Toyota City Guide

Local dishes include Miso Katsu, Hitsumabushi, and Tebasaki. Limited international options but some Chinese, Korean, and Western food choices. Vegetarian and vegan options are scarce.

Nightlife is modest, mostly izakayas, karaoke bars, and a few pubs. No major club scene.

Developing coffee scene with local cafes and Japanese kissaten-style shops.

Tipping is not expected and can be seen as rude.

Buy SIM cards at Chubu Centrair Airport or electronics stores in bigger cities. Providers include NTT Docomo, au, SoftBank, and MVNOs like UQ Mobile. Passport required for registration.

Streets are very clean, waste separation and recycling are highly organized.

Convenience stores are open 24/7, but pharmacies and clinics close early. Some eateries open late.

Supermarkets like Aeon, Apita, and Valor sell groceries with limited international options. Most open from 9 or 10 AM to 9 or 10 PM and stay open on Sundays.

Japan relies mostly on cash, though cards are accepted in bigger stores and restaurants. Many small places still need cash.

ATMs are common in convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and post offices. International cards usually work but watch for withdrawal fees.

Local schools teach in Japanese. International schools like Nagoya International School are in nearby Nagoya, often requiring early applications.

Very small or non-existent digital nomad community in Toyota. Most nomad activity is in bigger cities.

Several parks and riversides with shaded walking paths and good running infrastructure.

Safe and scenic running routes at Toyota City Park and along the Yahagi River.

Several gyms and public sports centers available.

Public and private tennis courts available, often need advance booking.

Padel courts are rare and generally not available in Toyota.

Multiple yoga studios offer various classes, though English-speaking instructors are limited.

Dojo options for Judo, Karate, Kendo, with local competitions. English instruction may be limited.

Ski resorts are 2-3 hours away in Gifu and Nagano, open December to March with rentals available.

Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding available in local lakes and coastal areas with rentals and tours.

Surf spots like Irago Beach are 1.5 to 2 hours away, with wetsuits needed except in summer. Suitable for all skill levels.

Diving spots are several hours away on the coast, best in summer and early autumn.

Good quality healthcare with some English-speaking staff at major hospitals nearby, including Toyota Memorial Hospital. Pharmacies are common and offer OTC meds.

Tap water is safe to drink and strictly controlled.

Good family facilities with parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly family restaurants. Key attractions include the Toyota Kaikan Museum and Toyota City Museum.

Generally tolerant but limited visible community and safe spaces in Toyota. Legal protections are few.

Pet policies are strict with limited pet-friendly places. Veterinary services and pet supplies are available.