ARRIVAL IN TOWN CHECKLISTS AUBREY BRUECKNER (WAKAYAMA) THEA FELMORE (HIROSHIMA) Welcome to your new home! You’ve survived airport transfers, struggled with heavy luggage, and have had a whirlwind couple of days at Tokyo Orientation. Now you’re ready to settle in, and we’re here to make things easier! Take a deep breath and use this handy checklist to start you off.
Find your local...
Kitchen matters
▢▢ Grocery store
▢▢ Stock up on basic essentials (see page 20 for ideas)
▢▢ Department store or other home goods store ▢▢ Convenience store ▢▢ Doctor or clinic ▢▢ Hospital ▢▢ Police station or koban (police box) ▢▢ Emergency evacuation area ▢▢ Daiso/100 yen store ▢▢ ATM ▢▢ Laundromat ▢▢ Post office
What FURNITURE DO YOU HAVE? ▢▢ Bed or futon set ▢▢ Sheets ▢▢ Pillows ▢▢ Blankets ▢▢ Table or desk ▢▢ Flashlight ▢▢ Batteries
▢▢ Purchase bags for garbage and recyclables ▢▢ Obtain garbage and recycling calendar ▢▢ Find the garbage and recycling area
Apartment basics ▢▢ Make a physical copy of your address and telephone number ▢▢ Post the contact information of your Contracting Organization ▢▢ Pass contact details onto family and friends ▢▢ Learn how to work the gas stove, microwave oven and washing machine ▢▢ Introduce yourself to neighbors
Explore! ▢▢ Take a walk around the block ▢▢ Visit the town hall and stock up on pamphlets and maps ▢▢ Find out about events and festivals ▢▢ Understand the weekly schedule for buses, trains, or ferries ▢▢ Obtain a road map of area
▢▢ Decorate apartment with pictures and souvenirs from home ▢▢ Organise internet connection (BBApply is highly recommended) ▢▢ Set air conditioner to a comfortable 24°C and relax
Find out how to pay for... ▢▢ Rent ▢▢ Utilities (water, gas, electricity) ▢▢ Cell phone
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