Moving to Tokyo

"Tokyo is a very busy and vibrant city so it is important to research your destination carefully. The cost of living in Tokyo can be quite high, so it is important to budget for all necessary expenses. Additionally, Tokyo is a large city so it is important to consider the cost of transportation when moving. Before making the move it is advisable to research the different areas of Tokyo to determine where the most suitable neighborhood is for your needs. English is not the primary language spoken in Tokyo, so you may need to learn some basic Japanese. As a foreigner, you will need to obtain a visa in order to stay in Japan. Make sure to research the visa requirements thoroughly so that you can fulfill all necessary paperwork before moving. Additionally, be sure to check out the culture before arriving as well as the living customs in Tokyo to best prepare you for the move. Lastly, seek out advice from people who have already moved to Tokyo in order to gain more insight into living there," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"Bring as little as possible. You don't need a lot of stuff and you can find a lot of it here already. The fees to actually move into a place are insane, maybe 3-6 times the monthly rent. So save up, and consider getting a roommate or staying in a sharehouse. Choose a neighborhood that is more residential. You will have more services nearby geared towards you, like gyms, libraries, parks, and grocery stores. Things will feel more calm. You might see some trees, too. Also, find a place that is near the places you will frequent. If you work, find a place where it is easy to commute from. If you have a hobby, find a place that has access to the hobby space you want to use. If you know Japanese, I'd try to find an apartment without a real estate agent. It feels like they do next to nothing for a full month's rent price," said one expat in Tokyo.

"The initial cost is about 3.5~5 times of monthly rent which is included the rent in next month and any other additional charge. You also have an option for short-term contract apartment which is called "monthly mansion" in Japanese. It makes to you to have thinking time to explore and find your thought clearly, you can even register the address there and get the bank account or phone number here. It is sometimes difficult for foreigners to pass the screening for housing application because it is usually required Japanese conversation capability, the phone number, and emergency contact here. Quality of Japanese lease apartment is well so you do not have to consider too deep but please remember there is no furniture installed at all but air conditioner," said one expat in Tokyo.

"I chose my neighborhood based on my commute to work. I found something that only took one train and was under 30 minutes. I specifically found my apartment with the help of a real estate agent, which is the norm here. I told him my preferences and sent him some listings that interested me. He responded by showing me some of the listings I found and some other similar places he had found," said one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"I live in a "mansion" apartment, meaning it's in a high-rise building. It is normal for most people in the city to live in one. Expats might live in sharehouses or pre-furnished apartments for the lower costs and convenience, respectively," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"Expat homes and apartments in Tokyo are typically modern, spacious and well-equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, washer/dryers, and high-speed internet. Expats can find apartments to rent in a variety of neighborhoods in Tokyo, from traditional Japanese homes to high-rise modern apartments. Prices vary depending on location, size and amenities, but typically range from around 50,000 yen (or roughly US$460) per month to 80,000 yen (or roughly US$730) and higher. Apartment sizes are usually measured by the number of “tatami” mats they contain, with 1 or 2 bedroom apartments being the most common. It's also very common to have furniture provided, at least when signing a long-term lease. Expats who prefer to purchase homes and apartments can find prices ranging from around 1.5 to 10 million yen (or roughly US$13,700 to US$91,500) for 1 or 2 bedroom apartments and homes, and up to around 30 million yen (or roughly US$275,000) for 3 bedroom apartments and homes. Buying properties in Tokyo often requires the help of a real estate agent, and contracts are generally only in Japanese," said one expat in Tokyo.

"Housing costs are much higher than in the US. Housing has around the same cost as New York City, though a little lower. A 20 square meter apartment here can cost $600-$1,500 a month depending on the part of the city and distance from public transportation. In Texas, apartments can be the same price for triple the space," replied a member in Tokyo.

"The cost of housing in Tokyo is generally considered to be high with rents in desirable areas costing around ¥150,000 (approx. US$1,400) to ¥300,000 (approx. US$2,800) per month," commented one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Buying a home in Tokyo is a good investment, as it is a very desirable and expensive city to live in. However, whether it is better to buy or rent will depend on individual circumstances. Factors to consider include budget, desired location and length of stay. Renting can be a good temporary solution, as it is often less expensive and more flexible than buying. There are also several different types of rentals available in Tokyo, including traditional Japanese apartments and modern condos. Buying a house allows you to build equity and make a long-term investment in real estate, but it requires a large initial deposit as well as regular mortgage payments. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy or rent in Tokyo should be based on an individual assessment of their needs, financial situation, and lifestyle," remarked one expat in Tokyo, Japan.

