Amid all the snuggles and warm fuzzies, becoming a mom can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially abroad. Finding mom friends in Japan has been essential to feeling grounded and supported during this stage of life. It can be easy and natural to make friends with other expat families in Tokyo. But if you’re planning to stay in Japan long-term, these friendships, while valuable, can sometimes feel fleeting. Expats often come and go, leaving your social circle in a constant state of flux.

Instead, you may find a more profound connection by forming friendships with local families in your neighborhood. That can feel daunting at first, but the good news is that Japan has a strong culture of building community among parents, and even a word for it.

Mama-tomo (ママ友) is a blend of mama and tomodachi (friend), describing the friendships moms make through their kids. These connections are often a lifeline during early parenting.

Here are our five favorite hotspots for meeting your future mama-tomo right in your neighborhood!

1. Mothers’ Groups

There are a number of established mothers’ groups primarily focused on foreign moms living in Tokyo. One of them is Tokyo Mothers Group—an online community where you can reach out to find moms and playgroups in your area. There are also international groups that cater equally to both Japanese and foreign moms, such as Tokyo Kids, Mums & Families (a bilingual family group that holds monthly events, including online, and weekly hangouts).

If you are looking for a group closer to home, it is worth inquiring at your local ward office. It is likely that they organize something, perhaps even in English, specifically catering to foreign moms.

2. Play Centers

In Japan, most ward offices provide children’s play centers called 児童館 (jidōkan), maybe also called 子供文化センター (kodomo bunka sentaa), and childcare support centers 子育て支援センター (kosodate shien sentaa). Both are free of charge and equipped with safe play areas for babies, toys and nursing rooms. They are a godsend for moms living in small apartments with active kids!

In particular, childcare support centers are focused specifically on younger children (babies and toddlers) and tend to encourage a community environment in order to foster friendships between moms. They are usually attached to a 保育園 (ho-ikuen; “daycare”) and are staffed with qualified childcare workers who can help entertain your kids while you chat with the other moms. 児童館 (jidōkan; “children’s center“), on the other hand, tends to be focused on elementary school children, but also has play spaces for babies and provides the opportunity to meet other moms.

Make a visit to your ward office to find out about play centers in your area.

3. Routine Checkups & Vaccinations

Routine health checkups and vaccinations are provided either at your local health center or at your choice of pediatrician. Either way, they tend to be done en masse, which means they are an excellent opportunity to meet moms in your neighborhood with similarly aged kids.

Make the most of your time in the waiting room to strike up a conversation while gawking at all the cute babies!

4. Baby Classes

From baby swimming classes to music and craft classes to yoga and pilates classes—with a bit of research, you might be able to find a class that interests you in your area. Your local YMCA, gym or kindergarten/daycare might be a good place to start making inquiries. Not only can you sneak in a bit of exercise or entertainment while bonding with your precious one, but you are also likely to meet other moms with similar interests. Win-win!

5. Libraries

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Every time I visit my local library, I find it full of kids and at least one mom with a young baby. Most city libraries have a children’s area where you can let your baby crawl around and/or read them a book or two. Many libraries also host a “story time” for kids, which is excellent not only for Japanese language development but also for meeting other moms.

While you are there, you might want to check out the library’s English section. Many have a small selection of English children’s books in addition to the Japanese children’s books. It’s never too early to start enjoying books with your children!

And Finally… Some Useful Phrases

A huge barrier to making new friends in Japan is, of course, language. However, even if you don’t speak Japanese well, you are likely to find moms in your neighborhood who speak a little English. Either way, here are some useful and simple phrases (“pick-up lines”, shall we say?) to get you started. Most conversations between moms with babies tend to follow a similar pattern, so you will quickly get used to it and be a pro in no time.

Armed with these mama-tomo pick-up lines and a little action and boldness, you’ll be making mom friends in Japan in no time. And remember, the moms you meet are probably craving friendship just as much as you, so don’t be afraid to reach out. It’ll be worth it!

This article has been republished for 2025.

Approaching the exciting yet daunting task of giving birth in Japan? At a loss as to where to start looking for a birth facility? Here are 10 points to consider.

1. Get Onto It Early

Depending on where you live, birth facilities can book up lightning-quick. At my local public hospital, I booked in at only six weeks pregnant, and even then, I was cutting it fine; the facility was fully booked until two weeks before my due date.

2. Consider The Options

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While the vast majority of women in Japan opt for hospital births, there is also the option of giving birth at midwife-run centers or even at home. Your preferred choice might be rare or difficult, depending on where you live, but don’t throw it out until you’ve done the research.

If the availability of English-speaking staff is a must for you, the most well-known options in Tokyo are:

• Aiiku Hospital in Minami Azabu
• Japan Red Cross in Hiroo

3. Read/Listen To Others’ Experiences

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Read the many experiences of other women documented around the internet to get an idea of what to expect. The podcast “Birth Stories of Japan“ interviews one mom per episode about their birthing journey in Japan. Also, make sure to read our article recounting the varied experiences of six women.

4. Come Up With Your Dream Birth Plan & List Of Non-negotiables

You might have very specific desires, or you may not have many preferences as long as there is a healthy baby on the other side. Either way, it pays to consider how you would love your birth to go. However, along with your dream outcome, consider what items are absolutely non-negotiable. While hoping for the best, be prepared to make some tradeoffs.

5. Ask Lots Of Specific Questions

Japan can be a very foreign place when it comes to giving birth so you might find that there are many things that surprise you. Things that might be a given in any hospital or birth center in the West might be an absolute “no-no” here. For example, some hospitals are notoriously strict about visiting hours (even for the baby’s father and siblings, who may not be allowed at all), bringing in outside food or making the “snip” regardless of the situation and with no negotiation.

So, armed with your birth plan, make sure you ask your doctor or midwife specific questions and request a hospital tour. Take a translator if you need to (if you don’t have a Japanese-speaking friend, your city might offer a volunteer translation service). Given the huge differences in culture and language, it pays to be overly communicative and crystal clear so that there are no misunderstandings resulting in nasty surprises on what is likely to be a very long and dramatic day(s).

If you want an epidural, make sure to find out not only whether one is possible, but in what specific circumstances. Pain relief is tightly controlled at some hospitals and I have even heard of one situation where a woman was refused at the height of intense labor despite being previously assured that she could request an epidural at any time. Disappointment epitomized.

Some of the other biggies you might want to ask about are:

• Can the baby room with you?
• Is “Kangaroo-care” time is allowed?
• Will you be allowed to move about freely during labor?
• Can your partner be in the delivery room with you?

You will also want to consider factors relating to postpartum care such as NICU facilities and assistance with feeding.

6. Have An Open Mind

While you absolutely shouldn’t feel you have to “settle” for dissatisfactory care, try to have an open mind and be prepared to embrace the Japanese way of doing things where need be. Many women find that they actually appreciate some such aspects despite being adamantly opposed at the outset.

7. Tap Into These Resources

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There are many great resources out there to help you find out more about giving birth in Japan. Two particularly helpful ones to check out are:

• Childbirth Education Center: offers childbirth classes and can help you find a birth facility that matches your preferences.
• Tokyo Pregnancy Group: an information-rich community for pregnant women in Tokyo.

8. Consider The Cost

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Giving birth in Japan can get expensive. Be careful to find out how much your birth will cost and how costs are levied. Costs will depend on a myriad of factors, such as the specific care you require, the type of birth you opt for, whether you choose a private room and the duration of your stay at the birth facility. Note that some places require you to stay for a full number of days after birth, while others are more flexible, which can reduce the overall cost.

Check out this article that counts up the cost of giving birth in Japan.

9. Study The Lingo

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Here are some vocabulary you might want to familiarize yourself with when making inquiries:

10. Stay Positive

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While your birth experience might be very different from that in your home country, you can rest assured—Japan is a very supportive and safe place to give birth, and a clear majority of women I’ve spoken to and read about on the topic had a positive experience here. As in many other professions in Japan, most maternity caregivers appear to provide excellent and lovely care. So, if you find yourself stressed out and overwhelmed by the process, take heart: all should be well in the end.

Have you given birth in Japan? What were the most important factors when choosing the hospital to give birth? We would love to hear about your experiences!

Japan has a culture that is rich with tradition and events for every season. As someone who comes from a place where it is often a celebrated “thing” to buck tradition rather than embrace it, I’m charmed. The grand entrance of a child into the world also brings with it a unique variety of special customs. These Japanese events for a child’s first year offer a fascinating glimpse into how deeply culture and family are intertwined.

While not many families will follow them all, there are no fewer than 10 traditions to have considered by baby’s first birthday. Here, we take a look at five of them.

1. Oshichiya Meimei Shiki (Baby Naming Ceremony)

In line with its Chinese characters (七; shichi, meaning seven, and 夜; ya, meaning night), oshichiya traditionally takes place on the seventh night after birth. The baby’s name is announced at an intimate gathering (usually just a few close relatives) and will be written in calligraphy on a scroll or card. The baby will be dressed in white (traditionally, newborns are dressed in white until after 17 days) and guests present gifts of money and partake in a celebratory meal.

2. Okuizome (First meal)

Okuizome (お食い初め) usually takes place around the baby’s 100th day of life. A celebratory meal is prepared and presented to the baby as their “first meal.” Of course, while the parents might tentatively attempt to give baby a taste, at three months, they are unlikely to eat much, leaving the adults to devour the feast on offer.

Similar to osechi ryori eaten at New Year’s time, many of the festive menu items have a special meaning. For example, umeboshi (dried plum) symbolizes the hope that baby will live until they are old and wrinkly. The extravagance of the feast itself expresses the hope that the child will enjoy an abundance of nutritious foods and health throughout her life. The baby is also given smooth, round “teething” stones to munch on.

3. Hatsu-Zekku (First Festival)

Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day) is a special day for girls celebrated on March 3rd each year. A child’s first Hinamatsuri is particularly cherished. A hina-doll is decorated and displayed on her behalf for the first time to show her parents’ desire for her to grow up happy and healthy. The family will enjoy special sweets, sushi and other treats.

The equivalent for baby boys is Kodomo No Hi (Children’s Day), which is annually celebrated on May 5th. Previously, this day was known as Boys’ Day and retains that theme. On this day, families traditionally display their samurai dolls and raise koinobori (a carp-shaped streamer) as a symbol of strength and vitality.

4. Isshou Mochi (First Birthday Rice Cake)

In many Western cultures, babies are presented with a cream-covered cake to smash on their first birthday. In contrast, Japanese children are given approximately 2kg of birthday rice cakes to carry on their backs!

The load consists of one or two red and white rice cakes packaged in a traditional wrapping cloth. This ritual symbolizes the parents’ wish that the child will successfully navigate the travails of life while remaining in possession of good health, food and emnan (a word meaning peace, harmony, integrity and other such attributes) throughout.

5. Erabitori (Choose & Take)

Erabitori also occurs on a baby’s first birthday. For this, several items, such as a pen, money, ruler and chopsticks, are placed in front of baby. The item that baby chooses is said to indicate their calling in life. If she takes the money, this predicts an aptitude for business and future wealth; the pen: perhaps a future writer; and chopsticks: a cook? Or maybe a future foodie! 

These are some of the first of many special family occasions Japanese children are likely to enjoy throughout their lives. Through each, like in every country, the parents express the high hopes they hold for their child.

Did you or your children experience any of these Japanese events in your first year of life?

This article has been republished for 2025.

“In the first 10 months of [my son’s] life, I cried more than I had in the previous five years. It was different from hormonal crying. There was this crushing sadness and guilt that I couldn’t get out of. It was crying for hours and being so, so sad and not being able to shake it…and I’m not a crier,” Sarah laughs as she recalls her days navigating the murky waters of postpartum depression (PPD) following the birth of her first son, Jack, in Japan.

He sits next to her in his stroller, a happy toddler contentedly munching on cereal as we adults talk. We are sitting alongside one of Tokyo’s scenic canals, sipping on iced lattes and taking in the charming atmosphere. The water flows peacefully beside us, and bold sparrows prance closer, hoping to pilfer our leftovers. Sarah now looks relaxed and exudes peace and joy even as she recounts some of her darkest days.

A Far Cry From Where She Found Herself Shortly After Becoming A Mom

© Photo by Rosie Blakely

Suffering from post-traumatic stress after Jack’s dramatic birth via emergency c-section, she quickly found herself in a place she never thought she would be. Those days, she said, were spent on the usual tasks of early motherhood, but with constant crying.

Every day I was getting up and feeling like I was failing as a mother. Failing as a wife. And that was just so far from who I [am].

Outgoing and sociable, Sarah was not in the habit of saying no and had always been quick to take on responsibilities, including a leadership role at her church. She had expected to continue in a similar form as a mom, just like the many multiple-hat-wearing, capable moms she saw around her. When she found she couldn’t, she was extremely disappointed in herself and felt that everyone around her was as well. She found herself trapped in a pattern of negative self-talk. “I [was] living in a constant internal atmosphere of just feeling like I had failed.“

What is Postpartum Depression?

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Many women experience a “weepy” day or “baby blues” in the first days after giving birth. PPD is usually characterized as depression that extends beyond that and is said to be caused by a mixture of hormonal and other physical changes, as well as the usual stresses that arise when entering motherhood.

