Best 20 Apps for Living in Japan To Make Your Life Easier

Living in Japan is an exciting experience. But like any place, it comes with its challenges, especially if you are a newcomer or a non-native speaker.

One thing you’ll notice is the number of apps for living in Japan. From public transportation to translating menus, the right app will make living here 10 times more convenient.

So here, we’ll introduce the 20 most useful apps for living in Japan to help you get settled.

Note: You might need a Japanese Google Play or Apple Store account to download some of these apps.

Messaging apps

1. LINE

LINE is the most widely used messaging app in Japan. Think of it as Japan’s version of WhatsApp or iMessage, but with different features for better daily life integration here.

Like other messaging apps, LINE can be used for texting, calling, group chats, and sending stickers or photos.

But did you know that many schools, businesses, and local governments also use LINE? For example, Sagawa (one of Japan’s many delivery companies) uses LINE to send you notifications of your packages. You can even use it to reschedule a drop-off through the app.

Of course, LINE is the best app when making and contacting Japanese friends. 

Line App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Transportation apps for Japan

Having a transportation app is essential when navigating in and out of the city or driving to a new location.

Not only that, but this list also includes other apps that are associated with public transportation.

2. Google Maps

Google Maps is an incredible Japanese transportation app for real-time train and bus navigation. It will tell you:

• What time to leave

• Which platform the train departs from

• Which car number to board for the fastest transfer

• Which exit to take at a station

It also gives walking directions, bike routes, and sometimes crowd estimates.

I recommend downloading an offline map of your area in case your internet connection isn't the strongest.

Google Translate App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

3. Yahoo!乗換案内

While Google Maps is great for general navigation, you can try using Yahoo!乗換案内 (Yahoo! Norikae Annai) when making multiple transfers. It’s great when you:

• Want multiple route options sorted by time, cost, or fewest transfers

• Need to avoid certain train lines (like crowded ones during rush hour)

• Want to figure out the last train home

Even though it’s in Japanese, the interface is relatively intuitive. You can type station names in English, and it’ll still work.

Yahoo!乗換案内 App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

4. Suica app or PASMO for transportation

An IC Card, such as a Suica or Pasmo, is the only way when it comes to public transportation. No more paper tickets or calculating how much a route takes, when you can just charge up your IC card so you can tap and go.

Plus, you can easily transfer from JR to the subway line by just tapping at the ticket gate.

You can choose to get a physical IC card, or if you download the phone app,, the app allows you to charge up through digital wallet features on your phone. So you don’t have to go to a ticket machine and input cash. Talk about convenience!

Suica App: Google Play Store | Apple StorePasmo App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

5. SmartEx (JR West) & Ekinetto Shinkansen (JR East)

No more booking a Shinkansen ticket at the station when you can book it much faster with the Smart EX (for JR West) and EkiNetto (for JR East).

Both apps let you reserve a Shinkansen ticket through your phone.

One of the benefits is that it allows you to link your Shinkansen ticket with your IC card, meaning you can enter the ticket gate with just your card or phone. 

There is one thing to keep in mind with these apps: they are region-specific:

• Ekinetto covers JR East: for Tokyo, Tohoku, Nagano, etc

• SmartEx covers JR West: for Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, etc

This also means that you can not book a trip from Hokkaido to Osaka on a single app. You’d either book two tickets separately or go to the JR/Shinkasen office for one single ticket.

Ekinetto App: Google Play Store | Apple StoreSmartEx App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

6. JRE Point

If you are in the Tokyo, Tohoku, or Nagano area, you are most likely using a JR East train. Download the JRE POINT app and link to your Suica (card or app). 

You’ll collect points when you tap in and out through JR East ticket gates and make purchases at JR-affiliated stores like NewDays or Atre malls.

These points can be redeemed for Suica credit, train ticket discounts, or Shinkansen bookings through the Ekinetto app. 

JRE Point App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

7. GO Taxi App

The Go Taxi App is perfect for scheduling a taxi ride or when you are unable to hail a taxi. There are other similar apps, such as Uber in Japan and Didi, so download whichever you fancy.

