Retire in Tokyo

"Retiring in Tokyo can be a great experience. With its vibrant culture and history, you'll find plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. There are numerous gorgeous parks and gardens throughout the city, providing a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The local food culture is excellent, and there is a multitude of different culinary experiences available. Public transportation is excellent within the city, making getting around stress-free. Additionally, there are plenty of senior discounts available at local attractions and shops. Security is also quite solid in Tokyo, giving retirees a sense of safety and peace of mind. Healthcare and other services are also readily available, providing excellent access to the necessary amenities. Overall, there’s no shortage of things to do and explore when retiring in Tokyo," said a person in Tokyo.

"Make sure to research the country you plan on retiring to thoroughly. Consider the cost of living, the quality of healthcare, the climate, tax obligations and health insurance. Additionally, think about how you will create community and how you will communicate with people who do not speak the same language as you. Talk to other expats about their experience of living overseas and be sure to get to know the culture, history and traditions of the country before you move. Visit the country a few times before taking the plunge and make sure you are comfortable with the area. Finally, ensure that you have a comprehensive plan for keeping in touch with family and friends at home," said one retiree in living in Tokyo, Japan.

"Finding an affordable and comfortable living space in Tokyo can be challenging as the city is very densely populated and rental prices can be high. Another challenge may be adapting to the culture and language, as Tokyo is quite different from most Western cities. Financing a retirement in Japan can also be difficult as pensions and investments may not offer the same returns as they do in other countries. Additionally, finding medical services and support specifically for seniors can be a challenge. Lastly, Tokyo can be a difficult place to navigate for a newcomer due to its large size and complicated public transportation system," said a retiree who moved to Tokyo, Japan.

"Retiring in Tokyo can be a rewarding experience for those looking to experience a bustling and vibrant city. The city offers many amenities such as world-class healthcare, an efficient and reliable public transportation system, affordable housing, and a low crime rate. Moreover, Tokyo provides various cultural and recreational activities ranging from museums and cultural institutions to parks and gardens; you can find something to keep you entertained. Additionally, there’s easy access to national parks, mountains, and beaches, and many opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture and cuisine. Tokyo's seniors also benefit from Japan's generous social security-system, which pays part of their income and provides numerous benefits such as access to discounted travel and leisure services," explained one retiree living in Tokyo.

"Tokyo provides a wide range of healthcare services, with high-quality medical care available from both private and public facilities. Private facilities tend to offer the latest in medical technologies and treatments, while public facilities offer more affordable care for those without insurance or with budget limitations. In addition, there is a wide range of preventative and community health services available, including mental health services, elderly care, and health education. Tokyo also boasts a diverse range of traditional forms of healing and therapy, such as shiatsu, acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medicine," said a retiree who moved to Tokyo, Japan.

"Tokyo is a great city for meeting people and making new friends. There are many great ways to meet people such as joining a local class or club, going to a language exchange event, using social media apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing, or networking events such as those hosted by coworking spaces like Tokyo Creative Lab. You can also find local events and festivals, get involved in the volunteer scene, or use websites like Meetup to find events and activities that interest you. No matter what you decide to do, there are plenty of chances to make new friends and meet interesting people in Tokyo," said a retiree who moved to Tokyo, Japan.

"Living in Tokyo as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's unique culture, cuisine, and nightlife, as well as its modern infrastructure and efficient public transportation system. Tokyo is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. The cost of living in Tokyo can be high, but there are plenty of affordable housing options available. With its excellent healthcare system, reliable internet, and abundance of coworking spaces, Tokyo is an ideal destination for digital nomads," explained one retiree living in Tokyo.

"-Make sure to research the cost of living in Tokyo to ensure you can afford to live comfortably. -Find out if the area you want to live in has access to services like hospitals and transportation. -Understand the local language or make sure you can access multiple services if you are unable to speak Japanese. -Be aware of any visa or residency requirements for long-term stays. -Find out about any taxes or other financial obligations that may affect your retirement. -Look into the availability of leisure activities in the area. -Familiarize yourself with cultural customs and common social norms of the area. -Have a plan in place for health and medical care while living in Tokyo. -Ensure you have easy access to banking, travel and communication services," explained a retiree in Tokyo.

