Living Guide Q&A TOP

Consultation contents

Shiga Prefecture Partnership Oath System（From Sept 2nd 2024）

Answer

While same-sex marriage is not legally recognized, this system allows two individuals to declare their commitment to a life of mutual support and cooperation, when one or both partners belong to sextual minorities. The prefecture will certify their declaration and issue a certification. An appointment is required for the declaration.
Inquiry
Shiga Prefecture Civil Liberties Promotion Division (Jinken shisaku suishin-ka)
[Japanese]　Tel 077-528-3533
[Foreign languages]　Shiga Foreign Residents Information Center　Tel 077-523-5646

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Do you know the rules of bicycles and motorcycles?

Answer

On wearing a bicycle helmet

With the partial revision of the Road Traffic Law, wearing helmets have become a duty to make efforts for bicycle riders since April 1st 2023.
【Compliance for Bicycle Riders】
  1. Bicycle riders must try to wear helmets.
  2. When a bicycle rider puts a child on a bicycle or lends the bicycle to another person, he/she must try to have the other person wear a helmet.
  3. Parents and guardians must try to have their children wear helmets when they ride bicycles.
    4. ※ In Shiga Prefecture, bicycle insurance has become mandatory as of February 1, 2016.

Procedures for purchasing a motorcycle

If you purchase a motorcycle from a dealer, they will take care of all the procedures for you. However, if you receive a used motorcycle from a friend, or purchase one on online auction, you will need to change the name of the owner and complete the necessary procedures by yourself.
Procedure for registering a change of name　(Meigi Henkou)
How to register a change of name for motorcycle differs depending on the displacement of the motorcycle.
☆For motorcycle (50cc to 125cc)
The procedure can be done at the city hall where the new owner is registered as a resident.
☆For light motorcycles, medium-sized and large motorcycles (over 126cc)
The procedures will be done at the Road Transport Branch Office (Unyushikyoku) (Land Transport office (Rikuunkyoku)) that has jurisdiction over the new owner's address.
Shiga Road Transport Branch Office (Shiga Unyukyoku)：2298-5 Konohama-cho, Moriyama-shi
　　 Registration and Inspection Procedures Guide：Tel 050-5540-2064
　　!The basic rule for private sales is that the buyer takes care of the change of name procedure, but if you are buying from a friend, you can go with him/her to the Land Transport Bureau or city office for the procedure.
Enrollment in Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance (Jibaiseki Hoken)
There are two types of motorcycle insurance, “Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance” (Jibaiseki Hoken) and “Voluntary Insurance” (Nin-i Hoken).
When you purchase a motorcycle, you are required to enroll in compulsory automobile liability insurance. Liability insurance is compulsory and covers bodily injury, and there are penalties for uninsured drivers.
In addition, although it is not mandatory, it is a good idea to have a voluntary insurance, which can compensate both the victim and the offender.

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Beware of Financial Troubles!!

Answer

Electronic Money Troubles

The number of victims abusing electronic money as well as cash as a method of payment for scam activities, such as false billing for nonpayment of internet pay site usage fees, has been increasing rapidly.
※With electronic money such as prepaid cards, the value of the electronic money is transferred simply by giving the number and other information on the card, without having to hand the card to the other party.
It’s a scam!
"Buy an electronic money card at a convenience store and tell me your card number."
"The usage fee has not been paid. If payment is not made by the end of today, legal procedures will be initiated."
※The term "legal procedures" is used to stir up the victim’s anxiety!
！Do not reply to or contact any billings that you do not remember.
！Businesses, Ministry of Justice, courts, etc., will never ask you to purchase an electronic money card at a convenience store under the name of "payment of unpaid fees."

Money laundering (To make the person who has the money related to crime indiscernible) is illegal!