"Clothing for all seasons, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, toiletries, first-aid kit, passport, visas, cash and credit cards, laptop or tablet, power adapter, umbrella, rolled up futon or air mattress, kitchenware, bathroom accessories, and electronics," remarked one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"I wish I had brought more unique clothing. I never tried something special with my outfits and picking clothes became dull. I also wish I had brought more coconut oil. It's such a great ingredient and is super expensive here. I would also have brought more shorts. It's so humid here in summer and I wish I had a good pair. I wish I had left my extra pairs of shoes. I never used them and now I have to bring them back. I wish I had left my special hair products. I never got the chance to try them. I also wish I had left my extra electronic devices, like my camera and Nintendo DS. I just never felt the need or urge to use them," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"One time on the weekend of thanksgiving I was on a train with some friends. They handed me a beer, and I thought yeah sure I'm on vacation I'll have a beer on the train. It felt kind of wrong or something but I don't think it was illegal, just maybe culturally wrong. So I went to take a sip of my Kirin tallboy and watched in terror as it spilled and rolled across the floor of the moving train. 30 people instantly turned and stared at me, and I sheepishly tried to sop up the beer with some napkins. Really embarrassing," said one expat in Tokyo.

"Foreigners move to Tokyo to experience the big, foreign city. In Tokyo, there is never a lack of things to do. It is always bustling and full of surprises," said one expat.

"Expats are often attracted to Tokyo for its unique blend of modernity and tradition, offering a fascinating mix of cutting-edge technology, fashion, and ancient customs. The city boasts a robust economy with numerous job opportunities, particularly in industries such as technology, finance, and education. Tokyo's efficient and extensive public transportation system makes it easy to navigate and explore the city, while its low crime rate ensures a safe living environment. The quality of life in Tokyo is generally high, with access to excellent healthcare facilities, international schools, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. The city is also known for its world-class cuisine, offering an incredible variety of dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to affordable street food. Additionally, Tokyo's central location within Asia makes it an ideal base for expats looking to travel and explore the region. Despite the language barrier, many expats find the Japanese people to be welcoming and helpful, making it easier to adapt to life in Tokyo. The city also has a vibrant expat community, providing opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. Overall, Tokyo offers a unique and exciting living experience that attracts expats from around the world," said one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"I tell them that everyone is under the same health insurance and not to worry about choosing from medical insurance plans. Also, for those with chronic diseases, I would advise them to check if their medicine and care is available in Japan, as a lot of medicine that is available in America is not available in Japan," stated one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Research clinics and hospitals online that are English-speaking beforehand. Contact clinics to ask if they perform certain procedures. Learn some common words to ask for specific things if you have to go to a Japanese-speaking clinic or hospital. Hospitals will not coddle you - you must advocate for yourself and be firm if you are having certain issues. Otherwise they may rush you out after a quick once-over," remarked one expat in Tokyo.

"Healthcare services in Tokyo, are known for their high quality and advanced medical technology. The city is home to numerous hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers that cater to both residents and visitors. Public and private healthcare providers coexist, with the national health insurance system covering a significant portion of medical expenses for Japanese citizens and residents. Tokyo's healthcare facilities are staffed with well-trained and experienced medical professionals, many of whom have international experience and can communicate in English. The city boasts several world-renowned hospitals, such as the University of Tokyo Hospital and St. Luke's International Hospital, which offer a wide range of medical services, from primary care to specialized treatments and surgeries. In addition to hospitals, Tokyo has numerous clinics that provide primary care, dental services, and specialist consultations. Pharmacies are also widely available throughout the city, making it easy for patients to access prescription medications. Emergency medical services in Tokyo are efficient and reliable, with ambulances and emergency rooms equipped to handle various medical situations. The city also has a number of mental health facilities and counseling centers to support individuals dealing with mental health issues. Preventive healthcare is also a priority in Tokyo, with regular health check-ups and screenings encouraged for residents. The city also promotes a healthy lifestyle through public health campaigns and initiatives, such as promoting exercise and healthy eating habits. Overall, healthcare services in Tokyo are comprehensive, accessible, and of high quality, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to the medical care they need," wrote one expat living in Tokyo.

"It is difficult to find English speaking health providers, but they do exist. The healthcare culture is very rushed and you must be clear about what you need, otherwise the doctor isn't going to take the time to figure it out for you," commented one expat who moved to Tokyo.

"Medical services in Tokyo, are known for their high quality and advanced technology. The city has numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities, many of which have English-speaking staff to cater to international patients. The Japanese healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers, with the national health insurance covering a significant portion of medical expenses for residents. Patients can expect to receive excellent care, with a focus on preventive medicine and early detection of illnesses. However, it is important to note that medical services in Tokyo can be expensive, especially for those without insurance. Additionally, while the quality of care is generally high, there may be long wait times for non-emergency treatments due to the high demand for medical services in the city," said one expat.