Experiencing some of the symptoms attributed to PPD is very natural for any new mom. Sleep deprivation and being abruptly handed the responsibility to nurture a human life alone can trigger feelings of guilt and sadness, lack of energy and other symptoms that are red flags for PPD. However, experiencing these intensely and continuously for two weeks or more points towards PPD. Thoughts of self-harm, suicide or hurting your baby or partner might also surface.

PPD is, after-all, a medical illness for which a range of treatments are available just like any other.

Unfortunately, despite the very real possibility that such symptoms are an indicator of illness, many moms consider that they just come with the territory and will pass. This might be unwittingly confirmed by often-touted, well-meaning advice such as “just remember how blessed you are to have a baby, you’ll get through it”, which effectively brushes off the problem as minor and temporary. Without receiving professional help, such moms might continue suffering needlessly for months, even years, with worsening symptoms that impact the whole family.

Feeling Broken

© Photo by Rosie Blakely

Sarah had herself seen friends go through similar problems. Friends who became different people for that period. Even after, she said, “there was a shadow that remained on them, a sort of brokenness that stayed with them because it can go on a long time if you don’t get help.”

Early on, Sarah also thought that her struggles were just for a season. She’d read the books and realized that the list of PPD symptoms matched what she was experiencing. However, she just didn’t really know what to do about it. As a strong Christian, she spent time daily seeking encouragement from the bible, and while she believed her faith helped her, she was still struggling. She found herself just waiting for things to get better.

The Courage To Seek Help

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“The way that I was acting was completely not myself—to the point where I realized, ok there is something else going on here. My responses were just so far beyond the realm of what was normal. I found myself in the routine of spending the weekdays just pulling it together for the weekend.”

Sarah finally realized things weren’t improving, so she and her husband sought help. This came in the form of an old friend in Australia who is a pastor and clinical psychologist.

The two key pieces of wisdom she received from her therapist were, firstly…

1. Take time out of her day for herself.

She started intentionally taking regular breaks from her daily tasks to do something to sow back into herself—things to which no pressure was attached.

“This really helped as a first step because I’d been spending so much time looking after Jack and running the household that my life had become purely about function. And I felt like a failure in every function that I tried to undertake.”

2. Dealing with self-talk.

She learned the importance of treating herself with compassion and empathy, rather than viewing herself through eyes of judgment or blame.

She began to understand that while the choices she needed to make as a parent might not work for everyone, if they “resulted in me being able to wake up every morning with peace in my heart, then that was the right choice for us.”

From the first counseling session (via Skype), Sarah felt a very definite, immediate sense of relief. She experienced improvement each week. After a couple of months had passed, she recognized a significant change, and things had started to normalize.

“Getting help was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life,” she says, laughing again. “It really made a huge difference.”

Reaching Out To Others

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Also helpful, was the practical support she received from friends. One day, she opened the door to find a stack of chilled delivery boxes filled with food prepared by a friend. She was literally moved to tears at the kind gesture.

While many of us care deeply for our friends, it’s often hard to know how to help. Don’t let that stop you from reaching out if you suspect someone is struggling. One of the best things you can do is simply look them in the eye, ask how they are doing and encourage them to get professional treatment. You could be offering them the lifeline that they desperately need.

And if you yourself are struggling, Sarah has a message for you. “There is no shame in whatever season you are in. There really is no shame. Truly do be gentle with yourself. And truly view yourself with eyes of empathy.”

Getting Help For Postpartum Depression in Japan 

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If you are experiencing signs of postpartum depression or have a friend who may be going through it, the following organizations will be able to help.

• TELL: offers counseling services to the international community in Japan (including a free, telephone lifeline)
• International Mental Health Professionals Japan (IMHPJ): has a database of therapists (including those that speak English)
• Tokyo Mental Health: A UK-licenced English Psychiatrist based in Tokyo
• Tokyo Mothers Group: An English-speaking support and contact group for mothers in Tokyo.

Note: All names appearing in the article have been changed with respect to privacy.

If you have a similar story to share, please contact us. Your story may help someone!

For expats living in Japan, aside from the realization that you are expecting, that fear may be compounded even further by having to figure out prenatal care, doctors, official registration and the like. I can relate. Not to worry, Savvy Tokyo is here to help! After you’ve done your little happy dance, a few fist pumps and taken some deep calming breaths—read of the following tips.

Confirming the pregnancy

If you suspect you may be pregnant, you’ll be happy to know that simple, pee-on-a-stick type home pregnancy tests (ninshin kensayaku) can typically be found at any drugstore for a few hundred yen. To confirm your pregnancy head to your local hospital or ladies’ clinic for a checkup.

Hospitals and birth centers book up very fast, so you will want to get onto this fairly quickly.

I went for my confirmation appointment when I was six-weeks pregnant amid much ribbing from my husband—who thought I was being a little overeager—only to find that the delivery suite at Kawasaki Municipal Tama Hospital (my local) was already fully booked for anyone beyond the eight week mark. Note that you don’t need to go to the facility where you wish to give birth for this initial checkup, but depending on the hospital, it may mean your name gets pencilled in even before confirmation.

Your doctor will confirm your pregnancy via transvaginal ultrasound. This can be a blessing and a curse. While it’s exciting to have a scan and possibly see your tiny, flashing bean straightaway, it can also be unnecessarily concerning if no heartbeat can be found, since it’s not always possible at such an early stage. So if not, try not to worry—your doctor will likely ask you to return the following week to try again.

Once your doctor spies a heartbeat, you will be issued with a certificate declaring the pregnancy confirmed (ninshin todoke).

Registration at your local health center

After confirmation, take the ninshin todoke and your foreign residence card to your local health center to register the pregnancy. Upon registration you will receive a pregnancy goodie bag which includes:

• Boshi kenkou techou (mother and child health handbook)

You will need to take this to all of your prenatal appointments, child’s health checkups and vaccinations in the future for medical staff to record and refer to your medical information. Many foreign language translations of the handbook are also available.

• Ninshin kenkou shinsa jushin hyou (pregnancy health checkup coupon book)

Prenatal care in Japan is not covered by the National Health Insurance. However, according to your ward’s policies, you can receive discount coupons for checkups. Note that (at my hospital, at least) the fees for your initial confirmation appointment(s) can be reimbursed after the pregnancy is confirmed and the coupon book is obtained.

• Mataniti māku (maternity mark, or pregnancy badge)

This badge, which charmingly reads “there is a baby in my belly,” provides you with an all-access pass to priority seating areas on public transport and disabled car parks. Attach it to your bag so that other passengers know you are pregnant and will (in theory) offer you their seat. In reality, I found that its efficacy varies according to the time of day and crowdedness of the train or bus.