It’s a scam!
"I want you to transfer this money from your account. I will give you 10,000 yen."
！ It is illegal to give your account to another person.
！If you cannot determine whether the provider is illegal or not, please do not use that provider. Any provider that is not on the list of registered fund transfer service providers on the Financial Services Agency’s website is illegal.
 To prevent harm caused by email and SMS (short message service), it is effective to set up a receiving rejection setting in advance.

！If you think something is wrong, immediately consult your family, friends, or the police #9110 (dedicated police consultation line)!

  • Consumer Hotline 188 (Japanese)
  • Consumer Hotline for Tourists 03-5449-0906
    • (English, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, French, Japanese)）
  • Financial Services User Consultation Office 0570-016811 (From IP phone 03-5251-6811)
  • English General Service 　　　email: equestion@fsa.go.jp

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Cycling around Lake Biwa “Biwaichi” in Autumn

Answer

Have you heard about "Biwaichi," a bicycle tour around Lake Biwa?
Cycling around Lake Biwa while appreciating the rich nature and culture of the area is perfect way to enjoy the coming season!
A round trip around Lake Biwa is approximately 200 km long, and there are two designated courses.
“Slow course”
For beginners and intermediate level cyclist, such as a family. You can ride the shared path for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
“Advanced Course”
For advanced cyclists. Mainly ride along the roadway.
For details on recommended courses and support information, please visit the "Wa no Kuni Biwako" homepage.
https://www.biwako1.jp/ 　

CYCLE STATION PORT OF OTSU

This April, the Biwaichi Cycle Center opened at the Port of Otsu. It offers bicycle rental, bicycle repair and maintenance, and rental and sales of helmets, gloves, and all other items necessary for cycling. It also provides information on recommended cycling routes and information specific to bicycle sightseeing.
Port of Otsu Passenger Terminal: 5 chome 1-7 Hamaotsu Otsu
https://oportable.jp

Water Supply Spot at Nagisa Park

A water supply spot where you can refill your empty bottle with cold water is located in Uchide no Mori, Otsu Lakeside Nagisa Park.
It will also help to reduce PET bottle waste, so please stop by while your break during Biwaichi.
Uchidehama Otsu
https://www.city.otsu.lg.jp/soshiki/080/2808/g/44087.html

Omi Railway Cycle Train

Omi Railway has a cycle train that allows you to bring your bicycle on board.　
Bicycles can be carried directly onto the train for free (fare for the ride only).
Some sections do not offer this service, so please check the website for details.
https://www.ohmitetudo.co.jp/railway/fan/cycle/

Let's follow the rules and manners and enjoy cycling♪

  • In Shiga Prefecture, bicycle users are required to enroll in bicycle insurance.
  • Bicycles ride on the left side of the roadway.
  • The blue line on the roadway is the Biwaichi road pavement markings.　

Consultation contents

Age of adulthood lowered to 18 years of age

Answer

Based on “The Act Partially Amending The Civil Code”, the age of adulthood will be lowered from the current age of 20 years of age to 18 years of age on April 1, 2022.

Those over 18 years, under 20 years of age(born between April 2, 2002 – April 1, 2004)

→　Adult on April 1, 2022

Those born on or after April 2, 2004

→　Adult on 18th birthday

Please note that revision of the Civil Code will partially change the definition of an adult・a minor, changing age regulations for various applications such as status of residence and acquisition of Japanese nationality.

What will change when the age of adulthood is lowered?

  • The age limit when changing status of residence to “Long-term resident” as “minor・unmarried biological child” will be for those under and not including 18 years of age.
  • Age requirement for naturalization that was from 20 years of age will change to 18 years of age.
  • The age at which a child recognized by a Japanese father to acquire nationality will be for those under and not including 18 years of age.
  • For those with multiple nationalities, the age at which nationality must be chosen will change from before reaching 20 years of age (or by the age of 22) to before reaching 18 years of age (or by the age of 20).
  • Contracts for smartphones and independent housing, credit cards, or loans such as to purchase a car can be made from 18 years of age without the consent of the guardian. (A contract may be denied if the loan exceeds repayment capacity.)
  • The age of women to marry will be raised from over 16 years of age to over 18 years of age. Women over the age of 16 as of April 1, 2022 may still marry under the age of 18.
    • 　　 Etc.
The age to drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, and age regulation for government-controlled sports betting (horse racing, bike racing, auto racing, motorboat racing) will remain at 20 years of age even with the change in adulthood age. Obligation to enroll into national pension also remains at 20 years of age.

