Tokyo

"-Make sure to research the cost of living in Tokyo to ensure you can afford to live comfortably. -Find out if the area you want to live in has access to services like hospitals and transportation. -Understand the local language or make sure you can access multiple services if you are unable to speak Japanese. -Be aware of any visa or residency requirements for long-term stays. -Find out about any taxes or other financial obligations that may affect your retirement. -Look into the availability of leisure activities in the area. -Familiarize yourself with cultural customs and common social norms of the area. -Have a plan in place for health and medical care while living in Tokyo. -Ensure you have easy access to banking, travel and communication services," commented one expat who made the move 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," wrote a member in Tokyo.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," wrote one member in 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," remarked 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," wrote one member 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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"Tokyo is a great city for meeting people and making new friends. There are many great ways to meet people such as joining a local class or club, going to a language exchange event, using social media apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing, or networking events such as those hosted by coworking spaces like Tokyo Creative Lab. You can also find local events and festivals, get involved in the volunteer scene, or use websites like Meetup to find events and activities that interest you. No matter what you decide to do, there are plenty of chances to make new friends and meet interesting people in Tokyo," wrote one member in 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," said one expat in Tokyo.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"The Post Office, one of the main banks in Japan, provides banking services in Tokyo. Other banks and financial institutions in the city include Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Resona Bank, Citibank Japan, and Japan Post Bank. Foreign banks such as HSBC and Standard Chartered also have branches in Tokyo. Additionally, there are many online banks and credit unions that offer banking services in Tokyo," commented one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Yes, it is possible to find a job in Tokyo. The Japanese job market is very competitive and it is important to thoroughly research any potential employers prior to applying. It is also beneficial to be familiar with the language and culture of the city, as many employers in Tokyo prefer applicants who have an understanding of such. Additionally, having a relevant skill set for the desired position and making connections with locals through networking events can be helpful when job-hunting," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"For foreigners, the jobs that are most available are English teaching or tutoring jobs. There are some coding jobs available, but they are not as abundant as English teaching jobs. If you want something that is not English teaching or if you want to move up the ranks, you will need to learn Japanese. Most people get there first job in Japan through online applications. After you get to Japan and have been living there for awhile, there are more opportunities for you. The hard part is getting into Japan," said one expat in Tokyo.

"Living in Tokyo as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's unique culture, cuisine, and nightlife, as well as its modern infrastructure and efficient public transportation system. Tokyo is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. The cost of living in Tokyo can be high, but there are plenty of affordable housing options available. With its excellent healthcare system, reliable internet, and abundance of coworking spaces, Tokyo is an ideal destination for digital nomads," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Community - spirit and the phrase gambarimasu (to keep on going strong And never give up!)," remarked one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"Expats often find it challenging to adjust to the cultural differences in their new home, find housing and employment in the new location, make friends, develop a new social network, learn the language, and obtain necessary documents from the government. Additionally, some expats may experience feelings of homesickness, loneliness, and anxiety when starting out in a new country," remarked one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Facing at all times discrimination as a foreigner, a woman and being single with a child at age 47," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"The language for sure. That was always a point of stress. I hate being misunderstood, and well..that happened a lot! Also just the grind of being part of the "herd", waiting in long lines for packed trains etc," said one expat in Tokyo.

"Tokyo is generally regarded as a safe city in terms of crime. Crime rates in Tokyo are lower than in many other major cities around the world. Violent crime is very rare, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching does occur in crowded areas, so people should take the usual precautions against becoming a victim," wrote a member in Tokyo.

"Tokyo is an incredibly diverse city, with many different international influences. There are large numbers of people in Tokyo from different cultural backgrounds and walks of life, and cultural differences can be seen everywhere. People in Tokyo are mostly accepting and tolerant of differences, and there is a wonderfully open and diverse atmosphere," said one expat who made the move to Tokyo.

