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When you think of The Netherlands, you might picture tulips, windmills, or delicious cheese☆ (Or maybe that's just my own impression after visiting a theme park in Nagasaki.) But if you were to live in The Netherlands, I'm sure you'd be curious about the people, the culture, and the costs of living -- not to mention the Japanese cuisine! Please use this article as a reference to answer some of the curiosities about The Netherlands that you might have (^^♪

【General Information】via the Department of Foreign Affairs

◆Area: 41,864 sq. km (About the same size as Kyushu)

◆Population: 17,085,000 (2/2016; central statistics bureau)

There are about 8,136 Japanese people living in The Netherlands (10/2016; Department of Foreign Affairs)

◆Currency: Euro

【Language】

The main language in The Netherlands is Dutch, but you can likely get by with English. The Netherlands has many immigrants, and therefore many of its people speak English.

However, when it comes to the written language, most things will be in Dutch, such as documents at government offices, or rental contracts. Additionally, the announcements on trains will also be in Dutch. As goes for most foreign countries, you will need to learn the native language to form connections with the people who live there, so try and learn Dutch little by little after you move there and you might find yourself making friends before long.

【Commodities】

Prices in The Netherlands are about the same as in Japan or a bit more expensive. (1 euro = about 126JPY; 2/2019 exchange rate)

・Rent

With a persistent housing shortage over the past few years, rent in The Netherlands is expensive. In main cities such as Amsterdam, it will be hard to find somewhere cheaper than 1,200 euro, or 1,300 euro for a two bedroom apartment. It will be cheaper the further away you live from the heart of the city. Many people will also live in share houses, where the rent is about 800 euro. Unlike Japan, many apartments come furnished, which will make the move a bit easier♪

・Utlities and Internet

Utilities are about the same or a little more expensive than Japan. And phone plans and internet are much cheaper than in Japan. It appears that a good number of rental properties will include utilities and internet in the monthly rent.

・Food

Eating out is more expensive than in Japan, but cooking at home is cheaper. Super markets are not that expensive, but shopping at small local markets can find you some cheaper produce and products at a lower cost♪
※If your employer offers in-house meals, your food costs won't be very high at all!

・Transportation

Public transportation on the bus or tram costs about 1-2.5 euro. Most of the towns are rather small, so riding a bicycle might be the best choice♪

The hardest expense to overlook is undoubtedly rent. But if you can find an affordable place to live, it should be smooth sailing from there.

【Tax】

Taxes are high in The Netherlands. Income tax depends on your annual salary and is anywhere from 19-52%. Your employer will deduct taxes from your salary, but unlike Japan, you will have the individual responsibility of reporting your income. They have many requirements and legislations regarding filing taxes, so it's something you'll want to pay close attention to.

【Visa】

You will need a work visa to work legally in The Netherlands. The type you need will vary depending on your type of work.

【Safety】

You can say that The Netherlands is relatively safe; however, as certain drugs and marijuana are legal, you might come across trouble with other people, or pickpockets and the like, which is a common concern when living outside of Japan. But at events with many people, there are often many police on patrol and there are a lot of security cameras about the city, so you will be able to lead your daily life without having to worry too much. But the most important thing will to be aware of yourself and your surroundings.

【Japanese Culture】

In recent years, Japanese manga and anime has become increasingly popular within The Netherlands. Particularly, people love the Japanese foods that appear in this media, such as udon, ramen, takoyaki, onigiri, donburi and more... Amidst a health food craze, the popularity of Washoku fits right in! Even smaller towns and cities will have Japanese restaurants.

The Netherlands has some special and surprising aspects to it, but what do you think? Writing this article made me want to visit The Netherlands, myself ^^ It is a big risk transferring jobs to live abroad, but it is a wonderful opportunity to challenge yourself and achieve your dreams!