INFO PACK ～Prearrival/Arrival Guide～ 2021
This guide provides you with information on how to prepare to come to Japan and IUJ, what to expect when you get here and to help you settle in quickly and easily. It is a useful reference for your entire time at IUJ and we encourage you to read it thoroughly now - before you need the information - so that you know where information is when questions arise.
International University of Japan Office of Student Services 777 Kokusai-cho, Minami Uonuma-shi, Niigata 949-7277 JAPAN
国際大学 学生センター事務室 〒949-7277 新潟県南魚沼市国際町 777 番地
Tel: +81(0)25-779-1103 Fax: +81(0)25-779-1180 (81 is the country code. Use the "0" if dialing from inside of Japan) E-mail: [email protected] URL: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss Web version is available at https://www.iuj.ac.jp/admis/arrival-guide/
Table of Contents: INFO PACK ~Prearrival/Arrival Guide~ 2021
Section I: Coming to IUJ Special Info on COVID-19 .1
I-1 Preparing to Come to Japan (For International Students) 1 (1) Passport and Student Visa Application Procedures/ Brief Timeline 1 (2) Sending Luggage to IUJ (Customs Considerations) 3 (3) Dorm Room Allocation 3 (4) Bringing Money and Setting up a Bank Account 3 (5) Credit Cards and E-Money 4 (6) Scholarships After Arrival and Japanese Language Studies 4 (7) Lists you need to bring/prepare before Departure to Japan 6 (8) Items you should NOT bring in Japan 6
I-2 Arrival in Japan 7 (1) Travel Dates and Timing 7 (2) Immigration Procedures as You Enter the Country 8 (3) Lost Luggage 10 (4) Luggage Transport Service (Narita/Haneda Airport Arrival Lobby) 10 (5) How to Get to IUJ from Narita/Haneda Airport 11 (6) Timetable of Joetsu Shinkansen to Urasa Station 13 (7) Shinkansen Stops 13 (8) Arriving in Urasa 14 (9) Getting into Your Dorm Room 15 (10) Settling into the Area 15 (11) Registration for Address and National Health Insurance 16 (12) Social Security and Tax Number System – nicknamed “My Number” 16 (13) “My Number” and Sending/Receiving Money in Japan 16
Section II: Campus Information
II-1 IUJ Administration and Services 17 (1) Office of Student Services (OSS) 17 Dorm Director & Dorm Staff 17 Social Media 17 (2) IUJ Counseling Services 18 (3) Office of Academic Affairs (OAA) 18 The Language Program 18 (4) JICA Joint Project Office (JJPO) 19 (5) Matsushita Library & Information Center (MLIC) 19 (6) Office of General Affairs (OGA) 19 The Accounting Office 19 (7) Office of Admissions & Career Support (OACS) 20 Admissions 20 Career Support Services 20 (8) Office of Top Global University Project 20 (9) President’s Office 21
International University of Japan INFO PACK ~Prearrival/Arrival Guide~ Table of Contents - i -
II-2 Campus Facility 22 (1) IT Services 22 (2) Library Services 23 (3) IUJ School Bus Services 23 (4) Gymnasium and Sport Facilities 23 (5) School Shop (Baiten) 24 (6) Cafeteria (Shokudo) 24 (7) Snack Lounge 24
II-3 Campus Communications & Cards 25 (1) E-mail 25 (2) Telephone 25 (3) Student ID 25
II-4 Campus Clubs, Organizations and Events 26 (1) Student Body 26 (2) Graduate Student Organization (GSO) and its Executive Council 26 (3) The Mentor Program 26 (4) Flea Market Team 26 (5) GSIR/GSIM Councils 27 (6) Dorm Floor Representative 27 (7) Buddy System 27 (8) “Houses” and House Tournament Champions 27 (9) Sports 27 (10) Clubs 28 (11) Major Events 28 (12) Off Campus Events 29 (13) Keep Informed and Active 29
Section III: Dormitory Information
(1) Dormitories 30 (2) Single Student Dormitories (SD1, SD2, SD3) 30 (3) Married Student Apartments (MSA) 30 (4) Dorm Room Details 31 (5) Non-Smoking policy 31 (6) Public Facilities Available in the Dorms 32 (7) Dormitory Fees and Program Expenses Payments 32 (8) Dorm Guide 32
Section IV: Other
IV-1 Health Care 33 Compulsory Health Examinations 33 Translation Service for Medical Assistance 33
International University of Japan INFO PACK ~Prearrival/Arrival Guide~ Table of Contents - ii - IV-2 Immigration Matters 33 (1) Resident Registration System 34 (2) The Proxy Visa Transaction 34 (3) Procedures of Application for Dependent Visa 35 (Spouse and Child/Children ONLY)
IV-3 Money and Banking Facilities, Services 39 (1) Opening a Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Account 39 (2) Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Services and Banking Hours 39 (3) Wire Transfer - “Furikomi” 39
IV-4 Driving in Japan 40 (1) Owning a Vehicle 40 (2) International Driver’s License 40
IV-5 IUJ Life 42 (1) Location 42 (2) Climate 42 (3) Living Expenses (estimated) 43 (4) Part-time Jobs 44 (5) Public Transportation 44 Railways 44 Student Discount for travel (Gakuwari) 44 “Seishun 18” Pass 44 Buses 44 Taxis 44 (6) Tipping Customs 45 (7) Drinking Water 45 (8) Places of Worship 45 (9) Japan Travel Guide 46 (10) Off Campus Living Information 46 (11) Child Care Information 46 (12) Assistance Services 48
Appendix ・ IUJ Campus Map 49 ・ IUJ Map 50 ・ Urasa Map 51 ・ Muikamachi Map 52 ・ Koide Map 53
International University of Japan INFO PACK ~Prearrival/Arrival Guide~ Table of Contents - iii - Section I: Coming to IUJ This section will help you prepare to travel, come to campus and settle in. It assumes you will arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport.
Special Info on COVID-19 International University of Japan (IUJ) is preparing to welcome our incoming students per the September arrival schedule. Thinking that some may not be able to arrive on time, IUJ will prepare online orientations and courses, additional reading materials, and on-demand video information and resources to help start off fall term as smoothly as possible. Please check the “September Arrival Schedule” (https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss-f/september/septemberplan.pdf) for updates every day. Please watch your IUJ Email every day as well as of September 1.
I-1 Preparing to Come to Japan (For International Students) In order to come to Japan as an international student of IUJ, you need to obtain a passport and apply for a Student Visa in your own country. Here are some guidelines.
(1) Passport and Student Visa Application Procedures You need to have a passport issued by your government that will remain valid throughout your stay in Japan (renewals are possible through your embassy in Japan once you arrive). Be sure to allow plenty of time if you are applying for a passport for the first time. Prior to your departure, you need a Student Visa for Japan in your passport. For this application, you need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) which is issued in Japan by the Ministry of Justice, Government of Japan. In accordance with this certificate, you can receive a Student Visa, and earn the status of “Student”: PhD: a 3-years or 3-years 3-months student visa Master’s (2 years): a 2-years or 2-years 3-months student visa Master’s (1 year): a 1-year or 1-year 3-months student visa Exchange students: a 6-months or 1-year student visa
IUJ can assist (most of) you to obtain your initial Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) which is used to secure this Student Visa. After that, we provide information and directions on how to manage immigration matters. However, all students are responsible for obtaining their own visa and for ensuring it remains valid through their graduation. Failing to do so can result in deportation and forced withdrawal from IUJ. How do you prepare your CoE? Please refer to the link below or scan the QR code. https://www.iuj.ac.jp/admis/visa/
Note: To those ALREADY RESIDING IN JAPAN: Please follow the special instructions sent under separate cover for changing your current visa or extending your Student Visa for IUJ.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 1
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 2
(2) Sending Luggage to IUJ (Customs Considerations) If you need to send personal belongings from your country before you fly to Japan, please mail them directly to your IUJ dormitory room. The Dorm Staff will put your item in your room as a special service. This is a one-time service for newly entering students only. To help avoid any customs problems, please mail boxed items to yourself in a “door-to- door” delivery service. IUJ will notify you of your room assignment before you depart for Japan. In this way, customs problems can be avoided. For the details of each procedure, please contact the post office or a delivery company.
Notes: The Japanese Customs Office in Tokyo is more than 200 kilometers away from IUJ and traveling such distances is costly. If your luggage is left in storage at the Japanese Customs Office for an extended period of time without customs clearance, you will be charged expensive storage fees per day for each piece of luggage by the customs office.
Delivery Payments The entire cost of the shipment should be paid in full while in your country using your country’s currency, as COD (cash on delivery) freight costs in Japan are probably higher.
(3) Dorm Room Allocation Entering students reside on campus in SD1, 2, or 3. To help the staff with dorm room allocation, please fill in the information at the following site. See the section “Dorm Room Request.” Please do so by August 10, if possible. https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss/september-schedule/
(4) Bringing Money and Setting up a Bank Account All IUJ students must have a Daishi Hokuetsu Bank account for money transactions with IUJ. IUJ’s Accounting Office will help you set up a bank account at the bank after you arrive. To find more details, please refer to page 39.
Before money in your new bank account becomes available, be sure to have on hand enough Japanese Yen (¥) in cash to tide you over. You will need a minimum of ¥100,000 IN CASH to get you through the first 4 weeks (travel, food, incidentals). Those arriving in early September should prepare more. To bring money from your home country to Japan, there are several alternatives: Credit Cards to Get Cash - Recommended Some credit cards can be used to withdraw money at Seven Bank ATM (located in 7/11 Convenient Stores and on campus). For more details and to confirm your card is accepted, please refer to Seven Bank Homepage (http://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/card2.html).
Note: Those who have a “Student” visa are NOT qualified for getting a new credit card once in Japan. So if you want one, you should get it before arriving in Japan. Credit cards can be useful for purchasing a mobile phone, and ordering items over the Internet.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 3
Have money wired to you (Details are on page 39.) Once your bank account (or Japan Post Bank account) is set up, you can have your family send you money. Simply consult your local bank on procedures. The following article gives you more information, and services to use. https://tokyocheapo.com/business/financial/transfer-money-to-japan/
Cash in Foreign Currency – NOT Recommended
Cheques (bank cheques/drafts, money orders) – NOT Recommended Many of Japanese banks are no longer handling foreign currency cheques. You are advised NOT to use this option.
Note: Personal cheques are not used in Japan. If using money orders, be sure it is an international money order and expect delays.
(5) Credit Cards and E-Money Use of Credit Cards and E-money has become more widely spread in Japan. The easiest cards to use are International Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and American Express cards. Check with your card company to verify if it is usable in Japan. It is recommended that you bring one with you. Please note that some shops/restaurants/inns cannot accept credit cards in our area. There are stickers displayed near the entrances or cash register stations of stores that will take your credit cards.
