Digital Nomad Life in Atami, Japan

"Finding a place to live in Atami, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a traditional Japanese house to a modern apartment. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Atami to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some areas might be closer to the beach, while others are near the city center or public transportation. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online real estate portals that list properties for rent or sale in Atami, such as Suumo, Homes, and Athome. These websites allow you to filter your search based on various criteria like price, location, size, and type of property. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help you with your search. They can provide you with valuable insights about the local market, help you negotiate the price, and guide you through the legal procedures. When you find a property that you're interested in, arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to inspect the property and the surrounding area. If you decide to proceed with the property, you'll need to submit an application and provide necessary documents such as proof of income and identification. Once your application is approved, you'll sign a lease agreement and make the necessary payments, which typically include a deposit, rent, and possibly a realtor's fee. Finally, before moving in, you might need to set up utilities like electricity, water, and internet. Some properties might include these in the rent, so make sure to check with the landlord or real estate agent. Remember, finding a place to live in a foreign country can be challenging, so it's important to be patient and thorough in your search," said one expat who made the move to Atami.

"Expats in Atami, appreciate the local culture's emphasis on community and respect for others. They admire the traditional Japanese customs and etiquette that are deeply ingrained in the society. The local festivals, such as the Atami Sea Fireworks Festival, are a highlight for many, showcasing the city's vibrant culture and community spirit. Expats also appreciate the local cuisine, which is fresh and diverse, with a particular emphasis on seafood due to Atami's coastal location. The city's hot springs, or onsens, are another cultural aspect that expats enjoy, offering a unique and relaxing experience. The local people's hospitality and willingness to help others, even those who are not fluent in Japanese, is another aspect of Atami's culture that expats appreciate. The city's cleanliness and safety are also highly valued, contributing to a high quality of life. Finally, expats appreciate the balance between modernity and tradition in Atami. While the city has all the amenities of a modern city, it also retains a traditional charm with its historic buildings and beautiful natural scenery," remarked one member in Atami.

"Expats in Atami may find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as not everyone speaks English and Japanese is a difficult language to learn. They may also struggle with the complex social etiquette, which includes specific rules for gift-giving, bowing, and addressing others. The concept of "saving face" is also deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, which can make direct communication and conflict resolution difficult for foreigners. Additionally, the work culture in Japan is very demanding, with long hours and a strong emphasis on loyalty and dedication to one's job, which can be a significant adjustment for expats. Lastly, the traditional Japanese diet, which is heavy on seafood and rice, may be a challenge for those who are not accustomed to it," remarked one member in Atami.

"If you are planning to stay in Atami for an extended period, you will need to obtain a visa. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your stay. For example, if you are going to work, you will need a working visa. If you are going to study, you will need a student visa. In addition to the visa, you will also need a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan. Once you arrive in Japan, you will need to apply for a Residence Card. This card serves as your ID in Japan and is required for various procedures such as opening a bank account or getting a cell phone contract. If you plan to stay in Japan for more than 90 days, you will need to register your address with the local municipal office. This is called a "juminhyo" or residence certificate. Please note that visa requirements can change, so it's always a good idea to check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel," explained one expat living in Atami, Japan.

"In Atami, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid speaking loudly or causing a disturbance, as Japanese culture values harmony and peace. When visiting hot springs or onsens, which Atami is famous for, ensure you wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath. It's considered disrespectful to enter the water without cleaning yourself first. Never stick your chopsticks upright in your rice, as this is a ritual performed at funerals. Similarly, passing food from chopstick to chopstick is considered bad manners because it's reminiscent of a Japanese funeral rite. Avoid tipping in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. Unlike in many Western cultures, tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting. Remember to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments. There will usually be a designated area for shoe storage. Avoid blowing your nose in public. It's considered rude and unhygienic in Japanese culture. If you need to blow your nose, it's best to do so in a private place like a restroom. When using public transportation, keep your phone on silent and avoid talking on the phone. It's considered impolite to disturb others in this way. Lastly, respect queues and don't cut in line. Japanese people take queuing seriously and it's considered very rude to not wait your turn," said one expat in Atami.