• Lots of booklets and other goodies

This will depend on where you live. In my bag, I found guidebooks about child health and facilities specific to Kawasaki City as well as other sponsored booklets and coupons for baby products. In Minato Ward, residents are issued with a free bus pass for use on Chii buses until the end of the month in which the child turns one.

Checkups

Generally speaking, your prenatal checkup schedule will look something like this:

• First and third trimesters—appointments every other week
• Second trimester—monthly appointments
• Beyond 40 weeks/10 months—appointments every two days

This corresponds to around 15 checkups total—heaps compared to that in other countries. Additionally, ultrasounds are performed each time, which means you end up with quite the collection of pictures of your child from long before he/she is born. While it’s nice to have the constant reassurance, it also adds to the cost and can be a little inconvenient, especially if you are working (although employers are required to allow you the time off for appointments). If you find it too much, you may be able to request to space the appointments out more.

While you might find your first appointment pretty daunting with all the people scurrying about, hospital noises and forms to be completed, be assured that each checkup will likely follow the same pattern so you will quickly get the hang of it. If your Japanese abilities are limited, I would suggest bringing a translator with you on your first visit at least.

At my hospital each checkup took the following course, and took between one to 2 1/2 hours:

• Electronic check-in at reception.
• Urine test and (if previously requested by the doctor) blood test at the laboratory department.
• Self weigh-in and blood pressure check using the machines at the OB/GYN department.
• Doctor’s examination including ultrasound and brief discussion (about 10 minutes total). My husband was not allowed in the examination room for the ultrasound, although he could come in for the discussion afterwards. Instead we could book a one-off comprehensive ultrasound in the radiology department.  
• Payment.

Maternity leave and notifying your workplace

According to Japan’s Labor Standards Act, employers are required to allow mothers maternity leave from six weeks (for one baby and from 14 weeks for twins and more) prior to the due date until eight weeks after delivery. In addition, the Act on Childcare Leave provides for childcare leave until the child turns one (and until the child reaches one year and six months of age, if the parents take turns). During this time, labor and social insurance will cover up to 66 percent of the mother’s base salary, but every company will have their own regulations—so please make sure you confirm all details with your employer.

The best time for announcing your pregnancy to your employers will, of course, depend on your company’s culture, size and your relationship with your direct supervisors. You will also want to factor in whether you will need time off for prenatal appointments, morning sickness and when your precious baby bump starts to show. It goes without saying that your boss should find out privately and directly from you—this is particularly important in Japanese work culture.

I worked at a tight-knit office of seven workers and was the only person in my role. I also suffered from terrible morning sickness, so I told my boss quite early on—at around 13 weeks as soon as the initial “danger zone” of the first trimester had passed. He was very gracious and quick to give me time off as necessary, saying that I needed to prioritize my health.

In future articles on giving birth in Japan, we will provide an overview of birth options and the birth experiences of a number of other women in Japan. If you have any specific questions, please leave a comment and we’ll be happy to address it.

Tokyo was recently ranked as the third most expensive city to live in by the Mercer Cost of Living Survey for 2020 and in many respects we can all certainly feel it: most notably in the high rents and expensive fruit and vegetables ($20 for a mango anyone?). But there are ways to make it all work. After years of testing various ways of saving, here are six tips proven to make a difference in the size of your bank accounts.  

1. Set up a monthly and yearly budget (and try to stick to it)

With convenience stores and vending machines so plentiful and, well, convenient, and Japan largely remaining a cash-based society, it is very easy to hemorrhage money as we buy quick treats or a sneaky extra coffee here and there throughout the day. While we might barely notice the coins disappearing from our wallets, those hundreds of yen quickly add up to thousands over the month without too much to show for it. While there is nothing wrong with a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, it’s all about tradeoffs. Would you prefer that daily anpan (red bean-filled donut) or cup of cheap joe, or the extra thousands of yen towards that trip you’ve been planning or a night out with friends?

No one I know enjoys tracking their spending, and while it can be tedious, we’ve come a long way from keeping money set aside in paper envelopes and trying to keep an excel spreadsheet up-to-date. There are many free apps out there that help you set up a budget and track your spending on-the-go while syncing with other members of your family. I personally recommend Goodbudget, which has helped me get more organized with our monthly cash.

Once you’ve found a good app (or even a housekeeping book if that’s how you like it), set up a yearly and monthly budget. In the yearly budget include large expenses — rent renewal fees, tax payments, family birthdays, holidays and planned trips, friends’ weddings, and other expected payments, so that you can visually keep track of which months will be tighter on the bank. For the monthly budget, divide it into different categories — food, rent, recreation, clothes, utility expenses and more.

The most important factor is to stay realistic — how much can you save per month if you stick to the budget? Even if you don’t manage to track every expenditure, the exercise in itself makes us more mindful of where the money is going which is sure to cut on unnecessary expenses.

2. Get strategic about groceries and food preparation

Groceries take up a large proportion of the monthly budget. Here are some ideas for cutting down on your food costs:

Have a weekly meal plan

While this can take a bit of effort upfront, there are so many benefits! There is less temptation to eat or carry out when you already know the plan for dinner, you can shop in advance at the cheapest places, you are less likely to run out for extra ingredients last minute, and you are less likely to have fresh produce and other perishables going bad in the pantry before you have a chance to use them.

Streamline your grocery shopping

Whether buying online (such as via Amazon, which can be cheaper for some staples, depending on the store options you have in your area), joining a grocery delivery scheme, or doing a big Costco run once a month works for you, the less trips to buy groceries the better. I’m sure I’m not the only one who picks up unnecessary items on every trip.

Get to know your neighborhood

The little local fruit and veg stalls hidden away in the back streets usually sell high-quality produce for lower prices than at the supermarket. You will also want to find out if your local supermarkets have specials on certain days of the week or certain times of the day (my local has a special fruit and vege day each week) and whether one of Tokyo’s lower cost supermarkets such as OK Supermarket, Hanamasu, Gyomu Super, Big A or Mirabelle is within reach for you.

Shop at the right time

Most stores have major discounts late in the evening, usually after 7 or 8 p.m. Look for the red and yellow stickers on products — it can go as cheaper as up to half the price. Some stores have early morning discounts as well.

3. Make good use of point cards

I’ve never known a country to be as into point cards as Japan! Basically every store that I patronize offers a membership rewards system, either their own, or one that also extends to other stores. Those who have lived in Japan for any amount of time will be well-used to being asked whether they possess a T-point or Waon or other such cards before being asked to pay for their purchases.

While it can be a huge hassle to carry around a wallet stuffed-full of cards, it is worth signing up to at least those rewards systems that you come across most frequently. Most of these cards will get you either free goods or discount tickets after collecting a certain number of points, while others can be used to pay with collected points. I remember shopping for leggings at the apparel section above my local Life supermarket and was pleasantly surprised to find out that I could pay entirely via my accrued points. They really do add up! And, of course, it also pays to pay via your point-earning credit/debit card where possible.

