Moving to Japan

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Japan for its unique culture, delicious food, and friendly people. Additionally, Japan is known for its efficient public transportation, modern infrastructure, and low crime rate. People looking to move to Japan can find a place to live by searching online for rental properties, or by using a real estate agent. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Japan are Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. These cities offer a wide range of activities, attractions, and amenities for expats and digital nomads.

What do I need to know before moving to Japan?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Japan, they said:

"Bring as little as possible. You don't need a lot of stuff and you can find a lot of it here already. The fees to actually move into a place are insane, maybe 3-6 times the monthly rent. So save up, and consider getting a roommate or staying in a sharehouse. Choose a neighborhood that is more residential. You will have more services nearby geared towards you, like gyms, libraries, parks, and grocery stores. Things will feel more calm. You might see some trees, too. Also, find a place that is near the places you will frequent. If you work, find a place where it is easy to commute from. If you have a hobby, find a place that has access to the hobby space you want to use. If you know Japanese, I'd try to find an apartment without a real estate agent. It feels like they do next to nothing for a full month's rent price," said one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Think small. A lot of American furniture won't fit in the pats here. I would come with my important papers & luggage. get your place then shop & have furniture delivered. Or by used from craigslist or recycle or 2nd hand stores. There are plenty! There are food places all over mexican, Italian, Indian, Outback, TGIF,. I'm an hour from Tokyo. It's easy to find food places you like. Average meal 10-12.00 to eat out, train ride 6-8.00 each way to Tokyo. Plus size clothes are very rare to find. If you a small person you will find your size clothes," explained one expat living in Kanagawa Perfecture, Japan.

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How do I find a place to live in Japan?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"I live on base but I have lived off base before. They don't insulate their homes out in Japan. I would suggest a electric blanket., Space heaters for your rooms for the winter. I know the military use gas ones not elec," explained one expat living in Kanagawa Perfecture, Japan.

"My husband's company gave us a real estate agent. We told her what we were looking for, and our price range. We also brought our dog with us, so it was much more difficult to find a place. Most places that allowed dogs were much more expensive," said one expat in Tokyo.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Japan?

"Typically in flats, houses are rather expensive an full of many small rooms, which for my taste is unpractical," replied a member in Tokyo.

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What is the average cost of housing in Japan?

If you are thinking about moving to Japan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Electricity is high!!!!! No insulation. Get gas space heaters for the rooms to stay warm in the winter. The stackable washer dryer is what we had but the vent didn't vent to the outside . They had it come back inside which caused a major mildew problem in the bathroom. A lot of Japanese wash their clothes but hang their clothes on the balcony to dry. It is subtropical here so there is a lot of moisture in the air. Bleach will be your best friend to keep down on the mold in your restroom," said one expat in Kanagawa Perfecture.

"Housing costs are at least double what we paid in Texas. We had an 800 sqft apartment in Texas for about $900 a month. Here, for the same amount of space we pay close to $2000 US. For apartments catering to executives and foreigners, look to pay between 3000-$5000 US. For a traditional apartment, depending on the area, anywhere from $500US-$1000US," said one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Japan?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Japan, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Japan can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Japan, as well as the cost of purchasing a home. Renting a home in Japan can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the country without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Japan can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different area or change your living arrangements more easily than if you had purchased a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Japan depends on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat who made the move to Japan.

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What should I pack when moving to Japan?

We asked people living in Japan to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"I wish we had brought: box fans (it gets really hot here in the summer, and there is no central AC.) A roaster oven or convection oven. Traditional Japanese apartments don't have ovens. Food, including sugary cereals, Gatorade drink mix, and sweets. The "sweets" they sell here are very different. I wish we had left: some of my clothes, our golf clubs," said one expat in Tokyo.

"Book, lots and lots of books, there really isn't much of a selection of books or magazines here unless you are willing to fork out around 15-20 dollars per magazine. Hienz canned tomato soup, soup here costs around 7 dollars per tin and is very salted. A Plasma, they are half the price here and you can get international ones," said one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Japan?

We asked people in Japan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"When leaving a business meeting, the Japanese walk you out and after you leave, you're supposed to turn around and bow, which I wasn't aware of until someone from my office explained it to me. I had just been walking out of the buildings whenever I had a meeting," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"I said "Arigato" to a man I passed ( which means Thank You) when I meant to say Ohiyo gzamuz ( which means Good Morning!) My son said, why did you tell that man Thank you? I laughed & said I was nervous," said one expat in Ayase- Kanagawa Perfecture.

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Why do people move to Japan?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Japan, they responded:

"Expatriates are drawn to Japan for its unique culture, rich history, and modern lifestyle. Japan is known for its high quality of life, with excellent public transportation, low crime rates, and a strong economy. The country also offers a wide variety of job opportunities, from traditional Japanese companies to international corporations. Additionally, Japan is home to a diverse range of attractions, from ancient temples and shrines to modern cities and bustling nightlife. With its unique blend of old and new, Japan is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," said one expat living in Japan.

"Foreigners move to Tokyo to experience the big, foreign city. In Tokyo, there is never a lack of things to do. It is always bustling and full of surprises," offered one expat living in Tokyo.

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How are healthcare services Japan?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Japan, they replied:

"Research clinics and hospitals online that are English-speaking beforehand. Contact clinics to ask if they perform certain procedures. Learn some common words to ask for specific things if you have to go to a Japanese-speaking clinic or hospital. Hospitals will not coddle you - you must advocate for yourself and be firm if you are having certain issues. Otherwise they may rush you out after a quick once-over," remarked one expat in Tokyo.

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What are medical services in Japan like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Japan, they replied:

"In Japan, medical services are highly advanced and of a very high quality. The country has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides access to a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Japan also has a well-developed network of hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals. Patients can expect to receive personalized care and attention, and the latest medical technology is often used to ensure the best possible outcomes," wrote one expat living in Japan.

"It is difficult to find English speaking health providers, but they do exist. The healthcare culture is very rushed and you must be clear about what you need, otherwise the doctor isn't going to take the time to figure it out for you," commented one expat living in Tokyo.

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Moving to Japan

What do I need to know before moving to Japan?

How do I find a place to live in Japan?

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Japan?

What is the average cost of housing in Japan?

Should I buy or rent a home in Japan?

What should I pack when moving to Japan?

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Japan?

Why do people move to Japan?

How are healthcare services Japan?

What are medical services in Japan like?

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