If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Japan, you’re not alone. From high-tech cities and serene temples to sushi counters and hot springs, Japan offers an incredibly diverse lifestyle for travelers, expats, and digital nomads alike. But dreaming is one thing—planning to live in Japan is another.
Whether you’re staying for a few months on the new digital nomad visa or planning a longer move, there’s a lot to consider: visa types, cost of living, where to live, how locals treat foreigners, and most importantly—how to stay connected while working remotely.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about living in Japan, including the practical details and how ConnectPls can make your experience seamless with unlimited, reliable internet access.
Key Takeaways
- You can legally live in Japan with the right visa, including a new digital nomad visa for remote workers.
- Major cities offer convenience but come with a higher cost of living, while regional areas are more budget-friendly and peaceful.
- Monthly living costs can range from $850 in rural towns to $2,500 in major cities like Tokyo.
- Japanese people are generally polite and respectful, though cultural integration takes time and effort.
- A reliable, unlimited data internet solution like ConnectPls is essential for remote workers and travelers in Japan.
Can Foreigners Live in Japan?
Visa Options for Long-Term Stays
Yes, foreigners can absolutely live in Japan, provided they obtain the correct visa. Here are a few common options:
- Working visa: For employment with a Japanese company.
- Student visa: For those studying in Japan.
- Spouse visa: For those married to a Japanese citizen.
- Business manager visa: For entrepreneurs.
- Working holiday visa: For younger travelers from select countries.
Japan Digital Nomad Visa
In 2024, Japan introduced a digital nomad visa allowing eligible foreign nationals to stay for up to six months while working remotely for a foreign company or as freelancers. It’s perfect for remote professionals who want to explore life in Japan without committing to a traditional job or long-term immigration process.
To qualify, applicants generally need a sufficient income from non-Japanese sources and valid health insurance. While this visa doesn’t grant a residence card, it legally supports mid-length stays for digital nomads.
Planning to work remotely in Japan? ConnectPls offers unlimited-data eSIMs and WiFi hotspots that are perfect for digital nomads staying short or long term.
Where Should You Live in Japan?
Major Cities vs Regional Areas
Your choice of location will shape your entire experience of living in Japan. Here’s how the two main options compare:
Major Cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama)
These cities offer unmatched convenience, vibrant social scenes, great public transport, coworking spaces, and lots of English-friendly services. However, living costs are higher, spaces are smaller, and things can feel crowded.
Regional Cities & Countryside (Fukuoka, Sapporo, Nagano, etc.)
Living in a smaller city or rural area provides more space, lower rent, quieter surroundings, and often deeper cultural immersion. While fewer people speak English, and coworking spaces might be limited, it’s an excellent choice for slower living and saving money.
Cost of Living in Japan
Monthly Budget Comparison: City vs Countryside
| Expense Category | Tokyo/Osaka (Major City) | Rural Area/Regional City |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom) | ¥150,000 – ¥200,000 | ¥50,000 – ¥80,000 |
| Utilities | ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 | ¥8,000 – ¥10,000 |
| Groceries | ¥35,000 – ¥50,000 | ¥25,000 – ¥35,000 |
| Dining Out & Coffee | ¥20,000 – ¥30,000 | ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 |
| Transport | ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 | ¥5,000 – ¥8,000 |
| Leisure & Misc. | ¥15,000 – ¥25,000 | ¥8,000 – ¥12,000 |
| Internet & Mobile | ¥7,000 – ¥10,000 | ¥5,000 – ¥7,000 |
| Total Estimate | ¥270,000 – ¥345,000 | ¥111,000 – ¥167,000 |
In USD terms, that’s approximately $1,800 – $2,500/month in a major city vs $800 – $1,200/month in a regional location.
How Do Locals Treat Foreigners?
Cultural Etiquette and Social Integration
Japan is known for its politeness, structure, and social harmony. As a foreigner, you’ll often be treated with courtesy and respect. However, deeper social integration takes time and effort.
Most locals won’t be openly rude or discriminatory, but Japan does have a more homogeneous culture. Don’t expect everyone to speak English or fully understand foreign customs. Making an effort to learn basic Japanese and local etiquette goes a long way.
Foreigners who immerse themselves in the language and social norms often report extremely positive experiences, even forming strong connections with locals over time.
Moving between cities or rural areas in Japan? With ConnectPls, you stay connected wherever you go thanks to reliable WiFi and eSIM solutions.
Everyday Life in Japan as a Digital Nomad
Work-Life Balance
Japan has a reputation for overwork—but that’s mainly true for corporate employees. As a remote worker or freelancer, you can enjoy a more relaxed rhythm. You’ll find plenty of peaceful cafés, coworking spaces, and even hot spring resorts where you can work with a view.
Grocery Shopping & Dining
Food in Japan is generally affordable, especially if you cook at home or eat at small local eateries. Supermarkets are well-stocked, and convenience stores offer surprisingly good meals. In rural areas, fresh produce is cheaper and often locally sourced.
Public Transport
Japan’s public transportation is world-class. Trains and subways are clean, efficient, and usually on time. In major cities, you can live without a car. In the countryside, though, a car or scooter might become essential.
Staying Connected: Why Internet is Non-Negotiable
Whether you’re teaching online, uploading videos, writing code, or just video-calling friends back home—you need internet you can rely on. While Japan does have good infrastructure, many ISPs require long-term contracts, residence cards, and Japanese bank accounts.
That’s where ConnectPls steps in.
ConnectPls provides unlimited-data eSIMs and portable WiFi hotspots that are ideal for:
- Digital nomads
- Long-term travelers
- Van lifers
- Expats and remote workers
You get instant activation, full flexibility, and no bureaucratic headaches.
Don’t let unreliable internet disrupt your Japan journey. Choose ConnectPls and enjoy unlimited connectivity without long contracts.
Final Thoughts: Is Living in Japan Worth It?
Absolutely—living in Japan offers a unique blend of efficiency, beauty, modern convenience, and rich cultural depth. Whether you’re exploring temples on your weekends or taking bullet trains to new cities, every day feels like an adventure.
But it’s not without challenges. Between visas, cultural adjustment, budgeting, and finding the right place to live, preparation is key.
Fortunately, with the right tools—like a solid data plan from ConnectPls—you can navigate it all smoothly.
So whether you’re planning a short stay or considering Japan as your long-term base, set yourself up for success: choose your location wisely, budget carefully, respect the culture, and stay connected with ConnectPls.
