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Canuck2112 · Joined: 13 Jun 2003 Posts: 239

I think the food prices in Japan tend to be exaggerated by a lot of people.

As a Canadian I found the grocery store prices here very similar...if not cheaper...to the prices in Canada.

I recommend you learn this Kanji...半額...it means "half off". Stores typically slap these stickers on meat around 8 or 9pm at night. You can save a fortune and the meat is still very fresh...whereas in Canada if you see a half off sticker on meat it has usually turned an unnatural purplish-green colour.

DaleC · Joined: 11 Jan 2008 Posts: 10

Very good to hear. I have heard about the discounted parishable foods after 8PM. Hmm... learning the Kanji is always a good idea. I know I asked about book stores earlier in the city. Do any of them have a good selection of Japanese Language texts for English speakers or should I look at Amazon or pick one up in Tokyo?

Canuck2112 · Joined: 13 Jun 2003 Posts: 239

www.amazon.co.jp

You'll pay half of what you would at most bookstores, plus if you order 1500� or more you'll get free shipping.

DaleC · Joined: 11 Jan 2008 Posts: 10

Ah Amazon, how many times have you saved me money? Excellent. Far cheaper than picking stuff up in Canada and bringing it along with me. Though, I will still bring along my current texts and stuff. Nothing can replace those notes that are written in the margins in hasty hand writing.

worldwide_soul · Joined: 12 Nov 2007 Posts: 16

Amazon is amazing - so cheap to have books shipped directly to your door. They also accept payment on delivery here, so if you're not into paying with a credit card, you can pay when it's delivered.
The International Centre (AIINA) has a small selection of English books in its library also. They're not great, but it is free.

worldwide_soul · Joined: 12 Nov 2007 Posts: 16

Whoops, I just actually read your question and I doubt they have Japanese textbooks. But maybe.

DaleC · Joined: 11 Jan 2008 Posts: 10

Well, learning the language is one of my goals while I am over there. To say the least my current level of skill is not greatest, but baby stepping it is the way to go in my world. I wonder what the NHK education chanel is like. There is a Japanese version of Sesame Street isn't there? Hmm... the possibilities are endless. I should pack my few textbooks if for nothing more then familiarity with how they are layed out.

Appletreesrtall · Joined: 09 Oct 2007 Posts: 56

I'm going to be moving here in the beginning of April X3 It sounds pretty awesome. I didn't want the hustle/bustle of the big cities. All I know is I have to try 福田パン and wanko soba, see the Sakura Blossom tree, and go to all the matsuri festivals!!!