"Visit first if possible, and any other school you may be interested in. I thought the previous reviewer was extremely unfair to the school and did not even care to get the facts straight, which is why I decided to write this review. Whether the school is right for an expat would depend on the expat. Obviously this one is not appropriate for someone wanting a monolingual education, but there were a number of sabbatical families at the school only for a year and they mostly found it a positive experience.. I visited several of the international schools in Tokyo myself and I thought this one was by far the most interesting and innovative. It depends on what one wants," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"It's a wonderfully fun envirionment, but pay close attention to the academic progress of your child to make sure he/she will be able to transition to a new school smoothly," said one parent with children at American School in Japan N/K in Tokyo.

"The city is safe and clean, people are generally friendly, the food is very good quality. It's hard to talk to locals, they don't engage much with each other unless you're a colleague or friend. It can feel lonely as an expat," mentioned an expat living in Tokyo.

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the following aspects of living in Tokyo: 1. Efficient and extensive public transportation system: Tokyo has a world-class public transportation system that is clean, punctual, and easy to navigate. 2. Safety and low crime rates: Tokyo is known for its safety, with low crime rates and a strong sense of security. 3. Rich culture and history: Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture, with numerous historical sites, museums, and cultural events to explore. 4. Excellent food scene: Tokyo is a food lover's paradise, with a wide variety of cuisines, from traditional Japanese dishes to international fare. 5. High-quality healthcare: Japan has a well-regarded healthcare system, with modern facilities and highly skilled medical professionals. 6. Cleanliness and orderliness: Tokyo is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained public spaces. 7. Access to nature: Despite being a bustling metropolis, Tokyo has many parks and green spaces, as well as easy access to nearby mountains and beaches for outdoor enthusiasts. However, there are also some aspects that expats and digital nomads may dislike about living in Tokyo: 1. High cost of living: Tokyo is an expensive city, with high costs for housing, transportation, and dining out. 2. Language barrier: While English is spoken in some areas, it is not as widely spoken as in other major cities, which can make daily life challenging for those who do not speak Japanese. 3. Work culture: Japan is known for its demanding work culture, with long hours and a strong emphasis on company loyalty, which may not suit everyone. 4. Crowdedness and lack of personal space: Tokyo is a densely populated city, which can lead to crowded public transportation and limited personal space. 5. Difficulty in finding housing: It can be challenging for foreigners to find suitable housing in Tokyo, as many landlords may be hesitant to rent to non-Japanese tenants. 6. Limited social integration: Some expats and digital nomads may find it difficult to make local friends and fully integrate into Japanese society. 7. Humidity and weather: Tokyo's summers can be hot and humid, which may be uncomfortable for some people," said an expat in Tokyo.

"It's hard to make friends as the expat community is spread throughout the whole country, so there isn't very many people to meet. Even harder to make Japanese friends," commented one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Tokyo, typically have a diverse and vibrant social life. They often connect with fellow expats and locals through various social events, language exchange meetups, and networking groups. Many also participate in cultural activities, such as attending festivals, exploring local cuisine, and learning traditional arts. Additionally, they may join sports clubs, volunteer organizations, or take classes to meet new people and immerse themselves in the local community. Tokyo's bustling nightlife also offers numerous opportunities for socializing, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues catering to different interests and tastes. Overall, the social life of expats, retirees, and digital nomads in Tokyo is often rich and fulfilling, with ample opportunities to make friends and experience the unique culture of Japan," remarked one expat living in Tokyo.

"The social scene in Tokyo, is a vibrant and diverse mix of traditional and modern culture. It offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options for people of all ages and interests. From lively nightlife districts like Shibuya and Roppongi, where you can find numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, to more traditional areas like Asakusa, where you can experience the charm of old Tokyo through temples, shrines, and traditional shops. Tokyo is also known for its thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing both traditional and contemporary works. The city is home to various festivals and events throughout the year, such as cherry blossom viewing parties in spring and summer fireworks displays. In addition to its bustling urban areas, Tokyo also offers plenty of green spaces and parks for socializing and relaxation. Yoyogi Park, for example, is a popular spot for picnics, sports, and various outdoor activities. The city's food scene is also a significant aspect of its social life, with countless restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering a wide variety of cuisines from around the world. Izakayas, or Japanese-style pubs, are popular spots for socializing and enjoying food and drinks with friends and colleagues after work. Tokyo's social scene is also heavily influenced by its thriving pop culture, with areas like Akihabara and Harajuku being hotspots for anime, manga, and fashion enthusiasts. The city is also home to various themed cafes and bars, such as maid cafes and cat cafes, which offer unique social experiences. Overall, the social scene in Tokyo is dynamic and ever-changing, offering something for everyone, whether you're interested in traditional culture, modern entertainment, or simply enjoying good food and drinks with friends," said an expat in Tokyo.

