YenWise Blog
Educational articles on Japanese taxes, pensions, lifestyle, and events.
Health Insurance in Japan: A Practical Guide for Expats
Japan's universal health insurance covers 70% of medical costs for all residents. Here's how to enroll, what's covered, and how much you'll pay.
Renting vs Buying a Home in Japan: The Complete Financial Breakdown
Should you rent or buy in Japan? The answer depends on how long you'll stay, property type, and interest rates. Here's the math, including hidden costs most articles miss.
Furusato Nozei: How to Get Free Wagyu, Fruit, and Sake from Japan's 'Hometown Tax'
Furusato Nozei lets you donate to rural Japanese towns and receive premium gifts worth up to 30% of your donation — while reducing your residence tax. It's not a loophole; it's government policy.
iDeCo Explained: Japan's Secret Tax Break That Saves Expats ¥300,000+ Per Year
iDeCo (Japan's individual-type defined contribution pension) offers immediate tax deductions and tax-free growth. Here's how much you can save and who qualifies.
Japan's New NISA: How Expats Can Invest Completely Tax-Free
Japan's New NISA lets you invest up to ¥18 million completely tax-free. Here's how it works, who qualifies, and how to maximize your returns as an expat.
Navigating Japan's Adult Guardianship System: A Guide for Aging Expats
As you grow older in Japan, planning for potential loss of mental capacity is vital. Learn how the four levels of Japan's adult guardianship system work and how to set up a voluntary guardian.
Japan Credit Scores: The Expat Guide to CIC, JICC, and JBA Reports
Unlike in the US or UK, Japan does not use a single credit score. Learn how the three credit bureaus track your financial history and how expats can check their reports.
Japan's Annual Health Checkup: A Guide to Kenko Shindan and Ningen Dock
Confused by the mandatory annual health checkup in Japan? Learn what tests are included, the difference between Kenko Shindan and Ningen Dock, and how to navigate it.
Japan Inheritance Tax: A Complete Guide for Expats and Foreign Residents
Japan's inheritance tax can reach 55% — among the highest in the world. Learn how the basic deduction, tax rates, and 10-year rule affect expats receiving inheritances from abroad.
Best Investment Accounts in Japan for Expats: SBI vs. Rakuten vs. Monex
Looking to start investing in Japan? Compare the top online brokerages (SBI, Rakuten, Monex), understand taxable vs. tax-free accounts, and navigate US expat rules.
Japan Mortgage Tax Credit: How to Save Millions on Your Home Purchase
The 住宅ローン控除 (Juutaku Loan Kojo) is one of Japan's largest tax breaks. Learn how the 0.7% mortgage tax credit works in 2026 and how to stack it with iDeCo.
Supplementary Pensions in Japan: Kokumin Nenkin Kikin, Fuka Nenkin, and iDeCo
Standard basic pension (Nenkin) is often not enough. Learn how self-employed expats can use Kokumin Nenkin Kikin, Fuka Nenkin, and iDeCo to boost retirement.
Japan Tax Residency: Income Tax vs Inheritance Tax Rules for Expats
Confused about when Japan considers you a tax resident? Here is how the 5-year income tax rule and 10-year inheritance tax rule actually work — and why your visa type matters.
Life Insurance in Japan: An Expat's Guide to Coverage and Tax Deductions
Navigate life insurance in Japan as an expat. Understand term vs. whole life, the inheritance tax tax-free exemption, and how to claim the premium tax deduction.
How Much Money Do You Need to Retire in Japan? A Practical Guide
Nenkin alone won't be enough. Here's how to calculate your retirement number in Japan — factoring in pension benefits, living expenses, and the 4% safe withdrawal rule.
What is Nenkin? Japan's Pension System Explained for Expats
Understanding Japan's pension system is essential for every expat. Here's what Kosei Nenkin and Kokumin Nenkin mean for your wallet.
Japan Tax Season: A Complete Guide to Filing Your Kakutei Shinkoku
Filing taxes in Japan doesn't have to be stressful. Learn about Kakutei Shinkoku deadlines, requirements, and how to file your return.
Japanese New Year (Shougatsu): Customs Every Expat Should Know
From Osechi Ryori to Hatsumode shrine visits, learn how Japanese families celebrate the New Year holiday.
How to Read Your Japanese Payslip (給与明細)
Your Japanese pay slip has many deductions. Here is a line-by-line guide to understanding your gross salary and net take-home pay.
Golden Week in Japan: What It Is and How to Make the Most of It
Golden Week is Japan's longest holiday period. Here's what to expect, when to travel, and how to navigate the crowds.