Adopting a child in Japan is not an easy process for foreign parents (or when one of the parents is non-Japanese). It is best to be prepared for a few hurdles along the way, and to try to be patient with the process. If you plan to adopt, contact The Child Guidance Center (03 3208 1121) or any of the adoption agencies based here. Once you have found a child you wish to adopt, you will have to go through the family court. The process will take a minimum of nine months and will cost you upwards of ¥2 million, depending on the agency you choose. Visit www.myadoptionlinks.com/japan for a comprehensive guide, including agency contact information. See also Adoption under Financial & Legal Affairs on p.65.