Finding Furnishings
Okay, so now you are all set up in your new abode, providing the place is not furnished, the next thing to look at is where to pick up reasonably priced furniture.
You may have heard how Japanese people just throw out furniture, electrical appliances, and other pre-loved items, on the monthly ebig rubbish daysf. But unfortunately that was in the good old days. Nowadays people have to pay for their old things to be collected. The fee depends on the price determined by the local government but as an example 2000 yen may be imposed on a fridge.
Recycle shops
These used to be hard to find but now with the downturn in the economy they have been popping up here and there. If you choose to shop in a recycle store just make sure they will deliver the goods for a price that you can live with. If you are buying a few things at once you maybe able to bargain down the price. But you should also be aware that any product guarantees offered will only be short.
Sayonara Sales
There will be a section in your local foreignerfs magazine that will say eSayonara Salef.
As it is expensive to send things overseas people who have finished their spurt in Japan advertise to get rid of all their excess belongings. Some real bargains can be found here. However if purchasing a used phone line make sure it is a clean one, nobody wants to be left with someone elsefs bills.
In Kansai check out the Kansai Time Out and Kansai Flea Market magazines. I especially recommend the Kansai Flea Market because there are new issues weekly so the advertisements are new, and itfs free.
Websites and Auctions
I discovered a website that definitely is worth taking a look at if you are either in the position of requiring household items or wanting to sell up before you head home. The site is called eeDeshof. Take a peek.
I have also bought things by Yahoo Auction in Japan but your Japanese skills must be good enough to read and write fluently to be able to get yourself through the auction.
Interior
Depending on your budget there are numerous choices. Two, for people with limited budgets, are flea markets and 100 yen shops. Flea markets are advertised in foreign magazines and are a fun way to spend a morning. (Ifve even participated selling in one!) 100 yen shops are a great way to get new things cheaply, but they all stock different lines so donft buy the last two cups at one store hoping to find another matching two at another.
I hope this helps. If you have anything to add please let me and others know by sending me an email.
