Best Cities in Japan for Foreigners to Live In

Tokyo (Best for Job Opportunities & International Services)

東京都
Pros:

• Plenty of job opportunities, especially for English speakers.
• Numerous international restaurants, shops, and supermarkets.
• Many English-speaking hospitals and government services.

Cons:

• High cost of living, especially rent.
• Overcrowded and fast-paced lifestyle.
• Commuting can be stressful due to packed trains.

Best Areas for Expats: Minato (Roppongi, Azabu-Juban), Shibuya, Shinjuku

2. Yokohama (Best for a Balanced Lifestyle)

横浜市
Pros:

• A large and well-established foreign community.
• More affordable than Tokyo but still close to the capital.
• International schools and foreign-friendly infrastructure.

Cons:

• Fewer job opportunities compared to Tokyo.
• Can feel a bit quieter compared to Tokyo’s vibrancy.

Best Areas for Expats: Minato Mirai, Yamate, Kannai

3. Osaka (Best for Friendly Locals & Food Culture)

大阪市
Pros:

• Lower cost of living than Tokyo.
• Friendly and outgoing local culture.
• Great food scene and entertainment options.

Cons:

• Fewer job opportunities for English speakers compared to Tokyo.
• Kansai dialect may take time to understand.

Best Areas for Expats: Umeda, Shinsaibashi, Tennoji

4. Kyoto (Best for Culture & History Lovers)

京都市
Pros:

• Rich cultural heritage and beautiful surroundings.
• English-friendly tourism industry.
• Many guesthouses and language schools offer jobs for foreigners.

Cons:

• Fewer job opportunities outside of tourism.
• Conservative and reserved local culture.
• Can be very cold in winter.

Best Areas for Expats: Kawaramachi, Arashiyama, Fushimi

5. Fukuoka (Best for Affordable City Living)

福岡市
Pros:

• Lower cost of living and rent.
• Compact city with everything within reach.
• Famous for its food, especially ramen.

Cons:

• Limited job market outside of IT and teaching.
• Smaller foreign community compared to Tokyo or Osaka.

Best Areas for Expats: Tenjin, Hakata, Daimyo

6. Kobe (Best for a Laid-Back International Atmosphere)

神戸市
Pros:

• International environment with many foreign-friendly businesses.
• Beautiful coastal and mountain scenery.
• Close to Osaka and Kyoto for weekend trips.

Cons:

• Smaller job market.
• Less nightlife and entertainment compared to Osaka.

Best Areas for Expats: Sannomiya, Motomachi, Rokko

7. Sapporo (Best for Nature & Cool Summers)

札幌市
Pros:

• Pleasant summer climate with no extreme heat.
• Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
• Lower cost of living compared to Tokyo.

Cons:

• Harsh winters with heavy snowfall.
• Fewer job opportunities for foreigners.

Best Areas for Expats: Sapporo Station area, Odori Park, Maruyama

 

8. Okinawa (Best for a Relaxed Island Lifestyle)

沖縄市
Pros:

• Warm and tropical climate year-round.
• Many American expats due to military presence.
• Relaxed and slower-paced lifestyle.

Cons:

• Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and military-related fields.
• Prone to typhoons.

Best Areas for Expats: Naha, Chatan, Ginowan

9. Nagoya (Best for Industrial & Economic Stability)

名古屋市
Pros:

• Strong economy with many automotive and tech companies.
• Lower living costs compared to Tokyo and Osaka.
• Good public transportation and infrastructure.

Cons:

• Less international presence compared to bigger cities.
• Can feel more business-oriented and less vibrant.

Best Areas for Expats: Nagoya Station, Sakae, Osu

10. Hiroshima (Best for a Quiet & Affordable Life)

Pros:

• Peaceful environment with a strong historical presence.
• Affordable living costs.
• English-friendly tourism industry.

Cons:

• Smaller foreign community.
• Fewer job opportunities for English speakers.

Best Areas for Expats: Hatchobori, Kamiyacho, Hondori

Conclusion

If you prioritize job opportunities, Tokyo or Osaka are your best bets.

 

For a balanced lifestyle, Yokohama or Fukuoka offer great options.

 

If you prefer a cultural experience, Kyoto or Hiroshima are ideal.

 

Those seeking a relaxed atmosphere may enjoy Okinawa or Kobe.

 

Ultimately, the best city for you depends on your lifestyle preferences and job needs. Whether you want a fast-paced urban life or a quiet retreat, Japan has a place for everyone!

 

Wondering where you’ll meet the most fellow international students in Japan? Check out our Top 5 Japanese Universities with the Highest Ratio of International Students in 2025.