Eng 
日本語 
The 区役所 kuyakusho, Japan’s ward office, might seem like an intimidating labyrinth to newcomers. But fear not! This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate its bureaucratic depths confidently. Read this blog to know what you can do at a kuyakusho and useful Japanese phrases to use.
Table of Contents
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A Quick Jump To…
What Can You Do There?
Administrative Matters:
- Residence registration: Applying for, updating, or cancelling your residence registration (juminhyo).
- National Pension and Health Insurance: Enrolling in or updating your enrollment in these essential schemes.
- Tax payments: Paying local residence tax and other levies.
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration: Applying for, renewing, or surrendering your driver’s license or registering your vehicle.
- Certificates and permits: Obtaining birth, marriage, and death certificates, as well as various permits like business licenses.
- Voting: Registering and voting in local elections.
Life in Japan
- Public housing applications: Applying for public housing (kouei jyutaku).
- Waste disposal and recycling: Getting information and permits related to waste disposal and recycling programs.
- Disaster preparedness: Accessing information and resources about disaster preparedness and evacuation procedures.
- Childcare and welfare: Registering your child for childcare services or applying for public assistance programs.
- Cultural and community events: Getting information about local events, festivals, and activities.
Beyond the Counters
- Information and consultation: Kuyakusho staff can offer general information and advice on various matters related to living in Japan.
- Interpreters and multilingual support: Many kuyakusho have bilingual staff or offer interpreter services for non-Japanese speakers.
- Public amenities: Some kuyakusho have breastfeeding rooms, baby changing areas, and even cafes or restaurants.
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Before You Go
- Make an appointment: Appointments are highly recommended to avoid long wait times. Call or check the kuyakusho website for booking options.
- Gather your documents: Research the specific documents required for your task (e.g., residence card, passport, certificate of marriage).
- Bring a translator: If your Japanese isn’t fluent, consider bringing a friend or interpreter. You can also request bilingual staff assistance when booking your appointment.
Counter Chaos
- 受付 uketsuke: Your first stop! Here you’ll explain your purpose and receive a ticket with your designated counter number.
- 番号待ち ban gou machi: Find your seat and wait for your number to be called on the display.
- 窓口 madoguchi: This is your destination counter. Present your ticket and documents to the staff member.
- 必要書類 hitsuyou shorui: Be prepared to provide any additional documents they request.
Useful Japanese Phrases
- 英語を話せる方はいますか？ Eigo o hanaseru kata wa imasu ka? – Is there someone who can speak English?
- 〇〇の申請をしたいのですが。 〇〇 no shinsei o shitai no desu ga. – I would like to apply for 〇〇.
- 〇〇の住所変更届けを出したいのですが。〇〇 No jūsho henkō todoke o dashitai nodesuga. – I would like to submit a change of address notification for 〇〇.
- すみません、番号札はどこで取ればいいですか？ Sumimasen, bangō-satsu wa doko de toreba īdesu ka? – Excuse me, where can I get a ticket with a number?
- 私の番号はいつ呼ばれますか？ Watashi no bangō wa itsu yoba remasu ka? – When will my number be called?
- すみません、もう一度説明していただけますか？ Sumimasen, mōichido setsumei shite itadakemasu ka? – Excuse me, could you please explain that again?
- 確認ですが、この書類が必要ですか？ Kakunindesuga, kono shorui ga hitsuyōdesu ka? – To confirm, is this document needed?
- 恐れ入りますが、印鑑は必要でしょうか？ Osoreirimasuga, inkan wa hitsuyōdeshou ka? – Excuse me, but is a seal (hanko) required?
Bonus Tips
- Dress modestly and neatly.
- Be patient and polite.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Many kuyakusho websites have English information and online forms.
With this guide and a positive attitude, conquering the kuyakusho becomes a manageable adventure. Remember, it’s there to serve you, so make the most of it!
頑張ってください！ Ganbatte kudasai! – Good luck!
You Might Be Wondering…
Do you accept foreign documents?
It depends on the document and purpose. Contact the kuyakusho in advance to confirm.
I lost my residence card. What should I do?
Report the loss to the police and apply for a replacement at the kuyakusho.
Where can I get a marriage certificate?
You can request it at your registered ward office.
