Living
Buying A Vehicle
Buying a vehicle – particularly a second hand one – is quite affordable. In most cases you will need an alien registration card, an international driver’s licence, proof of address, proof of valid employment, and a parking space certificate (to prove that you have a car park). You may also need an inkan and a personal seal certificate if buying from a Japanese dealer.
Japanese-made cars such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda and Mazda are the most affordable, with brand new kei-class, the smallest available, for less than ¥1 million. All the international brands from BMW and Audi to Porsche and Ferrari are available. If you are after a high-end sports car, Tokyo is the place to get one (especially if you don’t mind a second-hand car) as the vehicle financing options are favourable.
For new cars, you can go directly to the brands themselves, as they provide English-language services. The advantage of going through a manufacturer’s dealership rather than a local dealer selling all different types of cars is that they will speak English, and can assist you with all the Japanese-language forms. This is not the case with small, localised dealers. For second hand cars, try companies like Gaijin Inc. or Occidental Corporation. They will handle most of the paperwork – including transfer of ownership forms if you’re buying a used car.
For private sales, cars are advertised in English-language magazines like Metropolis and in newspaper classifieds. Get the car checked over by an independent, third party garage before buying if possible.
Japanese-made cars such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda and Mazda are the most affordable, with brand new kei-class, the smallest available, for less than ¥1 million. All the international brands from BMW and Audi to Porsche and Ferrari are available. If you are after a high-end sports car, Tokyo is the place to get one (especially if you don’t mind a second-hand car) as the vehicle financing options are favourable.
For new cars, you can go directly to the brands themselves, as they provide English-language services. The advantage of going through a manufacturer’s dealership rather than a local dealer selling all different types of cars is that they will speak English, and can assist you with all the Japanese-language forms. This is not the case with small, localised dealers. For second hand cars, try companies like Gaijin Inc. or Occidental Corporation. They will handle most of the paperwork – including transfer of ownership forms if you’re buying a used car.
For private sales, cars are advertised in English-language magazines like Metropolis and in newspaper classifieds. Get the car checked over by an independent, third party garage before buying if possible.