Under the Civil Code, contracts made by minors without the consent of the guardian may be void, however the revision of age of adulthood will permit those over 18 years of age to make various contracts accompanied with the responsibility for the contract that is made. Contracts should not easily be made and its content should be thoroughly examined before making the contract. It is also important to consult someone before making a contract.

Consultation desks for concerns related to consumer affairs

- Consumer hotline “188” (Japanese only)
- Houterasu (multi-language service) 0570-078377【weekdays】9 a.m. ～ 5 p.m.

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Take a tour of the castles in Shiga!

Answer

Approximately 1300 castles were built during the middle and modern ages (1184-1867) in Shiga prefecture. “Those who conquer Omi (Shiga region) will conquer the world” is a famous quote as military commanders fought for control over the region during the Sengoku period of civil war. How about visiting the castles and caslte ruins in Shiga?
The national treasure of Hikone castle, Azuchi castle built by Nobunaga Oda, and Hachiman castle built by Hidetsugu Toyotomi are famous tourist attractions.
【Tour of castles and castle ruins in Shiga 】
（Hachiman castle ruins・ Hachiman-bori canal → Azuchi castle ruins → Nobunaga-no-yakata → Azuchi castle archaeological museum → Hikone castle → Sawayama castle ruins → Nagahama castle historical museum → Odani castle ruins）

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Discover attractions in Shiga by bike!

Answer

Shiga is a region abundant in history and nature. There are many half day and full day cycling courses to tour areas you do not usually drop by. How about making new discoveries in Shiga by bike?
There are rental shops throughout the prefecture if you do not own a bicycle, where some shops offer rentals for free.

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Decorate the dining table through home gardening！

Answer

Golden week is a time when temperatures rise, making us feel for a good stretch. Plants and vegetables take in the sunshine and grow as well. Home gardening allows for us to nurture our own plants, enjoy harvesting them for fresh vegetables to be aligned on our dining table. How about using your balcony, yard, or rental farm for spring veggie gardening?
Rental farms are managed and operated by various organizations. Availability for facilities and services such as parking, equipment rental, and washrooms vary on the farm and organization. Please contact the agricultural department in your city hall or JA (Japan Agricultural Cooperatives) for inquiries.

Consultation contents

Make new discoveries using the library!

Answer

There is a total of 51 libraries located in the 19 cities and towns in Shiga prefecture. A library card can be made for free at the local city/town public library of residence or commute. If the book you want to read cannot be found at your local library, it can be requested from other libraries including Shiga Prefectural Library. Please consult a library staff if there is a book you want to read!
There are foreign books and magazines too!

Shiga Prefectural Library

〒520－2122 1740-1 Seta Minami-ogaya-cho, Otsu
TEL：(077)548-9691
Access：Take the Teisan Bus or Oumi Bus bound for Shiga-Idai from JR Seta Station. Get off at Bunka-zone-mae (approx. 10 min. ride). The library is a 5-min. walk from the bus stop.
Open
〇Wed～Fri　10am～6pm
〇Sat・Sun・public holidays　10am～5pm
Closed
〇Mon・Tues (open if a holiday and closed on Wed. of same week)
〇Following day of public holidays (open weekends)
〇Year End & New Year / inventory period

◇Let’s make a library card!

A library card is required in order to borrow books. Fill out an application form along with personal identification to confirm your residence (driver’s license, health insurance card, student ID, etc.) at the reference service counter on the second floor to make a card.

◇Let’s borrow some books!

