Must-Have Apps for Foreigners Living in Japan: Your Ultimate Guide

Moving to Japan is exciting, but it can also be challenging if you’re not familiar with the language, transportation system, or local customs. Thankfully, there are plenty of apps designed to make life easier for foreigners in Japan. From navigating the streets to ordering food, here’s a list of must-have apps that will help you settle in and enjoy everything Japan has to offer.

1. Navigation and Transportation Apps

Google Maps

• Google Maps is incredibly useful in Japan, especially since it includes detailed information on train and bus schedules. It helps you plan your routes with up-to-date departure and arrival times for public transportation.
• Key Features: Real-time transit info, walking routes, bike routes, and street view for familiarizing yourself with new areas.

Japan Transit Planner by Jorudan

• Japan’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world, but it can be overwhelming. Japan Transit Planner, often preferred by locals, offers detailed route planning, including transfer information, train schedules, and even fare details.
• Key Features: Real-time transit updates, transfer details, fare calculator, and different route options (fastest, cheapest, and fewest transfers).

2. Language Translation Apps

Google Translate

• Language can be one of the biggest barriers when living in Japan. Google Translate is a lifesaver with its camera translation feature, allowing you to instantly translate Japanese text by pointing your phone camera at signs, menus, or documents.
• Key Features: Camera translation, text translation, voice translation, and offline mode (for basic phrases).

DeepL Translate

• For more nuanced translations, especially for written communication, DeepL Translate is often more accurate than Google Translate. It’s great for translating complex sentences and keeping context intact, making it a go-to for work or official purposes.
• Key Features: High-quality translations, nuanced understanding of phrases, especially useful for text translations in Japanese.

3. Food Delivery Apps

Uber Eats

• Uber Eats has expanded significantly in Japan, especially in major cities. It’s user-friendly, offers a wide range of food options, and is available in English, making it convenient for newcomers who may struggle with Japanese-language menus.
• Key Features: English interface, diverse food options, easy payment options, and real-time tracking.

Demae-can

• If you want a wider selection of local Japanese restaurants, Demae-can is a popular option. While the app is primarily in Japanese, the variety of restaurants and local deals make it worth the effort, especially with Google Translate’s help.
• Key Features: Large selection of local restaurants, loyalty points, and quick delivery.

4. Shopping and Payments Apps

PayPay

• PayPay is one of Japan’s most popular cashless payment apps, accepted at a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and convenience stores. It’s perfect for foreigners, as it simplifies payments without needing cash.
• Key Features: Cashless payment at stores, easy mobile recharge, special discounts, and cashback offers.

Mercari

• Mercari is Japan’s largest online marketplace for buying and selling secondhand goods. It’s ideal for finding affordable items like furniture, electronics, or even clothing, especially if you’re setting up a new home in Japan.
• Key Features: Wide variety of secondhand items, user-friendly interface, and secure payment options.

5. Social and Communication Apps

LINE

• LINE is Japan’s most popular messaging app, used by nearly everyone in Japan. Beyond messaging, it also offers features like free calls, stickers, and even mobile payments, making it essential for staying connected with friends, coworkers, and local contacts.
• Key Features: Free messaging and calls, popular among locals, sticker packs, and group chats.

Meetup

• If you’re looking to make friends or meet other foreigners and locals with similar interests, Meetup is a great app to explore. It hosts events and meetups across various categories, from language exchange and cultural outings to sports and hobbies.
• Key Features: Event listings by category, location-based meetups, and great for building a social network.

6. Learning Japanese Apps

HelloTalk

• HelloTalk is a language exchange app that connects you with native Japanese speakers who are learning your language. It’s a great way to practice conversational Japanese while helping someone else learn English (or another language).
• Key Features: Language exchange with native speakers, text and voice messaging, and built-in translation tools.

7. Bonus: Useful Utilities

Yurekuru Call (Earthquake Alert App)

• Japan is an earthquake-prone country, and Yurekuru Call is an essential app that provides real-time earthquake alerts. It’s available in English and can alert you a few seconds before an earthquake hits, giving you time to prepare.
• Key Features: Real-time alerts, customizable notification settings, and location-based updates.

Conclusion

These must-have apps will make life in Japan smoother and more enjoyable, whether you're navigating the city, ordering food, or connecting with new friends. With these tools at your fingertips, you can handle everyday tasks with confidence, overcome language barriers, and feel more at home in Japan.

Are there any other apps that you’ve found helpful while living in Japan? Share them in the comments below!