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Mt. Fuji with red and chureito pagoda in Fujiyoshida, Japan

An expat's guide to Japan

Japan is a unique country with a distinctive culture. It offers expats a safe and vibrant lifestyle, where their skills, language and cultural capital are in demand. The country’s climate is similar to Europe and most of North America, with hot summers and cold winters.

The standard of living in Japan is generally high with good health care and educational facilities. Many expats enjoy the ease and comfort of modern urban living, the combination of the exotic with the familiar and the unique collision of ancient culture and a futuristic mindset. Japan is a conservative but warm and welcoming nation whose slow-growing economy since the early 1990s has given rise to a relatively high cost of living.

OSAKA - APR 9: Passengers in JR West Train on Apr 9, 14 in Osaka, Japan. It is one of the Japan Railways Group (JR Group) companies and operates in western Honshu. OSAKA - APR 9: Passengers in JR West Train on Apr 9, 14 in Osaka, Japan. It is one of the Japan Railways Group (JR Group) companies and operates in western Honshu.

Moving to Japan

Since Japan is such a unique country, you’ll want to do some research before packing your bags. Our guide covers visa requirements, jobs, where to live and much more.

Learn more about moving to Japan

 

Female tourist visiting Fujimi Inari in Kyoto, Japan Female tourist visiting Fujimi Inari in Kyoto, Japan

Health care in Japan

It’s hard to navigate a health care system when you’re in a foreign country. Find out about the public and private options available.

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Chef making sushi in a Japanese restaurant Chef making sushi in a Japanese restaurant

A guide to well-being in Japan

Living in Japan doesn’t come without risks, but you’ll also benefit from the nutritious Japanese diet.

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People crossing the street at Tokyo's Shibuya Crossinge in Tokyo People crossing the street at Tokyo's Shibuya Crossinge in Tokyo

Visas for relocating to Japan

Before you start your new life in Japan, you need to read up on student or work visas. Find out all you need to know here.

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team young asian caucasian entrepreneurs meeting team young asian caucasian entrepreneurs meeting

Living in Japan

Discover what it’s like to live in Japan, the cost of living and the pros and cons of a move there.

Read more about Japanese lifestyle

Residents and tourists flock to the famous Nishiki Market in Kyoto, Japan.  Residents and tourists flock to the famous Nishiki Market in Kyoto, Japan. 

Cost of living in Japan

It’s useful to get a good understanding of the costs of daily living in Japan before you make the move, especially as it varies greatly between cities such as Osaka compared to Tokyo.

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Japanese business people during rush hour in Tokyo's Shinjuku business district  Japanese business people during rush hour in Tokyo's Shinjuku business district 

Finding work in Japan

Before you consider making the move to Japan, read up on the job industries available, the health of the employment market and how to find work in the country.

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Japanese businessmen bowing to each other Japanese businessmen bowing to each other

Business etiquette in Japan

If you intend to work in Japan, you should be mindful of the various rules, including unspoken ones, about conducting business in the country.

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Traditional Japanese houses Traditional Japanese houses

Finding a home in Japan

With so many exciting and beautiful locations, it’s not easy choosing where to live in Japan. Our tips and advice can help.

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Mount Fuji and sakura cherry blossoms blooming during Japan's spring Mount Fuji and sakura cherry blossoms blooming during Japan's spring

Japan’s climate and geography

From the wintry north to the sometimes scorching south, Japan is a country of variety. Learn more about its climate before you move.

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Japanese Lanterns at a restaurant in Kyoto, Japan Japanese Lanterns at a restaurant in Kyoto, Japan

Japan’s culture and lifestyle

Find out more about the culture and lifestyle you’ll experience in this incredible country if you make the move.

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