Guidance and Support

Status of Residence

The revised Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act enforced on July 1, 2010 and the new Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) was initiated at that time.

New establishment of status of residence “Technical Intern Training”

To reside in Japan a foreigner must have one of the statuses of residence stipulated in the Immigration Control Act. “Technical Intern Training” is one such status and those permitted to enter Japan with this status are called technical intern trainees.

Under the revised Immigration Control Act, a new status of residence, “Technical Intern Training,” was established to include activities related to learning of technical skills under the practical training format among activities recognized as “Training” under the old Act, and activities engaging in the work that requires skills learned through “Training” (activities formerly permitted as “Designated activities (Technical intern training)”). The objective here was to stabilize the legal status of technical intern trainees, to require technical intern trainees to learn skills under the protection of employment contracts that comply with applicable laws such as the Labour Standards Law and the Minimum Wages Law, as of the year in which they enter Japan.

Status of Residence “Technical Intern Training”

Category	First Year	Second and Third Year	Fourth and Fifth Year
Acceptance managed by individual enterprise	Technical Intern Training (i)(a)	Technical Intern Training (ii)(a)	Technical Intern Training (iii)(a)
Acceptance supervised by organization	Technical Intern Training (i)(b)	Technical Intern Training (ii)(b)	Technical Intern Training (iii)(b)

IMPORTANT: Always keep a copy of your passport, visa, and resident status card with you all the time.

Accommodation and Neighborhood

Supervising organizations or implementing organizations must secure accommodation for technical intern trainees.

Accommodation:

• Supervising Organisations or Implementing Organisations/Accepting Companies must secure accommodation for the technical intern trainees they are accepting.
• Standard Space for interns: at least 3-tatami per person. (53.38 Sq. Ft. per person)
• It is possible that Technical Intern Trainees may have to share the place with other fellow trainees.
• There must be air-conditioning equipment, bedding, shower equipment, self-catering equipment, etc.
• During the lecture period, the accommodation cost for Technical Intern Trainees is managed by the supervising or implementing organisation. After the training period commences, the trainees pay an appropriate rent.

General Terms Used in Renting a Place

• (1) Fudousan-ya(Real Estate Agent)

Fudousan-ya is an agent that specializes in finding houses or apartments, deals with selling/buying or replacing houses, or acts as an intermediary to sell/buy or rent houses.

• (2) Yachin(Rent)

Yachin means rent and is paid every month. Unless you are moving in at the beginning of the month, the rent will be pro-rated for the first month.

• (3) Kanri-hi (Maintenance Charge) and Kyoueki-hi (Building Management Charge)

Kanri-hi and kyoueki-hi are charges for the maintenance, electricity and general cleaning of the areas of the building (such as the stairs and hallways) that are shared by the renters. They are paid in addition to the rent.

• (4) Shikikin (Security Deposit)

Shikikin refers to the security deposit that is paid to the landlord (owner of the house) upon entering into a lease contract. It is usually equivalent to one to three months’ rent. If the rent is outstanding or the place is left damaged or in poor condition after the renter moves out, the money will be used to cover the cost and whatever left will be refunded to the renter.

• (5) Reikin (Key Money)

Reikin is the key money paid to the landlord as a gratuity. It is typically equivalent to one to two months of rent and is non refundable. There are cases where reikin is not asked for.

• (6) Chuukai Tesuu-ryo (Agent Fee)

Chuukai tesuu-ryo is paid to the real estate agent as a finder’s fee. It is usually half or one month’s rent.

• (7) Songai Hoken-ryo (Non-Life Insurance Premium)

This refers to a non-life insurance premium for furniture and other items that you may be required to cover upon entering into a contract.

• (8) Koushin-ryo (Renewal Charge)

Koushin-ryo is the money paid to the landlord when renewing the contract. It is not always required.

• (9) Rentai Hoshounin (Joint Surety (Guarantor))

You are required to have a rentai hoshounin or a guarantor who is financially liable in case you cannot afford rent or pay for necessary repairs. It is usually an individual who has a certain level of income; however, you can also use a guarantor company (hoshougaisha). Also, depending on where you live, the municipality may offer a guarantor system (hoshouseido). For more details, consult the municipal office or a real estate agent.

Neighborhood:

1. Greetings to Your New Neighbors
In Japan, it is customary to visit your neighbors to introduce yourself when you have moved to a new place. This is important because you can become acquainted with people that live in your area and they may also be a good source of information. Give them a general self-introduction such as your name and what you do for living.

2. Neighborhood Association (Chonai Kai) and Residents’ Association ( Jichi Kai )
In general, municipalities have some form of community organizations called chonai kai (neighborhood association) and jichi kai (residents’ association). These associations bring neighbors together by having them participate in neighborhood crime watch, conduct emergency drills and organize festivals. You may also receive kairanban , which is a circulated newsboard that contains notification from local offices or the public health department, and you will be required to pass it on to your next door neighbor. The activities are funded by fees collected from the residents in the neighborhood. Foreign citizens can also join as long as they are residents. It is a good source for obtaining local information. Ask your neighbors about associations in your area.

3. Garbage and Recycling
Waste management practices differ depending on the area (municipality) you live in. Residents are required to sort out garbage accordingly and put it out on a specified day of the week, time and place. Oftentimes oversized items and items that are hard to dispose of are collected with a charge or may not be collected at all. Since there are various rules for garbage collection in Japan, it is important to check with your real estate agent, neighbor and/or local office if there is anything you are not sure about. See the list below to get an idea of what you need to know. Some residents’ associations have put together a multi-language handbook on how to sort garbage. Cooperating to reduce, reuse and recycle is deemed very important in Japan.
List of Items to Check:

• How to sort combustible and incombustible garbage
• How to sort recyclable waste (bottles, cans, PET bottles, newspaper, etc.)
• Where to place the garbage
• Schedule for putting out the garbage depending on the type of waste
• How to put oversized garbage (sodai gomi) out
• Whether there is a specified kind of garbage bag to use, etc.
• In Japan, garbage must be sorted according to whether it is combustible or incombustible. Combustible/incombustible garbage may be called kanen/funen gomi , moeru/moenai gomi or moyaseru/moyasenai gomi , depending on the area you live in. (Gomi means garbage.)
• Incombustible garbage has generally been defined as garbage that emits poisonous gas when burned or raises the temperature in the incinerator so high that it can cause the incinerator to break down. However, note that the definition may differ according to the area you live in.
• Even though it is technically combustible, some areas may categorize certain items as incombustible according to the way they dispose of them.
• It is important to keep in mind that sorting is not truly based on whether the garbage physically burns or not but more so on whether it is combustible or incombustible or if it is recyclable according to the rules in the area.

