Living in Tokyo: the ultimate expat guide

Tokyo is a major center of economic activity in Japan, hosting headquarters for leading corporations, innovative startups, and financial institutions. The city’s economy is diversified, with services—including finance, professional services, retail, and information and communications—accounting for the largest share of output, while technology and manufacturing also play a significant role in the metropolitan area and surrounding regions. Major companies with substantial operations in Tokyo include Sony, Toyota, SoftBank, and NTT, alongside numerous multinational firms. The Tokyo Stock Exchange is one of Asia’s largest and most influential financial markets.

Key employment sectors

The technology sector encompasses software development, robotics, electronics manufacturing, and digital innovation, while financial services include banking, insurance, asset management, and capital markets. Manufacturing includes automotive, electronics, precision instruments, and pharmaceuticals, primarily in the wider metropolitan region. Professional services include consulting, legal, accounting, and creative industries.

Work permits and procedures

To work legally in Tokyo, most international professionals need sponsorship from a Japanese employer. The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa covers IT professionals, teachers, marketers, and similar roles, requiring a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. The Intra-Company Transferee visa applies to employees transferring within multinational organizations. The Highly Skilled Professional visa offers benefits including fast-track permanent residency for top talent with specific qualifications and income levels.

Employers must first obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from Japan's Immigration Services Agency, typically taking one to three months. Once issued, applicants use the COE to apply for their work visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate.

Data correct as of December 2025.

Sources: Trading Economics, Numbeo

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Tokyo hosts several world-class universities and is a top destination in Asia for advanced academic study and research.

Universities and programs

The University of Tokyo provides a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines, with select undergraduate tracks such as the PEAK program and various graduate programs offered in English. Waseda University offers a growing number of English-taught programs in business, international relations, and social sciences. Keio University is renowned for its economics, business, and policy studies, with expanding English-language programs. Sophia University also has numerous English-taught courses across various disciplines.

Admission requirements

International applicants to universities in Tokyo must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted examinations, with requirements varying by program. Academic transcripts and certificates should be submitted in official form, with translations where needed. Strong academic performance is expected, and student visa applicants must prove financial capability to cover tuition and living expenses. Application deadlines differ by university and program, generally falling between late autumn and early spring for spring or fall intake, depending on the course schedule.

Public schools welcome international students but provide limited English support. Some Tokyo public schools offer bilingual programs or additional Japanese language assistance for non-native speakers.

International schools

Tokyo offers numerous international schools serving expatriate families, with curricula including International Baccalaureate, American, British, and other national systems. The American School in Japan (ASIJ), established over 120 years ago, serves students from age 3 to 18 with an American curriculum. The British School in Tokyo (BST) teaches the English National Curriculum across multiple campuses. Seisen International School, Tokyo International School, and K. International School Tokyo all offer IB programs with strong university placement records.

Application process

International schools in Tokyo typically require applications 12 to 18 months ahead of the intended start date. The process usually includes parent questionnaires, academic records, teacher recommendations, and assessments or interviews for older students. Many schools maintain waiting lists, especially for mid-year entry.

Tokyo's housing market varies dramatically by location, with central wards commanding premium prices while outer areas offer better value. Each neighborhood has distinct characteristics, from the bustling commerce of Shibuya to the residential calm of Setagaya.

Popular neighborhoods

Minato Ward features upscale areas like Roppongi, Azabu, and Aoyama, popular with international residents for proximity to embassies and international schools. Shibuya Ward mixes vibrant commercial districts with residential areas, backed by outstanding transport connections and everyday urban amenities. Setagaya Ward provides family-friendly residential environments with parks, good schools, and more spacious housing. Meguro Ward balances convenience with livability, featuring tree-lined streets and local charm. Shinjuku Ward offers proximity to business districts, though noise levels vary by specific area.

Rental process

Landlords typically require first month's rent, a security deposit (usually one to two months' rent), and key money (non-refundable payment to the landlord). Many landlords also require a Japanese guarantor or guarantor company. Foreign-friendly agencies specialize in helping international residents navigate the rental process, handling language barriers and paperwork. Lease terms usually run two years, with renewal requiring additional payments.

Data correct as of December 2025.

Source: Numbeo

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Tokyo offers extraordinary cultural experiences, from ancient temples to cutting-edge digital art. The city's diverse entertainment landscape ensures endless exploration possibilities for residents and visitors alike.

Cultural attractions

Among the popular cultural attractions in Tokyo are the Tokyo National Museum, which houses Japan's largest collection of art and artifacts. teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets create immersive digital art experiences unique to Tokyo. The Ghibli Museum brings Studio Ghibli's animated films to life. Historic sites include Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Meiji Shrine surrounded by forest in central Tokyo, and the Imperial Palace gardens. Modern landmarks like Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower offer panoramic city views.

Outdoor spaces and entertainment districts

Tokyo has plenty of green spaces despite its density. Ueno Park encompasses museums, a zoo, and beautiful grounds. Shinjuku Gyoen features traditional Japanese, English, and French gardens. Yoyogi Park attracts crowds for picnics and weekend events.

Each district offers unique entertainment. Shibuya pulses with youth culture and nightlife. Akihabara serves as the center for electronics, anime, and gaming culture. Roppongi features international dining and nightlife. Harajuku showcases street fashion and quirky shops. Ginza is known for luxury shopping and high-end dining. The city's extensive entertainment options include sumo tournaments, baseball games, traditional theater, modern concerts, and countless festivals throughout the year.

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Tokyo’s public infrastructure supports a high standard of daily living, from reliable healthcare access to well-organized municipal services. The city's legendary punctuality and service quality extend across all aspects of daily life.

Getting around

Tokyo's transportation system includes Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, operating 13 subway lines with extensive private rail systems that reach far into surrounding areas. IC cards like Suica and PASMO allow easy travel across trains, subways, and buses. The JR Yamanote Line loops through central Tokyo, linking major hubs including Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station, and Ikebukuro. Train services generally run from early morning until around midnight, with schedules varying slightly by line. Buses fill in gaps where rail access is limited, while taxis are widely available but considerably more expensive than public transport.

Healthcare and services

All residents must enroll in Japan’s public health insurance system, which provides access to high-quality medical care with regulated out-of-pocket costs. Tokyo has many hospitals and clinics experienced in serving international patients, particularly in central districts, although English-language support differs by facility. City services offer multilingual assistance for many administrative procedures, enforce strict waste sorting and collection schedules, and maintain public facilities to a high standard. Convenience stores operate around the clock and play a central role in daily life, offering bill payment services, banking functions, and essential goods.

Source: Tokyo Metro

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The cost of living in Tokyo varies significantly based on lifestyle choices and residential location. While the city no longer ranks among the world's most expensive, costs still require careful budgeting.

Monthly expenses for a single person

Data correct as of December 2025.

Monthly expenses for a family of four

Data correct as of December 2025.

Source: Numbeo