Stocking Your Apartment

You might find yourself exceptionally lucky, your predecessor may just have been history's neatest ALT, who left your apartment in immaculate condition and stocked with every furnishing ever needed. Or you may be taking over for a hoarder who left everything, including a kitchen sink, in your closet-- and none of it is actually usable. Or maybe you're the first ALT in your town in a brand new apartment with brand-new furnishings and appliances...and pretty much nothing else. Never fear, you aren't too far from help.

Buying from your Predecessor
There is a good chance that your predecessor is leaving Japan, along with some of their stuff they won't need anymore. ESID however and some predecessors might just leave you everything, or they may give you an option to buy specific items, each with their own price tag, or they may offer you a bulk sale of everything. Don't be afraid to ask questions or to say no. Do make sure that you ask questions beforehand and are completely satisified with the sale and prices before agreeing. You don't want to feel put out and your predecessor doesn't want to either. Be exact with each other and give each other enough time to handle things.

HardOFF and Second-hand Stores
These stores will handle clothing, anime goods, instruments, electronics, furniture, flatware, and everything in between. However, the inventory varies greatly from store to store, as do prices. Sometimes you'll find a great deal on something, and sometimes you'll come across something that'll be cheaper to buy new. Shop around, but if you find something that you really love, remember that it isn't guaranteed to be in stock next time.

Daiso, Seria, and 100 yen Shops
These are life savers, both for personal and school supplies. Unlike dollar stores that most people are used to, the quality of the goods here tend to be quite excellent. These will be your one-stop-shop for cleaning supplies, kitchen goods, novelty items, art and school supplies, and some other things you didn't know you needed. Keep in mind that some 100 yen shops sell items that are more than 100 yen (specifically Daiso).

Yamaya
If you ask a local about Yamaya, they'll tell you that it's an alcohol store. However, we ex-pats know that it is a wealth of foreign goods. Interested in museli, honey, semi-decent cheese, tinned beans, pickles, pasta beyond spaghetti noodles, and so on? This is the place for you. As an added bonus, they also sell relatively cheap and foreign liquors. (High gravity beers anyone?)