4.Noises
Noises in daily life can cause conflicts with your neighbors. Be careful not to make loud noises not only late at night and early in the morning, but also in daily life in general. Be careful with the volume on the television and radio, sounds of musical instruments, loud voices, noises from the vacuum cleaner and the washing machine, draining sounds of water during shower use and noises of opening and closing of doors. Be thoughtful and keep noises to a minimum at least after 9 pm.

IMPORTANT: In case of any complains related to accommodation or neighborhood, you are to seek assistance of the respective implementing organisation with the assistance of Supervising Organisation and Sending Organisation. Taking necessary steps to resolve the issue has the better chance of success while keeping the damage of relationships with neighbors etc, minimum.

Issues such as:

• Improper accommodation: less space than standard.
• Lack of facilities: facilities such as water, air-conditioning, utensils for cooking etc.
• Receiving complaints from fellow room-mates or complaints related to them.
• Receiving complaints from the neighborhood or complaints related to them.

IMPORTANT: In cases you are being restricted from living your daily life out of your work, you shall bring up the concern with your Implementing organisation with the assistance of your respective Supervising organisation. Also, there are many Indian communities in Japan with whom you can interact and feel home. It is necessary for interns to interact with people in order to battle troubles as loneliness, homesickness (which results in deterioration of mental health) as well as to cope up with Japanese way of living and have improvements in your personality.

Traffic Rules

In Japan, cars run on the left side of the road and pedestrians walk on the right side to go against on-coming traffic.

When walking down the streets, use the sidewalk as much as possible. If there are no sidewalks, make sure you walk on the right side of the road. If you are on a bicycle, you need to stay on the left side, making sure you are not in the way of cars.

Traffic signals are strictly enforced in Japan. Cars cannot move on a red light even if there are no other cars coming from the right and left side. However, if the light is green, oftentimes cars will come blazing down the road on full speed. It is best not to jaywalk or cross the street when the light is red.

If you are a pedestrian, you should only cross the street where there are crosswalks. If you are on a bicycle and turning right on an intersection, you will need to use the crosswalk and cross the street like you would if you were a pedestrian. It is important to observe these traffic rules so that you do not get involved in a traffic accident in Japan.

Banking Formalities

If you stay and live in Japan, a Japanese bank account is one of the convenient tools to make your life easier. Direct deposit from your bank account is the easiest way not only to get paid but also to pay your rent and other utility bills. If you stay in Japan only for short time period(less than 90 days) you cannot open a bank account. Furthermore,even with VISA for long stay (more than 90 days) opening a bank account is not allowed until you stay in Japan for more than 6 months. Most Japanese banks are open from 9:00-15:00, Monday to Friday, except for national holidays and New Year’s. They offer a full range of account options including savings, current, and foreign currency accounts.

Here is a list of the most common types of accounts:

• General deposit account (Futsu yokin)
• General savings (Tsujo chokin): this is a post office account and generates a slightly higher rate of interest than a general deposit account.
• Time deposit account (Teiki yokin): usually have higher rates of interest but may require notice for withdrawals.
• Current account (Toza yokin): usually provide the option of using checks, but are mostly for businesses.
• Foreign-denominated currency deposits, foreign-currency term deposits (Gaika yokin, Gaika teiki yokin)

The most widely used accounts are general savings and general deposit accounts.

Opening a Bank Account in Japan: What you will need

Before walking into your closest bank branch to open a bank account in Japan, it’s important to have all of the required documents at hand.

• Passport with valid visa: if you are only in Japan on a 90 day visitor visa then you won’t be able to open a bank account.
• Gaijin Card, which is officially, called a "Residence Card" (Zairyu Kado).
• Tax identification number if issued in your country.
• A recent utility bill stating your current address: This is commonly required however Shinsei bank will not require a utility bill if you apply for a bank account at one of their branch offices.
• Personal seal (inkan/hanko): most Japanese require a hanko to open an account and the domestic banks will require this also. You may get away with just a signature at a foreign bank, but it’s advisable to get a hanko as it’s used a lot for official documentation in Japan. Hanko used for banking are sold at special stores and are hand carved, making them individually identifiable. When “signing” documents with your hanko, make sure that the seal is not smudged or damaged. Hanko are typically cylindrical and round at the base, but most have a groove on the outside that tells you where the top is supposed to be as you stamp. It will save you the embarrassment of signing your name upside-down!

Procedure

Now we will go over how to open a bank account in Japan. Once you have all of your documents ready and have decided on which bank to go with, it’s just a matter of walking into your closest most convenient branch. You can open an account over the phone, via the Internet, or by submitting an application by post. Going into a branch in person will be the easiest option.

Note: Each branches have their own policy slightly different from others even within the same bank. Hence, you could try to apply for couple of different banks. If you try to open an account in the branch which is far away from your address, you might get questioned for the reason or even your application might be declined so it is better to apply for the ones close by where you live.

You will have to complete an application form and in most cases make an initial deposit. This can be as little as ¥1,000. Most banks do not require a minimum balance, but they may charge a monthly fee if the account balance isn’t above a certain figure.

After the account is established, you can apply for a debit card (kyasshu kado) and PIN number (ansho bango). The debit card will be sent to your home address in approximately a week afterwards.

You will be given a bank book which will include your account name written in katakana or rōmaji (i.e., English), the 3-digit sort code of your local branch (misebangō) and your 7-digit account number (kōzabangō).

The ATMs in Japanese banks and post offices usually have an English menu and instructions. From ATMs you can withdraw, deposit, update your passbook, check your balance, and make transfers to another account. If you use your debit card at the ATM of another bank, you may be charged a service fee, so it’s advised to always try using your own bank’s ATM for withdrawals.

You can make arrangements to pay most of your bills directly from your bank account, which is the most common method of bill payment in Japan and saves the hassle of going into a branch or a shop.

IMPORTANT: Ask for help when it is necessary! Usually, the implementing organisation is liable to do the procedure on behalf of you. Gather appropriate and needful information from the respective authorities related to the banking formalities for your knowledge.

Wage and Deduction

The Five Principles for payment of Wages.

In order to ensure that wages are properly paid, the Labour Standards Law stipulates the following five principles for payment of wages.

• Payment in currency: Wages must be paid in currency (The Japanese Yen)
• Direct payment: Wages must be paid directly to technical intern trainees.
• Payment in full: Wages must be paid in full.
• Payment per month: Wages must be paid at least once a month.
• Payment at a definite date: A payment date must be fixed and wages must be paid at a definite date.

Transfer of wages into bank account.

