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Pros and Cons of Living in Japan | Expat Exchange
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Yoyogi in Tokyo

Pros and Cons of Living in Japan

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 09, 2024

Summary: The pros of living in Japan include the country's rich culture, excellent public transportation system, and high quality of life. Additionally, Japan is a safe and secure country with a low crime rate. On the other hand, the cons of living in Japan include the high cost of living, language barrier, and cultural differences. Additionally, Japan is a very crowded country, and the weather can be quite extreme in certain areas.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Japan?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Japan responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the culture and politeness of Japan, as well as the efficient public transportation system. They also enjoy the variety of food options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to international dishes. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and cultural differences to be challenging. Additionally, the cost of living in Japan can be quite high, making it difficult for some to afford," said one expat in Japan.

"Tokyo is a city with a history, beautiful environment, convenient living and high medical level.There is a lot of emphasis on education. The locals are very good, very rigorous and not very talkative," remarked one expat in Tokyo.

What do expats in Japan appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Japan often appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional festivals, art, music, and cuisine. They also appreciate the politeness and hospitality of the Japanese people, as well as the country's efficient public transportation system. Additionally, expats often enjoy the unique and vibrant nightlife of Japan's cities, as well as the natural beauty of the countryside," said one expat in Japan.

"Community - spirit and the phrase gambarimasu (to keep on going strong And never give up!)," said a person living in Tokyo.

"the beauty of Japan. I like the Kimonos you'll see ladies wearing on holidays. The children are so cute. Mount Fuji is breathtaking to see. I can't stop taking pictures of it. ha," explained one expat living in Ayase- Kanagawa Perfecture.

"I really enjoyed the little things like the design of different packaging of different snacks I'd never seen before. I liked watching the way people interacted with each other. I liked the new sounds I heard on the new trains I rode. I liked how it was more socially acceptable to binge drink. It might not be a good thing, but it's pretty hilarious sometimes. I appreciated how quiet the streets could be late at night in such a huge city," said one in Tokyo.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"the Language. I know about 20 words & this is my 2nd time here. I haven't study my Rosetta stone yet. I need to work on it. You will find yourself doing a lot of charades.ha," explained one expat.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Yoyogi in Tokyo
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