First Night in Japan, how would I go about buying a futon/bed?

[TokyoBound1]

So I've been planning my move to Japan for about 3 years now. I'm nearly finished with University, have just about enough money saved, and have been searching around on Gaijinpot for apartments.

I understand that it is a good idea to find a job and all that jazz, I'm just thinking about this question specifically.

If I were to hop on a plane tomorrow, with living accommodation already secured, and arrived in Tokyo. If my apartment had no furniture, would I just go find a department store and buy a futon? Or would I have to stick out the night with no bed? Sounds a bit silly, but I've been wondering about it for a while. Thanks!

[Effected After]

You could go and buy a futon, but you'd have to figure out a way to get it to the apartment. They are a little big to be carrying on the train, so you'd either need to go to a place within walking distance, or get a taxi.

[TokyoBound1]

Exactly my concern, I know I could buy one but I would probably have to get it delivered because carrying a giant bed on the train would be difficult and weird. Maybe the guest-house option is the only way to go while I get a different apartment situated.

[Effected After]

That is almost definitely your best bet. Renting a normal apartment from overseas is an easy way to open yourself up to paying way more than you should.

[KansaiBen]

Exactly my concern, I know I could buy one but I would probably have to get it delivered because carrying a giant bed on the train would be difficult and weird. Maybe the guest-house option is the only way to go while I get a different apartment situated.

For the record, the futon actually comes in two parts, the bottom section you sleep on which is thicker and firmer and the fluffy large futon (you will need to buy covers as well). In this weather/climate you may not need the top part straight away. All I use is a flannel blanket which is easier to carry. To start with try a Leopalace apartment which is already furnished when you mive in.

[kurogane]

All your problems are solved, my son.

http://www.futon-rental.com/page003.html


Seriously, though, if you can manage to get from the airport to your apartment in time to arrange the purchase or delivery of, I would be very surprised.

I also recommend you just stay in a guest house for the first 2 week or so, anyways, just to find your feet, and make some friends.

Arranging an apartment from home in advance is only advisable for money rich and time poor busy professionals.

Convenient, Yes. Expensive.......hell yes. You will pay about a 20% premium to do that.

That money is better spent on beer, burnt bird, and bodacious babes.

I think your pre-departure jitters are making you overthink stuff.

Relax, and just let the Big Stinky roll over you.

If you have planned for and worked towards living in Japan this long, let it be the Big Adventure, not a little one.

You will never be in danger, and besides, on your first night, standard protocol is to get puking drunk and sleep on a bus stop bench until those older ladies that wake up way too F'in early come trundling along and wake you up out of meddling maternal concern.

Go with the local flow, man.

Good luck, and enjoy.

[TokyoBound1]

hahaha! man, you're spot on.

[kurogane]

Glad it worked.

Besides, when you arrive they'll have Romanised signs at all the train stations.

They didn't in 1987................

Man, did that ever shcrew with my head.


Have a great time.

[vastlife]

I bought a futon at a Super Market (Tokyu Store). Many of the larger supermarkets sell them. There are also home depot like stores in Tokyo, as well as Ikea (probably cheaper). For western style beds, Ikea is probably one of the best places (if you want cheap).
Anyway, when first coming to Tokyo, a share house is probably the best way to go, just to get settled in. That's what I did...for 4 years. (Sakura House) ^_^

[Glenski]

As KB wrote, there is the padding you sleep on, and that will be the heaviest thing to tote. But there is also the matter of sheets, blankets, pillows, pillowcase. You would be pretty busy on that first day anyway, perhaps getting some kitchen utensils, pots, pans, etc. more than anything else. Depending on what time you arrive and how long your flight is, you might be pretty exhausted to do all that shopping and carrying on the same day. So, perhaps arranging a hotel for the first night would be the wisest thing.

[vastlife]

As KB wrote, there is the padding you sleep on, and that will be the heaviest thing to tote. But there is also the matter of sheets, blankets, pillows, pillowcase. You would be pretty busy on that first day anyway, perhaps getting some kitchen utensils, pots, pans, etc. more than anything else. Depending on what time you arrive and how long your flight is, you might be pretty exhausted to do all that shopping and carrying on the same day. So, perhaps arranging a hotel for the first night would be the wisest thing.

This is why I prefer share houses. ^^