4. Buy secondhand

Apartments in Japan are small, and (I’m sorry to generalize!) I’ve noticed that Japanese people seem to like shiny new things rather than holding on to items for years and years. As a result, recycle shops and craigslist are full of high-quality, new-looking furniture and other household items. When I first came to Japan I was often surprised by the many valuable and sometimes still shiny items I would come across on the street waiting to be picked up by garbage trucks (whether I’ve resisted the urge to dumpster-dive on those occasions shall remain a closely-held secret!).

Book Off is a goldmine for secondhand books and DVDs (in English as well as Japanese) and you can also find clothing, sports equipment, music gear, baby and children’s goods, electronic goods and many other household items at their related HardOff and Bookoff Super Bazaar stores. You can also find great things at some of Tokyo’s regular flea markets in Shinjuku, Setagaya and other areas. 

You can also take advantage of the many expats rolling in and out of Tokyo each year by keeping an eye out for “sayonara sales” on craigslist and on the many Facebook sale groups such as Tokyo Garage Sale, Sayonara Sales Tokyo, Books Garage Sale and Tokyo Baby/Toddler/Maternity Resale. There is also Mottainai Japan, through which people pass on unwanted items for free.

5. Use coupons — they’re everywhere!

Whether they arrive in your mailbox, via a dedicated app (such as for Mcdonald’s), the company’s official Line account or on your destination’s website, coupons can be found all over the place. Now, you don’t have to resort to the coupon-clipping ways of generations past, as many of these are available in electronic format which allows you to subtly flash the screen of your mobile device to receive the perks.

If you manage around well in Japanese, you can also snag great deals at group-buying websites such as Groupon, Ponpare or HotPepper Beauty for a variety of goods, services, restaurants, attractions and hair salons.

6. Go for entertainment the smart way

Limiting yourself entirely won’t make you happy, so don’t forget to also spare time to let some steam off. If you’re into movies, go watch it on the first day of every month, when almost all cinema chains, including Toho Cinemas, Aeon Cinemas and United Cinemas, have a “cinema day,” where you can see a movie for ¥1,200 (instead of the usual ¥1,900). If you subscribe to the Toho Cinemas member’s card for ¥300 a year, you get one free movie for every five you see. After 8 p.m. you can also watch a late show movie for ¥1,300 at most cinema complexes, and every Wednesday is also a ladies’ day at most of these places when all movies cost just ¥1,200.

Netflix’s basic plan is just ¥990 a month in Japan and amusement parks, including Disneyland and Disneysea, have cheaper entrance fees for entries after 3 p.m. or 6 p.m. Check each venue’s website for different prices and plan your visit accordingly to make sure you get the most of it for a cheaper price.

What are your saving tips? Share them in the comments.

Shortly before my daughter’s first birthday, I was set to return to part-time work. This meant I had to reach into the depths of my “too-hard basket” and consider delving into the world of Japanese daycare centers. Most people with young children in Japan would be well-aware of the challenges associated with this. Facilities are in great demand and low supply, private ones are expensive (and in some cases unregulated) and public services have a strict entrance process. The situation varies by city, but I was once told that where I live, 50 percent of families considered high priority (based on work and family situation plus a number of other factors) weren’t able to find a spot in one of their local public care centers.

It’s hard enough for family members working full-time jobs on a regular schedule, but as a part-time worker with an irregular schedule I knew that I’d be considered low priority for a coveted spot in a public daycare. Given the demand, I also wasn’t sure whether I’d be able to find a private center where I could pick and choose hours to suit my schedule. Call me a pessimist, but I was resigned to either forking out big bucks for a regular nanny or putting my child into private daycare full-time — unnecessarily.

And then a friend brought to light the existence of “temporary daycare” (ichiji hoiku, ichiji atsukari or tokutei hoiku)

Ichiji Hoiku: Temporary Daycare

Ichiji hoiku (一時保育）is temporary or short-term daycare, meaning daycare provided on an hourly or daily basis. Flexibility ranges from same-day bookings for the specific hours you choose, to a fixed schedule of full, specific days each week.

Who provides this service?

First a bit of background. In Japan, there are many different types of daycare facilities that are subject to different levels of public supervision. While there are several confusing categories and titles for each that seem to vary by city, they can basically be broken into the following three types:

• City-operated daycare centers (ninka hoikusho) that require application via your city office to enter. Each city has their own process for accepting applications, usually on a priority-ranking system. Families are charged prices set by the city that are based on taxable income.
• Private daycare centers that are certified by the government and may be either operated entirely by a private organization, or by a private organization in partnership with local government (nintei hoikuen). Users apply to, and pay, the daycare directly — although government subsidies might be available depending on where you live.
• Unauthorized private day care centers. Beginning in 2000, the government made changes to the system that allow private businesses to provide day care services without certification in order to address the shortage of providers.

Unauthorized private day care centers might be your best best in finding flexibility. Some, often called “baby hotels,” even offer round-the-clock service and last-minute booking. However, they do tend to be quite expensive. Also, given that they are unregulated, you may want to be sure of their reputation before entrusting your child into their care. That being said, they are relatively simple to enter and use and — particularly around Tokyo —  often have information in English and English-speaking staff.

Ichiji hoiku, however, usually refers to casual day care offered by some public and certified private facilities in addition to their full-time service. Visit your ward office to find out which certified day care facilities in your area provide ichiji hoiku.  

In the case of public facilities, there are usually some restrictions as to usage, for example you may only be able to use this service a certain number of days each week or month, and the hours are often more limited than full-time users. You usually have to give a reason for using ichiji hoiku, such as work, sickness or simply that you are just in need of a break. In public day cares where demand for ichiji hoiku is high, those with jobs may be prioritized over others.

Services offered by certified private facilities tend to be more flexible and usually there are no restrictions aside from availability.

What are the costs?

As you might expect, certified-private daycare centers tend to be more expensive than their public counterparts. Fees are completely dependant on the facility, but are usually charged per hour and ¥800 to ¥1,000 per hour seems to be about average (although there are some in Tokyo that charge as low as ¥500 per hour).

Fees at public facilities will likely be consistent within your city. In my case, the standard rate is ¥2,500 (without food) or ¥3,000 (with food provided) per day, regardless of how many hours used.

I’m in, how do I register and use this service?

One huge benefit of ichiji hoiku is that usually (again, depending on where you live) it’s a very simple process to get started.

First, call up the hoikuen to inquire about their ichiji hoiku service and their current availability, as well as any entry criteria (such as minimum age and minimum developmental milestones such as walking). If they have availability, they’ll invite you to come and collect an application form. When you return with the completed paperwork (and any applicable joining fee), they will usually want to sit down and discuss your child and the “rules” of the day care — including the specific items you will need to prepare and send with your child. That’s it. You’re registered and ready to go!

