Where to Live in Japan: The Best 5 Financial Cities for Expats to Build their Business and Career.
Japan is a popular destination for expats looking for new opportunities in the financial sector.
The country has several thriving financial cities that offer plenty of investment and business opportunities.
If you're considering relocating to Japan, you may be wondering which city is right for you.
Choosing where to live in Japan can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider, such as cost of living, job market, lifestyle, climate, and culture.
To help you narrow down your options, we have compiled a list of the best five financial cities for expats to build their business and career in Japan.
These cities are not only economic hubs, but also offer a high quality of life, a rich culture, and a diverse community.
1. Tokyo
Tokyo is the obvious choice for many expats who want to live in Japan.
It is the capital and the largest city of the country, with a population of over 8.3 million people.
It is also the cultural, political, and financial center of Japan, hosting many multinational corporations, international organizations, and prestigious universities.
Living in Tokyo means experiencing the best of both worlds: the modern and the traditional.
You can enjoy the high-tech amenities, the bustling nightlife, the endless shopping options, and the world-class cuisine in Tokyo.
You can also explore the historical landmarks, the serene gardens, the artistic museums, and the colorful festivals in Tokyo.
However, living in Tokyo also comes with some challenges.
It is one of the most expensive cities in the world, with high rents, taxes, and living expenses.
It is also very crowded and hectic, with busy streets, packed trains, and long commutes.
It can be hard to find a spacious and comfortable accommodation in Tokyo, especially in the central areas.
If you want to live in Tokyo, you should be prepared to pay a premium for your location and convenience.
You should also be ready to adapt to the fast-paced and competitive environment of Tokyo.
However, if you are looking for a dynamic and exciting city that offers endless opportunities and entertainment, Tokyo might be the perfect place for you.
2. Yokohama
Yokohama is another popular option for expats who want to live in Japan.
It is the second-largest city in Japan, with a population of over 3.5 million people.
It is also a major port and a commercial center, located just south of Tokyo.
Living in Yokohama means enjoying a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle than in Tokyo.
You can find more spacious and cheaper accommodations in Yokohama, as well as more green spaces and parks.
You can also enjoy the pleasant climate, the beautiful waterfront, and the diverse cuisine in Yokohama.
Yokohama is also close to Tokyo, which makes it convenient for commuting and traveling.
You can reach Tokyo by train in less than an hour, or by car in about 40 minutes.
You can also access other nearby attractions, such as Kamakura, Hakone, or Mount Fuji.
If you want to live in Yokohama, you should be prepared to deal with some traffic and pollution issues.
You should also be aware that Yokohama is less international and cosmopolitan than Tokyo.
However, if you are looking for a more laid-back and affordable city that offers easy access to Tokyo and other destinations, Yokohama might be the ideal place for you.
3. Osaka
It is the third-largest city in Japan, with a population of over 2.7 million people.
It is also the economic center of the Kansai region, hosting many large companies, such as Panasonic, Sharp and Nintendo.
Living in Osaka means enjoying a warm and friendly atmosphere, a vibrant nightlife, and a delicious food scene.
Osaka is known for its outgoing and humorous people, its lively entertainment districts, and its signature dishes, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki,and kushikatsu.
You can also explore the historical attractions, the cultural events, and the modern amenities in Osaka.
Osaka is also close to other cultural cities, such as Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
You can reach them by train in less than an hour, or by car in about 90 minutes.
You can also visit other nearby attractions, such as Himeji Castle, Nara Park, or Universal Studios Japan.
If you want to live in Osaka, you should be prepared to learn some local dialect and customs.
Osaka has its own distinctive way of speaking and behaving, which can be different from standard Japanese.
You should also be aware that Osaka is prone to earthquakes and typhoons, which can cause some damage and disruption.
However, if you are looking for a fun and friendly city that offers a rich culture and a delicious cuisine, Osaka might be the perfect place for you.
4. Kyoto
Kyoto is another appealing option for expats who want to live in Japan.
It is the former capital and the cultural heart of the country, with a population of over 1.4 million people.
It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 2,000 temples, shrines, gardens, and palaces.
Living in Kyoto means enjoying a beautiful and peaceful environment, with a strong sense of history and tradition.
You can admire the stunning architecture, the exquisite art, and the elegant geisha in Kyoto.
You can also participate in the seasonal festivals, the tea ceremonies, and the Zen meditation in Kyoto.
Kyoto is also close to Osaka, which makes it convenient for working and traveling.
You can reach Osaka by train in about 30 minutes, or by car in about an hour.
You can also access other nearby attractions, such as Lake Biwa, Arashiyama, or Nijo Castle.
If you want to live in Kyoto, you should be prepared to respect the local culture and etiquette.
Kyoto is a conservative and refined city, where manners and appearance are important.
You should also be ready to cope with the cold winters and the hot summers in Kyoto.
However, if you are looking for a serene and sophisticated city that offers a glimpse into the ancient Japan, Kyoto might be the ideal place for you.
5. Fukuoka
Fukuoka is another attractive option for expats who want to live in Japan.
It is the largest city in Southern Japan and a gateway to Asia, with a population of over 1.3 million people.
It is also a hub for startups and innovation, hosting many tech companies, universities, and research institutes.
Living in Fukuoka means enjoying a charming and lively atmosphere, with a mix of urban and natural scenery.
You can enjoy the modern amenities, the bustling nightlife, and the diverse cuisine in Fukuoka.
You can also explore the coastal views, the rural villages, and the hot springs in Fukuoka.
Fukuoka is also close to other Asian countries, such as Korea, China, and Taiwan.
You can reach them by plane in less than an hour from Fukuoka Airport.
You can also visit other nearby attractions, such as Dazaifu, Yanagawa, or Nagasaki.
If you want to live in Fukuoka, you should be prepared to learn some local dialect and slang.
Fukuoka has its own unique way of speaking and expressing emotions, which can be different from standard Japanese.
You should also be aware that Fukuoka is vulnerable to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes.
However, if you are looking for a charming and lively city that offers a gateway to Asia and a hub for innovation, Fukuoka might be the perfect place for you.
Conclusion
Japan is a fascinating country that offers many opportunities and challenges for expats who want to live there.
Depending on your preferences and goals, you can choose from different financial cities that have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Some of the best cities for expats to build their business and career in Japan are Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka.
Each city has its own unique culture, lifestyle, and climate.
You should do your research and compare the pros and cons of each city before making your decision.
No matter which city you choose, you will surely have an unforgettable experience living in Japan.
A frog in a well does not know the great ocean.
– Japanese Proverb
