Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka
Managing Editor & Writer
Tomoko Matsuoka is a managing editor and writer for MailMate, Shoeboxed, and a number of online resource libraries. She writes guides on life in Japan and covers Japanese business news, digitalization, and productivity tools and software.
City Planning Tax in Japan (2026): Rates & How to Pay

City Planning Tax in Japan (2026): Rates & How to Pay

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, 642 of Japan's 1,719 municipalities require property owners to pay city planning taxes.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
How to Change the Corporate Address on Your Touki

How to Change the Corporate Address on Your Touki

How to register a company address change, the necessary paperwork to file, and how much it will cost to do it yourself or ask a specialist.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Akiya Houses in Japan: Are They Worth It?
Properties & Akiyas, Life in Japan September 23rd, 2026

Akiya Houses in Japan: Are They Worth It?

Discover how Japan's akiya houses offer a unique opportunity for affordable living and renovation. Learn about the pros, cons, and processes involved.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
10 Top English-Speaking Hospitals and Clinics in Tokyo
Life in Japan, Out and About September 18th, 2026

10 Top English-Speaking Hospitals and Clinics in Tokyo

Bookmark this page so you’ll know where to turn in worst-case scenarios in Tokyo. Or share with a friend who needs help.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Fixed Asset Tax Japan: What Property Owners Should Know & Do

Fixed Asset Tax Japan: What Property Owners Should Know & Do

Discover what to know about fixed asset tax in Japan, including a brief overview, the formula for fixed asset taxes, and how to pay your fixed asset tax bill.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
How to Open a Corporate Bank Account in Japan
Business in Japan September 17th, 2026

How to Open a Corporate Bank Account in Japan

Learn about the documents to prepare, factors that could cause refusal, common mistakes to avoid, and a step-by-step guide to follow when attempting to open a company bank account in Japan.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Real Estate Acquisition Tax in Japan: A Quick & Easy Guide

Real Estate Acquisition Tax in Japan: A Quick & Easy Guide

Today, we look at Japan’s real estate acquisition tax, sent out 6 months to a year after your property registration.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners (2026 Guide)
Life in Japan August 12th, 2026

Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners (2026 Guide)

Confused about Japan's health insurance system? Discover everything foreigners need to know to navigate Japan's healthcare with ease!
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Driver's License Reciprocity in Japan: How to Convert Your Foreign License
Life in Japan August 7th, 2026

Driver's License Reciprocity in Japan: How to Convert Your Foreign License

Two types of international driving permits, countries with bilateral driver's license agreements with Japan, plus how to convert your foreign driver's license to a Japanese driver's license. 
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Nozei Shomeisho: Your Guide to Japan's Tax Certificate

Nozei Shomeisho: Your Guide to Japan's Tax Certificate

Nozei shomeisho (納税証明書) is a document that serves as proof of payment of taxes in Japan. Read on for a quick explanation of what it is and how to get one.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
How to Open a PO Box in Japan
Life in Japan, Japan Post August 6th, 2026

How to Open a PO Box in Japan

Here’s what to know to open a PO box in Japan.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Sole Proprietorship in Japan: Your Quickstart Guide
Business in Japan August 6th, 2026

Sole Proprietorship in Japan: Your Quickstart Guide

Here’s what to know about sole proprietorship in Japan.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
How to Get a Juminhyo (Resident Record) in Japan
Life in Japan July 31st, 2026

How to Get a Juminhyo (Resident Record) in Japan

A detailed guide so you can stop wondering.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Getting Married in Japan: Easy Guide + Checklist
Life in Japan July 31st, 2026

Getting Married in Japan: Easy Guide + Checklist

A simple-to-follow guide for tying the knot in Japan. Necessary documents to prepare and precise steps to follow.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
School Holidays in Japan: A Quick & Easy Guide
Life in Japan July 31st, 2026

School Holidays in Japan: A Quick & Easy Guide

Do Japanese school holidays seem confusing?
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Half-Width vs. Full-Width: A Tale of Two Characters
Business in Japan, Life in Japan July 23rd, 2026

Half-Width vs. Full-Width: A Tale of Two Characters

The origin story of Japan’s half-width 半角 and full-width 全角 characters, the current state of affairs, and where to go from here. Hold on for a wild ride. 
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
5 Methods Japanese Use for Dealing With Loose Change
Life in Japan, Out and About July 23rd, 2026

5 Methods Japanese Use for Dealing With Loose Change

Discover 5 methods that Japanese use for handling loose change.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
What Is DX in Japan? Meaning, Origins & Examples
Business in Japan July 23rd, 2026

What Is DX in Japan? Meaning, Origins & Examples

Everything from your morning mail to your retail experience is getting a digital makeover. At least, that’s the promise.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
Leaving Japan Temporarily? Your FAQs Answered
Out and About, Life in Japan July 2nd, 2026

Leaving Japan Temporarily? Your FAQs Answered

What to do with your bills, mail, plants, housekeeping, and other frequently asked questions related to leaving Japan for a couple of months.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
A Guide to Air Conditioning Installation & Replacement in Japan

A Guide to Air Conditioning Installation & Replacement in Japan

Need help with air conditioning installation and replacement? Learn what you need to know about installing a new AC unit in Japan, including what features to consider, price points, and more.
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Tomoko Matsuoka
Tomoko Matsuoka Managing Editor & Writer
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