Transfer of wages into bank account is possible as an exception to the principle of ‘payment in currency’, provided that a labor-management agreement on transfer of wages into bank accounts has been concluded at accepting companies, and that the following requirements are met:

• With consent of technical intern trainees.
• Wages are transferred into deposit or savings account designated by the technical intern trainees.
• The total amount of transferred wages can be withdrawn at a definite wage payment day.

Items to be deducted from wages.

As exceptions from the principle of ‘payment in full’, the items shown below can be deducted from wages.

• Income tax, residential tax, social insurance premiums and labor insurance premiums. It is legally permitted in Japan to withhold income tax and residential tax at source or to deduct premiums for social and labor insurances from wages.
• Dormitory fees, utility fees. In order to deduct these fees from wages, accepting companies must conclude a labour-management agreement on it.

Extra wages.

Accepting companies must pay extra wages increased by a specific percentage or more to technical intern trainees when they ordered them to work overtime, on days off or late at night.

• Overtime work (exceeding the statutory working hours): Not less than 25% (in principle)
• Night work (conducted between 10:00pm and 5:00pm): Not less than 25%
• Work on days off (work on statutory holidays): Not less than 35%

Minimum Wages.

In Japan, minimum wages are stipulated in the Minimum Wages Law and to pay wages less than minimum wages is an infringement of the Minimum wages Law. There are two types of minimum wages as shown below. The regional minimum wages described in first section is revised in October every year.

• Regional Minimum Wages:
  Regional Minimum wages are decided for each prefecture and they are applied to workers who work in each prefecture.
• Specified (industrial) Minimum Wages:
  They are applied to workers who engage in a specific industry in each prefecture.

Minimum Wages Effective from 1 October, 2018 (by Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.)

Insurance and Pension

Labor insurance:

Workmen’s accident compensation insurance and employment insurance are collectively called labor insurance. If an accepting company employs at least a worker, it must take out labor insurance, except for a business employing only family members or relatives living together. An individual farmer who employs less than five workers is not required to take out labor insurance, but it is recommended to do so in order to prepare for employees’ injuries during farm work.

• (1) Workmen’s accident compensation insurance:
• Insurance money is provided for injuries, illness, death, etc. of workers in the course of business or commuting. An accepting company bears a full amount of insurance premium.

• (2) Employment Insurance:
• Necessary insurance money is paid when a technical intern trainee has lost employment or when it is impossible for accepting companies to continue employing technical intern trainees. An accepting company and technical intern trainee share insurance premium at a fixed percentage.

In Japan, there are two public medical insurance schemes, namely national health insurance and health insurance, and two public pension schemes, namely national pension and employee’s pension. The following explains these four insurance schemes.

• National health insurance:

• The national health insurance is a social insurance scheme based on the National Health Insurance Act, which covers medical expenses when a person becomes ill or suffers injury. When a person receives medical treatment at a hospital, the person needs to pay 30% of the medical expenses.

• Health Insurance:

• The health insurance is a medical insurance system which covers medical expenses when a person who works at a private company becomes ill or suffers injury for reasons other than work. The beneficiary needs to pay 30% of the medical expenses. An accepting company and a technical intern trainee go halves with insurance premium.

• National pension:

• The national pension is a compulsory pension system applied to all people in Japan (including foreign citizen domicile in Japan). The aims of the system are to provide old age pensions, disability pensions and survivor’s pensions.

• Employee’s pension insurance:

• The employee’s pension insurance is a pension system compulsorily applied to incorporated companies which employ workers full-time. The aims of the system are to provide old age pensions, disability pensions and survivor’s pensions. An accepting company and a technical intern trainee go halves with insurance premium.

• Lump-sum withdrawal payments:

• Since a period of stay for technical intern trainees is short, the lump-sum withdrawal payments system for the national pension and the employee’s pension insurance applies to them. Technical intern trainees can receive lump-sum withdrawal payments, if they claim the said payments within two years of returning to home country, provided all of the following requirements are met.

• (1) Not to possess Japanese nationality.
• (2) To have paid insurance premiums for the national pension or the employee’s pension insurance for six months or more.
• (3) Not to domicile in Japan.
• (4) Not to have had a right to receive a pension (including disability allowance).

Workplace Issues

Trainees under ‘Technical Intern Training’ status are protected under various labor-related statutes, including the Labour Standards Law, Industrial Safety and Health Law, Minimum Wages Law, Workers’ Accident Compensation Insurance Law, and Employment Insurance Law. If you are facing any problems as a Technical Intern Trainee, from any source at the workplace, you should always report it to respective authorities without any fear and prejudice in mind.

• 1.Discrimination:

• Discrimination means the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex. Even though generally Japanese people are polite in nature, it is possible that you may face discrimination basis on your nationality or race. There are two main sources you may receive such type of unpleasant experience from:

• From your fellow colleagues or your seniors.
• From your accepting organisation’s management personnel.

In any case, your sending organisation shall always stay informed regarding such unpleasant experiences. It is the responsibility of supervising organisation to inspect and resolve such kind of matters and shall provide a reasonable and satisfying result for Technical Intern Trainees.

• 2.Harassment:

• Harassment means aggressive pressure or intimidation. In today’s era, harassment is not so uncommon. Anybody can face it anywhere, especially from the colleagues. Japan’s corporate life is not an exception to Harassment as well. Workers – especially women – face such kind of harassment. Regardless, being a male does not grant you immunity from harassment as well.
  Under the status of ‘Technical Intern Trainee’, all the Japan laws are equally applicable on you and hence, you are eligible for the protection the laws provide. Harassment can severely damage your mental health; hence do not take it lightly. Speak out your voice to Implementing Organisation as well as Supervising Organisation. Make sure you keep your sending organisation informed regarding the matter.

• 3.Physical and Mental Abuse:

• Physical Abuse means any non-accidental act or behavior causing injury, trauma, or other physical suffering or bodily harm. Though Japanese work ethics and methods are considered one of the best in the corporate world, Japan is not an exception for physical abuse. Multiple occurrences of physical abuses have taken place on Technical Intern Trainees before. Physical abuse can affect your physical health as well as your mental health. It can deter your motivation and interest in the work and it also may provoke you to abandon your work before the contract ends. Absconding will make your situation even more dreadful.
  Mental Abuse is a form of abuse, characterized by a person subjecting, or exposing, another person to behavior that may result in psychological trauma, including anxiety, chronic depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. The occurrences have occurred before where interns were manipulated with fear and blackmail. This could result in damage to self-esteem, loss of confidence. Severe level of mental abuse could lead to chronic depression and anxiety.
  RAISE YOUR VOICE! In case of such misbehaviors towards you occur, you have to contact your respective supervising organisation regarding the issue. Also, keep your sending organisation informed regarding the issue as they can provide you efficient assistance in the matter.

