Living in Tokyo: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Tokyo.
Described as a modern and extravagant metropolis, Tokyo is the Japanese capital city. It is an ideal destination for expatriates looking for a pulsating life amidst huge skyscrapers, shopping malls and amusement parks.
As the country's economic, financial and political heart, Tokyo is also one of Asia's and the world's major financial hubs. It therefore provides many professional opportunities to expatriates.
Generalities
Get an overview of living in Tokyo with general information to discover the destination.
Discovering Tokyo
You will discover the different facets of the Japanese capital by visiting the very touristy ...
Adjusting to the local culture in Tokyo
Saying sorry, thank you, addressing a stranger, your boss, or your family, talking, getting around ...
How to develop your social network in Tokyo
How do you socialize in Tokyo? How to make friends and join groups in the Japanese capital? Should ...
Work
Dive into the Tokyo labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Tokyo.
How to find a job in Tokyo
Tokyo is definitely the ideal place to find a job in Japan. This is where the headquarters of large ...
The job market in Tokyo
Japan currently ranks as the fourth largest economy globally, behind the US, China, and Germany. ...
The work culture in Tokyo
If you plan to work in Japan in general and Tokyo in particular, it is essential to understand ...
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Tokyo. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Accommodation in Tokyo
If you're moving to Tokyo, you might be wondering where to stay. Capsule hotels and other ...
The real estate market in Tokyo
Now that you have been living in Tokyo for some time, aren't you thinking of becoming a ...
Neighborhoods in Tokyo
Tokyo and its special wards are fascinating. Each of them has its own identity, and you will find ...
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Tokyo.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Tokyo.
Transports in Tokyo
Japan's capital city has a well-developed, modern, convenient, and accessible transportation system. It is possible to live without a car there, ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Tokyo.
Things to see and to do in Tokyo
There is a lot to see and do in Tokyo, whether with family, friends, as a couple, or solo. ...
Leisure activities in Tokyo
What to do in Tokyo when it rains? Where to go for a walk? What are the nice activities to do ...
The cuisine in Tokyo
In Tokyo, as in other places in Japan, tasty and cheap local dishes are easy to find. The different ...
Articles from the magazine
Japan's labor shortage: Can new visa reforms solve the crisis?
Facing a labor shortage and a worsening demographic situation, Japan is gradually opening up to immigration, particularly by reforming its visa policies. However, the country remains torn between economic necessity and a social model built on homogeneity. Here's an analysis.
How countries are luring expats with low-priced properties
Abandoned houses, dilapidated properties, low-cost apartments, etc., for sale. While many countries are affected by housing, some of them, like Japan, are offering abandoned properties at very low prices. Does this attract expats?
Ashley: "I was not expecting Shizuoka to be so beautiful"
After 5 years of studying at university in Virginia, USA, Ashley moved to Japan to teach through the JET Program. Though she had studied and prepared to be a secondary science teacher, she is currently teaching conversational English at a top-tier high school in Shizuoka Prefecture.
A Scotsman in Japan
My name is Craig Hunter and I am a 25 year old Scotsman. I come from a town just south of Glasgow called East Kilbride. I currently live in a small town on the east coast of Kochi, Japan. It just so happens to be the most rural area of the most rural prefecture on the most rural island of mainland J
A Jodi abroad
My name is Jodi and I'm an English teacher at a commercial high school in Japan. I'm originally from St. Louis, Missouri in the United States.
Japan hoping to attract 340,000 foreign workers in the next five years
The Japanese government is targeting Fourteen industries. Indeed, in December last year, the government has announced a series of measures designed to attract skilled workers to cater to the shortage in 14 sectors in Japan. By 2024, the government hopes to have welcomed 340, 000 foreign workers in these sectors. Starting April this year, a new visa category will be enforced, and skill tests will be carried out on candidates for the nursing, restaurant and construction sectors. The decision comes after the Japanese government have been trying for years now to find a solution for labour shortages resulting from the declining population.
Rey in Yokohama: "The Japanese are the epitome of living a disciplined lifestyle"
Rey comes from New Jersey but has lived in different States. Following his retirement, he moved to Yokohama three years ago with his Japanese wife. Nowadays, he enjoys writing and publishing his articles about Japan online.
Japan, the new expat haven?
According to a ranking of ECA International, Japan offers the best salaries for expats in Asia. But is this the only thing the country can offer? The country, its capital, Tokyo and slowly the city of Osaka alike, is undeniably one of the most expensive cities to live in. How does that pan out in real life, though?
