>
> Finally, I have heard that opening a bank account in Japan is very
> difficult.  Does anyone have any information regarding the documents
> or fees that are needed to open a bank account in Japan?


I used Citibank in Hiroo ,they are well set up for foreigners , forms in
English ,bi-lingual staff.etc
You will need your passport , with correct Visa , work permits .  (I don't
think holiday visa counts )

Also either your Alien Registration Card  or the form that the Ward office
can issue you stating
that you are wating for your registration card to be issued. (can't remember
the number)

Cost of setting up if i remeber correctly is zero ,  but there may well be
minumum balance fees
aslo fees if you apply for a credit card

web site http://www.citibank.co.jp/en/index.html

Re. ADSL , Mobile phone etc.  In my experience most services such as this
will require a photocopy of either or
both your passport and your Alien Registration Card when applying for
services

Pete