Popular E-money apps are:
Suica PASMO Pay Pay
(6) Scholarships After Arrival and Japanese Language Studies Those coming to IUJ on partial scholarships may be able to apply for additional financial support from various sources. The Office of Student Services (OSS) will support you for this with notifications and application facilitation. However, most of the scholarships require students to write the application in Japanese, and be able to communicate with the scholarship hosts in Japanese at various gatherings. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you study Japanese before coming to IUJ, and enroll in our Intermediate Japanese courses if at all possible.
To learn what scholarships may be introduced (information may vary from year to year), please see the Scholarship website and the “After Enrollment” section at https://www.iuj.ac.jp/admis/scholarship/after-arrival/
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 4
We recommend you to download the following two apps to help you get a head start in your Japanese language learning. Both iOS and Android versions are available for free. They were created by IUJ. https://www.iuj.ac.jp/language/japaness_course04_en.html
Apps for Japanese Learners, created by IUJ!!!
App 1: Ganbatte Kana Japanese is called a character-based language, which uses syllabary called Kana. J-learners need to have mastered them before entering Basic or Elementary Japanese course at IUJ. Our experience has proved those who wish to get by with oral/aural communication only, therefore trying to get by without learning Kana and resorting only to the alphabet, cannot proceed above beginners level. To help you learn Kana efficiently, we recommend you use the app called "GanbatteKana", which offers comprehensive activities to help learners master them. Log in as “Non-IUJer”.
App 2: Ganbatte Shadowing In order to improve your pronunciation and speaking fluency, we recommend you to use an app called "Ganbatte Shadowing". This app provides a platform for you to vocalize the language along with native speakers to help you match the tone, rhythms and pronunciation to help you become a more natural speaker. Log in as “Non-IUJer”.
Start studying Japanese NOW! Good luck.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 5
(7) Lists you need to bring/prepare before Departure to Japan We hope that this list will help you prepare to come to Japan.
Items to Prepare Notes Tick
1 Passport Does your passport have more than 6 months before the expiry date? 2 Student Visa Is it stamped in your passport?
3 Medication prescriptions Do you have an official copy of your prescription from your doctor if any? 4 Eye care items, if any Do you have extra supplies you wish to use during your stay in Japan? 5 (Women) Menstrual items Do you have extra supplies you wish to use during your stay in Japan? 6 Join a travel insurance Does it cover the day of departure and 2 weeks after arrival in Japan? 9 Cash Do you have about JPY100,000 in cash on hand? Please refer to page 3(4). 10 Credit card, if any Is your credit card usable in Japan?
11 Air ticket Some scholarship providers require boarding pass(es). Please do NOT discard them. 12 Electrical items, if any Are items from your home usable in Japan? Is an adapter needed to use them? 13 Costume, spices and other Those are very useful for some events to items represent your culture 14 Is everything you are Many substances related to non-prescription bringing legal in Japan? drugs, including codeine, etc. are illegal in Japan. See below for details.
(8) Items you should NOT bring in Japan VERY IMPORTANT Japan has laws unique to itself regarding “illegal substances and what is categorized as such.” Please be aware of and follow these laws closely. As ignorance is not an excuse, we ask you to please check with the Japanese embassy near you regarding any precautions specific to your cultural orientation.
IUJ has faced a situation involving a student bringing a substance commonly used in his/her country, purchasable off the shelf, but that is illegal in Japan. The student could have faced very high monetary penalties and jail time in the worst case scenario. These were coca leaves used in his/her country as tea.
Drug use in Japan, and of course on the IUJ campus, carries heavy fines, jail sentences and probably deportation (and of course explusion from IUJ). Do NOT use drugs in Japan!
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 6
I-2 Arrival in Japan
(1) Travel Dates and Timing Designated dates to arrive on campus will be sent with your Certificate of Eligibility and room number assignment in August.
Those arriving in September as a new incoming student should carefully check the September Calendar for Check In dates based on your scholarship/student status, and arrange travels to coincide: Please see “September Arrival Schedule”. https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss/september/ and click on September Plan (Calendar).
It is recommended that you arrive during business hours for the best support: 8:30am to 5:00pm when our Dorm Team will be standing by to assist you in the Dorm Staff office in Student Dormitory #1 (SD1). It is best for you to inform us of your late arrival at least ONE week ahead of time. Please email to us and cc to Dorm Team with your arrival date and time.
The Office of Student Services (OSS): [email protected] Dorm Team: [email protected]
(2) Immigration Procedures as You Enter the Country Here is what most of you will do as entering Japan at the International Airports of Japan.
1. Fingerprinted and Photographed at the Immigration counter → More info
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2. Work Permit Application* at the Immigration gate as appropriate ↓
3. Check the Landing Permission* in your passport before leaving the gate ↓
4. Get a Residence Card* ↓
5. Apply for Indication of Name Using Kanji Characters* if necessary ↓
6. Submit a declaration form to Custom Inspection Counter ↓
7. Exchange money* before you enter the arrival hall/lobby if necessary *Please find more details from next page.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 7
Work Permit At the immigration gate, you are allowed to apply for a Work Permit (if your scholarship host so allows) at the 4 major Intenational Airports in Japan: Narita, Haneda, Kansai and Chubu. To apply, you need to submit a designated form and follow the instactions from the immigration officer.
Landing Permission As soon as the immigration officer at the airport returns your passport and before you leave the gate, please check the “Landing Permission” in your passport.
“2 YEARS” or “2 YEARS 3 MONTHS” for MA/MBA students “1 YEAR” or “1 YEAR 3 MONTHS” for IMBA and Linkage students “6 MONTHS” or “1 YEAR” for Exchange students
Once you leave the immigration gate, no changes on “Landing Permission” are allowed.
Residence Card (RC) A Residence Card is issued to persons residing in Japan with a period of stay of more than 3 months. As you come in to Japan with a student visa, a residence card will be issued to you at the immigration gate if you enter the country from one of the 4 major international airports; Narita, Haneda, Kansai, or Chubu. If you arrive in Japan through other airports including Niigata Airport, your Residence Card will be mailed to you a few weeks later. When you receive your Residence Card, please make sure that all the information on it is correct. If you find any errors, please ask the immigration officer at the immigration gate immediately to make corrections: Name order, birthdate order, etc. are common mistakes.
If you have this stamp, it indicates that
you have a work permit.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 8
Please note: If you lose your Residence Card contact the OSS immediately for procedures you will need to take to reissue it. Carry your Passport until it is replaced. When you leave Japan (or relocate within Japan), you are required to inform the City Office within 14 days prior of the move. Please ask OSS for special instructions. By law, you must carry your Residence Card with you wherever you go in Japan. If you intend to intern or do a part-time job on campus, be sure your Residence Card has the “Work Permit” stamp on it. Apply for this stamp at the immigration gate as you enter Japan. Do NOT give up your Residence Card at the airport when leaving Japan temporarily with an intention to come back within a year.
Indication of Name Using Kanji Characters For those coming from countries where the Chinese characters are used, we recommend you to request to have your name using Chinese (Kanji) characters printed on your Residence Card when entering Japan. If you intend to use your seal with Kanji for some official situations such as purchasing a car in Japan. Your residence card has to obtain Kanji as well as Roman characters to make your name in Kanji effective in Japan.
Exchanging Money Just past the customs area, before you enter the arrival hall/lobby, you will see bank teller windows. If you do not have any Japanese Yen, you should exchange your money at this bank. This is a safe and reliable bank that offers competitive exchange rates.
Note on Exchanging Money: You cannot use currencies other than Japanese Yen in Japan, so be sure to have Yen cash before leaving the airport! Changing your foreign currency into Japanese yen near IUJ is very difficult. Please do this at the airport!
Whether or not you are a scholarship student, you are responsible for the cost of travel from Narita/Haneda to IUJ (approx. ¥12,000 from Narita and ¥9,000 from Haneda). Please ensure that you have sufficient Japanese currency!
For more details, please see Narita Airport: https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/service/svc_11 Haneda Airport: http://www.haneda-airport.jp/inter/en/premises/service/bank.html#exchange Niigata Airport: http://www.niigata-airport.gr.jp/facility/?lang=en
Narita Haneda Niigata
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 9
(3) Lost Luggage
In case your luggage gets lost or delayed upon arrival, please contact the concerned airlines and make sure that the “Property Irregularity Report (PIR)” is prepared. The contents of the bag should clearly be described. Arrange to have item(s) sent to your IUJ dorm room. Have your address easily available (and NOT packed inside that lost bag)!
(4) Luggage Transport Service (Narita/Haneda Airport Arrival Lobby) Once you leave customs and enter the arrival lobby, you will see several service counters. Narita Airport (1F) Luggage delivery service: ABC, GPA, ANA Skyporter or QL Liner counters
Haneda Airport (2F) Luggage delivery service: ANA Air Service or JAL, ABC
We recommend you to send your bags through the luggage transport service rather than trying to carry them on the trains. Moving through the train stations and on and off several trains can be difficult when carrying too many bags. Baggage delivery service in Japan is very reliable. If you choose to use the luggage transport service, go to one of the luggage delivery service counters in the arrival lobby after customs clearance. Delivery will take just a few days, but remember to take with you the things you need for the next few days. One bag, a maximum of 20 kilograms, will cost about ¥2,000.
For more details, please see Narita: https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/service/svc_05 Haneda: http://www.haneda-airport.jp/inter/en/premises/service/delivery.html Niigata: http://www.niigata-airport.gr.jp/facility/?lang=en
Narita Haneda Niigata
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 10
(5) How to Get to IUJ from Narita/Haneda Airport
Narita Airport is more than 300 kilometers and Haneda Airport is around 250 kilometers from IUJ. Follow the simple directions given below and you should have no problem.
Narita Option One: Using Narita Express Travel Time Transportation Fare (subject to change) (approx.)
Narita Airport JR Narita Express 60minutes Station (ordinary cars, all seats ¥3,070 reserved)
Tokyo Station JR Joetsu Shinkansen 100 minutes ¥7,810 (non-reserved) ¥8,340 (reserved)
Urasa Station School Bus* or Taxi 10 minutes Free* or Taxi ¥2,000
Total: ¥10,880 - ¥13,410+ IUJ
Narita Option Two: Using Keisei Skyliner Travel Time Transportation Fare (subject to change) (approx.)
Narita Airport 50 minutes Station Keisei Skyliner ¥2,680** (ordinary cars, all seats Keisei Ueno reserved) 10 minutes Station
¥7,810 (non-reserved) Ueno Station JR Joetsu Shinkansen 100 minutes ¥8,340+ (reserved)
Urasa Station School Bus* or Taxi Free* or Taxi ¥2,000 10 minutes
IUJ Total: ¥10,490 - ¥13,020+
* The IUJ School bus operates free of charge during office hours on weekdays only. Otherwise a taxi costs about ¥2,000. ** A few more trains are available that are express (Cityliner) and limited express. This adds 10-30 minutes to the travel time but the fare is about 80% to 50% off. Ask the ticket salesperson for schedules. Seats are unreserved.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 11
Haneda Option One: Using Keikyu Airport Limited Express Travel Time Transportation Fare (subject to change) (approx.)
