If you intend to stay in Japan for a long period of time, you might consider applying for Permanent Resident visa (status). These are the requirements :

• Good behavior and conduct (no criminal records, payment of taxes...)
• Having sufficient assets or ability to make an independent living (stable job, enough savings...)
• 10 years of consecutive residence in Japan, which should include 5 years of residence under working visa (status of residence) or those granted according to the family status (Spouse of Japanese national, Long Term Resident...)
• Your current visa (status of residence) having the longest period of stay (3 years in most cases)
• More than 3 years of marriage for the spouses of Japanese nationals and Permanent Residents including more than one year of residence in Japan
• More than one year of residence for children of Japanese nationals and Permanent Residents.
• More than 5 years of residence in Japan as a Long Term Resident or a refugee
• More than 5 years of residence in Japan for those who have been recognized for having made a considerable contribution to Japan in diplomatic, social, economical and cultural fields.

It is necessary to provide with the Certificate of Tax Payment (nozei shomeisho to be obtaind at the local city hall/ward office) for the last 3 years.

The application for Permanent Resident could take a very long time to be processed (6 to 8 months in general) and you still have to renew your current visa (status of residence) if it will expire before your Permanent Resident application is approved.