Telephones, Post Offices, and Financial Institutions
International call ( Prepaid phone card)
Brastel Card
The Brastel Card allows you to call from Japan to anywhere in the world at the same rate, 24 hours a day. You can charge it at convenience stores or by credit card, and you can use it from fixed, mobile or public phones.
http://www.brastel.com/ (in English and many other languages)
International mail and parcels
Post Office
Post Office are all marked with a red “〒” mark. There, you can send packages and letters, buy stamps, and withdraw cash. Most are open Mon-Fri, 9am to 5pm, but hours can vary by location, so please inquire at your nearest post office.
Search for the closest post offices and ATMs
http://global.map.japanpost.jp/p/en/search/
Check international mail prices
http://www.post.japanpost.jp/int/charge/list/index_en.html
Practical Guide for International Students https://www.post.japanpost.jp/int/ems/ryugaku/intl_student/index_en.html
Yamato Transport Company
You can send packages domestically and overseas. Domestic packages can be sent from a convenience store. You can also call and have them pick the package up at your home.
http://www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/en/
Financial Institutions
Cash is the most commonly used financial instrument. Personal checks are virtually never used. Credit cards that are part of a global network can be used at many stores.
How to use Banks and other Financial Institutions
Japanese banks offer services such as savings and remittances, automatic withdrawal of water, electricity and gas bills, and credit card payment. To utilize these services you need to open an ordinary bank account.
（１）Opening an account
To open a savings account at a bank, you must have:
１）Identification like your passport or Residence Card
２）A personal seal (a signature will suffice)
There is no fee for opening an account, and you will be issued a bank book to record transactions and a cash card.
（２）Using a Cash Card
You can use your cash card to deposit and withdraw money from Automated Teller Machines even when you can’t speak to a teller. To withdraw money you will need to enter your 4-digit secret number, so be sure not to forget it. You can use ATMs at large stations and convenience stores even after banks have closed, but cash service hours vary between banks.
Applying for Automatic Transfer to your Account
You can have your public utilities, telephone, and NHK Broadcast bills deducted automatically from your bank account by filling out a bank account transfer application form (koza furikomi moshikomisho) at your bank. You will need to either use your personal seal or sign the document. You may need your contract number. Be sure to bring all of your bills and receipts.
Kyoto Prefectural International Center |
