Newcomers to Tsukuba were often confused about the actual structure or location of Tsukuba City Hall for years, wondering with all the branch offices, which City Hall office was THE City Hall? Or, why do locals sometimes refered to these buildings with different names? There was technically no centralized City Hall building per se here in Tsukuba. City Hall was physically divided amongst several buildings spread out in various locations throughout the Tsukuba area.
The reason for this was that Tsukuba City was actually a composite of several local town governments that were merged together over approximately 30 years. Each former Town Hall houses specific departments/divisions of Tsukuba City Hall and had been renamed as a branch office. This explains why you saw different addresses on certain City Hall documents, publications, and why you sometimes had to traverse town depending on which department you were dealing with. Since the Yatabe Branch Office housed the Mayor's Office and City Council, it was designated as the seat of government. However, since the Alien Registration Office was located in the Sakura Branch office, foreign residents would likely go there most often.
City Hall is extremely busy in March/April due to various procedures related to residents moving and other such matters. To make it easier for our residents, we would like to provide the following guidelines which will help you carry out the procedures smoothly.
The procedures for obtaining certain personal documents have become more strict in order to protect private information. For example, when you apply for a copy of your family register or residence certificate (juminhyou), you will be asked to show photo identification (driver's license, passport, etc.). Also, you will be asked to give more information about the reason why you need the copy. The clerk may ask some questions about your intentions. A letter of proxy will be required when applying for these items on behalf of someone who is not your direct relative or who does not live with you.
Topics: City Hall
Relevant for: Newcomers, Residents
Please note: While all efforts have been made to offer accurate and up-to-date information on this site, the information is presented as a guideline and is subject to change without notification. Phone numbers, addresses, and/or policies may have changed since this page was created. Please contact the appropriate section of the City Hall for confirmation of information and city policies.