After that, you can book days or hours as needed by telephone, often as late as one day prior. One big drawback of ichiji hoiku, however, is that being registered with a facility does not guarantee you a spot on any given day (although many facilities do allow you to book a regular schedule) or well ahead of time. And you can always register at more than one day care in your area to hedge your bets.

Other Options to Consider

• Silver Human Resource Centers
  The Silver Human Resource Center (シルバー人材センター、Shiruba jinzai senta) is a clever organization that acts as a public employment agency for retirees over 60-years-old. Many services are provided for very reasonable prices via the centers, including babysitting (usually for less than ¥1,000 per hour). To find out if there is a Silver Human Resource Center in your city, visit the website (in Japanese but copy and paste the URL into Google Translate to help you navigate to the location search page).
• Family Support Center
  The Family Support Center (ファミリーサポートセンター, famiri sapoto senta) is a voluntary organization established by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Services vary by city, but usually include short-term babysitting at a volunteer babysitter’s house and school or daycare pickup and dropoff. Volunteers are usually provided with training and the service includes government-funded insurance. Costs vary but are often around ¥700  an hour. For those that live in Tokyo, a list of Family Support Centers in each ward can be found here.

For those holding down typical jobs in Tokyo, long breaks are a rarity. Knowing that we had a whole week off over the New Year but wanting to stay close to home this time, we went to and from trying to decide what vacation-type thing we should do until we nearly missed the opportunity altogether. Not wanting to wrangle our toddler into a night of sleep away from home, we finally settled on the idea of renting a car and taking a day trip to Hakone. We’ve been to Hakone several times before, but travelling on wheels gave us the opportunity to see some new things.

So, off we set at 8 a.m. in our comfortable and conveniently-rented Toyota Vitz towards the mountains. After a brief but eventful one-hour journey that included two unintended outfit-changes for the toddler, we arrived at our first destination.

Destination 1: Amazake-Chaya Teahouse

Amazake-Chaya Teahouse, just a 25-minute ride from Hakone Yumoto station, doesn’t usually come up on the “Top Things to Do in Hakone” lists, which is a shame as it provides a wonderful cultural and culinary experience. Step through the doors of the approximately 400 year-old thatch-roofed building and you are greeted with an atmosphere evocative of Edo-era Japan. The air is delightfully thick with smoke from the charcoal fires burning at one end of the dim room and a range of relaxed seating options are spread out over the earthen floor.

In the far corner is a tatami area that opens to the outside letting in sunlight and fresh air. The furnishings match the atmosphere and the menu options are scrawled in beautiful Chinese characters and displayed on the walls. The teahouse is in its 13th generation of family ownership and our host, a member of the family, tells us that her ancestors would never have dreamed that it would be frequented by so many visitors, particularly from outside of Japan.

On offer is, of course, amazake, which is a traditional sweet drink made from fermented rice dating back to the Kofun period (250 to 538 AD). The comforting drink can be enjoyed hot or cold and is said to be a nourishing food for babies that is also sugar and alcohol-free (usually, depending on the recipe). Amazake pairs perfectly with their iguisu mochi, a rice cake coated in a sweet powder made from green soy flour. Other menu options include miso oden (soy-paste flavored stew), cold matcha (green tea) and shiso (perilla) juice.

After enjoying your refreshments you might like to take a stroll outside. Directly behind the restaurant you can enter one of the many walkways that meander around the bush and hills of Hakone.

Destination 2: Ashinoko Skyline

With nicely stretched legs and warm, full tummies, we jumped back into the car to drive around Lake Ashi via the Ashinoko Skyline. The breathtaking views had us stopping at nearly every viewing platform to take in the panoramas and snap closeups of Mt. Fuji that seemed to improve on every turn. The ¥620 toll to enter this scenic road was worth every penny. 

Destination 3: Yunessun Spa Resort

© Photo by horschmology

After a delightful drive that ended too soon, we arrived at our final stop on the day’s drive: Yunessun Spa Resort. While the coffee and red wine onsen on offer sounded a little gimmicky to us, we were excited to check it out and were also attracted by fact that the place is meant to be a parents’ dream. And, indeed it was. Children of any age are allowed in the pools (swimming diapers required for little ones). It’s also equipped with nursing rooms and plenty of spaces for kids to run around or unwind.

We also loved the convenience. Upon entry, patrons are issued with a barcode wristband that is scanned each time you make a purchase and you settle up at the end. In addition to the novelty baths, we enjoyed soaking in the outdoor spas while taking in views of the mountains surrounding us. I should add that in the main area swimsuits are compulsory, while there is a separate area in which you can enjoy a more traditional Japanese onsen sans suit. Apart from just soaking, you might choose to enroll the kids in one of the craft classes on offer and sneak off for a relaxing massage. Told you — it’s a parents’ dream.

After a good few hours worth of communal bathing, we decided to head home to beat the holiday traffic. We arrived back at the car rental place with five minutes to spare on our 12-hour rental time and thoroughly satisfied with our day.

The Deets

Getting to Hakone: Take the Odakyu line to Hakone Yumoto station (about 85 minutes on the Romance Car limited express train, ¥2,080 each way). You can also get there via the JR Tokaido line from Tokyo, Shimbashi or Shinagawa stations or the JR Shonan Shinjuku line from Ikebukuro, Shinjuku or Shibuya. The Hakone Freepass is a discounted ticket (¥5,140) that includes a return ticket from Shinjuku, plus free transport on buses, trains, the Hakone ropeway and cable car, as well as the sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi — worth it if you’re planning on using a lot of public transport to get around! 

Amazake-Chaya Teahouse

Business hours: 7 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.
Access: Hakone-Tozan bus (get off at Amazake-chaya bus stop about 25 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto station)

Yunessun Spa Resort

Business hours: Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Access: Hakone-Tozan bus (get off at Kowakien bus stop about 20 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto station)
Cost: Passport to both onsen areas: ¥4,100 for adults, ¥2,100 for children, but please check the website for discount coupons.

Just west of Tokyo, 20 minutes on the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku, you will find Mukogaoka-Yuen station. Take a short walk from there and you’ll stumble upon one of Kawasaki’s most-prized parks: Ikuta Ryokuchi.

In addition to the three museums, traditional craft workshop and two cafes, Ikuta Ryokuchi boasts an impressive array of seasonal flora, making it a delightful destination in any season.

But it’s the unique mixture of indoor and outdoor features with stunningly beautiful koyo (leaves changing color) that can be seen throughout the park that makes Ikuta Ryokuchi a great autumn day trip with (or without) kids.

