What should a new student do first in Japan?

Follow school arrival instructions, reach approved housing, attend orientation and complete the required local procedures.

Can I open every Japanese bank account immediately?

No. Eligibility and documents vary by bank and residency situation; ask the school for a practical current route.

Should I send my residence card photo to a recruiter?

Do not share sensitive identity or banking information with an unverified person; ask the school before acting.

First Week in Japan: Phone, Bank, Transport & Essential Student Setup

A practical sequence for new students to coordinate school orientation, address procedures, connectivity, banking and a safe daily commute.

By SJLA Student Support Desk · Published 2026-04-15 · Updated 2026-04-15

Quick Answer

Follow your school's arrival instructions first. Complete residence/address and insurance procedures within the applicable rules, then set up a reliable phone, payment access and commute. Requirements differ by city, bank and provider, so bring the documents your school specifies.

First-Week Order

Reach approved accommodation and notify the school.
Attend orientation and confirm emergency contacts.
Complete address/municipal procedures as instructed.
Understand health-insurance and residence-card responsibilities.
Choose a phone plan compatible with your device and identity documents.
Ask the school which bank/account route is practical for new students.
Test the school commute before the first full class day.
Store digital and paper copies of essential contacts.

Phone Checklist

Check SIM lock, supported network bands, contract length, cancellation fee, data allowance and whether a Japanese payment method is required. Avoid signing a long contract you do not understand.

Banking Checklist

Availability varies by institution and residency circumstances. Bring residence documentation, address, student ID/enrollment evidence, phone number and any seal/signature requirements communicated by the bank.

Transport Setup

Compare commuter passes with pay-as-you-go travel, confirm the correct station route and keep enough balance for detours. Learn the final train/bus time if you have evening classes.

Scam and Safety Rule

Never share bank credentials, residence-card images or verification codes with a job recruiter or unknown caller. Ask school staff before responding to a suspicious financial or immigration message.

Next Step

Before flying, request the school's current arrival guide. Procedures and required documents can change, and local staff instructions are more useful than an old online checklist.

Official Guidance

Review the current residence and daily-life guidance linked by Study in Japan and follow your municipality, school, bank and provider instructions for your specific case.