Japan is a country that blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. From the bright lights of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, the idea of living in Japan is an exciting one!
Whether you’re drawn to the rich culture, high-tech cities, or incredible cuisine, moving to Japan is an adventure like no other. But what does it really take to live there? If you’re wondering how to move to Japan from the UK or elsewhere, this guide has everything you need to know.
Why Move to Japan?
Japan has long been a dream destination for many, and for good reason!
🌟 Exceptional Quality of Life – Clean, safe, and efficient, Japan boasts some of the best public transport, healthcare, and infrastructure in the world. The country is renowned for its high standard of living, and its cities are consistently ranked among the safest and most liveable in the world.
🍽 Food Heaven – Sushi, ramen, tempura… Need we say more? Japan’s diverse and delicious cuisine is a major draw for food lovers. Whether you prefer dining at Michelin-starred restaurants or grabbing a quick bite at a convenience store, Japanese food is an experience in itself.
🌳 Stunning Natural Beauty – From cherry blossoms in the spring to snow-capped mountains in the winter, Japan offers breathtaking scenery all year round. The country is home to a variety of landscapes, including pristine beaches in Okinawa and the dramatic mountain ranges of Hokkaido.
🌍 Unique Culture & Traditions – Experience everything from tea ceremonies to sumo wrestling and anime culture! Japan is a country that values its traditions while embracing modernity, making it one of the most fascinating places to live.
🔹 Top Tip: Spring (March–April) and Autumn (September–November) are the best times to visit Japan to experience its beauty before committing to a move!
Visas & Entry Requirements
If you’re thinking about making Japan your home, you’ll need the right visa. The most common options include:
💼 Work Visa – If you’ve secured a job in Japan, your employer will typically sponsor your visa. Industries like IT, education (especially English teaching), and engineering are popular among expats. The application process can take several weeks, so it’s best to prepare your documents in advance.
📚 Student Visa – Studying in Japan? Universities and language schools offer visa sponsorship for students. Depending on your institution, you may also be allowed to work part-time to support yourself while studying.
🏡 Spouse or Dependent Visa – If your partner is Japanese or has a long-term visa, you may be eligible for a dependent visa. This allows you to live in Japan, but you may need to apply for a separate work permit if you plan to seek employment.
🏙 Working Holiday Visa – Available for citizens of select countries, this allows young travellers to live and work in Japan for up to a year. It’s a great way to experience Japan without a long-term commitment.
🔹 Top Tip: Some work visas require proof of a university degree, so check requirements early in your planning!
Finding a Place to Live
Accommodation in Japan can vary widely depending on location and budget.
🏠 Apartments & Housing – Many expats opt for apartments in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto. Renting can be complex, with upfront costs including key money (a non-refundable gift to the landlord) and agency fees. Apartments are often smaller than those in Western countries, but they make excellent use of space.
🛒 Share Houses – A great way to save money and meet people! Shared housing is common in major cities, especially for younger expats. Many share houses also include social events, making it easier to integrate into a new community.
🛏 Short-Term Options – If you’re testing the waters, furnished apartments or Airbnb-style rentals offer flexibility before committing to a long-term lease.
🔹 Top Tip: Many landlords require a Japanese guarantor, so using a rental agency that caters to foreigners can make the process easier.
Cost of Living in Japan
The cost to live in Japan varies depending on the city. Tokyo is one of the most expensive places to live, while rural areas and smaller cities offer a more affordable lifestyle.
💸 Rent – Tokyo: ¥80,000–¥200,000 per month (£420–£1,050). Osaka and Kyoto tend to be cheaper. Utility costs can add another ¥10,000–¥20,000 per month (£52–£105), so budgeting accordingly is key.
🍔 Food – Dining out can be very affordable! A bowl of ramen costs around ¥800 (~£4.20), while sushi can range from budget to high-end. Grocery shopping is relatively affordable, though imported goods can be pricey.
🏧 Transport – The train system is world-class but can be pricey. A Tokyo metro pass costs about ¥10,000 (~£52) per month.
🔹 Top Tip: Prepaid IC cards like Suica or Pasmo make commuting easier and can be used for shopping too!
Culture Shock & Adapting to Life in Japan
Adjusting to living in Japan as a foreigner can take time, but embracing the culture makes all the difference!
🤝 Social Etiquette – Bowing, removing shoes indoors, and being punctual are key aspects of Japanese etiquette.
🌐 Language Barrier – While many people in cities understand some English, learning basic Japanese will make daily life much easier.
🚍 Public Transport Rules – Keep quiet on trains, queue politely, and never talk on your phone while commuting.
🔹 Top Tip: Download apps like Google Translate or Yomiwa to help navigate Japanese-language situations!
Is Moving to Japan Right for You?
If you love adventure, order, and a unique blend of history and modernity, moving to Japan from the UK or elsewhere might be the perfect fit! Whether you’re wondering “How can I move to Japan?” or already planning your move, exploring the idea is the first step.
If Japan is calling your name, why not take the next step and learn more about making it a reality? 🇯🇵
