Hello,

I'm about to come to Tokyo to work on my PhD.

I suffer from high blood pressure and have to keep a low sodium diet in order to properly manage it. What are the options for people like me? Are there salt-free foods available in the local supermarkets or groceries? When you go to restaurants, is it ok to ask for a salt-free meal or is it considered impolite? Any foods I should stay away from in particular?

Upon arrival, are there any problems if you have in your luggage, say, a two- or three-month supply of your prescription drugs? What about a year worth? What sort of accompanying papers should you carry? Does a medical letter from your personal physician or cardiologist translated into English (perhaps even legalized by a Notary Public) suffice?

Also, does anyone know what the policy is concerning receiving prescription meds through shipping services such as DHL or FedEx? What sort of accompanying papers you must have and what is the maximum quantity allowed?

Thank you in advance for your kind assistance.