Each individual may borrow up to 10 books and materials for 3 weeks. Children’s books, as well as foreign picture books are located on the first floor. Approximately 150,000 books ranging from practical to technical books are lined up on shelves in the general materials room on the second floor with language study material as well.
Approximately 8,000 books in various foreign languages are available in the reference material room that may be borrowed at the service counter on the first floor.

◇Returning books

Books may be returned during hours of operation to each of the general, reference and children’s material service counter. When returning books after the library is closed, you can drop books off in the return slot located to the left of the main entrance of the library, or to your local library.
＊Please note, books borrowed at the Prefectural Library cannot be returned to Otsu Public Library or Kusatsu Public Library.

◇Other services are available!

Other than searching and making reservations for books and magazines through the internet at home, books may also be requested if it is unavailable. Books may also be borrowed through mail delivery for those who cannot come to the library due to a disability. If you have any questions in your daily life or have something you want to research, consult the library staff for assistance. Books in the prefectural library can also be borrowed through your local library. Please make use of the different services available at the library for your learning and enjoyment!

Consultation contents

Livelihood support for those affected by COVID-19

Answer

The national and prefectural governments have various support measures for those affected by COVID-19. Below is a partial list of support measures from inquiries received at Shiga Foreign Residents Information Center. For details, please refer to the Ministry of Health Labour and Welfare pamphlet and list of support measures provided by the Shiga Prefectural Government.

Special Benefit for Single Parent Low Income Households “Teishotoku hitori oya setai rinji-kyufukin”

Eligibility for basic payment

Those who correspond to any of the following:
  1. Those receiving child support allowance (jido-fuyou-teate) for the month of June, 2020.
  2. Those receiving public pension and the full payment of child support allowance (jido-fuyou-teate) for June, 2020 was suspended.
  3. Household income has drastically changed due to the effects of COVID-19 and income is the same standard as households receiving child support allowance (jido-fuyou-teate).
    4. ※Benefit payment for the month of June for those who apply has been transferred in August to households corresponding to ①. Application required for ② and ③.

Additional payment

Those corresponding to ①and ②above may apply for one-time additional payment.（Household finances drastically changed due to the effects of COVID-19, and income has declined.）

Payment

Basic payment：50,000yen/household, additional 30,000yen/child for additional children.
Additional payment：50,000 yen/household

Application

“Single parent special benefit” (child support allowance division) in your city/town hall.
(Deadline Februrary 28, 2021)

Subsidy Program for Sustaining Business “Jizokuka-kyufukin” （for business operators）

Eligibility

Sales in one month declined by more than 50% compared to the same month the previous year due to the effects of COVID-19.

Payment

2 million yen for corporations、1 million yen for individual business owners.
　 ※maximum payment is the amount of decrease in sales compared to total sales last year.

Application

“Sustainable Cash Benefit” online application
(deadline January 15, 2021)

Out-of-Work Support Fund and Cash Handout “Kyugyou shienkin”

Eligibility

Those who meet the following 2 conditions:
  1. Employees of small-medium sized companies instructed to take absence from work between April 1 and September 30, 2020 by their business owner.
  2. Those who did not receive pay for leave mentioned above (kyugyou-teate).

    3. Payment

    80% of wage before out of work （monthly maximum payment of 330,000 yen）.

    Application

    application form
    application method by post

    Housing Security Benefit （rent directly paid to landlord） “Jyukyokakuho kyufukin”

    Eligibility

    Within 2 years of leaving a job・business shutdown, or decrease in income due to suspension of work, with similar conditions to those that have left a job.

    Payment duration

    3 months in principle （maximum of 9 months）

    Payment

    Amount equivalent to the rent is paid directly to the landlord from the municipality

    Application

    City hall for those living in a city, social welfare council for those living in a town

    Details

    Information about the Housing Security Benefit 　　

    ★Shiga prefecture is accepting temporary occupants in prefectural housing.

