Your First Week in Tokyo: A Practical Checklist
Moving to Tokyo is exciting, but settling into a new city comes with plenty of small tasks. From getting around efficiently to understanding everyday essentials, your first week in Tokyo can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel.
Whether you're relocating for work, studying in Japan, or starting a new chapter abroad, this practical Tokyo moving checklist will help you get organized and feel at home from day one.
Get Your Tokyo Apartment Ready
Start with the essentials that make your home functional and comfortable.
Check your utilities: Make sure electricity, water, and gas are working. If gas activation requires an appointment, confirm that it has been arranged.
Set up your internet: Check whether Wi-Fi is already included in your apartment or whether you need a separate connection.
Learn your building rules: Find out where to dispose of garbage, how to receive deliveries, and whether your building has specific quiet hours or shared-space rules.
Stock up on essentials: Visit a nearby supermarket or convenience store for toiletries, cleaning supplies, and everyday necessities.
If you're staying in a fully furnished apartment, many of these essentials may already be taken care of, making your first days in Tokyo considerably easier.
Complete Your Essential Administrative Procedures
If you're moving to Japan as a mid- or long-term resident, administrative procedures should be high on your first-week checklist.
Register your address: Visit the ward office (kuyakusho) responsible for your new address within 14 days of establishing residence.
Update your residence card: Your registered address will be recorded on the back of your residence card during the registration process.
Check your health insurance: If you're not covered by your employer's health insurance, ask about enrolling in Japan's National Health Insurance.
Keep your documents organized: Your passport, residence card, rental agreement, and residence certificate (juminhyo) may be useful for other procedures.
Requirements can vary depending on your residence status and circumstances. Check your local ward office's official website before visiting.
Set Up Transportation and Mobile Payments
Tokyo's public transportation system is extensive, and getting familiar with it early will make everyday life much easier.
Get an IC transportation card: Suica or PASMO can be used on most trains, subway lines, and buses, as well as at many convenience stores.
Download essential apps: Google Maps is useful for navigating train routes, transfers, and walking directions.
Explore your nearest stations: Identify the closest station, convenient train lines, and alternative routes to work or school.
Check payment options: Carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller restaurants, local shops, or neighborhood businesses.
Shinjuku Station
Learn the Basics of Everyday Tokyo Life
Living in Tokyo means getting familiar with a few everyday customs and practical details.
Understand garbage separation: Sorting categories and collection days depend on your municipality. Check your ward's garbage guide.
Find your local supermarket: Knowing where to buy groceries, household products, and affordable meals will quickly become part of your routine.
Locate essential services: Identify the nearest pharmacy, clinic, post office, and ATM.
Learn a few useful Japanese phrases: Simple expressions such as sumimasen (excuse me), arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), and onegaishimasu (please) go a long way.
Explore Your Neighborhood
One of the best ways to settle into Tokyo is to start exploring the area around your apartment.
Take a walk without a strict itinerary. Discover a neighborhood café, a local bakery, a small park, or a grocery store you might otherwise overlook.
Notice how your neighborhood changes throughout the day. Find your favorite coffee spot, explore the nearest shopping streets, and identify the places that make everyday life more convenient.
Tokyo is made up of many distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere, lifestyle, and character. Finding the one that feels right for you is part of the experience.
Your First Week in Tokyo: Quick Checklist
Confirm utilities and internet access
Stock up on household essentials
Complete resident registration, if applicable
Check your health insurance arrangements
Get an IC transportation card
Download useful navigation apps
Learn your local garbage rules
Find nearby supermarkets and pharmacies
Explore your neighborhood
Save important emergency contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first after moving to Tokyo?
Start by making sure your apartment is ready for everyday living. And If you're a mid- or long-term resident, arrange your address registration within the required 14-day period.
How do I get around Tokyo during my first week?
An IC card such as Suica or PASMO makes traveling on trains and buses convenient. Google Maps is also helpful for navigating Tokyo's public transportation network.
Is Tokyo easy to navigate for foreigners?
Yes. Many stations have English signage, and navigation apps make public transportation easier to understand. Learning a few basic Japanese expressions can also make everyday interactions more comfortable.
Make Tokyo Feel Like Home
Your first week in Tokyo doesn't have to be about figuring everything out at once. Start with the essentials, explore at your own pace, and gradually discover the routines and places that make the city feel like yours.
Looking for a place to settle in? SUMII offers fully furnished monthly apartments in Tokyo, making it easier to move in and focus on enjoying your new life in Japan.
Discover your next home at livesumii.com
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