Complete Guide to Moving to Japan in 2025

Japan consistently ranks among the most desirable relocation destinations in the world, and for good reason. With its blend of cutting-edge technology, world-class healthcare, unmatched safety, and a culture that values precision and hospitality, Japan offers a quality of life that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Whether you’re a remote worker eyeing Tokyo’s vibrant tech scene, a family seeking Osaka’s affordable urban lifestyle, or a creative drawn to Kyoto’s timeless charm, this guide covers everything you need to make the move.

Japan stands out because it offers not just one great city but three world-class options: Tokyo for tech and scale, Osaka for affordability and food culture, and Kyoto for history and calm — each appealing to different lifestyles and budgets.

Visa Options for Moving to Japan

Japan has historically been one of the trickier countries for long-term stays, but recent policy changes have opened significant new pathways for foreign residents.

Digital Nomad Visa (Introduced 2024)

In 2024, Japan launched its much-anticipated Digital Nomad visa, allowing remote workers employed by companies outside Japan to live in the country for up to six months. Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least ¥10 million (roughly $68,000 USD) and hold health insurance valid in Japan. This visa is a game-changer for the remote work community — Japan went from being essentially off-limits for nomads to one of the most attractive options in Asia overnight.

6-Month Remote Work Visa

Building on the Digital Nomad visa framework, Japan’s 6-month remote work visa targets professionals who want a longer stay without committing to a full work sponsorship. It’s renewable under certain conditions and doesn’t require a Japanese employer sponsor. For many relocators, this is the most practical entry point.

Work Visa (Engineer / Specialist in Humanities)

The traditional route requires sponsorship from a Japanese company. Categories include Engineer, Specialist in Humanities / International Services, and Intra-company Transferee. Processing typically takes 1-3 months, and the visa is granted for 1, 3, or 5 years. The tech sector in Tokyo actively recruits English-speaking engineers, making this more accessible than many assume.

Student Visa

Enrolling in a Japanese language school or university grants a student visa for up to 2 years. Students can work up to 28 hours per week (40 hours during school breaks). Many relocators use this as a stepping stone — learn the language, build a network, then transition to a work visa.

Highly Skilled Professional Visa

Japan’s points-based Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa fast-tracks permanent residency. If you score 70+ points based on education, income, and experience, you can apply for PR after just three years (or one year with 80+ points). This is one of the fastest PR pathways of any developed nation.

Cost of Living: Tokyo vs Osaka vs Kyoto

Japan’s cost of living varies significantly by city. Tokyo is undeniably expensive by Asian standards but remains competitive with Western capitals like London or New York. Osaka and Kyoto offer substantially lower costs while maintaining excellent infrastructure.

A few important notes on these figures: Japan’s weak yen (hovering around ¥148–155 per USD through 2024–2025) has made the country significantly more affordable for anyone earning in dollars, euros, or pounds. What was once a premium destination is now genuinely mid-range for Western earners. Osaka in particular offers remarkable value — world-class food, excellent transit, and a lively culture at roughly 60–70% of Tokyo’s cost.

Housing: Key Money, Guarantors, and the Rental System

Japan’s rental system has unique features that catch newcomers off guard. Understanding these upfront will save you time, money, and frustration.

Key Money (Reikin)

Key money is a non-refundable “gift” to the landlord, typically equal to 1–2 months’ rent. It’s an old tradition that persists in many listings, though zero-key-money apartments are increasingly common, especially in newer buildings and through foreigner-friendly agencies.

Guarantor (Hoshounin) Requirements

Most landlords require a Japanese guarantor — someone who will cover your rent if you default. As a foreigner without local connections, you’ll typically use a guarantor company (hoshougaisha) instead, which charges 50–100% of one month’s rent as a fee. Some agencies like GaijinPot Apartments, Real Estate Japan, and Village House specialize in foreigner-friendly rentals that streamline this process.

Move-in Costs

Budget for 4–6 months’ rent upfront when signing a lease. This covers first month’s rent, security deposit (shikikin), key money, guarantor company fee, fire insurance, and agency fee. For a ¥100,000/mo apartment in Osaka, expect initial costs of ¥400,000–600,000 ($2,700–4,000 USD). In Tokyo, double that for a comparable central location.

Pro tip: Furnished apartments and share houses (like Oakhouse or Social Apartment) let you skip most upfront fees and sign month-to-month. They’re ideal for the first few months while you find your bearings.

Healthcare: Universal Coverage Ranked Top 10 Globally

Japan’s healthcare system is universally regarded as one of the best in the world, ranking in the top 10 globally for healthcare quality, accessibility, and affordability. Here’s what you need to know:

• National Health Insurance (NHI): All residents, including foreign nationals on visas longer than 3 months, must enroll. Premiums are income-based, typically ¥15,000–40,000/month ($100–270 USD).
• Coverage: NHI covers 70% of medical costs. You pay 30% out of pocket. A typical doctor’s visit costs $10–30 after insurance.
• Prescription drugs: Heavily subsidized. Monthly medication costs are a fraction of US prices.
• Wait times: Generally short. Walk-in clinics are common, and you can often see a specialist the same week.
• English-speaking doctors: Available in Tokyo and Osaka at international clinics. Less common in Kyoto and smaller cities — apps like Hospital Navi help locate English-friendly facilities.

