Where Are the Cheapest Areas to Live in Japan? Recommended Areas for Foreigners
Many people want to live in areas with lower living costs. In Japan, there are regions with high and low living costs. This time, we will introduce areas with lower living costs in Japan and provide tips for choosing a place to live.
Which Areas in Japan Have Low Living Costs?
According to a 2023 announcement by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the areas with the lowest living costs in Japan are:
- Kagoshima Prefecture
- Miyazaki Prefecture
- Gunma Prefecture
(Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications "Regional Difference Index of Consumer Prices (2023)")
Compared to Tokyo and Osaka, these areas have smaller populations and abundant nature. Each region has its own unique attractions, making them popular tourist destinations.
Kagoshima Prefecture
Kagoshima Prefecture is located at the southern end of Kyushu. It is famous for Sakurajima, an active volcano. The climate is warm, with more rain compared to other regions.
As of October 2023, 12,015 foreigners were working in Kagoshima Prefecture.
The prefecture is also taking various measures to make it easier for foreigners to work. They provide consultations and support for international students who want to work in Japan.
For more details, visit: Kagoshima Prefecture Support for International Students Wanting to Work in Kagoshima!
Miyazaki Prefecture
Miyazaki Prefecture, located next to Kagoshima, is known for its livestock and agriculture. The climate is warm, with an average annual temperature of 17 degrees Celsius.
According to a survey by Miyazaki Prefecture, as of December 2022, about 7,000 foreigners were working in Miyazaki. Many are from Vietnam, Indonesia, China, and the Philippines. Miyazaki Prefecture supports the employment and recruitment of international students who wish to work in Miyazaki. Students can consult through online meetings, email, or face-to-face.
For more details:
Support for International Student Employment: Support for Employment and Recruitment of International Students!
Consultation on Living: Miyazaki Foreign Resident Support Center
Gunma Prefecture
Gunma Prefecture is located in the Kanto region and is famous for its hot springs and beautiful nature. Its proximity to Tokyo is also an attraction. From Tokyo Station to Takasaki City, the prefectural capital, it takes less than an hour by Shinkansen or less than two hours by car.
According to a survey by Gunma Prefecture, as of December 2023, about 72,000 foreigners live in Gunma. The main nationalities are Vietnamese, Brazilian, Filipino, Chinese, and Peruvian, making up about 66% of the foreign population in Gunma.
Many companies in Gunma actively accept foreign workers and have consultation desks for employment and living. For more details, visit: Gunma Prefecture Gunma Foreign Resident Comprehensive Consultation One-Stop Center
(Source: Gunma Prefecture Situation of Foreign Residents as of the End of December 2023)
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Areas with Low Living Costs in Japan
Living in areas with low living costs can have both advantages and disadvantages, depending on the person. If you're considering living in such an area, think about the disadvantages as well as the advantages.
Advantages of Living in Areas with Low Living Costs in Japan
- Lower rent and living expenses
- Abundant nature
- Many areas are welcoming to foreigners
Especially for rent, it can be less than half compared to Tokyo, where living costs are the highest in Japan. Lower rent can significantly reduce your living expenses. If you are moving with your family, you might be able to buy a house at a lower price. In areas with thriving agriculture, food expenses can also be lower.
Moreover, many regions are facing a severe labor shortage compared to urban areas and are more welcoming to foreigners. Some local governments offer consultations in your native language and provide Japanese language classes.
Disadvantages of Living in Areas with Low Living Costs in Japan
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to living in areas with low living costs in Japan:
- Lower salaries in many areas
- Underdeveloped public transportation, making cars essential in some areas
In regions with low living costs, salaries may also be lower. According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the minimum wage per hour is 1,163 yen in Tokyo, while it is 985 yen in Gunma, 952 yen in Miyazaki, and 953 yen in Kagoshima. Although there may be differences in wages for the same job, rent in Tokyo is higher. Therefore, the amount left after deducting living expenses from your salary may not differ much.
Additionally, many areas have little to no public transportation, making it difficult to live without a car. Owning a car increases expenses such as vehicle costs, gasoline, and insurance. To live without a car, consider choosing a company that offers transportation between your home and workplace.
(Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare "National List of Regional Minimum Wages")
How to Find Areas Where Foreigners Can Live Comfortably
To find areas where foreigners can live comfortably, consider the following methods:
- Talk to people living in the area you want to live in
- Ask local governments about their support for foreigners
- Look for companies that actively accept foreign workers
Areas that are comfortable for foreigners may already have a significant foreign population. If you can talk to people who have lived there for a long time, you can get an idea of the general living costs.
Additionally, regions that actively accept foreigners may offer multilingual support. Being able to consult in your native language is reassuring.
Summary
We introduced areas in Japan with low living costs and the advantages and disadvantages of living in such areas. Besides well-known cities like Tokyo and Osaka, there are many regions with relatively low living costs and excellent support for foreigners. When looking for a job, also consider where you want to live.