Haneda Airport Keikyu Airport Limited ¥300** 12 minutes Int’l Terminal Express
Shinagawa Walk Station
JR Shinagawa JR Line ¥170 11 minutes Station
¥7,810 (non-reserved) Tokyo Station JR Joetsu Shinkansen 100 minutes ¥8,340+ (reserved)
Urasa Station School Bus* or Taxi Free* or Taxi ¥2,000 10 minutes
IUJ Total: ¥8,280 - ¥10,810+
Haneda Option Two: Haneda Express (Monorail) Travel Time Transportation Fare (subject to change) (approx.)
Haneda Airport Tokyo Monorail ¥500 14 minutes Int’l Terminal
Monorail Hamamatsucho Walk Station
JR Hamamatsucho JR Line ¥160 11 minutes Station
Tokyo Station JR Joetsu Shinkansen ¥7,810 (non-reserved) 100 minutes ¥8,340+ (reserved)
Urasa Station School Bus* or Taxi Free* or Taxi ¥2,000 10 minutes
IUJ Total: ¥8,470 - ¥11,000+
* The IUJ School bus operates free of charge during office hours on weekdays only. Otherwise a taxi costs about ¥2,000. ** A few more trains (local, limited express, etc.) are available.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 12
(6) Timetable of Joetsu Shinkansen to Urasa Station and connection to IUJ Bus Shuttle Service (Schedule as of March 13, 2021) Train Number Tokyo Station Ueno Station URASA Station IUJ Bus Toki 301 6:08 6:14 7:36 Taxi or 8:16 Max Toki 303 7:04 7:10 8:26 9:04 Toki 305 7:48 7:54 9:19 10:00 Toki 309 8:52 8:58 10:34 11:01 Toki 315 10:16 10:22 11:44 12:04 Toki 319 11:40 11:46 13:12 13:20 Max Toki 321 12:40 12:46 14:13 14:20 Toki 323 13:40 13:46 15:13 15:41 Toki 325 14:40 14:46 16:11 16:33 Toki 329 15:40 15:46 17:12 17:37 Max Toki 333 16:40 16:46 18:11 18:20 Max Toki 337 17:40 17:46 19:08 19:28 Toki 341 18:52 18:58 20:27 Taxi Toki 347 20:24 20:30 21:59 Taxi Toki 351 21:40 21:46 23:19 Taxi Listed above are the “Toki” trains that DO stop at Urasa Station on the way to Niigata Terminal. There are more Toki and Max Toki trains but they DO NOT stop at Urasa. Please don’t take a train that is NOT listed here. IUJ Bus runs from Urasa Station to IUJ. On Saturdays and Sundays, it operates on a limited schedule: Saturdays -- 8:16 16:24 Sundays – 9:01, 13:30, 16:32
IUJ Bus Timetable is available at https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss-f/travel/IUJ_bus.pdf
(7) Shinkansen Stops Below are the stations at which the Shinkansen stops. When you buy train tickets please make sure that the train you choose stops at Urasa Station. Trains do not necessarily stop at all the stations. You may skip some stations on the way - specifically “Honjo Waseda” and “Jomokogen” - so do not be alarmed. Tokyo → Ueno → Omiya → Kumagaya → Honjo Waseda → Takasaki → Jomokogen → Echigo Yuzawa → URASA → Nagaoka → Tsubame Sanjo → Niigata
View the lesson videos of useful Japanese expressions, created by IUJ!!! These videos give lessons for asking directions and prices, shopping at various types of stores such as convenience stores, ordering food and paying at a restaurant, etc. Also socio-cultural issues are explained in one-point advice section. https://www.iuj.ac.jp/language/japaness_videoclips_en.html
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 13
(8) Arriving in Urasa
Once you arrive at Urasa station, go towards the East exit (東口). This exit is to the LEFT after going through the ticket gate. Go down the hallway, and take one of these options: (A) Bus to IUJ: To find the IUJ bus, go down the middle stairwell to your LEFT and look for a round white sign with a blue IUJ logo on it. That is the IUJ Bus Stop. The IUJ Bus will take you from Urasa Station to IUJ free of charge. The bus operates from Monday to Friday until 8pm. See the IUJ bus information from the link or QR code of the previous page. IUJ bus stop at Urasa Station Check the “September Arrival Schedule” on the OSS website to confirm about special Saturday and Sunday bus services in mid-September for your first arrival. (B) Taxi to IUJ: If you arrive at a time when the bus is not running, take a taxi to IUJ. You will find the taxi standing down the RIGHT stair case – it is located the opposite side of the stairs from the IUJ Bus stop. Ask the driver to take you to “Kokusai Daigaku Gakusei-Ryo SD1 (IUJ Student Dormitory 1)”. The taxi costs approximately ¥2,000.
Once you arrive at the dormitory you will be assisted by the Dorm Director, Dorm Staff or the staff from the OSS to check into your IUJ dorm room.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 14
(9) Getting into Your Dorm Room and Visiting the OSS
1. Visit the office of Dorm Director and Dorm staff at the SD1 dormitory
↓
2. Fill out a check in form and obtain your key
↓
3. Put your bags in your room (and rest!)
↓ *Note: 4. Visit the Office of Student Services (OSS)* at the library building Please bring your ‣Passport ‣ ↓ Residence Card when visiting OSS. 5. Complete a “moving in” procedure with the OSS staff for the city
↓
6. Take a photo for your IUJ Student ID/Library Card/Campus Director at OSS
(10) Settling into the Area The first few days after your arrival at IUJ may be rather quiet. Don't worry! This won't last for long so do enjoy the down time. But here are some tips for where to buy things to settle in, meeting your new campus and off-campus friends and etc. Orientations - be sure to check the most updated info on the orientation schedule as soon as you arrive and fully participate in the sessions. Check the September Arrival Schedule”! Items for your room and kitchen use – DAISO or SERIA The Saturday and Sunday IUJ bus, and maybe some special buses for arriving students, will take you to Muikamachi and Koide for shopping. There are the 100yen shops called DAISO and SERIA in each town. MANY items you will find useful are sold here: from hand lotion to notebooks and from small plants to magic tricks, and from plates and pans to plastic containers, from hand towels to gift wrapping supplies! And all available for ¥110 to ¥880 (including sales tax). 100yen shops are a must stop! MENTOR Program through OSS - Entering students will be matched with a 2nd year student in your same academic program for initial support as you settle in to IUJ life. They can help with questions about your program, registration, course/faculty selection and any other matters you may want to ask a fellow student. Flea Market - students will sell items to you donated by those who already graduated usually the first or second Saturday of October. There are some good deals on refrigerators and book shelves, etc. so wait for that before buying any major things. UMEX - is an off campus volunteer group that usually offers a welcome Barbeque on campus on a Sunday in September just after most have arrived. Watch for an invitation.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 15
(11) Registration for Address and National Health Insurance Within a few days of arrival, please visit Minami Uonuma City Office with your passport and Residence Card for the registration for your address and join the National Health Insurance system at the same time.
IUJ arranges for new students who can arrive at IUJ by the appointed date to register on campus. If you cannot arrive in time, you have to visit the City Office in person by yourself. The notification of your residence can be done as part of filing a “moving-in notification.”
(12) Social Security and Tax Number System – nicknamed “My Number” Everyone in Japan (except tourists) is issued a Welfare Registration unique number called “My Number.” The city officials will help you register for it with the procedures above. Once issued, it will be your number for the rest of your stay in Japan. Please keep it private and safe. Present it if and when you use/need any social services.
Detailed information in various languages is available at the following website: https://www.cao.go.jp/bangouseido/foreigners/english.html
(13) “My Number” and Sending/Receiving Money in Japan When you want to receive or send money from/to overseas at the bank or post office, you must indicate your “My Number” on the required remittance documentation. If you need to do this before your My Number notification letter is sent to you, do the following: • Go to the local City Office and request a Residence Certificate (Juminhyou) (this is different from your Residence Card). Specifically request that it include your “My Number.” It can be issued immediately and costs 300yen. • Take that Residence Certificate to the bank or post office to arrange for your money transfer. o To RECEIVE money, you must present the My Number just the first time at each bank you may be using. o To SEND money, you must present the My Number each time.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 16
Section II: Campus Information
II-1 IUJ Administration and Services
(1) Office of Student Services (OSS) OSS is in charge of general student affairs (non-academic) including the following matters: dormitory/accommodations student ID cards visas/CoEs scholarships health and accident insurances health examinations and follow-up extracurricular activities (on and off campus) alumni relations student discounts for travel “GAKUWARI” (full-time students only) general information/individual problems not provided by other offices Lost and Found items
OSS Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM – 12:30PM, 1:30PM – 5:00PM Dorm Director & Dorm Staff The Dorm Director’s and Dorm Staff’s office is located at the entrance of Student Dormitory 1 (SD1). They offer dorm residents assistance with their stay on campus. Business hours are as follows. Dorm Director: 16:00-19:00 & 20:00-23:30, 7 days a week Dorm Staff: 8:30-12:00 & 13:00-17:00, 7 days a week
Social Media Facebook: (Official) Facebook.com/iujpage/ (2021 Support Group) Facebook.com/groups/IUJSupport2021 (We love IUJ) Facebook.com/groups/WeLoveIUJ/ Twitter: IUJ-en Linked in: International University of Japan Instagram: iuj-en
FB Official FB 2021 Support FB We Love IUJ
Twitter LinkedIn Instagram
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 17
(2) IUJ Counseling Services IUJ has a full-time professional counselor on campus. The services are free and available in Japanese and English. The counselor can support your personal, academic, social, and life development. You can talk about any concerns and thoughts privately to the counselor with a confidential appointment. Stress-related matters, personality/identity questions, relationships, cultural adjustment/home-sickness, habits/lifestyle changes, and other challenges in life can be the themes discussed. The counselor arranges on-campus medical doctor consultations a few days a month. Online Appointment is available for both health consultation and counseling. The counselor also provides information, events/activities, and workshops to enhance wellness promotions. See the counseling page on IUJ website and the bulletin board for details and appointment instructions after arriving at IUJ. Office Location: MLIC building 2nd floor by Language Faculty Office & Workroom Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 AM-6:00 PM TEL: 025-779-1506 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/counseling (including online application) Password will be informed after arrival.
(3) Office of Academic Affairs (OAA) The Graduate School of International Relations (GSIR) and the Graduate School of International Management (GSIM) have an academic program office; the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA). They can assist you with all academic-oriented administrative matters transcripts and matriculation forms course descriptions class schedules course registration and withdrawal distribution of textbooks exchange program
GSIR: [email protected] GSIM: [email protected]
The Language Program The staff of the Language Program help coordinate the Summer Intensive English Language Program (IEP), Intensive Japanese Program before Fall term, and assist the language faculty throughout the academic year. To find more details, please refer to the link (https://www.iuj.ac.jp/language/about_en.html).