While public transportation is vast, there are times when taking a taxi is much easier. You can use a taxi app to schedule a ride anytime, when public transportation isn’t readily available, or when you have multiple luggage.

I usually use the Didi app to schedule a taxi when I go to the airport with 3 luggage to save me time and hassle.

GO Taxi App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Translation app

8. Google Translate

Or any other translation app is great for non-native Japanese speakers.

Whether you’re trying to read the restaurant menu, understand Japanese signs, or communicate with someone, a translation app will greatly reduce communication stress.

There are many features that Google Translate offers for better convenience, such as:

• Camera translation: Use your camera to instantly translate any printed text.

• Download language: Pre-download Japanese so you can translate without an internet connection.

• Voice translation: A voice-to-voice translation for smoother communication with people

While machine translation isn’t perfect, especially for slang or nuances, it’ll get your general meaning across.

Of course, if you are fluent in Japanese or want to test your skills, you can go ahead and skip this one.

Google Translate App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Disaster prevention apps for Japan

While Japan might seem like a perfect place, it still experiences its fair share of natural disasters. 

Japan is prone to earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters, so having a reliable disaster prevention app is essential.

9. NERVE Disaster app

The NERVE Disaster app is by far the most popular app to have in your Japan emergency survival tool kit.

The main appeal is that the app provides real-time alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons from official government sources.

The app is clean, fast, and can be used in multiple languages, including English. It’ll show impacted zones, evacuation advisories, and blackout or outage updates.

Overall, it’s one of the best disaster prevention apps for living in Japan.

NERVE Disaster App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

10. Yurekuru Call

Yurekuru Call is another popular app that specifically focuses on earthquake early warnings.

Using Japan’s seismic network, it will send out earthquake warnings seconds before the shaking occurs. 

This will give you enough time to find cover to protect yourself.

Within the app, you can customize the intensity level you want to be alerted for.

Yurekuru Call App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Payment

11. PayPay

PayPay is one of the most popular mobile payment apps in Japan and is a game-changer when you want to avoid carrying cash.

Almost everywhere offers PayPay as a form of payment, from convenience stores and supermarkets to restaurants, taxis, and even vending machines. You can also use PayPay to send money to your family and friends’ accounts, similar to Venmo or Zelle.  PayPay is essentially everywhere.

With every purchase you make, you’ll earn PayPay points, which can be used for future purchases. And with regular cashback campaigns and promotions, you’ll be earning PayPay points in no time.

PayPay makes itself more convenient by letting you pay your utility bill through the app by scanning the QR codes on your bill. 

A bonus with PayPay is that you can get a Japanese credit card through them. This might be a good option for foreigners who are having a hard time getting a Japanese credit card issued. It integrates smoothly with the PayPay app and helps you maximize your points.

PayPay App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Family oriented

12. Mama Map

If you are living in Japan with a baby or toddler, then the Mama Map is a must-have app. It’ll help you quickly find nearby baby-friendly facilities such as diaper changing stations, nursing rooms, or childcare spaces.

Whether you’re at a shopping mall, train station, or park, the app will clearly show you the facility types and their opening hours. It will include reviews and photos of each location, giving you insights into what to expect.

The app is in Japanese, but it’s easy to navigate through its icons. Plus, you can plan by saving a particular spot or searching for keywords (“授乳室” for nursing room).

Mama Map App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Food and drink apps for Japan

Japan is no stranger when it comes to good eats. That also includes apps to make the experience 10 times easier. 

13. Tabelog

Tabelog is Japan’s go-to restaurant review app, which is very similar to Google’s reviews, but way more trusted amongst the Japanese population, especially for finding places that the locals enjoy. 

While the app is in Japanese, it’s worth using because it offers:

• More accurate ratings from the Japanese population

• More detailed reviews, photos, and menus

• Filters so you can search through cuisine, price, location, and more

Connect with V-points (another point card system in Japan), and you can get discounts at certain restaurants. 