Here are five reasons why it’s worth taking a visit to Ikuta Ryokuchi this autumn.

1. Picturesque Walkways Galore

Inside the park you can find cobblestone paths that lead you through towering redwoods, offering glimpses of the folk houses inside the open-air museum, past peaceful ponds and picturesque huts and all the way up Mt. Matsugata. I challenge you to meander the paths and NOT let a satisfied smile spread across your face.

2. Fountain Square: Picnic Perfection

In my opinion no park is complete without an open space for stretching out on the grass and enjoying a picnic. Ikuta Ryokuchi boasts a small but great one. It has several picnic tables, a clock tower and a bed of luscious green grass. It sits right next to the science museum, cafe and bathroom facilities. Next to the field there are two train cars that are open for children explore.

3. Science Museum and Planetarium

The Kawasaki Municipal Science Museum is not a large museum but contains a planetarium, making it an interesting visit for adults and children alike. Special sessions for kids and babies are usually held on Wednesdays twice per month.

4. Mt. Masugata Playground and Observation Tower

If you make the effort to hike up Mt. Masugata (using the word ‘hike’ liberally — it’s a 5-10 minute walk up a sharp hill), you will be treated with another open space with a playground. Head up the observation tower to take in views of Tokyo and Kanagawa. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji and the ferris wheel at the nearby Yomiuriland theme park.

5. Open-Air Folk-House Museum

In 1965, the City of Kawasaki began to relocate traditional Japanese houses from all over Japan to the Open-Air Folk-House Museum so that residents might appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. The museum, which holds 25 buildings including a shrine and a kabuki stage, provides a great opportunity to learn more about Japanese history and culture while keeping any young ones entertained.

Facilities

Open-Air Folk-House Museum: 9:30am-5pm (4:30pm from Nov-Feb), adults ¥500, students ¥300, children (not yet in high school) free. 

Science Museum and planetarium: 9:30am-5pm, entrance to the museum is free, entrance to the planetarium is ¥400 for adults, ¥200 for high school and university students, and free for children (not yet in high school). Also has a cafe. 

Taro Okamoto Museum of Art: 9:30am-5pm, adults ¥500, children (not yet in high school) free. Also has a cafe. 

Traditional Indigo Dyeing Workshop: Open hours are the same as the Open-Air Folk-House Museum, entrance is free. 

The Deets

Address: 7-1-10 Masugata, Tama-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa Prefecture
Entrance fee: Free! (Some facilities require admission fee)
Operating hours: 9:30am-5pm (Closed Mondays)
URL: http://www.ikutaryokuti.jp/index.php

Cervical and breast cancer screening tests are available at most OBGYN clinics. Fees vary from clinic to clinic, but might start from around ¥7,000 for a basic Pap smear to ¥50,000 plus for a full gynaecological and breast health check-up including ultrasounds and various marker tests.

However, most cities have an established program for providing subsidized cervical cancer screenings (Pap Smear) as well as screenings for breast and other forms of cancer. For example, in Kawasaki City, cervical cancer screenings can be undertaken every two years at a subsidized cost of ¥1,000 for residents aged between 20 and 40 years old. Breast cancer screenings can be received every other year at a subsidized cost of ¥1,300 for residents aged 40 years. 

In most cases, you will receive the subsidies available simply by making an appointment at a city-approved clinic and presenting some form of proof of address such as your national health insurance card (hokensho).

In addition to subsidized prices for eligible residents, most cities also provide coupons for free cancer screenings to residents who fit certain criteria.

In Kawasaki, coupons for free cervical cancer screenings are provided to female residents in the years that they become 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of age. Similar coupons are provided for breast cancer screenings to those 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60 years of age. Depending on the city you live in, age eligibility may differ, but in most cases it is quite similar.

How do I get my coupon for free cervical and breast cancer screenings?

You don’t need to do anything to receive your coupons; they should automatically arrive in the mail during the year that you are eligible for a free screening. In most cities it seems that they are sent out around the middle of the year, so keep an eye out. It might come in an envelope marked 無料クーポン券 (muryou ku-pon ken, free coupon ticket) or がん検診 (gan kenshin, cancer health screening).

I’ve received my envelope, what next?

Along with the coupon, inside your envelope you should find a list of city-approved clinics at which you can receive your free cancer screenings (as well as other information about the process). Note that on most occasions, the list comes only in Japanese, but take any pick (because the process will be the same anywhere), and make an appointment by telephone (noted in the hospital list). If your Japanese is basic, tell them the following: “Gan kenshin no muryo ken ga todoki, yoyaku shitai desu.” (I’ve received my free cancer screening coupon and would like to make an appointment.) The rest will go smoothly – just tell them your name, address, contact info and screening date preference.

The screening: what to expect?

When you check in with reception at the time of your appointment, they will likely ask for your health insurance card (hokensho) for proof of address as well as the coupon. If it’s your first visit at that clinic, you will need to fill out the usual form for first-time patients, in addition to the cancer screening questionnaire. The questionnaires for cervical and breast cancer will include information such as the date of your last period, the usual duration of your periods, whether you’ve been pregnant, how many times you’ve given birth, whether your family has a history of breast cancer, whether you have any symptoms such as pain in your breasts or lumps, as well as if you’ve suffered from any serious illnesses. If your Japanese is limited, the google translate app should suffice in helping you to fill out the form.

Next, you will have short discussion with the doctor about your health and any concerns you have.

After that comes the part you’ve been waiting for: the actual screening. If you’re at the hospital for a cervical cancer check up, you’ll be doing a Pap Smear. I won’t say much about it, except that it should be a very quick and painless (although slightly uncomfortable) procedure. Also, the rumors are true: it seems that in most cases you will be separated from the very doctor with whom you were just speaking by a curtain during the procedure. A breast cancer screening will usually begin with a quick palpation procedure, followed by a mammography test.

You will likely have a brief consultation with the doctor again afterwards, during which he or she will inform you about when to expect the results and what is the next standard procedure depending on whether your screening is negative or positive. If you were taking the cervical cancer test, the doctor will also tell you that you may experience some bleeding later that day as a result of the test.

Congratulations! With this you’ve completed the slightly unpleasant procedures and now you can sit and relax, hoping for a notice of “It’s all good” in your mailbox.

The results

The results of your tests will become available around two weeks after the original examination, depending on the clinic. If there are no abnormalities, the whole process ends there until the next time. If there are any concerns, you will be asked to visit the clinic again to discuss the results with your doctor.