For Digital Nomad visa holders, private health insurance valid in Japan is required. Plans through companies like SafetyWing or World Nomads typically run $70–150/month and satisfy the visa requirement.

Safety: One of the Safest Countries on Earth

Japan’s safety scores are extraordinary by any global standard. The country’s violent crime rate is among the lowest in the world, and petty crime is remarkably rare. Lost wallets are routinely returned with cash intact. Women regularly walk alone at night without concern. Children commute on public transit independently from elementary school age.

Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto all benefit from this safety culture. The only real “safety” considerations are natural disasters — earthquakes and typhoons. Japan’s building codes and disaster preparedness infrastructure are world-leading, but it’s worth familiarizing yourself with earthquake procedures and registering for the government’s early warning system.

Internet and Connectivity

Japan is a fiber-first country. Home internet plans commonly deliver 100–1,000 Mbps for ¥4,000–6,000/month ($27–40 USD). Major providers include NTT FLET’S, au Hikari, and NURO (which offers 2 Gbps plans). Setup can take 2–4 weeks and requires a technician visit, so factor this into your move timeline.

Mobile data is affordable: plans with 20 GB start at ¥2,000/month ($13 USD) from MVNOs like Ahamo, LINEMO, or Povo. Free Wi-Fi is available at most convenience stores, train stations, and cafes, though speeds vary. For remote workers, the coworking scene in Tokyo is extensive — spaces like WeWork, Fabbit, and andwork are popular. Osaka and Kyoto have fewer options but are growing rapidly.

Culture and the Language Barrier

Let’s be direct: Japan has a real language barrier. English proficiency ranks low among developed nations (EF EPI ranks Japan #87 globally), and daily life — from reading your gas bill to visiting a doctor — often requires Japanese. That said, the situation is improving, especially in Tokyo, and technology has narrowed the gap significantly.

Practical Language Tips

• Learn hiragana and katakana before you arrive (1–2 weeks of study). This unlocks menus, signs, and basic navigation.
• Google Translate’s camera mode handles kanji on signs, menus, and documents in real-time.
• Many municipal offices now offer multilingual support windows.
• Tokyo’s Minato, Shibuya, and Shinjuku wards have the most English-friendly services.
• Japanese language schools (like GenkiJACS, Coto Academy) offer intensive courses that pair well with a student or working holiday visa.

Cultural Adjustment

Japan’s culture rewards patience, observation, and respect for local norms. Punctuality matters. Noise levels on public transit are kept low. Garbage sorting follows strict rules (and varies by municipality). Tipping is not practiced and can cause confusion. Building relationships takes time, but the depth of connection you can form in Japanese communities is deeply rewarding.

Best Cities for Expats in Japan

Tokyo (#4 Globally)

Tokyo is the default choice for most relocators, and with good reason. It has the largest English-speaking expat community, the most job opportunities, world-class transit, and an endless supply of things to do. The downside is cost and density — apartments are small and expensive by Japanese standards, though still reasonable compared to London or San Francisco.

Best neighborhoods for expats: Shibuya (young, tech-forward), Minato/Roppongi (international), Meguro (quieter, family-friendly), Nakano (affordable, great food), Kichijoji (green space, artsy).

Osaka (#14 Globally)

Osaka is Japan’s underrated gem for relocators. It’s significantly cheaper than Tokyo, with a warmer and more outgoing local culture. The food scene is legendary — Osaka is called Japan’s “kitchen” for a reason. The expat community is smaller but growing fast, and the city is a hub for Kansai region exploration.

Best neighborhoods for expats: Namba (central, vibrant), Umeda/Kita (business district, modern), Tennoji (affordable, local character), Kitahama (riverside, quiet).

Kyoto (#29 Globally)

Kyoto is ideal for those seeking a slower pace without sacrificing urban convenience. The city is compact, bikeable, and steeped in history. Housing is the most affordable of the three, and the cultural richness is unmatched. The trade-off is a smaller job market and fewer English-speaking services.

Best neighborhoods for expats: Kawaramachi (central, walkable), Sakyo (university area, international), Nishijin (traditional, affordable), Fushimi (suburban, spacious).

Transportation: Bullet Trains, Subways, and Getting Around

Japan’s transportation infrastructure is among the best on the planet. You almost certainly will not need a car in any of the three major cities.