• 4.Confiscation of Passport and other important documents:

• Fundamental Human rights are natural and inherent in all human beings regardless of their nation, location, language, religion, ethnic origin or any other status. These rights are embedded in our laws to avoid mankind living barbaric and animalistic way of live, where the strong survive, and the weak eliminated. Violations such as confiscation of passport or any other important documents, controlling your will or your movements etc, are some common violations an intern might face.
  In cases like passport confiscation, involvement of missions like Indian Embassy may be involved in the process of resolution. Your sending organisation shall be informed about this matter without fail as gravity of this matter is extremely high. Also, it is important that you should keep a copy of all your important documents with you all the time.

• 5.Excessive Overtime and/or Underpayment of wages:

• By Japanese labour laws, interns are to work for 8 hours, 5 days a week. Saturday and Sunday are official holidays in Japan. Also, there are several public holidays. In case if you have to work on holidays and/or overtime, the implementing organisation is liable to pay you extra wages for your contribution. (Details in ‘Wage and Deduction’)
  By Japanese labour laws, the maximum hours of overtime per month for any worker are 80 hours as it is the Karoushi (Death by Overwork) limit. Despite the laws, it is possible that some implementing organisations may break the laws by making their interns work excessively. Furthermore, they may underpay to their interns for working less. These are criminal offenses and if discovered, OTIT may terminate the organisation’s license for TIT program.
  Hence, if you are victim of such violations do not hesitate to contact your Supervising organisation as well as your sending organisation. In this process, authorities from OTIT may get involved to give justice to the matter. In this case, interns are eligible to receive compensation from the accepting organisation as well. Furthermore, with the help of OTIT, interns are to be placed in another proper implementing organisation where they can engage in same type of work.
  

• 6.TIT Interns as Cheap Labour:

• The main objective of Technical Intern Training Program is to provide advance skills to the trainees enrolled in the program. The implementing organisations are not supposed to use these Technical Intern Trainees as the source of cheap labor but to provide them advanced skills in their trade which they cannot acquire in their home country.
  Many of the accepting companies had failed to follow the main code of this program in the past and hence, many interns were abused, blackmailed and were used as a cheap labor. Hence, Organisation for Technical Intern Trainees was established in Japan in January, 2017 to ensure the accurate implementation of the main objective of this program.
  Hence, as a Technical Intern Trainee, a trainee is supposed to receive full-fledged training related to their trade. In case if they are not receiving proper training and/or told to do the repetitive work (which is also against the objective of TITP), these are the signs of trainees being used as a cheap labor. In such cases, interns have to report such cases to the supervising organisation while keeping sending organisation informed.
  Since this is the violation of the main objective of the program, OTIT may step in to inspect and resolve the matter. Based on the gravity of violation of the rule, they have authority to terminate the TITP license of the respective implementing organisation as well.
  

• 7.Bankruptcy:

  In the TITP program, the implementing organisations (accepting companies) are the small and medium business enterprises in Japan. Though it is a requirement that the enterprise should not be close to bankruptcy to be qualified as Implementing Organisation in Japan, it might be possible that, in near future, the company might face bankruptcy.
  In such case, the supervising organisation has to take the responsibility of the interns, whether they can be placed in another organisation where they can utilize their skills and advance on improving them.
  In case if the supervising organisation fails to find an appropriate implementing organisation for the trainees, the supervising organisation shall take all the proper measures to send the intern back to their home country. Also, proper compensation shall be provided to interns for the sudden interruption of their training program.

Guide to Lost and Found

If you have lost or inadvertently left behind your personal items and wish to recover them, visit the nearest police station or police box to report the loss. Lost something in Japan? You’re in luck — chances are good that you’ll get it back. Countless travelers in Japan have reported being reunited with lost valuables, including wallets with all the cash intact. The Japanese term wasuremono (忘れ物) can be translated as “forgotten things.” English lacks a similar word, and this might reflect the care with which lost property is handled in Japan.

If you have left behind your belongings on a train:

Ask a station attendant for help. It makes the search easier if you remember the destination of the train and the train car you were on.

• What happens to property lost on rail networks in Japan?

Under Japan’s Lost Property Act, property must be handed over to police within seven days. Lost property is gathered by railway staff, tagged, cataloged and kept for a few days (at stations and centralized collection offices) and then sent to police. Generally, police discard lost property three months after receiving it.

• How do I claim a lost item?

Report the loss as soon as possible to the appropriate railway operator, either in person or by calling (see below for contact information). You, or someone you appoint, will only have a few days to retrieve it from the operator; after that it will likely be transferred to police where it will be kept for three months.

• After an item is found, how soon is it transferred to the lost and found office?

Depending on the rail operator, lost property may be sent to its lost and found office after one to three days.

• How can I contact railway operators? Is it only in Japanese?

Contact them by phone or go there in person. Some major railway companies like JR East have multilingual call centers for inquiries about lost property. However, most companies only take calls in Japanese.

• How soon can I inquire about an item?

You can inquire immediately. If the item hasn’t been found or cataloged yet, you may still receive an inquiry number for the next time you call.

• How long are the items kept at a lost and found office? Can this period be extended?

Items are generally kept for about three days, sometimes a few more, before they are turned over to police. At the discretion of police, some inexpensive items that are often lost, such as plastic umbrellas and handkerchiefs, may be kept for longer by railway operators. Items may be kept longer if a claim has been filed.

• I’m not sure where I lost something or I’ve been told my property may have been transferred to police. What should I do?

Police are the final custodians of lost property in Japan and generally hold it for three months before disposal. There is no nationwide database for lost property and owners must apply to the police force of the prefecture where the item may have been found. If you’re not sure where you’ve lost something, go to the nearest koban (police box) or police station and fill out a lost property report (the same applies if a railway operator has transferred your property to police). You may be contacted and told to get in touch with a police lost and found center or check an online database. They include the numbers listed in the “Local Police Lost & Found” section below. Note that if you visit a police box or station in person, a phone-based translation service is often provided.

• Can property be sent to another city in or outside Japan? How much does that cost?

Railway operators will generally refuse to send items overseas. However, if you have already left Japan, you can ask someone in Japan to pick up your property for you. Operators can sometimes ship items to another city in Japan via cash-on-delivery courier service.

• Is lost property always at the lost and found office at the last station or the station where it was found?

No. Depending on the rail operator, lost property may be kept for a few days at the station where it was found, the final station on the line, or at a central lost and found office.

• What’s the difference in what happens to items lost on a train and those lost at a station?