Useful language

月経の周期  Gekkei no shuuki (Menstrual cycle)
月経の期間  Gekkei no kikan (Menstrual period)
最終月経はいつですか Saishu gekkei wa itsu desu ka (When was your last period?)
何回妊娠したことがありますか Nankai ninshin shita koto ga arimasu ka (How many times have you been pregnant?)
何回分娩したことがありますか Nankai bunben shita koto ga arimasu ka (How many times have you given birth?)
経膣分娩  Keichitsu bunsen (Vaginal delivery)
帝王切開  Teiou sekkai (C-section)
出欠 Shukketsu (Bleeding)
自覚症状 Jikakushojo (Subjective symptoms)
しこり Shikori (Lump)
乳がん検診歴 Nyugan Kenshin-reki (Past breast cancer screenings)
視触診  Shishokushin (Clinical breast examination)
マンモグラフィ  Mammography  (Mammography)

While the statistics are reassuring, I would go out on a limb to say that the average woman is more interested in the looming question “what will it actually be like to go through the most earth-shatteringly emotional and painful thing I’m likely to experience in life—in Japan?” How the labor and birth will go is the great unknown that lurks in the minds of most pregnant women, one that may be of even greater concern for those living in a foreign country.

I myself chose to go to New Zealand to give birth as it worked out to be good timing for a visit with family. This, combined with the knowledge that the childbirth and childcare lump-sum grant is provided to anyone who has Japanese health insurance (even if giving birth overseas), meant that it made sense for us at the time. Particularly so when considering birth costs are completely publicly funded in New Zealand.

In preparing to give birth in Japan, you might come across tales of woe that merely add to your trepidation.

I’ve read stories of husbands being prevented from entering the birthing suite, laboring women being encouraged to endure in silence and medical staff withholding pain medication despite promises to the contrary. It definitely pays to do your research, and, as always, nothing beats hearing the first-hand experiences of those who have been there and done that.

In heeding this wisdom, we bring you the reflections of several fantastic mothers who have given birth in the Tokyo area. Naturally, experiences vary depending on personal circumstances and the chosen birthing facility. On the whole, however, all agreed that Japan is indeed a great place to give birth.

The Birth in a Tatami Room

Danae recently gave birth to her second child at Higashi-Yamato Midwife Clinic (Higashi-Yamato). The clinic is run by an experienced midwife who came highly recommended to Danae by an acquaintance. Danae enjoyed the experience of laboring and giving birth in a tatami room and found that the midwife allowed her to move around and take whatever position she felt was best. She greatly appreciated the constant support she received from her midwife who remained by her side throughout the labor and delivery, and was surprised to find that she was encouraged to scream! Her husband and toddler were also allowed to come and go as they pleased.

The Water-Birth Plan

Kaori chose to give birth at Nisseki (Nihon Sekijuji Iryo Center, Japan Red Cross Medical Center, Hiroo) because it is close to her home, offers a water-birth plan, and is slightly cheaper than the more well-known hospitals in the area. While her plan of a water birth went out the window early on (due to her waters breaking at home), she was satisfied with the care she received. In the end she had to be anaesthetised to deal with a complication in removing the placenta, but found that the doctors acted promptly to resolve the problem. Aside from that, her husband was allowed to stay with her the whole time, as was her baby. Because her labor was long, the midwives took shifts in supporting her, which she found a little difficult.

I felt a bit of anxiety and nervousness with all the changes. I didn’t feel at ease with changing midwives during the pain so I wish I had been able to stick with just one midwife at least until the labor ended.

The Postpartum Care

Nicole gave birth to her youngest two at Suzuki Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic (Kawasaki). On her first visit she endured a long, difficult labor. She felt that her concerns about being unable to eat, her level of pain and her birth-plan preferences fell on mostly deaf ears. While she had been previously told that receiving an epidural was possible, she was disappointed to find that it actually wasn’t in the midst of her marathon labor. She also partly attributed the slow progress to being required to lie down in bed. Having learned from her first experience, she stuck to her guns the second time and insisted on walking around. She found the midwives to be great on both occasions, although tended to be strict and reluctant to stray from their own plans regarding the birth.

A highlight of both experiences was the care she received during her postpartum stay. She enjoyed the well-prepared and nutritious food, found the visiting hours to be generous, and the staff to be caring and sweet. She appreciated the staff taking care of her babies so that she could rest.

I really appreciated the fact that the babies stayed in the nursery because it gave us mothers time to relax. We were on a schedule to feed the babies. During the night all of the sleepy mothers shuffled to pick up the baby to give the nightly feedings. It was almost as if you were bonding with them in the feeding room as well as your baby. It was neat to watch the new mothers and the experienced moms come together.

The Planned C-Section

Ruth underwent a planned caesarean section at Suzuki Clinic (above). Her husband was allowed to be in the room during the operation, although only as an exception after much pleading. The baby did not stay in the room with her, which allowed her to rest, but meant she could only hold him once every three hours for feeding. If she was too tired to get up at night, the staff were able to feed her baby for her, which she appreciated. Compared to her previous caesareans overseas, she found that not as much pain medication was provided following the birth.

The 30-hour Labor

Toni gave birth to both her children at Kiyosenomori Community Clinic (Kiyose). She was induced on both occasions in line with the hospital’s policy to induce at 41 weeks. On her first visit, she endured a 30-hour labor. Because the baby was in distress, she was given the option of trying an epidural or directly undergoing an emergency caesarean section. She opted for the epidural and her baby was able to be born naturally. The birth for her second child went much better.

My first was long and traumatic but I felt the hospital and doctors were fantastic. The second time was much easier as I trusted them and listened to them more which resulted in a much smoother birth.

She found the follow-up care to be excellent. She was allowed to have her babies in the room with her during the day, but only at night if she had paid extra for a private room. She received quality training which helped equip her to look after her children, especially with regards to feeding. She was even offered a free leg massage and presented with a 5-course congratulatory meal prepared by a French chef.

 The Emergency C-section

Kate also chose to give birth at Nisseki in Hiroo based on their English-speaking support, excellent facilities and positive approach geared towards natural birth and breastfeeding. During her birth, Kate rapidly developed severe pre-eclampsia and underwent an emergency caesarean section. While the attending obstetrician was unable to diagnose the condition immediately (due to its presentation in that manner being relatively rare), the head obstetrician was called and able to promptly take life-saving action. The situation was explained clearly to her husband, and she felt secure in the hands of her medical team. She received extremely attentive follow-up care from the very kind midwives, although on the day she gave birth there was no English-speaking midwife available. One aspect she found difficult was the lack of emotional support, and the lack of attention given to the possibility of developing postnatal depression. Although studies have estimated that postpartum mental health disorders affect 13% of mothers worldwide, it took several months before Kate’s family was able to find the help they needed.

While every birth experience and facility is different, we hope that this helps you to get a better idea of what to expect. In a future article we will discuss in more detail the options available and factors to consider when choosing where to give birth. As always, please let us know if you have any questions regarding pregnancy or having a baby in Japan, and we will do our best to address those in future articles.