ethanrivers@hotmail.com (Ethan J. Rivers) wrote in message news:<c463af44.0305281445.1eded097@posting.google.com>...
> Hi All:
> 
> I am a gaijin (U.S.) who is moving to Tokyo in the next few months,
> for job reasons.  As you might imagine, I am frantic with preparations
> and packing for the move, and was hoping for some advice or
> information regarding moving to Japan.  Specifically, if there are any
> crucial documents I should have with me

International Drivers License from the AAA. Bring your Costco card if
you have one; there's now 2 Costco's in the Kanto area.

, or things that I should bring
> from America as opposed to buying them in Japan

#1 is your favorite deoderant/antiperspirant. They don't sell that
stuff [worthy of the name] here, so bring enough to last until your
next shopping trip home. The closest Safeway is in Guam, I believe
[there could be one in Saipan]. In general most personal hygiene
brands are expensive and suck compared to American brands, so bring
what you'll need.

I'd forget the comfort food -- there's plenty of good stuff to try
out, and it sucks to eat the last of something you can't get here.

Tokyu Hands, a home store, has a pretty wide selection of domestic
stuff. Chances are if they don't have it you don't really need it,
though such frou-frou appliances as a waffle maker, sandwich grill,
and blender would be useful to bring over. Plus a big-ass can opener
-- I never could find a good one.

I found living within easy walking distance of the National Azabu [in
Hiroo, Minato-ku] supermarket to be a big convenience. They're as
expensive as hell but offer a wide selection of stuff that few other
grocery stores have.

I'd pack some winter stuff (down comforters etc) in boxes and seamail
'em (have a friend kick them off when you have your permanent digs).

> get information on the expat community in Tokyo, I would greatly
> appreciate it if you could post them or e-mail them to me personally.

Tokyo basically is one big expat community.

> Thanks, I look forward to hearing from everyone!

Good luck.

=Heywood=