OAA Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM – 12:30PM, 1:30PM – 5:00PM
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 18
(4) JICA Joint Project Office (JJPO) The JICA Joint Project Office (JJPO) provides JICA sponsored students with various services in coordination with JICA, which includes following matters: Planning and organizing JICA special programs (field trips, special lectures). Processing payment of Living Allowance and Research Support Allowance for JICA Long Term (Knowledge Co-Creation Program) students. Arranging and conducting monitoring meetings. Coordination between the students and JICA on inquiry about rules and procedures. Promoting joint projects with JICA.
JJPO Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM – 12:30PM, 1:30PM – 5:00PM
(5) Matsushita Library & Information Center (MLIC)
The Matsushita Library and Information Center (MLIC) fulfills the dual functions of offering library and IT services. This advanced, user-oriented information center is maintained, developed and continually upgraded by full-time experienced library and IT staff. A special orientation will be offered upon arrival and useful workshops are offered throughout the year.
The library stays open until midnight during the term. Two PC rooms are open for 24 hours during the term.
To learn more about MLIC, please see the MLIC’s web pages at: Library Services: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/library/ IT Services: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/cs/ MLIC Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM – 12:00noon, 1:00PM – 5:00PM
(6) Office of General Affairs (OGA) This office handles the general day-to-day matters of IUJ: buildings and grounds maintenance, and equipment and meeting space. It also supports full-time faculty, visiting faculty, and administration staff matters. Through the Energy Center, it handles all maintenance matters related to energy, electricity, gas, water and heating, including those in the dormitories. Any facility problems in the dorms such as telephones, shower-curtains, drainage pipes, heaters and so on are handled by the OGA and Energy Center in coordination with the Dorm Staff Office located in Student Dorm (SD1). Garbage disposal matters and IUJ school bus matters are also handled by the OGA. The Accounting Office helps students open a bank account and conduct several banking transactions on campus: IUJ living expense bills, copy card bills, and cash cards. OGA Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM - 12:00 noon, 1:00PM – 5:00PM
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 19
(7) Office of Admissions & Career Support (OACS) The OACS is in charge of student recruitment activities, non-degree programs, public relations, career services, and admissions. To participate in IUJ’s Open Campuses and/or Information Session, and to receive IUJ brochures to give to those you know who might want to apply to IUJ, please contact them at:
Phone: (+81)25-779-1104 Fax: (+81)25-779-1188 Web site: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/admis/request/ (in English) https://www.iuj.ac.jp/j/admis/request/ (in Japanese) E-mail: [email protected]
Admissions Admissions questions should be directed to: GSIR: [email protected] (+81) 25-779-1200 GSIM: [email protected] (+81) 25-779-1500
Career Support Services Job and Internship finding support is coordinated in the OACS. Registration for this support is required in early fall term each year! A September workshop series that continues through Fall Term is offered. They also coordinate campus interviews and selection of candidates during IUJ On-Campus Recruiting Season in the Winter Term. For more information, contact the team at ([email protected]; subject line “IUJ incoming student question” - Tel. 81-25-779-1467). Attending Fall workshops and overview sessions is vital to your career & internship hunt. Internships are not a tradition in the Japanese corporate world, and not everyone gets an internship as the process is very competitive. Japanese language skills are often a deciding factor for those who successfully find jobs and internships! We highly recommend that you come to IUJ armed with Japanese Language skills and start in our Intermediate level. See the IUJ Career website homepage for details on our services and last year’s placement report: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/career/. Those seeking UN/IO internships are provided with special workshops and guidance. Application time is January and February. OACS Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM - 12:00 noon, 1:00PM – 5:00PM
(8) Office of Top Global University Project The Office of the Top Global University Project was established when IUJ was selected for the “Top Global University Project” of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in September 2014. This project aims to enhance the international compatibility and competitiveness of higher education in Japan. The selected 37 universities are expected to press forward with comprehensive internationalization and university reform.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 20
Distinctive efforts of this office are to promote: 1) Nurturing Resilient Global Leaders, 2) Supporting International Expansions of Japanese Businesses, 3) Building Human Resource Networks in the African States, and 4) Expanding the Global Human Resource Development Program. Website: https://www.iuj.ac.jp//sgu/index_en.html (in English) https://www.iuj.ac.jp//sgu/index.html (in Japanese) SGU Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM – 12:00noon, 1:00PM – 5:00PM
(9) President’s Office The President's Office is to support the president's initiatives and to assist the University in fulfilling its overall mission. There are presently four main tasks in the President’s Office: Secretarial support to the President and Vice President(s) Self-evaluation of the University for both academic and non-academic matters Planning Institutional faculty development activities to enhance the quality of our education Arranging and conducting the Operating Committee Meeting
Contact us: Tel: 025-779-1511 Email: [email protected]
President’s Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM – 12:00noon, 1:00PM – 5:00PM
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 21
II-2 Campus Facility
(1) IT Services
The following is information on the current IUJ computer environment. 1. A hundred computers in two computer classrooms of the Matsushita Library and Information Center (MLIC) and eight computers in two dormitory’s computer lounges in total. They are available for 24 hours a day. 2. The high speed of the campus LAN network based on the Gigabits backbone of optical fiber cables. 3. Accessible 53,800 kinds of full-text e-journals and more than 30 online databases (Off-campus users can also access). 4. The wired/wireless internet connection in the individual rooms of the dormitories. 5. We provide Free LAN outlets for personal computers in the MLIC library and the computer classrooms, and Wireless LAN access provided in the Dormitories, MLIC Library, Gym, and Snack Lounge, etc. A computer account (email address) and individual Google Drive to every IUJ student. 6. Windows 10 English version, Microsoft Office suite and some statistic software are available on the shared computers in the computer classrooms. 7. We provide Microsoft Office/Windows OS free for regular students. 8. In case of online (Zoom) courses, we use Google Classroom and Google Drive as IUJ’s Learning Management System.
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Version: Windows10 Education Microsoft Office 2019/2016 Professional Plus Microsoft Office Home & Business 2019/2016 for Mac Language: English or Japanese Period: From September 2021 *Available after graduation. Wireless LAN 11Mbps/54Mbps/100Mbps （IEEE802.11 a/b/g/n） (This service does not provide a 100% guarantee of connection of any wireless LAN card.) *Personal wireless LAN routers are also available.
If you have any questions, please contact us at: Phone: (025) 779-1468 (From overseas dial +81-25-779-1468) Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/cs/
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 22
(2) Library Services The library holds about 100,000 printed books. Broad subject areas covered by our collection include international relations, international development, political science, area studies, economics, business and administration, finance, accounting, marketing, management, etc. Other subject areas such as language, philosophy, statistics, and communications also form part of the collection. With extensive database subscriptions, MLIC offers free and easy access to 75 thousand full-text e-journals, 5 thousand full-text e-books, and online newspapers, 24 hours a day, free of charge, from both on campus and off campus anywhere in the world if the internet connection is available. Besides those research databases, MLIC subscribes to leading data services, which enable students to access real time information on business and market movements. Various library services are also available through online, such as IUJ Search, a single gateway search service to receive results with various items/media available through the library E-resources and Catalog. A professional and knowledgeable staff is always available, and the library is open until 12 midnight during every term.
(3) IUJ School Bus Services IUJ offers students, faculty and staff a weekday bus service between the campus and Urasa Station, and several Urasa town businesses. It is a “School Bus” designed to support students to get to class on time. As a special service, weekend buses run to the neighboring town giving students a wider variety of places to shop, restaurants to choose from and activities to pursue. This service is offered throughout the school year. There is limited bus service provided during school breaks and the New Year Holidays.
While family members are permitted on the school bus, we ask them to refrain from using it in the morning rush time. See other limitations in the Family Guide and please follow these “rules.” IUJ bus services are operated under the OGA.
The bus guide is available at https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss-f/travel/BusGuide.pdf
(4) Gymnasium and Sport Facilities ・ First Floor: Gymnasium Courts (lines for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and futsal goals) ・ Second Floor: Weight Training/Exercise Room and Music Room (with keyboard, drums, etc.) ・ Outside Tennis Courts: Four tennis courts - two with night lighting until 22:00 (Not available in winter due to the snow). Stationary equipment (nets, tables, hoops, surfaces, poles) for basketball, soccer, table tennis, volleyball and badminton are available at the gym. Individuals should bring their own indoor gym shoes (required), rackets, tennis and table tennis balls, and shuttles, etc. or plan to purchase them on arrival. Other equipment such as basketballs and volleyballs is purchased under the IUJ budget. INDOOR Gym-only shoes are required to use the gym facilities. Please prepare non- marking sports shoes for use INSIDE only. These should be court shoes, not futsal shoes to avoid knee injury.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 23
(5) School Shop (IUJ Shop) Monday through Friday 8:00 - 19:00, Saturday & Sunday 13:00-19:00 (closed during the New Year Holidays) Some groceries, snacks, drinks, IUJ goods, stationary, etc. are sold here. Halal foods, snacks and coffee are also available. Services offered through the school shop are as follows: ・ Dry-cleaning ・ Parcel delivery service ・ Postal services ・ Name/business cards (meishi) ordering ・ Take out pizza, sandwhiches, hors doerves and birthday cakes
(6) Cafeteria (Shokudo) The Cafeteria, affectionately known as the Shokudo serves lunch and dinner, except during the New Year Holidays. The schedule (subject to change) is: Everyday including Sat/Sun 11:30 - 13:30 (Last Order: 13:15) 17:30 - 20:00 (Last Order: 19:45) Approx. cost of ala carte meals is as follows. Lunch .¥350 - ¥550 Dinner ¥400 - ¥600
The meals are paid for in cash at the time of selection. For each meal, there are a variety of ala carte items including one or two meat, egg, vegetable, tofu or fish dishes, salads, and fruit dishes, soup and rice. The homemade yogurt is a must try! About 90% of all offerings in the Shokudo are Halal. Those with vegetarian dietary preferences can find nutritious options every meal. For weekly menu of the Shokudo, please access the web site at https://www.iuj.ac.jp/atiuj/menu./ or follow their Instagram: “buy10_info”!