There is no difference. Both will be tagged, cataloged and kept for a few days before being handed over to local police.

• What is the best way to find someone Japanese to contact lost and found?

If the railway operator you’re dealing with does not have English-speaking staff, You should contact your respective Implementing Organisation to ask for their assistance regarding the matter.

• Is identification required to claim lost property?

Railway operators may ask to see your passport when you claim property

If you have left behind your belongings on a bus or taxi:

Contact a local service office of the bus company or the taxi company. The procedure is same as above.

If you find a lost item:

If you come across a lost item, hand it over to the nearest police station or police box as soon as possible. If you are at a train station or a department store, hand it over to a station attendant or to the lost and found section of the store.

If you’ve been informed that your property was found

• If you’ve been contacted by a police station or the Lost and Found Center
Make sure that you go to the correct office with required documents. You can pick up your property during service hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m., Monday through Friday (except national holidays and December 29 - January 3).
• If you’ve been contacted by someone other than the police
As for a found bank/credit card or mobile phone, the card issuer or mobile phone carrier will contact the holder/subscriber upon notification from the police. In that case, check with them which police station keeps it as well as its report number to make sure you visit the correct office during service hours. To claim a lost mobile phone, its SIM card number or serial number is also required.

• Documentation required to claim property

• Valid identification (e.g., driver’s license, health insurance card, passport, or Residence Card);
• Written notice if notified in writing
• Letter of Authorization from the owner if someone else is to pick up the property (A family member living with the owner does not need to be authorized in writing except when claiming mobile phones).

Absconding

The Japanese culture and Japanese work culture differs from your home country. There are numerous reasons such as tempting offers from outside, strict working environment, stressful life, unable to cope with Japanese environment and culture etc.
Regardless of the reasons, you should never consider running away from the work as the consequences are grave, including you may not be able to return to home country and have a criminal record.

Abscondence leads to,

• 1.High risk of low wages and non-payment

  Unscrupulous brokers may be involved. Absconders often fall deeper into debt in order to get by, which may make returning to their home countries difficult.

• 2.Absconding can cause problems for family members

  The TIT program aims you to provide you advanced skills regarding your field so that you can make a better living in your home country. Your family and your future lies in your hands. But, by absconding, you risk the only source of acquiring these advanced skills, hence putting your extra money, time, mental health of your family in unnecessary stressful consequences.

• 3.Unauthorized Activity

  Working anywhere other than a designated training site represents unauthorized activity and incurs the possibility of eviction, imprisonment with/without hard labor for a period not exceeding 3 years, or a fine of up to 3 million yen.

• 4.Crime

  Absconders often have no choice but to turn to crime owing to their vulnerability.

• 5.No access to health insurance

  Costs for treatment for injury and sickness are high owing to not being able to pay for health insurance.

Absconding is often the result of weak mental health. But the TITP system grants you counselling at your will. It is possible that your work is severely strict or you have difficulties getting along with the culture of Japan. Through the system, you can always seek a remedy for your problems. Hence, do not be tempted by smooth talks.

Loss of important documents

Take care of your passport and resident card as it is the most important identity document you have in Japan. Japan especially is prone to Earthquakes and Typhoon and such natural calamities may result in loss and/or damage of your important documents. Here is how you should take the precautions to avoid the ‘loss of Identity’ in Japan.

• Your Indian passport is the most valuable and important document in Japan. It should always be in your custody. Remember that, confiscation of passport by your Sending, Supervising and Implementing Organisation is a criminal offense.
• Passport must not be sent outside of your country of residence by post.
• You need to ensure that your passport always remains valid and up to date. You can renew your passport up to one year in advance of the expiry date mentioned in the passport.
• If your passport is lost, stolen or destroyed, you should immediately file a report at the nearest police station, to the nearest passport issuing authority in India and to the nearest Indian Mission abroad. Details given below.
• Keep a coloured photocopy of your passport in a safe place, separate from your original passport. If your passport is lost, stolen or damaged the photocopy will help in faster processing for getting a duplicate passport. Without that, issuance of a duplicate passport may be delayed.
• You can be refused passport facilities on grounds of suppression of factual information; providing false information; wilful damage of passport; making unauthorized changes in the passport, and tampering with the entire in the passport.

• Methods of taking precaution:

• 1.Make Backup Copies of Your Passport
• Get Colour photocopies of your Passport, the front and back pages. Also, scan your Passport and save the document digitally in your mail, cloud storage, and mobile phone
• 2.Carry the Backup Copies of your Passport.
• When travelling abroad, carry the physical and digital copies of your passport along with you. Make sure to have at least 3 physical copies that are stored in different pieces of your luggage and one with you at all times..

• In case your Indian Passport is lost abroad:

• 1.File a Police Complaint:
• As soon as you realize your passport is lost or stolen, you are to register a complaint regarding the issue after consulting with your respective implementing organisation. You will receive a copy of the police report for the same. This document is very important as it will serve as proof of loss/theft of your passport and other valuables if any. Also, a police report will help you with embassy related formalities. Make sure you keep your sending organisation informed.
• 2.Contact the Indian Embassy:
• The next step for you would be to contact the nearest Indian Embassy and let them know regarding your lost/stolen passport. List of Indian Missions in Japan:

• Indian Embassy in Japan, Tokyo, Japan.

• https://www.indembassy-tokyo.gov.in/contact_us.html
• Address:2-2-11 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074
• Tel: +81 3-3262-2391/92/93/94/95/96/97
• Fax: +81 3-3234-4866
• Access: Kudanshita Station (Hanzomon, Shinjuku and Tozai Subway Lines) Exit 2.
• Working hours: Monday to Friday: 0900 to 1750

• Consulate General of India

• https://www.indconosaka.gov.in/
• Address:
• Consulate General of India, Osaka-Kobe 10th Floor, Semba I.S. Building, 1-9-26 Kyutaromachi, Chou-ku, Osaka 541-0056
• Access: By Subway, Chou Line/Sakaisuji Line. 1 minute from Sakaisuji Honmachi station – Exit No. 6/7
• Working Hours: Monday to Friday: 0900 – 1730 hours

• Education, Culture and Administration
  Phone: (00-81-6)-6261-7299/9299
  Fax: (00-81-6)-6261-7201
  Email: admn.osakakobe@mea.gov.in

• Visa, Passport, consular and Attestation of documents
  Phone: (00-81-6)-6261-7299/9299
  Fax: (00-81-6)-6261-7201
  Email: cons.osakakobe@mea.gov.in

• Trade and Commercial Information
  Phone: (00-81-6)-6261-7299/9299
  Fax: (00-81-6)-6261-7201
  Email: mktast.osakakobe@mea.gov.in

Transfer of mortal remains

In the event of a fatal accident or incident suffered by a technical intern trainee, the sending organization concerned should promptly contact the family of the decedent and take all possible measures for providing appropriate advice and transmitting information to both the supervising organization concerned and the deceased’s family by acting as intermediary.
The sending organization should also work with the diplomatic missions abroad in Japan and the trainee’s home country to complete the necessary formalities for bringing the family of the deceased to Japan.
When foreign technical intern trainees meet with unexpected accidents, it is necessary for the organization implementing technical intern training to be able to provide sufficient compensation. The family of the deceased shall receive compensation from the implementing organisation for the grave loss. If the issue of compensation for the family of the deceased should arise, a fair solution should be arrived at, taking feelings of the family into consideration; for example, settling the compensation matters between the sending organization and supervising organization, etc. in advance, and then explaining them to the family.