    Eligibility

    Those dismissed from the workplace due to the effects of COVID-19 and had no other option but to leave their home.

    Duration

    Maximum of 1 year

    Application

    Housing Division, Department of public works and transportation（℡　077-528-4234)
    If you have any concerns regarding your livelihood, please consult the welfare division or social welfare office in your city or town!

Consultation contents

Eco-friendly life in Shiga

Answer

Since long ago, people in Shiga have been living with the largest lake in Japan and the mountains surrounding it, blessed with an environment rich in nature. In recent years, industrialization and our lifestyle have had various effects on nature. Let’s all think about what we can do to protect our beautiful environment and safe lifestyle!

Act on the 3 R's

１． Reduce: Reduce trash

Bring your own reusable bags. Avoid using plastic bags supplied at grocery stores to help reduce plastic trash. Eliminate food waste by only buying necessary ingredients. Starting July 2020, plastic bags at locations such as grocery and convenience stores will no longer be supplied free of charge.

２． Reuse: Reuse items

Use the recycle shop or flea market to dispose of unnecessary items, or give away items to others. Use items with care.

３． Recycle: Utilize the resources

Use items repeatedly as a resource. Unnecessary items may be used effectively by separating the different types of trash and recycling. Materials collected as resources will be reused as raw materials for new products. Separate the different types of trash for disposal and utilize the collection box at grocery stores.
〇Sorting the different types of trash at home
Garbage collection and the way of sorting the things you throw away differ among regions. Ask your city hall or neighbors on how to sort out trash. Follow the garbage collection date, location, and regional rules before throwing things away.

History of Eco-friendly Life in Shiga

  • From long ago, an eco-friendly water culture called “kabata” exists in the district of Harie in Shinasahi-cho, Takashima city. Homes in this district have a system of driving spring water that originates from the mountains for use in the kitchen as shown in the diagram on the right. The spring water is not only used for drinking, but can also be accumulated in a basin called “tsuboike” to be used for cooking, washing, soaking vegetables for storage, and cooling. Water flowing out of the “tsuboike” goes into another basin called “hataike” where koi fish eat the remaining grains of rice and vegetable waste mixed in the water. The water will then flow out of homes into a canal.
  • In 1977, there was an outbreak of red tide in Biwako due to phosphorus used in synthetic detergents. This initiated the “natural soap movement” to use natural powdered soap and to stop using synthetic detergents in order to protect the beauty of Biwako. The Biwako Ordinance was established in 1980 to keep Biwako clean, and to commemorate this day, July 1st was designated as “Biwako Day”. Around this day, all residents in the prefecture take part by cleaning their neighborhood, regions along the lakeside, and waterways. Please take part!

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Bank Accounts and Remittance for Foreigners

Answer

  • Those who are in Japan on a tourist visa or other short stay visa cannot open a bank account in Japan.
  • A residence card, a My Number card or another identity document, a proof of current address and a personal seal (inkan) are required to open a bank account.
  • Banks or money transfer service providers can be used when transferring money to another country.
    • * Companies who transfer money without registration are operating illegally and must not be used.
    * When transferring money abroad, the My Number is required.
  • Contact the financial institution if the address, period of stay, status changes, after leaving the school or work, or if a bank book or cash card is lost.　
  • When the account will no longer be used because of a return to the home country, the account should be closed.

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Do you know the activities in community centers? ～Take on a new challenge!～

Answer

Community and civic centers are facilities that citizens can use for public purposes such as activities for learning and gatherings of independent groups. Personal computer and health classes, yoga, calligraphy, flower arrangement (ikebana), English conversation classes are held and offers a place where children can spend time, where citizens can conduct their club activities and where lifetime courses are held. Joining is easy, inexpensive, and you can even make friends in your community. Let’s inquire on what kind of activities are offered in city halls and community centers! For those who like sports, classes and club activities such as gymnastics, judo, badminton, table tennis, volleyball, swimming, etc. are held at municipal and prefectural gymnasiums. Inquire at city halls and other public facilities for details.