(7) Snack Lounge The Snack Lounge, located on the 2nd floor of the cafeteria and open 24 hours a day, is a nice place to relax, meet up with friends and study too! Vending machines for drinks are available.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 24
II-3 Campus Communications & Cards
(1) E-mail Students will have an IUJ e-mail address for their use and all official IUJ interactions from campus. To register for your IUJ e-mail address, fill in the pre-arrival form as instructed by the Admissions Office before coming to campus. It will be activated around September 1. Once established, please check your IUJ account every day. To apply for your IUJ e-mail address, please access the following site and submit a completed Google form: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/account_registration
Please choose a simple and professional IUJ account name as scholarship hosts, company/organization internship hosts, etc. will use it to contact you. Even if you have a Hotmail, Gmail or other account, you need to open an IUJ E-mail account for messages from campus. Contact us: [email protected]
(2) Telephone Please give your own direct telephone number to those you expect to call. There is no switchboard at IUJ. Unless it is an emergency, IUJ will not take any telephone messages. Please do not give the number of the OSS to off campus friends as a backup to your room number. Your telephone number will look like this: 025-779-lxxx. (The initial 0 is not needed for overseas transmissions, but the international code and the Japan country code “81” are necessary.) It will be informed to you with your Dorm Address in late August. You can make campus calls, as well as local and international calls from your room. After you arrive you may be able to purchase a mobile phone at special student rates. You are responsible for your contract and all expenses for telephone use.
Bringing your phone and getting a SIM card is also an option. IUJ, however, is unable to provide detailed guidance. Please see online resources.
(3) Student ID Upon arrival, your photo will be taken for your IUJ student ID card, campus directory, and career services. Your Student ID card will be issued on or just after the Welcome Day. The ID card can be used for general IUJ ID, Library check-outs, using Gakuwari Coupons (travel discounts for full-time students). Lost Card - if you lose your student ID card, ask the OSS to re-issue your card (¥1,000).
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 25
II-4 Campus Clubs, Organizations and Events
There are many events and activities on campus and in the local community. IUJ students, like most graduate students around the world, take the leadership to participate in and create their own campus life. The community is small and everyone participates in several activities to make it a lively and enjoyable time.
(1) Student Body Throughout the academic year, there are about 380 students at IUJ from over 50 countries: 85 percent of them are from countries other than Japan. The Japanese students are mostly businesspeople who have been working for a number of years before coming to IUJ or privately sponsored students. Overseas students, who come from all over Asia, Africa, North and South America, the Middle East, Europe, and Oceania are partially sponsored by IUJ, the Japanese Ministry of Education, JICA, ADB or other scholarship foundations or private funds. Our common language is English, though for most English is not their native language. Learning to communicate effectively and becoming sensitive to cultural differences is a part of the IUJ experience loved and valued by all graduates.
(2) Graduate Student Organization (GSO) and its Executive Council The Graduate Student Organization (GSO) is the name of the student union at IUJ. Every regular student enrolled at IUJ is automatically a member of the GSO. The Executive Committee (EC) is made up of 15 to 17 students, six to nine of which are elected by the GSO in the Fall term and six to nine in the Spring term. EC members serve a one-year term. First-year students are welcomed and encouraged to run for election. The purpose of the EC is to organize the activities of the GSO, act as spokespeople for the GSO in negotiations with the administration and to foster a pleasant campus atmosphere. Funding for GSO comes from student fees (¥1,500/term) and subsidies from the university. This funding is used to purchase some sports equipment, support the various GSO activities on campus as well as special events including the International Festival.
(3) The Mentor Program IUJ incoming students may ask questions, share concerns and get advice from IUJ current students and key staff through a special online Mentor Program using Facebook. Incoming students will be invited to join through an email notice or in your Admissions packet. To join directly, please go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/IUJSupport2021/ Also, incoming students will be assigned a 2nd year student in your same academic program to offer your individual support.
(4) Flea Market Team In early October, watch for information on an IUJ Flea Market. You will be able to purchase small and large items (bookshelves to refrigerators) donated by those who graduated, and sold by returning 2nd year students.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 26
(5) GSIR/GSIM Councils The GSIR/GSIM Councils are responsible for assisting students, faculty and the administration in enhancing the academic life for all members of GSIR/GSIM community (students, faculty and the administration). These are elected positions and entering students may run in the election their first term at IUJ. The Councils organize such activities as debates, case competitions, business plan competitions, TEDx talks and more.
(6) Dorm Floor Representative Each floor of the dorms has a representative in principle: 3 people in SD1 and 5 people each in SD2 and SD3, who represent the floor/wing/area in which they reside. Representatives are chosen (or appointed) by application process to the OSS & Dorm Director. The major role is to create a social community on the floor through at least 1 get-together a term so students know their neighbors. The additional roles noted below are on an as needed, on- call basis. 1. To help the GSO-EC, Dorm Director and OSS with issues in the dorms as needed 2. To help with safety and quiet policy issues in the dorms as needed 3. To act in an event of an emergency to support their floor residents
(7) Buddy System To help dorm residents with extra support beyond what the OSS can provide, or for longer term needs, IUJ promotes a Buddy System. The Buddy System groups similar people into “families” by gender and nationality.
(8) “Houses” and House Tournament of Champions Each student at IUJ will be assigned to a “House” - a diverse group of people ready to enjoy various campus events and activities together. Each house, named after the IUJ founders and first chairmen of the board, will have an equal allocation of males and females, 1st and 2nd year students, and a mix of academic programs and nationalities. The purpose of the “Houses” is to foster cross-cultural communication, promote networking, and enhance an active campus life. One activity of the Houses will be an 8-month running tournament using both a “ladder tournament” structure, various mini-tournaments, and IUJ Olympics, with House Champions being crowned in June each year. While many of the activities will be sports oriented, board game competitions and contests for photography, snow sculptures and poetry are also planned. Everyone is encouraged to contribute to their House!
(9) Sports The IUJ community is small but very active. Regular sports activities (outside of the House activities) include basketball, soccer, badminton, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, jogging, biking, hiking, aerobic and hip hop dance groups, iaido, skiing and snowboarding, etc. Swimming pool & exercise facilities, golf courses and practice ranges are in Muikamachi area. For joggers and bikers, not to mention hikers, the area is ideal.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 27
(10) Clubs Established clubs include the yearbook committee, various sports clubs, Lean In Club, Muslim Student Association, Catholic and Christian worship groups, Finance Club, Consulting Club, Photography Club, Chess Club, Board Game Club, etc. If your hobby or preferred activity is not listed here, do not be concerned because interest for most any kind of club and activity can be generated with your leadership and initiative.
(11) Major Events Culti Fiesta: In fall term, IUJ students organize a festival for each other (campus only event) to share their cultures through dance, skits, and songs. It is a Festival of Cultures - Culti Fiesta
IUJ International Festival: The highlight of the year is when IUJ invites the town to our IUJ International Festival, also called Open Day. This is organized by the GSO - the students of IUJ - and is usually held in the spring term. The festival includes international food stands prepared by students, cultural exhibitions and a stage show performed by students, faculty and people from the local community.
IUJ Ski Day: The GSO-EC’s biggest event in winter term is the IUJ Ski Day. Many students, including complete beginners in skiing and snowboarding, enjoy the slopes this day. A few ski lectures are held in classrooms in advance by the Ski & Snowboard Club and GSO-EC.
IUJ Winter Blues Musical Evening: IUJ’s musical talents (or no talents) boast their skills of singing and playing instruments such as piano, trumpet, violin, drums, and many others. Many bands are formed, and music is shared. This is a treasure for music lovers on a winter evening.
IUJ Olympics: In late spring, it is held featuring a wide range of fun (sometimes silly/sometimes serious) sports.
Speeches in Japanese: Also in spring term, the Japanese Language Program hosts the Japanese Happyokai - a chance for our students to show off their language skills by giving speeches, performing skits, etc. for the IUJ community and the people in the surrounding area.
Graduation Party: First year students host a formal graduation party to send off the graduating students in style.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 28
(12) Off Campus Events There are numerous chances to visit local schools for enhancing the kids’ awareness of your cultures. The school children are eager to study your cultures so please watch the OSS notice board and participate! Community Action Team, CAT CAT is a volunteer group of students willing to support the local community in such activities as school visits, introductions to your country and culture to off campus groups, participation in local festivals including stage performances, and helping with other requests from the city to promote international awareness. Participants are often gifted a coupon that can be used at specific stores. For those actively participating in CAT activities, a certificate of appreciation is awarded at the time of graduation. Festivals and Activities Students can take part in seasonal activities such as local festivals and hiking. The local festivals of the year are the Oct. 20 Fire Walking Festival (those of the Shinto faith walk across hot coals to purify themselves and the items belonging to their Shrine), the Naked Men’s Festival (men clad in white shorts and straw sandals push their way into the inner part of the local shrine - and in the snow!) is held the 1st Saturday of March. The Winter Snow Festivals and International Snow Ball Fight come in in mid-February in the neighboring towns. IUJ students are encouraged to attend and participate!
Bus Trips and Homestays Both through IUJ Field Trips, and by invitation from off campus organizations and the Niigata prefectural government, students will have an opportunity to venture near and far to explore Japanese culture – business culture, traditional culture, etc. Each year a few lucky students will get to go on a homestay for a weekend or two. These events fill up VERY fast so stay aware and move quickly to register.
(13) Keep Informed and Active Notices for events are posted on the Office of Student Services bulletin boards, and announced through email. Watch for information and sign up (quickly) to participate. Once you sign up DO NOT CANCEL as cancelations greatly and negatively impacts the event.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 29
Section III: Dormitory Information
(1) Dormitories IUJ students come from various professional and cultural backgrounds, representing 50+ countries/territories each year. With the aim of providing these capable students with a common ground to interact and engage with each other intellectually outside classrooms, all students live in the on-campus dormitories their first year in principle. There are three Single Dormitories (SD1, SD2 and SD3) and one Married Student Apartment (MSA). Living in IUJ provided housing is part of our “residential policy.” The only reason accepted to move off campus is for family reasons. Single students will remain in the dorms.
(2) Single Student Dormitories (SD1, SD2, SD3) What each room is furnished with are a desk, a chair and a bed (size: 100cm x 210cm, with drawers under it); a clothes closet, heating and air condition units and an antenna for TV, FM and AM radio (TV and radio are not provided), private bathroom (with bathtub, shower, shower curtain, basin and toilet), window blinds, a telephone (there is no telephone hookup fee) and LAN connection. Bed mattresses, cover and a sheet with a free weekly sheets exchange service, are also provided. However, if you prefer to use your own sheets you may do so. Bedding can be purchased in town at your own expense (¥10,000 - ¥40,000) and you will need to pay for the washing separately. Please note that hangers, towels, toilet paper (except the first role), soap, desk lights, or decorations of any kind are not supplied. Allocation You will be assigned a room and telephone number before your arrival. Requests for specific dorms or rooms are not accepted except for special cases* such as acrophobia or physical limitations (unable to use stairs), though some basic preference can be notified to us by submitting a Google form from this site: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss/september-schedule/ (Click “THIS FORM” under “Incoming Dorm Room Assignments.) Allocation is random. Changing rooms is not permitted. Those without family members coming to Japan will remain on campus through graduation in accordance with the IUJ residential policy. We will notify you of your room number in the 2nd half of August by email.
Contact ([email protected]) if you feel you have a special case.