• 1.Formalities related to deceased in Japan:

• For the purpose of bringing back the mortal remains of an Indian national, registration of death at the concerned Indian Mission/Post is necessary, for which normally the following documents are required:

• Medical report / death certificate issued from a hospital
• Copy of detailed police report (with English translation, if report is in some other language), in case of accidental or unnatural death
• Consent letter from next of kin of the deceased for local cremation / burial / transportation of mortal remains, duly attested by a notary
• Copy of passport and visa pages
• In addition to the above, other documents such as clearance and arrangements for embalming of mortal remains, clearance from local immigration/customs department, etc. are required. These procedures may differ from country to country.

Note 1: However, permission for either document may not be granted in the first 24 hours after passing, as the police are duty-bound to investigate the circumstances of the death. If they conclude it was a natural death, permission will be granted. If there is any area of concern, they may order an autopsy, and this can take days.
Note 2: Remember that in Japan cremation is the norm, especially since the end of the war. Space is considered to be at such a premium these days that generally permission is not granted for a regular burial.

• 2.Time required to transfer mortal remains from Japan to India:

• Local procedures for transportation of mortal remains of foreign nationals vary from country to country. The normal time line ranges from 2 to 4 weeks due to local procedures as indicated above. If the death was due to unnatural causes and investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause of death, it may take significantly longer, depending upon progress in the investigations. The Indian Embassy/Consulate stays in touch with the concerned local authorities to expedite the process.

Natural Disaster - Earthquake

Japan is an earthquake-prone country. Be prepared and don't panic when it happens! Check your emergency survival kit regularly to see if the food is outdated or any items are missing so that the kit is usable when it's needed.

• Getting ready for an earthquake:

• Gather together whatever you may need to use during an evacuation, and place it all in emergency bags such as rucksacks, etc. Having done so, make sure that all family members know where the emergency bags are kept. The contents of such bags should be limited to those necessary items that you and your family can personally carry to an evacuation center. Please prepare your emergency bags in accordance with the needs of your family and yourself.

• Items to be placed in Emergency bag:

• Flashlight, Radio, Spare batteries, Mobile phone and rechargers, Lighter, Drinking Water, Ready-to-eat (dry) food, Helmets, Thick cotton gloves, Underwear, Socks, Towel, Wet tissues, Plastic bags, Disposable pocket warmers, Pens and notepad, Emergency items (first aid), Copy of Passport and Residence card, Copy of your insurance papers.

• Daily Stockpiles:

• In the event of an epicenter earthquake, citizens whose homes are still intact are to take refuge in their homes. However, it is anticipated that electricity, gas, and water will be unavailable, and the supply of goods will be halted due to rubble covering the roads. Daily stockpiles of food and daily necessities will become important in order to survive until lifelines and the distribution of goods can be recovered.
  It might be difficult for householders to think in terms of preparing a special stockpile of items that are to be used during times of disaster. However, such concerns can be easily alleviated by simply taking steps to buy a little bit more of those foodstuffs and daily necessities that you normally use.

• Points to consider when stockpiling are as follows:

• Purchase extra food and daily necessities.
• Use older products first in daily life.
• Replace food and items that have been eaten or used, and maintain a constant surplus.

• By repeating this cycle, you may be able to survive at home in the event of a disaster.

• Safety Measures:

• Furniture:

• Do not leave objects near doors, hallways, and/or staircases.
• Do not put anything heavy or breakable on the top of furniture.
• Secure furniture to prevent it from falling. It is also recommendable to secure TVs, personal computers and stereo units.
• If you put something on the top of furniture, make sure it stands securely. In addition, place some non-slip material under it to prevent it from falling off the furniture.

• Fire Prevention:

• Unplug electrical appliances after use.
• Use kerosene/gas stoves and heaters with an auto-shutdown function that reacts to earthquakes and falls.
• Never use anything other than kerosene for kerosene stoves/heaters.
• Always keep enough space between a fire source, such as a cooking stove, and furniture.

• What to do in case of Earthquake?:

• The Earthquake Early Warning or Kinkyu Jishin Sokuho is issued by The Japan Meteorological Agency, immediately after it detects the occurrence of earthquakes with a seismic intensity of 5 lower and over. Ensure your safety as soon as you see or hear the warning on TV or radio.

Away From Home:

• In a residential area: Stay away from gates and concrete block walls if you are in a residential area at the time of an earthquake.
• In the city center: Protect your head with your bag or a similar object from possible falling objects such as broken windows or signboards. Find an open area or a park to which you should evacuate.
• Vending Machines, Utility Poles, Downed Power Lines etc: You should stay away from vending machines, utility poles and downed power lines.
• Cliffs or Riverbanks: You should stay away from cliffs and riverbanks since they could collapse at any moment.

• In a high-rise building: Evacuate from the building by using the stairs. You should never use elevators.

• In an underground mall: Protect your head with your bags or clothes. After the main shock ceases, head toward an exit on the ground level. Since many people may rush to and crowd the exit, you should be careful to avoid falling and being trampled by others.
• On an elevator: If the elevator is equipped with an earthquake sensor, it will stop automatically at the nearest floor when the quake occurs. You should get off the elevator immediately and use the stairs to evacuate. If the elevator is not equipped with this sensor, it won't stop by itself; you should push every floor button and get off at any floor it first stops at and then use a staircase to evacuate. If the door doesn't open, use the emergency feature available in the elevator such as a phone, button or bell to inform someone outside that you are trapped. Do not try to force the door to open from inside until the rescue service arrives.
• On a train: If you are standing on a train, grab a strap or bar to prevent yourself from falling. After the train stops, you should stay calm and wait for instructions from the conductor; without instructions, do not attempt to get out of the train by unlocking the emergency door lock or by jumping out from the window.