• Shinkansen (Bullet trains): Connect Tokyo to Osaka in 2.5 hours and Kyoto in 2 hours 15 minutes. Fares run ¥13,000–14,000 ($88–95 USD) one-way.
• Subway and rail: Tokyo Metro, Osaka Metro, and Kyoto’s bus/rail network are efficient, clean, and punctual to the second. Monthly commuter passes cost $50–120 depending on distance.
• IC Cards: Get a Suica or ICOCA card for seamless tap-and-go across all transit systems, convenience stores, and vending machines.
• Cycling: Hugely popular, especially in Kyoto and Osaka. Used bikes cost ¥5,000–15,000 ($34–100 USD). Register your bike to avoid police stops.
• Driving: Not recommended in cities. If needed outside urban areas, an International Driving Permit works for one year, after which you’ll need a Japanese license.

Food Costs and Eating Well on a Budget

Japan is a food paradise at every price point. Eating well on a budget is not just possible — it’s easy.

• Convenience stores (konbini): 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart serve surprisingly high-quality meals for ¥300–600 ($2–4 USD). Onigiri, bento boxes, and sandwiches are staples.
• Chain restaurants: Yoshinoya, Matsuya, and Sukiya serve beef bowls for ¥400–500 ($2.70–3.40). Ramen shops average ¥800–1,200 ($5.40–8.10).
• Supermarkets: Evening markdowns (typically after 7–8 PM) slash prices on prepared foods by 20–50%. Cooking at home with local ingredients is extremely affordable.
• Eating out (mid-range): A solid restaurant meal runs ¥1,000–2,500 ($6.75–17). In Osaka, street food at Dotonbori rivals restaurants at a fraction of the cost.

Monthly food budgets for a single person: $300–500 if you cook regularly, $500–800 if you eat out frequently. These figures are roughly 40–60% lower than equivalent quality in Western Europe or North America.

Tax Considerations for Foreign Residents

Japan’s tax system is progressive and applies to residents earning income within the country. Here are the key points for relocators:

• Resident status: If you live in Japan for more than one year, you’re classified as a tax resident and taxed on worldwide income. Non-permanent residents (first 5 years) are only taxed on Japan-sourced income and foreign income remitted to Japan.
• Income tax rates: Progressive from 5% (up to ¥1.95 million) to 45% (over ¥40 million), plus a 2.1% surtax. Effective rates for most expats earning $50,000–100,000 fall in the 20–30% range.
• Resident tax: An additional ~10% flat rate on the previous year’s income, collected by your municipality.
• Social insurance: Health insurance (~10%) and pension (~18.3%, split with employer) are mandatory for employees. Self-employed individuals pay National Health Insurance and National Pension directly.
• Digital Nomad visa holders: Generally not subject to Japanese income tax on foreign-sourced income, as the visa is designed for people working for overseas employers. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
• Tax treaties: Japan has treaties with 80+ countries to prevent double taxation. Check whether your home country has one.

Opening a Bank Account

Banking in Japan as a foreigner has historically been painful, but options have improved. Most banks require you to have lived in Japan for at least 6 months before opening an account. Exceptions include:

• Japan Post Bank (Yucho): The most foreigner-friendly option. Some branches will open accounts for new arrivals with a residence card.
• Shinsei Bank: English-friendly online banking, no minimum balance, ATM access at convenience stores.
• Sony Bank: Multi-currency accounts, English app, good for international transfers.
• Wise/Revolut: Many expats use these for the first few months. Wise’s Japanese yen account with a debit card works at most stores and ATMs.

Japan remains a heavily cash-based society, though this is changing fast. IC cards, PayPay (a popular mobile payment app), and credit cards are now accepted at most chains and restaurants. Always carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Practical Checklist for Moving to Japan

1. 6–12 months before: Research visa options, start learning hiragana/katakana, build savings for move-in costs (minimum $5,000–10,000 depending on city).
2. 3–6 months before: Apply for your visa, arrange health insurance, research neighborhoods, and connect with expat communities on Reddit (r/JapanLife) and Facebook groups.
3. 1 month before: Book temporary accommodation (Airbnb or share house) for the first 2–4 weeks, arrange airport pickup or transit plan, prepare documents (passport copies, proof of income, photos).
4. First week in Japan: Register at your local ward office (get your residence card updated with your address), enroll in National Health Insurance, get a phone/SIM, open a bank account (or set up Wise).
5. First month: Begin apartment hunting with a foreigner-friendly agency, set up utilities (gas, electric, water), get your IC transit card, explore your neighborhood.

Is Japan Right for You?

Japan rewards a specific kind of relocator: someone who values safety, order, quality of life, and cultural depth over easy social integration and low bureaucratic friction. The language barrier is real. The rental system is complex. Bureaucracy can be slow. But the payoff — living in one of the safest, cleanest, most efficiently run countries on Earth with extraordinary food, healthcare, and infrastructure — is immense.

With the new Digital Nomad visa, a weak yen making costs more accessible, and three globally top-ranked cities to choose from, 2025 is arguably the best year ever to make the move to Japan.

Explore Japan’s full country profile on WhereNext to see how it compares across 30+ data points including safety, healthcare, internet speed, cost of living, and more. Build your shortlist, run side-by-side comparisons, and make your decision with data — not guesswork.