Shinjuku City Office — Local services in Tokyo

Standard bureaucratic building found anywhere else in the world.

My experience was to register my address as a student - I'll give a brief guide for those nervous on what to do (as of Oct '19):

Go into the main building, take a left and follow it around.

You will see some forms against some pillars. Find the big white one, and fill in as many details as possible of your new address, your personal details, and anyone with you. (Parts are in English - so it's easy to understand what to fill out)

Visit an attendant in a high-vis jacket for a ticket. Now wait to be called - it took me approx 90 minutes to move 40 positions. *The delays often were caused by foreign students (often Chinese students) not have completed the form (Seemingly due to a language barrier - or misunderstanding), or large groups using one ticket. *

Once Called - provide your student pass & form. Correct any errors (if any)

Then wait a bit longer. The next wait was brief for myself (less than 30 min. And was simply receiving the residence...

I visited the National Health Insurance section at Shinjuku City Office around 12:05 PM. Normally, I have very good experiences here — the Japanese staff I’ve met before were always polite, patient, and professional.

But this time, the staff member who assisted me was completely different. She didn’t even bother to explain anything, just give the paper with a very cold and unfriendly attitude (rude). There was no kindness, no effort to communicate, nothing.

It was extremely disappointing and left me with a very bad impression, especially compared to the excellent service I usually...

Best City to live in Japan.

The city office is well organized and highly internationalized, so far the most foreigner freindly city office in Japan I has ever been experienced.

They provides services in many languages, the attitude of the staffs toward foreigners are very very polite and professional. I have never feel misteated by the service provided by this city office, unlike other governmental service in Japan.

So far, I would like to pay gratitude for the government officers in Shinjuku to make our life in Japan lot easier. Truly blessed to stay...