• At Home:

• Do not move until the main quake ceases.
• Turn off all heat sources immediately.
• Secure a way to evacuate the premises
• Do not become panicked by aftershocks.
• Get ready to evacuate.
• Evacuate on foot.

IMPORTANT:

After the natural disaster passes away, you must report your condition to the concerning Supervising organisation as well as Implementing organisation.

Natural Disaster - Typhoon/Torrential Rain

Although it is impossible to prevent typhoons and torrential rains from occurring, there are some tips for keeping damage at a minimum when they hit your local area.

Getting prepared for a typhoon/torrential rain

Typhoons are a type of tropical storm generated normally between May and November. Japan is approached or sometimes hit by a number of typhoons between August and October every year.
Torrential rain is defined as heavy rain and thunder that is concentrated on a limited area for several hours continuously.
To prevent possible damage by typhoons and heavy rain, keep the following tips in mind:

• Securely shut all windows and shutters.
• Bring plant pots and other objects on balconies inside.
• Check if the laundry poles are firmly secured.

Items to be placed in Emergency bag:

Flashlight, Radio, Spare batteries, Mobile phone and rechargers, Lighter, Drinking Water, Ready-to-eat (dry) food, Helmets, Thick cotton gloves, Underwear, Socks, Towel, Wet tissues, Plastic bags, Disposable pocket warmers, Pens and notepad, Emergency items (first aid), Copy of Passport and Residence card, Copy of your insurance papers.

When a typhoon/torrential rain hits your area

• Don't go outside and stay away from dangerous spots:

Depending on local geographical conditions, your area may have a greater risk of unexpectedly high tides, flooding, or landslides caused by the typhoon or torrential rain.

• Listen to weather watches and warnings issued by the Meteorological Agency:

Frequently check the weather news on TV and/or radio for the latest storm watches and warnings.
When "special alarms" have been announced, there is an increased danger of unprecedented major disasters occurring. Take action to preserve your life by following evacuation information released by the municipalities.

• Watch for possible flooding in the basement:

Basements can be easily flooded as water flow always goes downward. Stay away from the basement during heavy rain and do not use an elevator if you need to go downstairs.

• Stay away from flooded streets:

Do not approach streets and roads covered with water due to broken water pipes, flooded rivers, or any other conditions caused by heavy rain.

• Stay away from downed power lines:

When exposed to water, electric facilities such as power switchboards and power lines could cause not only a power outage but also the hazard of electric shock.

• IMPORTANT: For Live Weather Warnings: click here

• Emergency shelters

• If the situation becomes dangerous for your safety, follow the directions by the local disaster-control authority and evacuate to an emergency shelter. Each community has designated emergency shelters. It is important to identify and remember the location of your local shelter in advance. Even if an evacuation advisory is not issued, check the weather news on TV and/or radio frequently. As soon as you feel the situation to be threatening, evacuate yourself to a designated emergency shelter.

Emergency - Car accident or crime

Being prepared is the first step to avoid an accident or crime

Traffic accident - call 110

If you become involved in or witness a traffic accident or crime, make an emergency call to the police by calling 110. No area code is necessary to call from anywhere in Japan.

• Once you reach the police, tell the operator the following:

• What happened (explain clearly such as "(there was) an accident")
• When it happened
• Where it happened
• Your name
• Phone number you are calling from
• Find and describe landmarks nearby or call from a public pay phone if you do not know the exact address of the site.
• You may call 110 from your mobile phone.

Theft? Call 110 or report to the nearest police box

If you become a victim of theft, call 110 (no area code is necessary) or report the theft to the nearest police box. You should also immediately contact your bank and/or credit company if your ATM or credit cards or bankbooks are stolen.

• IMPORTANT: GET HELP!

  It is very important that your respective Supervising organisation and Implementing organisation shall be informed regarding the incident, so that they will be able to provide proper assistance regarding the issue. It is necessary that you should follow the guidelines and procedure.

Emergency - Sudden illness or injury

Life is unpredictable. Health injury or illness can occur anytime. Call an ambulance in case of a medical emergency or serious injury by dialling 119.

• Calling 119:

Make an emergency call by calling 119 (the same number in case of fire) to ask for an ambulance in case of sudden illness or injury.
• Once you get through to the 119 operator, report the following:
• That it is an emergency (救急 － きゅうきゅう － Kyukyu).
• What happened.
• Location (address) of emergency.
• Your name.
• Phone number you are calling from.
• Find and describe landmarks nearby or use a public payphone if you do not know the exact address of the site.
• You may also call 119 from your mobile phone.
• If you hear the sirens of the ambulance, stand outside so that you can help guide them to the emergency site.

• IMPORTANT: Keep your health insurance card handy as well as hospital cards if you have a doctor you regularly see.

• Going to a hospital on your own

  If your injury or sickness is not serious enough to necessitate calling an ambulance and you think you can make it to the hospital by yourself, use a taxi or drive by yourself.
  If you are admitted to a hospital under emergency conditions and require assistance with your medical treatment due to a lack of Japanese ability, there is an interpreting service by phone that may be provided. (Please note that this interpreting service is provided in response to requests made by medical institutions. It is not a service that responds to requests made by patients).
  

• IMPORTANT: In any case, the authorities at your respective Implementing Organisation shall be informed regarding your situation.

• Emergency during nighttime, weekends and holidays

• There are some medical institutions available in each community that accept emergency patients during the nighttime as well as weekends and public holidays. It is always recommended to know in advance the one nearest your home. You shall communicate your implementing organisation to get informed on such details.

Emergency - Fire

In Tokyo, roughly 4,200 fires break out annually. Please prepare yourself by learning how to prevent fires and how to take appropriate action should one actually break out.

Calling 119:

When you witness a fire, call out in a loud voice and let the neighbors know that there is a fire. Next, make an emergency call to 119, regardless of the size of the fire. Remember that 119 is the number to call in case of fire in Japan.

What to Report?

• Once you get through to the 119 operator, report the following:
• hat there is a fire (kaji 火事)
• Location (address) of the fire
• Any nearby landmarks if you don't know the exact address of the site (you may also use a public payphone to let the operator know where you are calling from)
• What is on fire

IMPORTANT:

• Consult with your Implementing Organisation authorities with help of your Sending Organisation in case your property was damaged.
• You may call 119 from your mobile phone anytime you want.
• If you hear the sirens of the fire trucks, stand outside so that you can help guide them to the fire.