"It's hard to make friends, but so important. Expats are very few and far in between so it's difficult to find someone who is compatible with you. Japanese people often shy away from interacting with foreigners so it's hard to get a chance to authentically make friends. They also don't speak their mind very boldly so you have to be in the lookout for what they are thinking," remarked one expat in Tokyo.

"Renting in Tokyo is the only option. Buying is insane. It's also hard to find a place with an open kitchen at the more affordable prices. Usually it's crammed into a small hallway. Also many people will not rent to foreigners, but you just have to search for foreigner-friendly places. Sometimes search engines have that option to select," said one expat living in Tokyo.

"Expats in Tokyo, often advise newcomers to be prepared for smaller living spaces compared to what they might be used to in their home countries. They recommend researching different neighborhoods to find one that suits your lifestyle, budget, and proximity to work or school. It's essential to consider factors like access to public transportation, shopping, and recreational facilities when choosing a location. Many expats suggest working with a real estate agent who speaks English and understands the needs of foreigners, as they can help navigate the complex rental process and find suitable housing options. They also recommend being open to living in an older building, as these can be more affordable and spacious than newer constructions. It's important to be aware of the various fees associated with renting in Tokyo, such as key money, deposit, and agency fees, which can add up to several months' worth of rent. Expats also advise familiarizing yourself with Japanese rental terms and conditions, as they can differ significantly from those in other countries. When it comes to furnished or unfurnished apartments, expats suggest considering your length of stay and budget. Furnished apartments can be more expensive but are convenient for short-term stays, while unfurnished apartments may require a larger initial investment for furniture and appliances but can be more cost-effective in the long run. Lastly, expats recommend being patient and flexible during the housing search, as finding the perfect place in Tokyo can take time and effort. It's essential to keep an open mind and be willing to compromise on certain aspects to find a suitable home in this bustling city," mentioned one expat inTokyo.

"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," mentioned an 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," said an expat in Tokyo.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Tokyo, can be considered relatively affordable compared to some other countries. This is mainly due to the country's universal healthcare system, which ensures that all residents have access to medical services. The system is funded through a combination of government subsidies, employer contributions, and individual premiums. As a result, the cost of healthcare services and insurance premiums are generally kept at a reasonable level. However, it is worth noting that the cost of living in Tokyo is relatively high, which may impact the overall affordability of healthcare for some individuals. Additionally, private health insurance options are available for those who desire more comprehensive coverage or access to private hospitals, but these plans can be more expensive than the public system," mentioned an expat living in Tokyo.

"My experience is that the national health insurance is great and easy to enroll in and easy to use. The insurance is reasonably priced and covers 70% of most medical needs. I have not had a problem with the healthcare system yet. I make sure to find an establishment that provides English support and everything is much smoother for me," said an expat in Tokyo.

"I have Social Health Insurance that my job helped set up for me. It's accepted pretty much everywhere as it's a public insurance. I have only needed to do something preventative, though, so I have only paid for medical service in its entirely before," remarked one expat in Tokyo.

"Living here is expensive, but doable. It is easy to spend your money going out and doing things, so if have to find a balance of saving money and experiencing the culture. Produce is more expensive than American, but eating out can be very cheap and affordable," said one expat.

"It varies on where you are from. If you are from America, you need a spouse visa (married to someone with a visa or a citizenship), working visa, or student visa. For working visa, find a job first and then move to Japan. Your employer will help with the visa process," commented one expat who moved to Tokyo.

"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 an 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," remarked one expat in Tokyo.