"1. Yoyogi Park: Yoyogi Park is a large, urban park in Tokyo, featuring spacious lawns, ponds, and forested areas, making it a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and various outdoor activities. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. 2. Ueno Park: Ueno Park is a vast public park in central Tokyo, home to several museums, a zoo, and numerous temples and shrines. The park is particularly famous for its cherry blossoms, which attract thousands of visitors during the spring season. 3. Odaiba: Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, featuring a wide range of recreational facilities, including shopping malls, amusement parks, museums, and beaches. Some popular attractions include the Odaiba Seaside Park, Palette Town, and the Miraikan science museum. 4. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Shinjuku Gyoen is a large, beautifully landscaped park in the heart of Tokyo, featuring traditional Japanese gardens, a greenhouse, and vast lawns. The park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and picnics. 5. Roppongi Hills: Roppongi Hills is a modern, upscale complex in Tokyo, featuring shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural facilities. The complex includes the Mori Art Museum, a cinema, and an observation deck with panoramic views of the city. 6. Asakusa: Asakusa is a historic district in Tokyo, known for its traditional atmosphere and the famous Senso-ji Temple. The area offers various recreational activities, including rickshaw rides, traditional Japanese theater performances, and shopping for souvenirs along the Nakamise shopping street. 7. Meiji Shrine: Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. The shrine is surrounded by a large, serene forest, making it a popular spot for peaceful walks and meditation. 8. Akihabara: Akihabara is a bustling district in Tokyo, known for its electronics shops, anime and manga stores, and maid cafes. The area is a popular destination for fans of Japanese pop culture and offers various recreational activities, including arcade gaming and shopping for unique souvenirs. 9. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are two popular theme parks located in the Tokyo Disney Resort. Both parks offer a wide range of attractions, shows, and parades, providing fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages. 10. Oedo Onsen Monogatari: Oedo Onsen Monogatari is a hot spring theme park in Tokyo, featuring various types of baths, saunas, and relaxation areas. The park also offers traditional Japanese entertainment, such as festival games and performances, as well as dining and shopping options," explained one member in Tokyo.

"Again, Tokyo is huge. There is every kind of recreational activity is available. The trouble is going out and finding it in the big city. Some popular ones are Golf ranges, Swimming pools, hiking, baseball, and soccer," said one retiree in Tokyo.

"Expats in Tokyo often shop for groceries at various supermarkets, department stores, and local markets. Some popular options include: 1. National Azabu: (https://www.national-azabu.com/) - A well-known supermarket in Hiroo, National Azabu offers a wide range of international products, including fresh produce, meats, and imported goods. It is a favorite among expats for its selection of Western products and English-speaking staff. 2. Nissin World Delicatessen: (https://www.nissinham.co.jp/nwd/) - Located in Azabu-Juban, Nissin World Delicatessen is a large supermarket that specializes in imported foods from around the world. They offer a variety of products, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and wines, making it a popular choice for expats looking for familiar items from their home countries. 3. Seijo Ishii: (https://www.seijoishii.co.jp/) - With multiple locations across Tokyo, Seijo Ishii is a high-end supermarket that offers a wide range of international and Japanese products. They are known for their selection of gourmet items, including cheeses, wines, and specialty foods. 4. Aeon: (https://www.aeon.info/en/) - Aeon is a large retail chain in Japan that operates various types of stores, including supermarkets, department stores, and shopping malls. Their supermarkets offer a mix of Japanese and international products at reasonable prices, making them a popular choice for expats. 5. Isetan: (https://isetan.mistore.jp/store/shinjuku/index.html) - Isetan is a high-end department store located in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Their food hall, known as the "depachika," offers a wide range of Japanese and international products, including fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods. Expats often visit Isetan for its quality products and unique food items. 6. Tsukiji Outer Market: (http://www.tsukiji.or.jp/english/) - The Tsukiji Outer Market is a famous fish market in Tokyo that also offers a variety of other food products, including fresh produce, meats, and specialty items. Expats often visit the market to buy fresh seafood and experience the lively atmosphere. 7. Don Quijote: (https://www.donki.com/en/) - Don Quijote is a discount store chain in Japan that offers a wide range of products, including groceries, household items, and electronics. Expats often shop at Don Quijote for its low prices and unique selection of items. 8. Costco: (https://www.costco.co.jp/) - Costco is a membership-based warehouse club that offers a wide range of products, including groceries, household items, and electronics, at wholesale prices. There are several Costco locations in the Tokyo area, and many expats choose to shop there for bulk items and familiar products from their home countries," wrote one person in Tokyo.

"There are grocery stores everywhere. Finding a good grocery store within walking distance of your home is important. Also, people like to get food at convenience stores and those are on every corner," explained one retiree living in Tokyo.