Latest posts
Japan’s High-Cost Medical Benefit in 2026
Japan caps monthly medical costs by income bracket. The caps changed for treatment from August 2026 — new limits, a new annual cap, two years to claim.
Japan Credit Card Overseas Fees Rising (2026)
Japan’s mainstream credit cards now charge 3.63% or more on overseas purchases. Here’s how that compares to cheaper alternatives like AEON Card.
Japan’s Summer Electricity Bills (2026)
Why Japan’s summer electricity bills spike, how the 2026 government subsidy works, and which AC savings habits actually make a difference.
How Japan’s NHI Premium Is Calculated (2026)
Japan’s NHI premium is based on last year’s finalized income, unlike the ACA marketplace’s current-year estimate. Here’s how it compares.
What Is Obon? Using Paid Leave (2026)
Obon isn’t a national holiday, but stacking paid leave around Mountain Day can get you up to 9 consecutive days off in August 2026.
How Japan Taxes Overseas Stock Gains (2026)
Becoming a Japan tax resident changes how your overseas stock gains are taxed. Here’s how the 20.315% flat rate and double taxation relief actually work.
Marrying in Japan as an American (2026)
A practical guide for Americans marrying in Japan — city hall registration, the 2025 eligibility affidavit change, and the US side’s paperwork.
Japan’s Invoice System for Freelancers (2026)
How Japan’s Qualified Invoice system and consumption tax work for freelancers — registration, the input tax credit, and transition relief.
Japan’s Estimated Tax Prepayment (2026)
How Japan’s estimated tax prepayment works for freelancers, and how its 2-installment structure compares to US quarterly estimated tax.
Guarantor Company vs Co-Signer in Japan (2026)
A breakdown of Japan’s guarantor company fees and renewal costs, how they differ from a personal guarantor, and how it compares to US lease guarantee services.