Training with JM&C

Japan Orientation Training

Thriving in Japan: Life & Culture Orientation for Newcomers

If you are planning on moving to Japan for work or study, here on a short assignment or long-term stay, navigating life in a new country can feel overwhelming. And that can be especially true for Japan. That’s why we created the Japan Orientation Program – a comprehensive, friendly, and practical introduction to living and working in Japan.

What you’ll learn

Our Japan Orientation Program is not just a survival guide. It’s a face-to-face interactive session designed to give you the insights, tools and confidence to thrive in Japan both professionally and personally.

You’ll cover a wide range of essential topics:

• Arriving in Japan: Immigration, airport logistics, transport from the airport, your first week checklists and what to bring and leave at home
• Daily Life: Shopping, transportation, money, housing, and how things actually work here
• Getting Settled: Setting up phones, bank accounts, the culture of the personal seal and other essentials
• Culture & Customs: Social etiquette, unspoken rules, communication styles, and how to avoid awkward situations
• Work Culture: How Japanese companies operate, what to expect in the workplace, and how to build good working relationships
• Culture Shock proofing & Adaptation: Practical tips for managing the highs and lows of adjusting to a new environment and culture
• Learning the Language: Realistic strategies for building Japanese language skills for all levels
• Safety & Preparedness: Earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, healthcare, and emergency procedures
• History, Politics & Society: Context that helps you make sense of today’s Japan
• Living Costs & Budgeting: Comparative costs of living in Japan, what to expect and how to manage your money the smart way in Japan

Each topic includes real-life examples, cultural insights, and practical how-to guides, all tailored for people who are new to Japan and want to get it right from the start.

Why our clients have taken this training

Practical Tips for settling into life in Japan

We share the kind of practical, real-world advice we wish we’d known on our first day in Japan. With decades of experience living and working here as expats, we offer unique insights into navigating everyday life.

For example, we’ll show you how to make sense of Japan’s detailed garbage-sorting system (yes, there is a correct day for plastic vs. burnables), and how to take full advantage of the convenience store — where you can do everything from sending parcels and printing documents to paying bills and even booking concert tickets.

Our goal is to help you feel at home faster, avoid common pitfalls, and approach your new life with confidence.

Reduce Culture Shock

Culture shock doesn’t just come from big differences — it often stems from unexpected ones. Things that once felt simple, like buying medicine, navigating social cues, or even making small talk, can suddenly become confusing or emotionally draining. Over time, these small stresses can build up and lead to frustration, overwhelm, isolation, or even a sense of disconnection.

Our orientation helps by setting clear, realistic expectations. We explain not just what is different, but why, so you can approach new experiences with context and understanding instead of confusion. We also share proven strategies for managing stress, building social support, and staying flexible as you adapt.

By knowing what to expect — and having the tools to deal with it — you’ll minimize confusion, feel more grounded, and adjust more smoothly to life in Japan.

Boost Your Professional Success with Cultural Fluency

Speaking Japanese will open doors for you professionally and while we recommend studying the language, we won’t lie, it is a challenge that takes time.

The good news is that cultural fluency is equally if not more important that language proficiency, and you can learn a lot quickly given the right guidance and training.

It isn’t just a way to get ahead in Japan, it’s critical for doing business. We’ll help you interpret nuance, navigate expectations, and build trust.

What Makes Our Program Unique?

• Customized Content: We tailor sessions to your situation — whether you’re an engineer relocating for work, a student starting university, or a family moving together.
• Taught by Experts: Our instructors have decades of experience living and working in Japan, supporting expats and global companies.
• Interactive Format: You won’t be stuck in a lecture. We use case studies, Q&A, role-play, and hands-on resources to make learning stick.
• Available Online or In Person: Flexible delivery to suit your schedule and location.
• Proven Track Record: Trusted by employees of major international manufacturing firms with operations in Japan, we’ve helped hundreds of professionals feel confident and prepared.

Who is this training for?

• Professionals relocating to Japan for work
• International students starting university life
• Families accompanying a working spouse
• HR teams looking to better support their international hires
• Anyone planning to stay in Japan for more than a few months

Whether you’re fresh off the plane or still planning your move, this orientation gives you a foundation to build a meaningful, productive, and enjoyable life in Japan.

Ready to Get Started?

📩 Contact us today to book a consultation or request a sample lesson.