Banks
Unlike in most other countries Automatic Teller Machines are not open 24 hours in Japan. They close at 8 pm. The ATM at our school closes at 6pm. If you withdraw money after 6, you will be charged 105 yen. The same is true if you withdraw on Saturdays and Sundays.

Garbage
In Japan you must separate the garbage into combustible, non-combustible, recyclable, bulky, and toxic garbage. You must take out the garbage to the designated area by 8.30 am on the designated date. Taking out the garbage on the previous night is not allowed.

Post Office
There is a Post Office near the Shimo Gion.Stamp for postcards is 70 yen. Letters (under 35 grams) to Asia is 90 yen. Letters to Europe is 110 yen. But the cheapest way to communicate is by internet. Especially when you can use it for free at the university.

Supermarkets and Convenience Stores
There are several Supermarkets in the Gion area. The ones that I go to most often are Fresta, Izumi, and Yours. The prices are reasonable, so could do your shopping in these supermarkets instead of having to go to the city all the time. These supermarkets close at 9 pm. There are also many convenience stores like 7-eleven, Daily Store, Lawson, etc. While the prices are a bit higher, the convenience stores usually open until late at night. 7-elevens are open 24 hours.