(3) Married Student Apartments (MSA) IUJ has an 18-unit apartment building for the married students (Married Students Apartments; MSA). These units are allocated to officially married couples. A few units are available to those with children younger than 6. As demand for MSA is high, unit allocation is decided by a lottery organized by the OSS after students arrive on campus (early October).
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 30
Not all of those wishing to rent a unit are able to because of the high demand, and because priority goes to 2nd year students who waited to bring their spouse. IUJ also reserves the right to give priority to special needs students (single parents, health or other special issues) and to students who come to campus married to each other. If you are in these groups, please contact the OSS as early as possible. There is a small unit bath, bedroom and open kitchen/living area. A small kitchenette with a stove top, cupboards and a sink, a desk and chair, air conditioning and heating units, LAN connection are the only furnishings. Those in MSA must provide their own refrigerators, TVs, electrical appliances and bedding by themselves. A dehumidifier may be needed. Students thinking of bringing family to IUJ, should come to IUJ on their own and live in the single dormitories first. Those wishing to bring families are highly recommended to wait until Spring Term to settle in and experience the first winter before having family to support. Students must file the immigration paperwork on behalf of the spouse and children after establishing their own residency in the area: IUJ is unable to assist with this process according to immigration rules. The immigration procedures will likely start in December and can take up to 3-4 months or longer for the CoE to be issued.
Those considering to live off campus are asked to thoroughly read the info at: https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss/off-campus/ *Not applicable to Japanese nationals and JISR scholars.
(4) Dorm Room Details Please note the following regarding your dorm room and services.
Dimensions ・ SD1 14.3 m2 with a bit larger unit bath than SD2 & 3. Ceiling height is 2m 50cm ・ SD2 & 3 15.0 m2 with a bit smaller unit bath than SD1. Ceiling height is 2m 75cm ・ MSA 2 rooms (bed room and kitchen/dining area) unfurnished, plus a small unit bath. Rent ・ SD1 1F ¥32,000 per month (plus utilities) Discounted as the rooms can be a bit colder ・ SD1 2F, 3F ¥35,000 per month (plus utilities) and darker than other rooms. Linen and ・ internet services are the same. SD2, & SD3 ¥39,000 per month (plus utilities) Including a weekly linen service and LAN/Internet connection ・ MSA ¥53,000 per month (plus utilities) Unfurnished and without linen service, installed with campus LAN/Internet connection
* Whenever you check in/re-check in or change your room, a dormitory maintenance fee of ¥10,000 is charged to you. If you take any preparative summer program(s) prior to commencement of the full-time courses, this fee will be charged in the fall. Special summer program dorm rates may apply.
(5) Non-Smoking Policy Smoking is not permitted in the dorms. Special smoking booths near the dorms are provided.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 31
(6) Public Facilities Available in the Dorms: Lounges (air conditioned/centrally heated) are available for the following activities:
SD1 SD2 SD3 MSA Vending Machines Tatami Room 1F Billiards and TV* Lounge and TV* Dorm Staff’s Office Lounge and TV* 2F Lounge and TV* Lounge 3F Lounge Lounge 4F GSO-EC Office Lounge 5F Computer Room Computer Room 6F Lounge
TV*: Terrestrial and Satellite (BS) channels
On-Campus Dormitories have: Commonly shared kitchenettes with burners, and refrigerators An ice-maker in SD3 Laundry rooms with washing machines and dryers (¥100/wash or dry cycle) Snow-tire storages are available in SD2 Commonly shared vacuum cleaners All the TVs in the dorms are connected to the HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) for the residents’ use
(7) Dormitory Fees and Program Expenses Payments On the 25th of each month dormitory fees, utility fees, any textbook and library charges, insurance fees, and GSO fees (if applicable) will be automatically deducted from your Daishi Hokuetsu Bank account. A monthly invoice showing the amount owed is issued on the 20th of every month. You have from the 20th to the 24th to make any claims of errors to the Accounting Office. You must keep appropriate funds available in your account.
Note: If you check out of the dorms after the 11th of the month, initially a full month’s rent is charged. However, after the checkout paper work is processed, that month’s rent will be recalculated and reimbursed to your account the next month.
(8) Dorm Guide A Dorm Guide will be given to you upon arrival. Please carefully read and then follow the dorm rules, including the Quiet policy, Residential policy, and the No Smoking policy. Dorm rules are enforced with a yellow card warning, then red card penalty system.
For an advance copy, please see https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss/dorm-guidance/
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 32
Section IV: Other IV-1 Health Care
Clinics and hospitals are used for all health care needs. To have a safe and comfortable life during your stay in Japan, all students must join ・National Health Insurance to cover some medical expense, ・Accident Insurance to cover injuries incurred in regular curricular activities/school events, ・Individual Compensation Insurance to cover injuries to other people or property damage due to your own negligence.
Compulsory Health Examinations The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology in Japan (Mombukagakusho or MEXT), under the Student Health Law, requires all regular students in Japan to have a Health Examination once a year. The OSS will post an announcement regarding the exact dates for the health examinations which are usually held on campus once in fall term and once in spring term. Taking the exam through IUJ is a free service (IUJ pays for you). You must take this exam once a year.
Translation Service for Medical Assistance There is an optional service called “Translation Service for Medical Assistance” to make it easy for you to communicate with medical staff during your stay in Japan. The annual fee is 1890yen.
MORE information on Health Issues Please refer to “Guide To Health Care & Hospitals 2021” for more details or health services in the area, and how to access them. https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss-f/pdf/hospitalguide.pdf
IV-2 Immigration Matters (1) Resident Registration System A Residence Card will be issued to all mid- to long-term residents at the time of entry into the country (landing permission). Note: All or part of the information printed on the residence card will be recorded in an IC chip embedded in the card for the purpose of preventing the residence cards from being forged or altered. The valid period of the residence card expires on the same date as the period of stay. Be sure to read the warning notice regarding this card. Also note the requirement to have your RC with you at all times when in Japan. If you lose it, see the OSS immediately.
The information is provided by the Immigration Bureau of Japan. See http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/newimmiact_1/en/index.html
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 33
Please take note of the following! In line with the introduction of the new residency management system, the following grounds have been established for revocation of resident status, deportation and penalties. Revocation of resident status . You have obtained special permission to stay by wrongful means. . You are residing as a spouse with “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” or “Spouse of Child of Permanent Resident” status, but you have failed to engage in activities as a spouse for six months or more without a justifiable reason. . You have failed to give notification of your place of residence without a justifiable reason or have submitted a false notification. Grounds for deportation . You have forged or altered your residence card. . You have been sentenced to imprisonment with labor or a heavier punishment for submitting false notification or similar act. Penalties . You have submitted a false notification or have violated the obligation to submit a notification relating to any of the notifications required of mid- to long-term residents or have violated the obligation concerning receipt, carrying or mandatory presentation of your residence card. . A stricter provision has been introduced for the crime of facilitating illegal work. . You have forged or altered a residence card. Source: Immigration Bureau of Japan https://www.city.sakaide.lg.jp/uploaded/attachment/122.pdf
(2) The Proxy Visa Transactions The staff in the OSS are certified by the Immigration Office to be official intermediaries between IUJ students (but NOT family members) and the Immigration Office for the following visa matters. Work permit (including paid summer internships) Visa extension Visa status change (to a student visa) Re-entry permission (if necessary) Several other issues for IUJ students
Please contact OSS as soon as possible when you need help for those matters. Special Notes: ・ If you plan to seek a part-time job or a paid internship (and your scholarship conditions so allow), obtain a work permit as you enter the country. You can submit your application as you enter the country through Narita, Haneda, Kansai, or Chubu international airports. ・ We provide information and directions on how to manage immigration matters as well as offer the proxy service described above. However, all students are responsible for obtaining their own visa and for ensuring it and their passport are renewed and remain valid through their graduation. Failing to do so can result in deportation and forced withdrawal from IUJ. ・ International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 34
・ Those planning on going on an exchange, or participating in an internship or conference etc. overseas, are responsible for obtaining their own visa to the third country. ・ Upon graduation, if you find a job and need to change your visa status (or extend your student visa status to pursue a Ph.D.) we can provide basic information and guidance, but this becomes a matter between you and the company/organization (or other university). ・ Your student visa becomes ineffective from the day of graduation because you are no longer a full-time registered student which is a pre-condition for holding a student visa. Upon graduation, you must leave the country or be in the process of changing your visa status (i.e. to a Work Visa) before graduation date to remain legal. More information is provided by the Career, Counseling Services. ・ Designated Stay Visa (Special visa after your IUJ graduation) For those who have registered with Career Services and have been actively and consistently job hunting and communicating with the Career Services office from fall term, IUJ can provide support for a special visa after you graduate. The purpose of this visa is to help your job hunt if you are unable to secure one before graduation. Those who have not been actively job hunting, or whom are not eligible to work in Japan, will not be given this special visa support. The Designated Stay visa is for an initial 6 month period to extend your stay in Japan for the purpose of job hunting. You may get a work permit & re-entry permit as well. Again, to qualify for this support, you MUST be trying very hard to get a job, with evidence to the fact in the career services office. For details see https://www.iuj.ac.jp/career/after-search
(3) Procedures of Application for Dependent Visa (Spouse and Child/Children ONLY) IUJ is legally responsible as an institutional guarantor for IUJ students only. If your family members are not a Japanese nationals, they will require a dependent visa (they should not come on a tourist visa under any circumstances unless they plan on staying less than 90 days. Extensions and a change of status are not possible).
Dependent visas are not always easy to get. You are legally, financially and socially responsible for your family. IUJ can provide some basic guideline or advice in emergency situations. But in general, a family’s business is your private affairs and outside IUJ’s umbrella. This includes support for prenatal & post-natal (pregnancy and birth) care and school-aged children’s arrangements though some basic support & info materials (See the Family Guide at: https://www.iuj.ac.jp//oss-f/living/FamilyGuide.pdf) are available in the OSS. Therefore, it is highly recommended for you to wait and bring your family in Spring Term after the very demanding Fall & Winter Terms. Also you must be able to show a sufficient income to provide for your family. Most scholarships are not sufficient enough to support your family.