Preparedness to counter the disaster:

1. Safe Evacuation:

• If you detect fire, immediately inform the neighbors about it.
• Try to put the fire out with an extinguisher or other available tools.
• If the fire has reached the ceiling, immediately evacuate the premises since it is very dangerous.
• When you evacuate, protect your nose and mouth from inhaling smoke with a moist handkerchief or towel and proceed by keeping yourself as low as possible.
• Evacuate to the lower floors since both fire and smoke move fast towards the higher floors.
• When you evacuate, do not use elevators - always take a staircase.
• Make a 119 phone call after you have evacuated the premises and secured your own safety.

2. Fire Prevention:

• Never leave cookers unattended when you cook.
• Do not place any objects near burners or heating stoves.
• When going to sleep or leaving the house, make sure to turn off heaters.
• Regularly clean so that dust does not accumulate inside electrical outlets.
• Make sure to not break electrical cords, or let them get crushed beneath furniture.
• Unplug electric appliances when you are away from home for a long time.

If you are a smoker, please take additional precautions:

• Never smoke in bed.
• Do not litter with cigarette butts.
• Do not smoke while walking on a street. (You may also be fined in some wards of Tokyo.)
• Always make sure you have completely put out cigarettes.
• Put out cigarettes completely by dipping them in water.

IMPORTANT:

• It is important that you prepare an extinguisher in case of fire. Participate in fire drills in your community and brush up your prevention skills with an extinguisher. Make sure you report to the respective authorities in case you are missing the equipments or need detailed guidance.

Healthcare and Safety - Important Links

• Self-Diagnosis Mind and Body: Click here
• Self-Report Form for Medical Institutions and Supplementary Questions About Your Physical Conditions (with Japanese translation): Click Here
• Rules on Safe Bicycle Riding: Click Here
• A Check Sheet to Safeguard Against Death from Brain and Heart Conditions (Death from Overworking, etc.): Click Here

India Missions in Japan:

• Indian Embassy in Japan, Tokyo, Japan.

https://www.indembassy-tokyo.gov.in/contact_us.html

Address:2-2-11 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074

Tel: +81 3-3262-2391/92/93/94/95/96/97

Fax: +81 3-3234-4866

Access: Kudanshita Station (Hanzomon, Shinjuku and Tozai Subway Lines) Exit 2.

Working hours: Monday to Friday: 0900 to 1750

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• Japan-India Foundation, Nihonbashi, Chuo, Tokyo. (Founder: Government of Japan)

Indian website:- https://www.jfindia.org.in/
Japan website:-http://www.jpf.go.jp/

Address:

• 4-4-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
  Access: 3-minute walk from Yotsuya-sanchome [Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line])
• 6th-8th Fl., 4-16-3 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
  Access: The nearest station is: Yotsuya-sanchome (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line)Exit2)
• 7th-9th Fl., 4-3 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
  Access: The nearest station is: Yotsuya-sanchome (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line)Exit2)

Tel: +81-3-5369-6051 (General Affairs Division) /+81-3-5369-6075 (Communication Center)

Fax: +81-3-5369-6031 (General Affairs Division) / +81-3-5369-6044 (Communication Center)

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• The India Club, 1913, Kobe, Japan

https://indiaclubjapan.com/en/

Address: Yamamoto Dori 1-7-15, Chouku, Kobe Hyougo, Japan, 650-0003
Access: Go north to (mountain side) out of the Sannomiya Station. A 10-minute walk up the “Kitano-zaka”.

Phone: 078-221-8525

Fax:078-241-3379

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• Consulate General of India

https://www.indconosaka.gov.in/

Address: Consulate General of India, Osaka-Kobe 10th Floor, Semba I.S. Building, 1-9-26 Kyutaromachi, Chou-ku, Osaka 541-0056
Access: By Subway, Chou Line/Sakaisuji Line. 1 minute from Sakaisuji Hommachi station – Exit No. 6/7

Working Hours: Monday to Friday: 0900 – 1730 hours

• Education, Culture and Administration
  Phone: (00-81-6)-6261-7299/9299
  Fax: (00-81-6)-6261-7201
  Email: admn.osakakobe@mea.gov.in
• Visa, Passport, consular and Attestation of documents
  Phone: (00-81-6)-6261-7299/9299
  Fax: (00-81-6)-6261-7201
  Email: cons.osakakobe@mea.gov.in
• Trade and Commercial Information
  Phone: (00-81-6)-6261-7299/9299
  Fax: (00-81-6)-6261-7201
  Email: mktast.osakakobe@mea.gov.in

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• The Indian Merchant Association of Yokohama (IMAY) / Indian Chamber of Commerce

http://www.iccj.jp/home/1
http://icc-japan.org/

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• Japan Tamil Sangam – Tokyo Indian Community

http://www.tokyoindians.com/

Commonly Used Japanese Words and Phrases

• Thank you: ありがとう/(ARIGATOU)
• Good morning: おはよう/(OHAYOU)
• Hi/Hello.: こんにちは/(KON-NICHIWA)
• Excuse me: すみません/(SUMIMASEN)
• I am sorry: ごめんなさい/(GOMEN-NASAI)
• I: 私/ わたし/(WATASHI)
• Husband: 夫/ おっと/(OTTO)
• Wife: 妻/ つま/(TSUMA)
• Child: 子供/ こども/(KODOMO)
• School: 学校/ がっこう/(GAKKOU)

Emergency Words and Phrases in Japanese

• Help!: 助けて/ たすけて/(TASUKETE)
• Thirf/Robber: 泥棒/ どろぼう/(DOROBOU)
• Police: 警察/ けいさつ/(KEISATSU)
• Fire: 火事/ かじ/(KAJI)
• Ambulance: 救急車/ きゅうきゅうしゃ/(KYUUKYUUSHA)
• Hospital: 病院/ びょういん/(BYOUIN)
• Hurry up!: 急いで/ いそいで/(ISOIDE)
• Stop it!: 止めて/ やめて/(YAMETE)
• Get out of here: 出て行って/ でていって/(DETEITTE)
• I am in pain. (I AM HURT/SORE): 痛い/ いたい/(ITAI)
• Violence: 暴力/ ぼうりょく/(BOURYOKU)
• Illness: 病気/ びょうき/(BYOUKI)
• Accident: 事故/ じこ/(JIKO)
• Injury: 怪我/ けが/(KEGA)
• Earthquake: 地震/ じしん/(JISHIN)
• Main Shock: 本震/ ほんしん/(HONSHIN)
• Aftershock: 余震/ よしん/(YOSHIN)
• High Ground: 高台/ たかだい(TAKADAI)
• Evacuation: 避難/ ひなん(HINAN)
• I cannot speak Japanese: 日本語話せません/ にほんごはなせません/(NIHONGO HANASEMASEN)