.
9. Explore Beyond Namba
While Namba, Umeda, and Dotonbori are fantastic places to visit, Osaka has many quieter neighborhoods worth exploring.
Areas such as Daikokucho, Tennoji, Nakazakicho, and Juso each have their own unique atmosphere and offer excellent restaurants, cafés, and shopping without the large crowds.
You may even discover your favourite local café just a few minutes from home.
10. Make Time to Enjoy Japan
Many new arrivals spend their first few months focused entirely on work.
Remember to enjoy the experience.
Take day trips to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, or Wakayama. Visit local festivals, relax in an onsen, or simply spend an afternoon wandering through Osaka's back streets.
Living in Japan is a unique opportunity, and some of your best memories will come from the places you discover unexpectedly.
Final Thoughts
Starting a new life in Osaka may seem challenging at first, but most newcomers quickly discover just how convenient, safe, and welcoming the city can be.
By taking a little time to settle into your new surroundings and explore your neighborhood, you'll soon feel at home and be able to enjoy everything Kansai has to offer.
At Apollo Properties Osaka, we've been helping foreigners find comfortable, furnished accommodation in Osaka since 2001. Whether you're staying for a few months or planning a longer-term move, our English-speaking team is here to help make your transition as smooth as possible.
If you're looking for a furnished apartment or share house in Osaka, please feel free to contact us or browse our latest available properties.