Your Expat Community in Japan

With InterNations, you never stand alone. Whether you are moving to another country or going on a business trip somewhere — our communities around the world are there to make you feel at home wherever you are. Feel free to check out our vibrant InterNations Communities in countries like Malaysia or Peru.

Frequently asked questions regarding expats in Japan

If you’re a new or soon-to-be expat in Japan, you probably aren’t quite sure yet what it will be like. That’s why we gathered the answers to some key questions you may have about life in Japan. If you want to ask more specific questions — or even share your own tips — join InterNations! You’ll be part of a community of new and experienced expats who love to help each other out.

What are the most common nationalities in Japan? As an expat in Japan, you'll meet people from many different cultures (especially if you're an InterNations member!) The top nationalities in the InterNations Communities in Japan currently are:

• Americans
• British
• Indians
• French

Which cities are most popular among expats in Japan? Some cities attract more expats than others. These are the cities with the largest expat communities in Japan:

• Tokyo
• Nagoya
• the Kansai Region

How much rent do expats pay in Japan? Your personal situation plays a role here. Single expats spend on average 814 USD on their accommodation per month, while expat families spend around 1.525 USD. And of course, rents can also vary greatly depending on the location and city within Japan.

To give you an idea of what to expect, here are some rent averages for the most popular cities in Japan.

Average rent in Tokyo

• Single expats: 1.240 USD
• Expat families: 1.915 USD

Average rent in Nagoya

• Single expats: 835 USD
• Expat families: 3.425 USD

Average rent in the Kansai Region

• Single expats: 415 USD
• Expat families: 945 USD

How safe is Japan?
You may be wondering about safety. In general people perceive their personal safety situation in Japan as very safe. People rate the risk of falling victim to petty crime (such as pickpocketing or minor theft) as very low. They consider the chance of being the victim of violent crime (including mugging) very low. And, they rate confidence in the police force and related local authorities as very high.

How safe is Japan for women? Female expats rated the safety situation in Japan as very safe. This is based on the feedback of expat women living in Japan (rather than actual crime statistics). So obviously this can be highly subjective and depends on factors such as where people live.

Why are expats moving to Japan? Of course, the individual reasons why expats decide to move to Japan can vary a lot. But thanks to our vast member base and our annual Expat Insider survey, we were able to uncover some of the underlying trends that make Japan an appealing place to move to. Notably, the most valued attributes of Japan as an expat destination are a very unique & fascinating culture, a high sense of safety & security and a job market eager for young talent.

In addition, out of the 64 expat destinations worldwide in our Expat Insider 2019 survey, Japan scores quite well in our Quality of Life Index (10th) but quite low in our Ease of Settling in Index (55th) . It ranks about average in our Working Abroad Index (39th). Japan isn’t just interesting for career-driven single expats. It has a lot to offer families as well, resulting in a very respectable ranking in our Family Life Index (20th).

How much do expats earn in Japan? On average, expats make on average 328,793 USD according to the ECA Expat Salary Survey for salary levels of expats in middle management positions. This is not the cash salary that expat workers take home after taxes, but the total value of their expat package that usual includes healthcare, cost of education, and housing (among other things). This relatively high salary combined with the rather high cost of living explain why Japan scored about average in the Personal Finance Index (39th) and the Cost of Living Index (35th) in 2019.

Where are expats living in Japan? Usually the expat population concentrates in places that offer the most career opportunities — at least for those who aren’t just looking for a place to retire in the sun. According to our member base these are the most popular cities for expats in Japan:

• Tokyo
• Osaka
• Nagoya
• Kobe

Learn More about Being an Expat in Japan

With rolling mountains, lush forests, and ancient structures, Japan is undeniably beautiful. Expats living in Japan who have settled into their new country have plenty of opportunities to explore their cultural surroundings, and with the help of InterNations' members you can find out which restaurants, activities, and attractions will best suit your family's needs. While living in Tokyo, pay a visit to The Lounge by Aman for dishes from around the world, or Gen Yamamoto for traditional Japanese cuisine. You'll soon find that there is an abundance of educational establishments available for children, such as the British School in Tokyo, the Horizon Japan International School in Yokohama, or the American School in Minato-ku. With the guidance of the Japan expats at InterNations, you can soon determine which schools meet your cultural and educational needs. As a country that consistently tries to attract more expats, Japan offers plenty of lifestyle benefits, especially for those who work in the construction industry. Many of the major cities have a bustling atmosphere, their public transportation eliminates the need for a car, and the latest electronic goods are available on tap. If you're seeking a modern lifestyle and a strong economy, the life of an expat in Japan is for you.

InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in China or Qatar, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.

Start Building Your Expat Network in Japan Today!

InterNations is a thriving international community of carefully approved members who can help you settle into your life in Japan. As there is no substitute for personal experience, you can draw on the knowledge provided by our members to make your life in Japan easier. Whether it is arranging health insurance, finding the right apartment, or seeking out after-school childcare, our expatriates in Japan can arm you with all the knowledge you need prior to your arrival. Aside from answering some of your more serious questions, InterNations is here to enhance your social life. Regular events in Japan's biggest cities include formal InterNations gatherings, flyboarding in Tokyo, coffee meet-ups, and days out at the beach where you can dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean.