What are the best cities in Japan for expats?

• Tokyo – A global business hub with a vibrant expat community. • Osaka – A commercial and cultural center with excellent food and nightlife. • Yokohama – A quieter alternative to Tokyo with great international schools. • Nagoya – A major industrial city with strong job opportunities. • Fukuoka – A growing business and tech hub with a relaxed lifestyle.

Moving to Japan

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Moving to Japan

New Home in a Country of Tradition, Technology, and Innovation

Japan is one of the most unique and exciting destinations for expats, known for its high-tech cities, rich culture, and excellent public services. With a population of over 125 million, Japan offers a dynamic job market, world-class infrastructure, and a high standard of living.
Whether you’re moving to Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya, we provide professional moving services to ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation. The official language is Japanese, and the local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY).

Popular Destinations for Moving to Japan.

We provide international moving services to cities across Japan, including:

Kanto Region: Moving to Tokyo, Yokohama – Japan’s business and cultural epicenter.
Kansai Region: Moving to Osaka, Kyoto – A mix of modern business and historic culture.
Chubu & Southern Japan: Moving to Nagoya, Fukuoka – Industrial and trade hubs with a growing expat scene.

We also assist with moves to other cities and suburban areas across Japan.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Japan?

The cost of moving from depends on the shipment size and required services .While air freight is the fastest option, sea freight is typically the most cost-effective for larger moves. Below estimated prices for household moves via Sea freight:

Move Size	Price Range (€)
Small move (<12m³)	€1,500–€4,500
Mid-size move (12–25m³)	€4,500–€6,000+
Large move (>25m³)	€6,000+
Air freight for personal items	From €1,000

These are estimates, and actual costs vary based on your specific move details.

Requirements to Move to Japan

When planning a move to Japan, it is essential to ensure your visa and customs paperwork are in order before shipping your household goods.

You can find detailed customs information on importing household goods via the FIDI Customs Guide, provided by the largest global alliance of international moving companies.

To provide the most accurate cost estimate, we offer a pre-move survey to assess the volume of your belongings, check home accessibility, and identify any special packing needs.

Plan Your Move in Advance

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation, we recommend contacting us at least 6 weeks before your planned move date.

Follow our Moving Abroad Checklist to make your relocation as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Planning to relocate to Japan?

Get a quote

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Small moves start from €1,500, while mid-sized moves start from €4,500, with larger moves exceeding €6,000.

Japan’s cost of living varies by city. Tokyo and Osaka are the most expensive, while Nagoya and Fukuoka offer more affordable living.

Japan has a universal healthcare system, where residents are required to enroll in public health insurance. Private options are also available.

Yes, most expats require a work visa, student visa, or long-term residency visa to live in Japan.

Tokyo, a global business powerhouse, is known for its cutting-edge technology, dynamic economy, and vibrant expat community, making it one of the most exciting cities in the world. Osaka, a commercial and cultural center, offers a lively atmosphere, renowned cuisine, and an energetic nightlife that attracts both locals and visitors alike. Yokohama, located just south of Tokyo, provides a quieter alternative with excellent international schools and a high quality of life, making it a great choice for families. Nagoya, a major industrial city, boasts strong job opportunities, particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. Meanwhile, Fukuoka, a rising business and tech hub, combines economic growth with a more relaxed lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking balance.

What You Need to Know

Moving to Japan-Checklist

Check Visa Requirements –Most expats need a visa or permanent residency.
Find Housing Early – The rental market in major cities can be competitive.
Healthcare & Insurance – Public healthcare is required for residents
Banking& Finances – Open a Japanese bank account for salary payments
Cost of Living – Consider expenses such as rent, groceries, and utilities.
Schooling & Education – Research international and public schools.
Local Culture – Understanding Japanese customs and language will help with integration

For professional moving assistance, contact us today for a free quote!