Spouses and Working Spouses should not come here to work. They come to support your studies and take care of the children (if applicable). To work they must have a work permit. Most employers in the area require Japanese Language skills. Any work outside the house cannot interfere with their role to support the IUJ student and your children.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 35
How to get the Family Visa To obtain your family’s Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) to be used to get their Dependent visas you must fill out the required forms, obtain various documents, and submit them to the Immigration Office for their consideration and approval. It takes about 4 months (or longer) for immigration to send you the CoE and to complete the process and does not always result in a visa for the family members. Please consult directly with your embassy in Japan for specific instructions. Please do NOT make calls to the immigration office to ask about your application status. The process does take a long time. Spouses Residence Family members must all reside at the same address: as your spouse is coming to support your studies, they should remain in the area to do just that. Documents to be submitted for a CoE for family visa (assuming you will be the sponsor and guarantor):
Notes: 1) A photo of the applicant(s) (4cm x 3cm), taken within the past 6 months. Attach one photo on the application form. 2) You must prepare the above documents assuming you are applying for the Certificate of Eligibility for your family. Required documents vary from each condition. 3) Proof of relationship: ・ Family registration, marriage license or marriage receipt certificate, child’s birth certificate. ・ Copy of the guarantor’s (your) passport.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 36
・ Guarantor’s (your) Copy of Residence Record. You can obtain it at the city office for ¥300 per sheet. ・ Copy of applicant’s passport. 4) Guarantee letter by the guarantor (you): The guarantor is you and you need to indicate this on a form (available at the OSS). You have to state in a guarantee letter that you will cover all of your spouses or family’s expenditure while living in Japan, and transportation fees from Japan to your home country, and that you are responsible for ensuring that the applicant will obey Japanese laws. 5) Explanation letter: Explain why and for how long your spouse or family will stay with you, and describe your living conditions. 6) In case your relatives agree to provide your living expenses, you need the following: ・ Oath of financial support signed by the remitter (your relatives). ・ Employment and income certificate of the remitter. ・ Bank statement of the remitter. ・ Documentary evidence of remitter’s relationship with guarantor (you). ・ Evidence of remittance (copy of remittance notice, check, bank book). 7) All documents in foreign languages except those in English should be officially translated into Japanese. Other documents may be required by the officer in charge for precise screening. Application must be submitted in person or by a designated proxy. A proxy must be a relative of the applicant and ID must be shown. IUJ cannot act as a proxy for spouse/child visas.
Note 1: Please submit “Family list” with your request to permanently move off campus form (available at OSS) before your family arrives in Japan. Your family also must register their place of residence and join National Health Insurance and obtain a My Number notification at the City Office after arriving in Japan. Send PDF copies of all documents, except My Number, to the OSS once obtained. Note 2: Your family members who hold "dependent" visa status should live with you. If your family returns before you graduate, you may be able to return to the dorms. Please consult with the OSS well in advance. Note 3: Those sponsored by JICA and IMF and Linkage students should coordinate with your scholarship representative or sponsor as well as IUJ. Note 4: Those moving off campus are required to submit a “Request to move off campus” form 4 weeks or more prior to your move to avoid financial penalties. Note 5: All of your family members planning to come to Japan may be required to submit a health exam report to IUJ in advance (not application to Japanese nationals and some specific scholarships). Note 6: Dependent Visas are not obtainable by a student for parents or other relatives: only for spouses and children.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 37
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 38
IV-3 Money and Banking Facilities, Services Japan is a cash-flow or e-money society. Credit cards and e-money are now popular. You now can get cash from major credit cards in a few locations in our area including the ATM on campus.
(1) Opening a Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Account All IUJ students must have a Daishi Hokuetsu Bank account for money transactions with IUJ. IUJ’s Accounting Office will help you set up a bank account after you arrive. You will get a bankbook and a card for the Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) of the bank after you arrive at IUJ. This account will be used for all your business transactions (deducting dorm fees, telephone charges, copy fees, book purchases, etc. as well as scholarship disbursement when applicable) with IUJ in principle. IUJ deducts these charges, after notifying you of the total, using a direct transfer method. This method is common throughout Japan and is very safe. If you need instructions on sending/receiving money from abroad, refer below. ・ Using the Bank Card Your Bank Card will allow you to use the ATM located on campus near the IUJ main entrance to withdraw cash. Your Bank Card will also give you access to your account at other Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Branches and Seven Bank ATM (located at 7/11 convenient stores). The ATM machine on campus and Seven Bank ATM are available from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm from Monday through Friday, and from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekends and national holidays. There is a 110 yen (220 yen after hours and on weekends) transaction fee for using ATMs at locations other than the bank.
(2) Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Services and Banking Hours The nearest bank is the Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Yamato Branch (on the IUJ bus route, TEL 025-777-3145). Banks in Japan are open from Mondays to Fridays and closed Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays (including January 2nd and 3rd). The Daishi Hokuetsu Bank Yamato Branch is open from 9:00 to 15:00 on weekdays. Limited ATM services are available until 9 pm or 7 pm on weekends and national holidays. The ATM at the bank in Urasa is available at the following hours (NOTE: this is not a 24 hour service.): Monday - Friday: 8:00 - 21:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays: 9:00 - 19:00
*Deposits and withdrawals using an ATM card of Daishi Hokuetsu Bank are free of charge.
(3) Wire Transfer - “Furikomi” Follow these steps to have money transferred to you in Japan safely: 1) Come to Japan. 2) Open a bank account. 3) Indicate your “My Number” to your teller. 4) Have money wired to your bank account. International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 39
Check with your bank at home about how to request money to be sent to you when you are already in Japan, and if requests can be made by you from overseas. A fee will be charged of at least ¥5,000-¥10,000 for international transactions. Delays should be expected. Daishi Hokuetsu Bank has limited international banking connections.
More detailed information is available at Accounting Office and OSS.
IV-4 Driving in Japan If you plan to drive while at IUJ, you are required to register your car, driver’s license & insurance info with the Dorm Director and obtain a Parking Permission Sticker. If you do not, you may not use IUJ parking lots. This includes off-campus residents. Please see the Dorm Director for supportive information and necessary procedures to register your car. In order to drive a car or motorcycle in Japan, it is necessary to have a license for the specific type of vehicle you plan to drive (automatic, stick shift, motorcycle, van, etc.). The driver’s license must be carried by the individual driver at all times when driving. Be sure to have the proper license. Your own country’s license is not enough – you must also have a valid and accepted International Driver’s License obtained after being in your country 3 full months prior to entering Japan (see (2) below) or a Japanese license.
(1) Owning a Vehicle Owning a vehicle in Japan is costly (estimated ¥500,000 not including gas), and carries a lot of responsibility: You must have full insurance coverage (compulsory plus third party car insurance), have your car inspected per national regulations (Shaken, about ¥150,000+ depending on the condition of your car), prove you have a parking place, pay yearly taxes (¥29,500 - ¥111,000 depending on the size of the car), and sell or dispose of it before you leave Japan. Gasoline costs more or less ¥135/liter (as of March 2021). Be sure to keep your insurance and “shaken” up to date. Contact the Dorm Director for assistance.
(2) International Driver’s License In order to drive a car in Japan, you must: 1) Make sure you have a current driver’s license with you from your home country. It should remain valid for the entire period you are in Japan. 2) Obtain an international driver’s license that has “Geneva Convention Sept. 19th 1949” written in it from your own country’s automobile association before traveling to Japan. This license is inexpensive and easy to obtain in your home country but once you arrive in Japan it is nearly impossible to obtain. This license is valid for one year only. You must get a new international license outside of Japan once it expires*. International driver’s licenses cannot be easily reissued.** Legally you must obtain a Japanese license after you have been in Japan for any length of time as a resident. Please be aware that the international driving licenses currently sold through various websites are NOT recognized to be valid in Japan.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 40
3) For a list of the contracting countries of the Convention at Geneva 1949 be sure to access this site and confirm your country is listed: https://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.jp/multilingual/english/traffic_safety/drivers_lice nses/geneva.html
Note: * To obtain an international driver’s license after living in Japan for any length of time as a resident of Japan (your first one or second one), you must be outside of Japan for 3 full months, plus 1 day, in one location. If this is less than 3 full months or if you are moving around to various countries during the 3 months and you come into Japan with an international driver’s license, that license will be regarded as invalid and you cannot legally drive in Japan. In order to drive, you must obtain a Japanese license. ** Determining whether your international driving license is valid or not in Japan can be very complicated and often requires judgments from a specialist. To be absolutely sure of the validity of your international license, you are advised to consult with the Japanese consulate/embassy in your country before coming to Japan.
It is strongly advised to carry the international driver’s license (BOTH the card and booklet) and passport with you whenever you drive in Japan. Obtaining a Japanese license is time consuming. It requires a written test and course driving test. Rarely do people pass it the first time.
Register your Car or Bike with IUJ Those owning a car (or bike) must register the car & license/insurance info with the Dorm Director and obtain a Parking Permission Sticker. Cars without a sticker may be towed away from campus at owners’ expenses. Bikes without an updated sticker will be removed from campus as well.
DO NOT DRIVE WITHOUT A PROPER LICENSE!
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 41
IV-5 IUJ Life (1) Location IUJ is situated in Minami Uonuma-city, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Niigata City and 230 kilometers northwest of Tokyo. This area of Japan is known as “Yuki guni” (snow country) because of the heavy snowfall in winter. The IUJ campus is in a very rural area surrounded by rice fields and mountains. The nearest town is Urasa (10 minutes by bus) with a post office, banks, hospitals, clinics, supermarket and a number of small shops and restaurants. This town is adequate for daily basic needs. The larger towns (Muikamachi and Koide) are located within a 20-minute drive or a 15-minute train ride from IUJ. These towns have bigger supermarkets, Western and Asian restaurants, etc. The free weekend bus will take you to Muikamachi and Koide. Niigata City is the capital of Niigata Prefecture and is located about 2 hours away by local train or car (40 minutes by bullet train). Nagaoka is a bit smaller but still a major city with shopping malls at the station and another called “Riverside Senshu” just a bus ride from Nagaoka Station. Plan to explore!
(2) Climate Being situated near the center of the Temperate Zone, the Japanese islands generally have a mild climate. The changing of the seasons is clearly marked. In summer (June, July and August) it is hot and humid because of monsoons from the southeast and in winter (December, January, and February) it is rather cold due to the seasonal winds from the northwest. The climatic conditions differ greatly from region to region. In Minami Uonuma-city (where IUJ is located), the climate is extreme with heavy snow in the winter (an average of 2 meters of accumulated snow) with temperatures usually hovering around 1 degree centigrade. It is very hot and wet during the summer when the temperature can be as high as 40 degrees centigrade with humidity around 70 percent. It remains fairly warm through September with October bringing cool nights and progressively cooler days. November and March mark the peripheries of the winter season. April brings warmer weather but patches of snow remain. In May the weather turns to summer. Shown below is the average temperature (in Celsius) for each season at IUJ.
Fall 9 degrees Winter 1.5 degrees Spring 14 degrees Summer 30+ degrees and humid
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 42
(3) Living Expenses (estimated) You will need at least ¥100,000 in cash for the first few weeks before your bank account is ready and your first scholarship awards are made (if applicable).
The estimated costs of the basic living expenses on campus for a single person for one month are noted below. You will need more money for your entertainment, transportation, etc. IUJ scholarships and several other scholarships are designed to off-set the cost of your education in Japan and not provide for travel, entertainment or other expenses.
