Discover essential information on childcare in Japan.
If you visit a Japanese school in the fall or spring, you will likely encounter a massive, coordinated spectacle known as Undokai. Far more than a simple physical education class, this event involves weeks of preparation, elaborate choreography, and participation from the entire community. For expatriates living in Japan or culture enthusiasts, understanding Undokai offers
Moving to Japan with young children can feel overwhelming, especially when the daycare system seems to come with its own vocabulary. Terms such as hoikuen, yōchien, and kodomoen may sound confusing at first, but each plays a different role in early childhood care and education. Understanding how these facilities work, what they cost, and how
Today, foreign residents in Japan increasingly look to adoption or foster care when they want to build a family. If you’re one of them, then this guide will walk you through the different legal avenues, how you can apply, each procedural stage you’ll need to go through, and the English‑language support available. It won’t always
Childcare in Japan naturally attracts considerable attention from foreign families seeking reliable support while working or adapting to a new environment. Although the system can appear complex — given the range of government-supported facilities, eligibility criteria, and different daycare types — understanding the fundamentals will help you navigate it with confidence. This article offers a