Moving to Nagoya, Japan

"Before moving to Nagoya, expats should know that the city is the fourth most populous in Japan and is a major port city. It is known for its industries, including automobiles, aviation, and ceramics. Japanese is the official language in Nagoya, so learning basic Japanese phrases and etiquette can be beneficial. However, English is also widely spoken, especially in business settings and by younger generations. The cost of living in Nagoya is relatively high, especially when it comes to housing. Expats should be prepared for this and budget accordingly. Nagoya has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. It is also prone to typhoons, especially in late summer and early autumn. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and trains. Owning a car is not necessary and can be expensive due to the cost of parking and toll roads. Healthcare in Nagoya is of a high standard, but it can be expensive. Expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Nagoya is known for its safety and low crime rate. However, like any major city, it's still important to take basic safety precautions. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, from historic temples and castles to shopping malls and theme parks. It's also famous for its local cuisine, including hitsumabushi (grilled eel) and tebasaki (chicken wings). Japanese work culture is known for its long hours and high levels of dedication. Expats working in Nagoya should be prepared for this, although work culture can vary between companies. Finally, it's important to note that Japan has strict immigration laws. Expats should ensure they have the correct visa and paperwork before moving to Nagoya," explained one expat living in Nagoya, Japan.

"Finding a place to live in Nagoya, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a shared apartment to a private house. Next, you should decide on the area you want to live in. Nagoya is a large city with many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Some popular areas for expats include Sakae, Fushimi, and Osu. Once you've decided on your budget and preferred area, you can start searching for available properties. There are several online real estate portals that list properties for rent in Nagoya, such as SUUMO, Homes, and Athome. These websites allow you to filter properties by price, size, location, and other criteria. You can also visit real estate agencies in Nagoya. These agencies have English-speaking staff who can help you find a suitable property. Some well-known real estate agencies in Nagoya include Century 21 and Able. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agency to arrange a viewing. If you decide to rent the property, you'll typically need to provide some documents, such as a copy of your passport and proof of income. In Japan, it's common to pay a deposit and key money (a non-refundable payment to the landlord) when you sign the lease. You'll also need to pay the first month's rent in advance. Finally, once you've signed the lease and paid all the necessary fees, you can move into your new home in Nagoya. Remember to register your new address at the local ward office within 14 days of moving in," remarked one expat in Nagoya, Japan.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Nagoya, is often located in the city center or in close proximity to public transportation for easy commuting. These homes are usually modern, well-maintained, and come fully furnished with essential appliances such as a refrigerator, washing machine, and air conditioning. The size can vary, but most expat apartments are compact, featuring one or two bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The kitchen is typically small with limited counter space, equipped with a stove and sometimes a dishwasher. The bathroom often includes a high-tech toilet and a separate area for a bath and shower. Some apartments may also have a small balcony for drying clothes or enjoying a bit of outdoor space. The living area is usually combined with the dining area, featuring minimalistic and functional furniture. The bedrooms are often equipped with futons or western-style beds, and storage space can be limited. In terms of the building amenities, many apartments offer features like bicycle parking, security systems, and sometimes communal spaces like a rooftop terrace or a garden. Despite the smaller size compared to Western standards, these homes are designed with efficiency and practicality in mind. The rent for these apartments can be quite high, especially in popular areas, and it's common for expats to pay additional fees for maintenance and management services. Overall, living in an expat home in Nagoya offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle, with easy access to the city's amenities and attractions," remarked one expat in Nagoya, Japan.

"The average cost of housing in Nagoya can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a single person, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around 80,000 to 100,000 yen per month, while the same apartment outside the city center may cost around 50,000 to 70,000 yen. For larger families, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 150,000 to 200,000 yen per month, while the same apartment outside the city center can cost around 100,000 to 150,000 yen. These prices can fluctuate based on factors such as proximity to public transportation and the overall condition of the apartment," remarked one expat in Nagoya, Japan.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Nagoya, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Nagoya for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to build equity over time and could provide a sense of stability and permanence. However, buying a home also comes with significant upfront costs, including a down payment, closing costs, and property taxes. You would also be responsible for maintenance and repairs. If you're not ready for these financial commitments, or if you value flexibility and mobility, renting might be a better option for you. Renting a home in Nagoya can offer more flexibility, especially if you're not sure how long you'll be staying. It's generally easier to move from a rental than to sell a home, so if your job or lifestyle requires frequent moves, renting could be more convenient. Renting also allows you to avoid the costs and responsibilities of homeownership. However, renting doesn't build equity, and you may face restrictions on things like pets or renovations. Rent prices can also increase over time. In conclusion, whether you should buy or rent a home in Nagoya depends on your financial situation, how long you plan to stay, and your personal preferences. It's important to carefully consider these factors and possibly consult with a financial advisor before making a decision," said one expat in Nagoya.

"When moving to Nagoya, it's important to pack clothing suitable for all seasons, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Lightweight clothing for the hot and humid summers, as well as warm clothing for the cold winters, should be included. Don't forget to pack a good quality raincoat and umbrella, as Nagoya gets quite a bit of rain, especially during the typhoon season. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking or cycling. If you're planning on working or studying, bring any necessary documents, such as your passport, visa, work permit, or school enrollment papers. It's also a good idea to bring copies of these documents, just in case. Pack any prescription medications you take regularly, along with a copy of your prescription. While Japan has a high standard of healthcare, it can sometimes be difficult to find specific medications. Bring a small amount of Japanese yen to cover initial expenses, but remember that Japan is still largely a cash-based society, so you'll need to have access to cash regularly. If you have a favorite toiletry or personal care item, consider bringing it with you, as it may be difficult to find the exact product in Japan. However, don't overdo it, as you can find most basic items in local stores. Lastly, consider packing a few items from home to make your new place feel more comfortable and familiar. This could be anything from a favorite book to a cherished photo," explained one expat living in Nagoya, Japan.

"In Nagoya, it is considered rude to eat or drink while walking in public. It's also considered impolite to blow your nose in public, so try to avoid doing so. When using chopsticks, never stick them vertically into your food, as this is associated with funerals. Also, avoid passing food from one set of chopsticks to another, as this is also a funeral ritual. When visiting temples or shrines, be respectful and follow the local customs, such as washing your hands and mouth before entering, and avoid taking pictures where it's prohibited. It's also important to remember to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional restaurants and inns. In Japan, punctuality is highly valued, so always try to be on time for appointments or meetings. When greeting someone, a bow is the traditional form of greeting, rather than a handshake. Avoid making loud noises or speaking loudly in public places, as this can be seen as disruptive and disrespectful. When using public transportation, avoid talking on your phone, as it can disturb others. Also, remember to stand on the left on escalators, as the right side is for people in a hurry. Lastly, tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting, so avoid leaving extra money at restaurants or for taxi drivers," commented one expat who made the move to Nagoya.