Essential Guide to Living in Tokyo as an Expat

Moving to Tokyo as an expat can be both exciting and challenging. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make your transition smooth and successful.

Before You Arrive: 2025 Requirements

Visa Requirements & Updates

• Work visa sponsorship: Enhanced digital application process introduced in 2025

• Required documentation: Digital submission now accepted for most documents

• Application timeline: Average processing reduced to 4-6 weeks for most visa categories

• Renewal procedures: Online renewal system launched for eligible visa holders

Finding Accommodation: 2025 Market Reality

Tokyo's rental market has evolved significantly for international residents:

Traditional Requirements (Still Common):

• Guarantor requirements: Japanese guarantor or guarantee company service (¥30,000-50,000 fee)

• Key money (reikin): Non-refundable payment equivalent to 1-2 months' rent

• Deposit (shikikin): Security deposit typically 1-2 months' rent

• Agency fees: Usually 1 month's rent plus tax

New 2025 Developments:

• International-friendly agencies: Growing number of English-speaking real estate services

• Guarantee company services: More accessible for foreigners without Japanese guarantors

• Digital applications: Online viewing and application processes increasingly common

• Flexible lease terms: Some landlords now offer shorter-term luxury rentals for executives

Essential Services Setup

Banking

• Recommended banks: MUFG, Mizuho, Sumitomo Mitsui

• Required documents: Residence card, proof of address, hanko (seal)

• Online banking: Most major banks offer English support

Mobile Phone

• Major carriers: SoftBank, NTT Docomo, au

• MVNOs: More affordable options like Rakuten Mobile

• Contract requirements: Residence card and bank account

Internet

• Fiber options: NTT Flets, au Hikari, SoftBank Hikari

• Setup time: Usually 2-4 weeks

• Speeds: Expect 100Mbps to 1Gbps

Healthcare System: World-Class Care in 2025

National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken)

Japan's healthcare system continues to rank among the world's best in 2025:

• Mandatory enrollment: Required within 14 days of obtaining residence status

• Cost structure: Based on previous year's income, typically ¥20,000-60,000 annually for most expats

• Coverage: 70% of medical costs covered, with patient responsible for 30%

• 2025 updates: Enhanced digital health card system and online appointment booking

Healthcare Quality Rankings (2025)

• Global ranking: 3rd worldwide for healthcare quality

• Life expectancy: 84 years (3rd highest globally after Hong Kong and Macau)

• Safety: 6th globally for overall safety and security

English-Speaking Medical Facilities

Premium International Hospitals:

• St. Luke's International Hospital: Full-service international hospital with English-speaking staff

• Tokyo Medical & Surgical Clinic: Specialized in serving international community

• International Clinic: Comprehensive healthcare in multiple languages

• American Clinic Tokyo: US-style healthcare with American and international doctors

• Tokyo Midtown Medical Center: Located in Roppongi, popular with expats

2025 Healthcare Innovations:

• Telemedicine services: Remote consultations available in English

• Digital health records: Integrated system for seamless care transitions

• Medical translation apps: AI-powered real-time translation for medical consultations

Transportation

IC Cards

• Suica/Pasmo: Rechargeable cards for trains and buses

• Mobile IC: Add to iPhone or Android wallet

Train System

• JR Lines: Japan Railways network

• Private lines: Tokyo Metro, Toei, Keio, etc.

• Rush hours: 7-9 AM and 5:30-7:30 PM

Cultural Adaptation

Work Culture

• Punctuality: Arrive 10 minutes early

• Business cards: Use both hands when exchanging

• After-work socializing: Nomikai (drinking parties) are important

Daily Etiquette

• Bowing: Slight bow when greeting

• Quiet public spaces: Avoid phone calls on trains

• Shoes off: Remove shoes when entering homes

Language Learning

• Basic phrases: Essential for daily life

• Language schools: Berlitz, Nova, ECC

• Language exchange: HelloTalk, Tandem apps

Shopping and Daily Life

Grocery Shopping

• Supermarkets: Aeon, Ito-Yokado, Life

• Convenience stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson

• International foods: Kaldi, National Azabu

Utilities

• Electricity: Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO)

• Gas: Tokyo Gas

• Water: Included in rent or separate billing

Finance and Taxes

Tax Obligations

• Resident tax: Paid to local municipality

• Income tax: Paid to national government

• Year-end adjustment: Tax filing process

Banking Services

• International transfers: Remittance services

• Credit cards: Rakuten, Saison cards popular

• Savings accounts: Higher interest rates available

Emergency Preparedness

Natural Disasters

• Earthquake preparedness: Emergency kit essentials

• Evacuation routes: Know your local evacuation area

• Emergency apps: Safety tips and NHK World

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 110

• Fire/Ambulance: 119

• Tourist Hotline: 050-3816-2787

Building Your Social Network

Expat Communities

• Facebook groups: Tokyo expat communities

• Meetup events: Professional and social groups

• International societies: Country-specific groups

Sports and Hobbies

• Gyms: Anytime Fitness, Gold's Gym

• Sports clubs: Tokyo American Club, British Club

• Hobby groups: Photography, hiking, cooking classes

Conclusion

Living in Tokyo as an expat offers incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth. While the initial setup can be complex, the city's excellent infrastructure, safety, and unique culture make it a rewarding place to call home.

For personalized assistance with finding the perfect home in Tokyo, contact our international relocation specialists.