Sad as it may be, every now and then a JET member decides that they cannot continue their job mid-contract, and that they need to break contract and leave the JET Programme. Many circumstances lead to this decision, and it is important to carefully consider the effect that your choice will have on your students, […]
Once a month, when you get your paycheck, your school (or CO) will probably also give you a piece of paper describing it in detail. Here’s an explanation for those of you wondering how everything adds up.For most JETs in Hyogo, Payday will be on the 15th/16th of any given month. Salary (報酬額) The official […]
In Japan, a personal seal called a hanko (判子) is used instead of your signature on most documents. People often use hanko and inkan (印鑑) interchangeably, but technically speaking, your hanko is the cylindrical object made of wood, plastic, etc. used to make your seal, and your inkan is the red seal that you make […]
Last updated: October 2025. Kansai International Airport 関西国際空港 Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the main international airport for western Japan. Opened in 1994 to alleviate the demand experienced at Itami Airport, it’s become the third busiest airport in Japan. It provides both domestic and international flights to many destinations. The airport was completely renovated for […]
Last updated: October 2025 As you prepare to finish up on the JET Programme and head back home, one of the entitlements that JETs get are a free (or reimbursed) flight back home that is covered by your CO. This should be stated within your notice of appointment or contract provided by your CO. Conditions […]
Last updated: October 2025 The following resources should assist you in finding an English speaking doctor, dentist or specialist. Hyogo Prefectural Medical Facilities Information System The Prefectural Medical Facilities Information System provides an extensive list of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, drug stores, and midwifery centers in Hyogo with staff that speak foreign languages. The medical facilities […]
Last updated: October 2025 Driving in Japan really resolves a lot inconveniences and does become a massive lifeline especially those living in the rural areas. As such like anywhere else in the world, it does however come with its downsides, notably getting your car damaged and/or getting into an accident. This is why it is […]
Last updated: October 2025 This is a one stop shop combining all the previous blog posts for all things relevant to driving in Hyogo. Although a long post, it contains everything from road rules, parking driving in winter and DUI. Hope this is a helpful guide for your current or future driving endeavors. Road rules […]
Last updated: September 2025 In Japan, there is the usual assortment of cars you’d find in any country, but there is also a range of vehicles only available in Japan called kei cars or keijidosha (軽自動車) meaning ‘light cars’ (cars with an engine capacity of 660cc or less). They are the cheapest option, and are […]
Last updated: September 2025 In times of serious stress it can be good to contact a professional counsellor or the peer support line. Sometimes isolation, physical or linguistic, can make simple problems very stressful, and sometimes very disheartening. Rather than letting problems get on top of you, have a look at these options and find […]