It is one of the best apps for living in Japan if you love food and want to try restaurants.

Just note that Japanese people’s reviews are at a higher standard. So while a 3-3.5 stars out of 5 might be average in Japan, it usually means the place has great food.

Tabelog App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

14. Coke ON 

Coke ON is a fun app that rewards you when you buy drinks from a Coca-Cola vending machine or by just walking.

Open the app near one of the machines and connect via Bluetooth. After buying a drink and collecting 15 stamps, you can get a free item.

You can also earn a stamp by reaching your step goal. 

Coke ON App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

15. Jihanpi (ジハンピ)

Jihanpi is Suntory's version of Coke ON, but you can buy drinks much more easily and quickly.

You do this by linking your payment method (usually by credit card or point card service) and ordering the drink directly on your phone. 

New users can get three free drinks. 

Just find any vending machine with the ピ logo, mainly on Suntory vending machines, and you’re ready to go.

Jihanpi App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

16. Uber Eats

Food delivery apps like Uber Eats, Demae-can, and Wolt are becoming more popular, especially in urban areas where there are all kinds of eats to try.

Uber Eats is by far the most popular. It offers all types of food, menus in different languages, multiple payment options like cash-on-delivery or online payment, and rarely delivers late.

From sushi, ramen, pizza, to bubble tea, cookies, and cakes, Uber Eats will deliver these items to you. 

Uber Eats: Google Play Store | Apple Store

Recreational apps

These apps are great for daily life, hobbies, or entertainment. 

Although not essential,they do add a little bit of fun to make the most of your free time. 

17. Hot Beauty Pepper

If you are looking for a way to book a haircut, nail appointment, massage, or even eyelash extensions, then Hot Beauty Pepper is the app to do that. 

Hot Beauty Pepper is Japan’s most popular app to find and book anything relating to beauty. 

While the app is entirely in Japanese, it’s incredibly useful because you can:

• Browse salons by area, service type, or price

• Read reviews and see photos

• Book appointments directly through the app

• Get exclusive deals and discounts through the app

• Earn Hot Pepper Points with each booking

If you want English-speaking salons, try searching “英語” or “英語対応.”

And if you are brave, you can search “カットモデル 無料”, which means you can get a free or very discounted haircut by hairdressers in training. The price varies from store to store. 

Hot Beauty Pepper: Google Play Store | Apple Store

18. Shonen Jump Plus App

If you are a Shonen Jump fan, then getting the Shonen Jump+ app is a great addition.

It’s the official app from Shueisha, the publisher of One Piece, My Hero Academia, Jujutsu Kaisen, and more.

In the app, you can:

• Read the latest chapters of the ongoing series (free for a limited time)

• Get exclusive digital-only series not published in print

• Buy issues or volumes

• Set weekly release reminders 

While the app and its titles are Japanese, you can also use Manga Plus. It's the same app as Shonen Jump+, but with an English interface. 

Shonen Jump+ App: Google Play Store | Apple StoreManga Plus App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

19. Point card app

Japan has many point card systems that you can apply for. You’ve probably seen or heard about Rakuten Points or d-Points.

Each point system has its dedicated point card app that you can access. A couple of popular point apps include:

• Rakuten Point: used at Seiyu, FamilyMart, McDonald's, etc.

• T Point: used at Tsutaya, Welcia, and more

• Ponta: used at Lawson, GEO, and others

So anytime you purchase at one of the associated stores, you can get points that can be redeemed for future purchases.

20. MyMizu

Want to reduce single-use plastics? Then MyMizu is the app to help you. 

Use this app to find free water refill stations around Japan. This app will even track how many plastic bottles and CO2 emissions you’re saving. 

Set hydration goals so that you can be hydrated throughout your day. 

MyMizu App: Google Play Store | Apple Store

In closing

Living in Japan can be a challenge, but these apps will surely make your experience a little bit easier and convenient.

Whether it’s public transportation or finding a good place to eat, make the most of your time here and download a few, or all, of these apps for living in Japan.