🇯🇵 Japan

Living in Japan — Reviews & ratings

Choose a base for ordinary life

Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka and smaller regional cities offer different settings for daily life. Start with the location of your work or studies, then compare neighbourhoods around the journeys you would make most often.

A famous district is not necessarily the most comfortable place to live. Nearby supermarkets, quieter streets and a convenient route home may matter more once the novelty of arriving has passed.

Understand the full cost of moving in

When comparing rental properties, ask for a written breakdown of the initial and monthly costs. Depending on the property and agreement, there may be a deposit, agency fees, guarantor charges or a non-refundable payment known as key money. Do not assume every listing includes the same charges.

Look closely at usable space, storage, natural light and sound insulation. Ask what appliances are included and check the arrangements for heating, cooling and internet. A compact apartment can work well if its layout suits your routine.

Try the commute you would actually make

Living near a station does not automatically mean an easy journey. Check the walking distance, transfers and services available at your usual travel times. If you expect to finish work late, look at the last connection home and your alternatives.

In a smaller town or a location outside the main transport routes, investigate whether you would need a car. Compare the complete journey rather than choosing a home by distance alone.

Japanese helps beyond the workplace

Even if your job or studies use English, other parts of life may require Japanese. Rental discussions, medical appointments, school notices and communication with local offices can become easier as your language skills develop.

Before moving, identify the tasks you could manage independently and those where you would need help. Check the language support offered by a particular service instead of assuming it will be available everywhere.

Learn how your neighbourhood works

Small local routines can take time to understand. Ask about rubbish collection, bicycle parking, building rules and shared spaces. Clear guidance at the start can prevent unnecessary confusion with neighbours or a landlord.

Also learn about local emergency information, evacuation locations and the risks relevant to your area. Preparing for unfamiliar situations is part of settling into a new place.

Look beyond the job title

When considering work, ask about the actual schedule, overtime expectations, leave and the language used within the team. An employer’s practices may tell you more about your future routine than a broad description of working life in Japan.

Leave room for life outside work too. Hobbies, neighbourhood activities and regular contact with friends can help an unfamiliar city start to feel like home.

Share the details a visitor would miss

A helpful review explains where and when you lived, your household situation and the reason for your stay. Describe your housing, commute, everyday spending and experience of communicating with people.

Include both what became convenient and what remained difficult. Rate healthcare, education or other services only if you used them personally, and distinguish a short visit from a longer period of residence.