Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a major city located in the Chugoku region of southwestern Honshu, Japan's largest island. As the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture, it serves as an important cultural, economic, and educational hub in western Japan. The city is situated on the Ota River Delta, which creates a distinctive landscape of islands and waterways throughout the urban area. Hiroshima has undergone remarkable transformation and development, becoming a modern metropolis with contemporary architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and excellent transportation infrastructure. The city is known for its museums, universities, and cultural institutions that reflect both its historical significance and forward-looking character. Hiroshima offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban amenities, with numerous parks, gardens, and recreational areas. The surrounding region provides access to natural attractions, including nearby mountains and coastal areas. The city maintains strong connections to Japanese arts, crafts, and culinary traditions, with local specialties and regional cuisine drawing visitors and residents alike. Hiroshima's strategic location makes it accessible to other major Japanese cities via the Shinkansen bullet train network.

SJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Japan involves several steps and the process can be quite meticulous, but it is manageable with the right documentation and preparation. The most common types of residency visas include the Highly Skilled Professional Visa, which is aimed at attracting skilled foreign professionals in certain fields; the Working Visa, for those with job offers in Japan in various categories such as Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, or International Services; and the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa, for those who have a family connection to a Japanese citizen. The process typically starts with securing a job offer or sponsorship from a Japanese company or individual, which is necessary for most types of work-related visas. The sponsor in Japan will often assist in the application process and provide necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which is required to apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country. Applicants must submit the COE, a valid passport, visa application form, photograph, and any additional required documents specific to the type of visa they are applying for. The requirements can vary greatly depending on the visa category, so it is crucial to check the specific criteria for the chosen visa type. Once the application is submitted, it can take several weeks to several months for the Japanese authorities to process the visa. If approved, the applicant will receive a visa that allows them to enter Japan. Upon arrival, they must register their residence at the local municipal office and apply for a Residence Card, which is necessary for daily life in Japan. The difficulty of the process can vary based on the applicant's circumstances and the type of visa. Some visas, like the Highly Skilled Professional Visa, have a points-based system and require proof of advanced education and specialized skills. Others, like the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa, may have more straightforward criteria but still require substantial documentation to prove the family relationship. Overall, while the process is systematic and can be time-consuming, it is generally considered average in difficulty compared to other countries, provided that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria and has all the necessary documentation in order.

Best Bookstores and Libraries in Hiroshima

Fun Classes for Expats Living in Hiroshima

Public Transportation in Hiroshima

Best Markets in Hiroshima

Retire in Hiroshima Guide

7 Tips for Living in Hiroshima

Pros & Cons of Living in Hiroshima

Driving in Hiroshima

Discovering the Best of Hiroshima

Health Care in Hiroshima

Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Hiroshima

Cost of Living in Hiroshima

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Hiroshima is moderate compared to major Japanese metropolitan areas like Tokyo and Osaka. Housing, dining, and transportation costs are generally reasonable, making it an accessible city for residents and visitors. Local markets and neighborhood shops offer affordable options for groceries and daily necessities.

Weather

Hiroshima experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, receiving moderate rainfall throughout the year with higher precipitation during the rainy season.

Healthcare in Hiroshima

Hiroshima has well-established healthcare facilities including several major hospitals and medical centers with modern equipment and trained staff. The city's healthcare system is integrated into Japan's universal healthcare system, providing accessible and high-quality medical services. English-speaking medical professionals are available at major hospitals, though availability may vary at smaller facilities.

❮

❯