Dormitory Charge (single dormitory) ¥39,000 (fixed, LAN connection included) Utilities ¥ 5,000 (variable) Meals ¥30,000 (variable) Insurances ¥1,165 (variable) Educational materials ¥20,000 (variable) TOTAL (approximates) ¥95,000+
Other expenses include the payment of the Maintenance Fee (¥10,000) when you move into the dormitory and individual medical expenses. If you do not wish to eat in the cafeteria, you may cook in one of the dormitory kitchens. Pots, pans, plates, bowls, utensils, etc. are NOT provided. Please be aware that things are rather expensive in Japan when compared with other countries. Though there are amazing 100 yen shops!
(4) Part-time Jobs Since IUJ campus is in a rural area and if you cannot speak Japanese fluently, it is difficult for you to secure part-time jobs. There are a few library assistantships, non-degree program facilitators, and teaching assistantships on campus, however, there is a waiting list for vacancies. For native or near-native English speakers, there are limited numbers of chances to teach English to groups in the area. In general, however, students should not count on finding part-time employment during their stay at IUJ. Furthermore the OSS is not in a position to find any part-time job for the students or their family members. Work for Spouses: Spouses on a Dependent visa are meant to come to support the student’s need in the house and not work outside the home. But if they do, they must have a work permit to work maximum 28 hours a week. IUJ cannot support a part-time employment hunt. Special Note: If you do find a paying position, you will first need a Work Permit. This includes most internships in Japan and jobs in the IUJ library.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 43
(5) Public Transportation ・ Railways Japan Railway (JR) and other railway companies operate train services throughout the country. The train fare varies depending on the distance you travel, type of train: Limited Express, Express etc. and the type of reserved seat: Green Car (first class), Sleeper etc. Tickets for short distance are available from ticket machines and tickets for long distances and reservations are dealt with at ticket offices as well as from ticket machines. You must keep your ticket until your destination and hand it in at the ticket gate. Most trains stop operating around midnight.
・ Student discount for travel (Gakuwari) “Gakuwari” Coupons for discounts on research travel (personal travel is not covered) can be obtained from the OSS and are available for regular students only. The coupons give students a 20 percent discount on JR basic fare (local train) tickets for trips of more than 101 kilometers. An extra Express ticket is required for “Shinkansen” and is not covered in Gakuwari. Be aware that “Gakuwari” is neither saleable nor transferable to other students or family members, and doing so is illegal and carries heavy penalties. How to apply for Gakuwari (a) Fill in the application note at the OSS in person and at least 1 full working day prior to your travel plans. (b) Pick up the Gakuwari coupon the following working day in person. Note: When you travel with Gakuwari, you should always take your student ID card and Residence Card. Do not allow anyone to buy tickets on your Gakuwari, and do not use it to purchase tickets for others’ use. Doing so is a crime!
・ “Seishun 18” Pass Please refer to the following link for details: https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/seishun18.html
・ Buses City buses and hospital/clinic buses are available to students and off campus families. The hospital bus runs between the station and some local communities frequently and is convenient for family and student support for hospital visits.
・ Taxis The fare differs between cities and the size of the cars. The minimum fare (compact car) in town is approx. ¥690 up to 1.5 kilometers and the fare increases at a fixed rate by mileage and time. An additional 20 percent is charged from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. and in winter (from December to March). The average taxi fare from Urasa Station to IUJ is approximately ¥2,000. * Yamato Taxi (0120-133-141) * Urasa Taxi (025-777-3456) * Sakura Taxi (025-777-5020) – closest to campus
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 44
(6) Tipping Customs There is no custom of tipping in Japan so tipping cab drivers, hair dressers, and waiters/ waitresses is not necessary. An exception is at fancy Japanese spas (Ryokan).
(7) Drinking Water Almost all tap water in Japan is drinkable, including water in your dorm rooms and bathrooms. When water is not drinkable there is a sign on or near the faucet, but this is very rare. The water in Niigata is very good and does not require extra filtration of any kind.
(8) Places of Worship Ryukoku-ji Temple (Osaki, Minami Uonuma-shi) and Fukou-ji Temple (Urasa, Buddhism Minami Uonuma-shi) Hakkaisan-jinja shrine (Osaki, Minami Uonuma-shi) and Hakusan-jinja shrine Shinto (Niigata-shi) The closest Catholic churches are in Tokamachi City (40 kilometers from IUJ) Catholic and Nagaoka City (50 kilometers from IUJ). Students organize small Sunday services on campus. Jewish The nearest Synagogue is in Tokyo. Mormon The nearest church is in Nagaoka-City (50 kilometers from IUJ). The nearest Mosque is in Niigata (Taro-dai 15-1, Niigata). Students organize Muslim prayer sessions on campus. Prayer space with washing facilities is provided on the third floor of the IUJ classroom building. Urasa Church and the Muikamachi Church in Minami Uonuma-shi both offer Protestant services differing in style, and sometimes in English. Students organize services on campus as well.
Note: Religious propaganda and religious suppression is not allowed on IUJ’s campus since many different nationalities and different religions are represented on campus. Freedom of religion is every student’s right as long as it does not offend their peers. There are 3 established clubs with religious affiliations: Muslim Student Association, Catholic Students Group, and Christian Fellowship Group.
Some religious groups have approached IUJ students/faculty to try to recruit them into their membership in the following manners: ・ Knock on student dorms or apartments asking if they can share some Japanese culture with them; ・ Invite them for cake at a nearby coffee-shop or a home connected to a cake shop for English-Japanese conversation exchange; or ・ Approach students/faculty waiting for the IUJ bus to ask if they were interested in studying kanji with them, and invite them for cake:
If you are NOT interested, it is very important: 1) To tell them clearly you are NOT interested and to leave you alone. 2) To not fill out, or let them fill out any kind of form about you. Do not give them your personal information and do NOT sign anything. 3) Do not take their "gift" of prayer beads and a book of scripture to read.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 45
4) Do not agree to go to their assembly hall. 5) To inform the OSS immediately if you are approached. 6) If you feel threatened, harassed or need any immediate support while with them, the police welcome your call at 110. They will come support you (this is likely not needed, but the police are aware of their unwanted advances!)
If off-campus religious organizations enter the dorms for propaganda purposes, inform the Dorm Director immediately.
(9) Japan Travel Guide As an online Japan Guide for travelers and students living in Japan, "Planetyze" offers all sorts of traveling information and suggests travel plans for first timers in various popular destinations throughout Japan: https://planetyze.com/en
(10) Off Campus Living Information IUJ students, in principle, are required to live on campus in the IUJ student dorm facilities. This is by far the best way to settle into your new routine and get everything you can from your IUJ experience. With IUJ’s residential policy you are to live in the dorms through graduation. However, those who must live off-campus to accommodate family members may request special permissions to do so.
To request permissions to move off campus, submit the required request form 4 full weeks before you plan to check out of the dorms. Less than 1 month prior submission results in an equivalent to 1-month rent penalty. This off-campus move is a permanent move: you will be off campus through graduation. IUJ highly recommends* waiting until Spring Term to bring family members to the area. IUJ can introduce you to an English-speaking Real Estate agent. * Some scholarships and Japanese families are not included. Before deciding to bring your family, please read earlier sections of this guide and the Family Guide at: https://www.iuj.ac.jp//oss-f/living/FamilyGuide.pdf.
(11) Child Care Information IUJ services are provided to our registered students. Spouses and children of our students are welcomed to interact with campus for events, but the IUJ student is responsible for all family expenses, care, health issues, transportation, schooling, etc. Off campus families may not use IUJ shower facilities in the gym, kitchens, or washing machines in the dorms or use the study rooms. The IUJ bus is an “IUJ school” bus with a priority for registered students and faculty. IUJ can provide you with basic information for pregnancies, registering a baby, day care and kindergarten and school information. The student will need to take responsibility for their children’s situation, requiring Japanese language skills.
Day nurseries and kindergartens for infants and children are in group situation. See the following page to see if your child qualifies to attend. There is no nanny system or babysitter tradition in Japan.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 46
Nursery (age 0-6) / Kindergarten (age 3-6)
Please note that NOT all children are eligible to enter nursery schools/kindergartens. Nursery schools are a social welfare services, so are only for those children who, due to long-term sickness or work or full-time education, cannot be taken care of by their parents. So most IUJ families do not qualify for this social support service. Furthermore, there are set quotas for the number of children at each age level that can be handled at those facilities so there may be capacity issues. Therefore it is difficult to have a child accepted at nursery schools or kindergartens in the middle of Japanese fiscal year (April to March). Please consult early with the city officials about capacity. Note: This is because the staffing numbers are set each April. Also, the nursery schools capacities are limited. Also Note: If your family leaves Japan or will no longer need the services, you must notify the school and city hall well in advance and ask for their support! If you would like to enter your child at a nursery school/kindergarten, please go to the Kosodate-Shien Ka of the Minami Uonuma city office and ask for their support.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 47
(12) Assistance Services
ON Campus
OSS – x103 PEC for harassment issues – please see PEC bulletin board IUJ Counselor – x506 (online appointment making possible) IUJ Health Consultation services – info on the OSS board (online appointment making possible)
OFF Campus
Tokyo English Life Line – counseling services outside IUJ * https://telljp.com * TEL 03-5774-0992, or you can chat online with them Niigata International Association (NIA) Phone Consultation Service * http://www.niigata-ia.or.jp/en/ * TEL 025-241-1881 * Skype nia21c * Fliers with detailed info available at the OSS Information on Japan’s legal system and related advice * HouTerrace Telehpone 0570-078377 * English available * https://www.houterasu.or.jp/multilingual/index.html Human Rights Support * Ministry of Justice, Japan: http://www.moj.go.jp/ENGLISH/HB/hb.html For additional support and resources on Japanese laws and legal advice * https://www.iuj.ac.jp/oss/current-students/law_advice/ Medical Consultation Services - AMDA International Medical Information Center * https://www.amdamedicalcenter.com/activities * TEL 03-6233-9266 * English, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Portuguese, and Spanish (9:00-20:00 Mon to Sun) * Portuguese (9:00-17:00 Mon, Wed. and Fri.) * Filipino (13:00-17:00 Wed) Travel Help Lines Japan National Tourism http://www.japan.travel/en Organization TEL 03-6691-4850 (Daily 9am-5pm) JR East InfoLine https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/index.html (JR Info and Travel) 050-2016-1603 Airport Flight Information https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/index.html (Narita) TEL 0476-34-8000 Airport Flight Information https://www.haneda-airport.jp/inter/en/ (Haneda) TEL 03-6428-0888 (automated voice menu system. The number can be called any time 24 hours a day if you wish to contact the Haneda Airport International Terminal.)
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 48
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 49
2F: Counselor
Student Dormitory SD1 1F: Dorm Team
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 50
Note: Map is NOT to scale.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 51
is NOT to scale. Note: Map
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 52
Note: Map is NOT to scale.
International University of Japan INFO PACK pg. 53