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Before deciding to have a pet

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Pets are sold in pet shops, but dogs and cats without an owner are given protection by animal protection centers, and by registering, one can become a foster parent for these animals (Some animals are banned from being kept as pets, according to the law.) You should discuss about possible allergies with members of the family, and the lifelong responsibility of keeping a pet. Those who live in apartments or rented houses should check the terms of their occupancy, etc. Pets may become ill and grow old, and medical expenses may likewise become costly, so take into consideration the financial burden that you will have to bear. There are private pet insurance companies but there is no public pet insurance system.
Shiga Animal Care Center
℡　0748-75-1911　136-98 Iwane, Konan City
Shiga Animal Care Center
Otsu City Hall Health Department Health Center Animal Care Center
℡ 077-574-4601　1-chome 24-2 Oginosato, Otsu City
Otsu City Hall Health Department Health Center Animal Care Center

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How to keep a pet (dog)

Answer

Have your pet vaccinated against rabies at a veterinary hospital (mandatory) and get a “rabies vaccination completion certificate”, then submit it to the city hall. (Combined vaccine, microchip implant, castration/contraceptive surgery, filariasis or heartworm disease prevention, and giving medication for flea/tick prevention are optional.) 　Register your dog at the city hall and get a tag and registration card (from 91 days to 120 days after birth or within 30 days from the day of ownership). Dogs over 91 days after birth will be vaccinated against rabies once a year.
★Be responsible for your pets: take them for a walk, feed them, and have them vaccinated. Discipline them so as not to cause any trouble to others. Clean up your pet’s feces and dispose of them at home. Letting your dog roam freely and releasing them while taking them for a walk in the park is prohibited.

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My pet got lost! I have someone’s pet in my care…

Answer

Contact the animal protection center or the nearest police station.

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In case my pet dies?

Answer

  1. Contact the city hall.
    ＊The procedure may be different depending on the city, but some have a place for cremation of animals. In the case of dogs, follow the procedure for cancellation of registration at the city hall. (within 30 days)
  2. There are also private companies dealing with pet funerals and graves.
  3. Burying the body of a dead animal in a private land is allowed, but is forbidden in rivers, parks, etc.

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When leaving, entering the country with my pet?

Answer

When taking a pet abroad or bringing it back home, it is necessary to comply with the requirements to be able to enter Japan and the country of destination. Since the procedure takes time, please contact the Animal Quarantine Service as soon as possible.

Related Web page

Consultation contents

Facilities where you can enjoy nature in Shiga prefecture

Answer

Consultation contents

Engaging in agriculture

Answer

For those who want to enjoy agriculture

Rent a farm. A rental farm is a small area of land that you can rent at a reasonable price where you can grow your choice of vegetables and flowers. It is your very own small farm.
There are rental farms such as allotment gardens managed by the city hall, JA (Japan Agricultural Cooperative), NPO corporations, private farms, etc. Please contact each one respectively as conditions may vary for each.

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If you experience living difficulties

Answer

Consult at the welfare office of the city hall or at the social welfare council.
Social Inclusion Support Center “Yorisoi Hotline”
Tel: 0120-279-338

Related Web page

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Regarding the Post Office

Answer

The following related pages have guidance in each language.

Related Web page

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Driver's License

Answer

Shiga Prefecture Driver’s License Center
2294 Konohama-cho, Moriyama City
Tel. 077-585-1255

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Acquiring a Driver’s License

Answer

To obtain a new Japanese driver's license for those without a foreign driver’s license, please take the examination in the same way as a Japanese. In this case, you may choose to take the written examination in one of the following languages: Japanese, English, Portuguese or Chinese.
Regarding Japanese traffic rules, the book “Rules of the Road”, issued by JAF, is published in English, Chinese, Spanish and Portuguese.

Related Web page

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Switching foreign driver’s license to Japanese driver’s license

Answer