So, the new Japanese phrase for the day is: ‘dantou,’ the kanji for which literally mean ‘warm winter.’ That, according to the weather experts, is apparently what we are enjoying in 2007. You’ve probably seen the shocking pictures on the evening news: cherry blossom bud [ ... ]
I’ve had some major life changes in the last two-and-a-half years: quitting a job, starting a company, major cross-country move, and a new baby (now toddler!). I’ve also made a few steps in my own frugal journey: surviving the lean months with little income during my maternity leave, des [ ... ]
We mustn’t forget to tell you about our own mailing list — and the reason the Frugal Japan website exists! The Frugal Japan mailing list allows members to discuss savings and low-cost lifestyle hints unique to Japan. Members are encouraged to offer their own tips, and discuss other issu [ ... ]
http://www.stretcher.com [ ... ]
Looking to travel within Japan, or hosting guests from overseas? Why not experience a night at a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) or guest house? However, finding and reserving these accommodations can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you don’t speak Japanese. Well, Jeff Aasgaard in Kawan [ ... ]
Insurance has to be one of the most confusing topics for long-term foreign residents in Japan, but is a necessary one to understand. The Life Insurance Association of Japan website gives an English language overview of the Japanese life insurance industry, which might be helpful for those looking in [ ... ]
Tell and Sell Japan is a mailing list for foreign people living in Japan who want to sell, buy, trade or give away new or gently used merchandise and other personal items. [ ... ]
Google has launched a new price-comparison service called Froogle.com. Just type in the name of the item you want (the more specific the better) in the query box, and Froogle will find sites selling the item on the Internet and list the prices, usually with a picture included. The “Advanced Fr [ ... ]
Mary Hunt’s Debt-Proof Living by Mary Hunt (obviously) Mary Hunt is a reformed credit card shopping addict that has discovered a simple and effective way to both pay off debts, and live life debt-free. Her books (the “Debt-Proof” series) and magazine, The Cheapskate Gazette, have b [ ... ]
FreeStuff Japan (formerly Freecycle Japan) is a mailing list for people who live in Japan, or who will be moving here soon. The list can be used to post about items of any sort that members are seeking, or wish to give away, barter, or exchange for free. [ ... ]