Japanese Business Glossary

所得証明 (shotoku shomei) translates to "income certificate" in English. It is an official document issued by the local government or tax office in Japan. This document certifies an individual's income for a specified period, usually the previous year. The income certificate is often required for various purposes such as applying for loans or credit, renting an apartment, enrolling children in schools, applying for social benefits, and proving income for visa applications. To obtain an income certificate, you typically need to apply at your local city hall or ward office. You may be required to present identification and pay a small fee. Some municipalities also allow online applications for income certificates.

ネット銀行 (netto ginko) refers to an online bank in Japan. These banks operate primarily through the internet, offering most of their services online rather than through physical branches. Customers can access banking services anytime and anywhere through their computers or smartphones. This includes checking account balances, transferring money, paying bills, and more.

Since online banks do not have the overhead costs associated with maintaining physical branches, they often offer lower fees and higher interest rates on savings accounts compared to traditional banks. Online banks employ advanced security measures to protect customers' information and transactions. This includes encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure login processes.

Some well-known ネット銀行 in Japan include Rakuten Bank, Sony Bank, and SBI Sumishin Net Bank. These banks provide a wide range of financial services similar to those offered by traditional banks. While there are no physical branches, net banks typically offer robust customer support through online chat, email, and phone services to assist with any issues or inquiries.

Overall, ネット銀行 offers a modern and flexible banking solution for individuals who prefer managing their finances digitally.

In Japanese, 資料 (shiryo) means "materials" or "documents." It often refers to written or printed information that is used for reference, study, or presentation purposes. This can include reports, data, records, or any other kind of informational resources.

介護保険施設 (kaigo hoken shisetsu) refers to long-term care insurance facilities in Japan. These facilities provide care and support for elderly individuals who require assistance with daily activities due to physical or mental conditions. The services are funded through Japan's long-term care insurance system, which is designed to ensure that the elderly population receives adequate care.

There are different types of kaigo hoken shisetsu, including special nursing homes for the elderly, geriatric health services facilities, and long-term care medical facilities. These facilities offer various levels of care, ranging from basic support to intensive medical care, depending on the needs of the residents.

交通機関 (kotsu kikan) refers to transportation systems or means of transportation. This term encompasses various forms of transport used to move people and goods from one place to another. Examples include trains, buses, subways, taxis, airplanes, and ships. In Japan, the transportation network is highly developed and includes extensive railway systems, efficient bus services, and convenient domestic flights.

特別清算 (tokubetsu seisan) is a special liquidation process in Japan. It is a legal procedure for dissolving a company that is unable to pay its debts or needs to resolve certain financial issues without going through a standard bankruptcy process.

It is typically initiated by the company's shareholders or creditors. The process requires the appointment of a liquidator, who is responsible for settling the company's debts and distributing any remaining assets. The procedure must be approved by the court, ensuring that the liquidation is conducted fairly and transparently. Special liquidation can be a more straightforward and less costly alternative to standard bankruptcy.

This method is often chosen when there is a consensus among the creditors and shareholders on how to handle the company's assets and liabilities.