Pros and Cons of Living in Tokyo
Last updated on May 06, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Tokyo, Japan include the city's vibrant culture, excellent public transportation system, and abundance of job opportunities. Tokyo is also a safe city with a low crime rate and a high quality of life. On the other hand, the cost of living in Tokyo is very high, and the city can be quite crowded and noisy. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Japanese.
What are the pros and cons of living in Tokyo?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Tokyo responded:
"Expats and digital nomads generally like the following aspects of living in Tokyo: 1. Efficient and extensive public transportation system: Tokyo has a world-class public transportation system that is clean, punctual, and easy to navigate. 2. Safety and low crime rates: Tokyo is known for its safety, with low crime rates and a strong sense of security. 3. Rich culture and history: Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture, with numerous historical sites, museums, and cultural events to explore. 4. Excellent food scene: Tokyo is a food lover's paradise, with a wide variety of cuisines, from traditional Japanese dishes to international fare. 5. High-quality healthcare: Japan has a well-regarded healthcare system, with modern facilities and highly skilled medical professionals. 6. Cleanliness and orderliness: Tokyo is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained public spaces. 7. Access to nature: Despite being a bustling metropolis, Tokyo has many parks and green spaces, as well as easy access to nearby mountains and beaches for outdoor enthusiasts. However, there are also some aspects that expats and digital nomads may dislike about living in Tokyo: 1. High cost of living: Tokyo is an expensive city, with high costs for housing, transportation, and dining out. 2. Language barrier: While English is spoken in some areas, it is not as widely spoken as in other major cities, which can make daily life challenging for those who do not speak Japanese. 3. Work culture: Japan is known for its demanding work culture, with long hours and a strong emphasis on company loyalty, which may not suit everyone. 4. Crowdedness and lack of personal space: Tokyo is a densely populated city, which can lead to crowded public transportation and limited personal space. 5. Difficulty in finding housing: It can be challenging for foreigners to find suitable housing in Tokyo, as many landlords may be hesitant to rent to non-Japanese tenants. 6. Limited social integration: Some expats and digital nomads may find it difficult to make local friends and fully integrate into Japanese society. 7. Humidity and weather: Tokyo's summers can be hot and humid, which may be uncomfortable for some people," wrote one expat in Tokyo.
"The city is safe and clean, people are generally friendly, the food is very good quality. It's hard to talk to locals, they don't engage much with each other unless you're a colleague or friend. It can feel lonely as an expat," explained one expat living in Tokyo.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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