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Moving to Japan

A 2025 Expat Guide on How to Move to Japan

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Thinking about moving to Japan? Whether you’re planning on short-term relocation or moving there permanently, relocating to Japan from the US is a big step. This expat guide answers all essential questions you might have, like how much it costs to move to Japan, how to move to Japan permanently, and what the requirements are to live in Japan as an American. From visas and moving costs to living expenses and life in Japan, you can find it here.

Key Takeaways

  • Average cost to move to Japan from the US: $3,000–$11,800, depending on shipment size and departure coast.
  • Main requirements: Valid visa, proof of income, health insurance, and address registration within 14 days of arrival.
  • Cost of living: Around ¥417,000/month ($3,864) for a family of four in Tokyo; rent for a 1K apartment averages ¥50,000–¥70,000.
  • Life as an American in Japan: Safe, clean, and modern, but expect high urban costs and cultural or language adjustments.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Japan?

On average, the cost of moving to Japan from the US ranges from $3000 to $11,800, depending on the size of your apartment and location. Sea freight is the most common method, with faster and cheaper routes from the West Coast.

Costs from the East Coast (Sea Freight to Tokyo)

Property SizeTimeAverage Costs
1-bedroom8 – 11 weeks$3,400 – $4,800
2-bedrooms5 – 8 weeks$4,700 – $6,300
3-bedrooms5 – 8 weeks$8,200 – $11,000
4-bedrooms5 – 8 weeks$8,700 – $11,800

*Costs updated in October 2025.

Costs from the West Coast (Sea Freight to Tokyo):

Property SizeTimeAverage Costs
1-bedroom7 – 9 weeks$3,000 – $4,200
2-bedrooms4 – 6 weeks$3,900 – $5,400
3-bedrooms4 – 6 weeks$6,800 – $9,200
4-bedrooms4 – 6 weeks$7,300 – $10,000

*Costs updated in October 2025.

Pro tip: Book your shipment 8–10 weeks in advance to secure the best rates and avoid delays during peak moving seasons.

Best Moving Companies to Japan

Are you searching for movers to Japan? You’re in the right place. Take a look at the 3 best international removal companies from America to Japan:

  1. Laser Moving
  1. Ruby International
  1. Uplift Movers

Compare Quotes for Moving to Japan from the US

Request up to 5 free moving quotes from some of the best international movers to Japan. Still unsure about your moving volume? Use our moving space calculator to get the most accurate cost estimates.

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How Do You Move to Japan? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Here’s how to move to Japan from the US in 7 simple steps:

  1. Research visa options (work, student, or family).
  2. Get moving quotes and estimate your shipping volume.
  3. Apply for your visa (processing takes 4–8 weeks).
  4. Secure housing and health insurance before departure.
  5. Ship your belongings after your visa is approved.
  6. Register your address within 14 days of arrival in Japan.
  7. Apply for permanent residency if you plan to stay long-term.
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Requirements for Moving to Japan

What are the requirements for moving to Japan? Here’s a quick breakdown of specific documentation and residency requirements:

  • Valid visa (work, student, or family)
  • Proof of financial stability or employment
  • No criminal record
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Residence registration in Japan
  • Residence card (issued upon arrival)

Can you live in Japan as an American?

Absolutely, though you must go through proper legal channels, including obtaining a visa and registering locally.

Tip: Proof of funds of at least ¥300,000 (≈$2,800) is recommended for new arrivals.

Working in Japan

Moving to Japan for work is possible, especially if you work in education, IT, or engineering.

There are English-speaking jobs for foreigners, but most companies expect at least a JLPT N2 proficiency.

Quick facts:

  • Average expat salary: ¥5.3 million/year ($36,000)
  • Work visa duration: 1–5 years, renewable
  • High-demand roles: English teachers, engineers, software developers
Tip: Networking through local expat groups or job boards like GaijinPot can increase your job opportunities.

Healthcare in Japan

Japan’s healthcare system offers universal coverage with high-quality medical services.
Residents pay about 30% of costs, while insurance covers the rest.

  • Enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI) within 14 days of arrival.
  • Average doctor visit: ¥3,000–¥6,000 ($25–$50).
  • Prescription medicine is widely available and affordable.

Finances & Taxes in Japan

To open a bank account in Japan, you must first obtain a Japanese residency. You’ll need:

  • Passport & Japanese visa
  • Residence card
  • Japanese address and phone number
  • Personal stamp (often used in Japan in place of a handwritten signature)
Tax tip for Americans:
The US taxes citizens on global income. You can claim Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) to reduce double taxation.

Costs of Living in Japan

Japan’s cost of living varies by city. Tokyo and Osaka are the most expensive; smaller cities like Fukuoka and Sapporo offer more affordable options.

CategoryAverage Monthly Cost
Family of four (Tokyo)¥417,000 ($3,864)
1K apartment rent¥50,000–¥70,000
Utilities¥15,000–¥25,000
Groceries¥40,000–¥60,000

Living in Japan as an American

Living in Japan as an American offers both challenges and rewards. While the infrastructure is excellent and the culture is rich, you may encounter cultural and language barriers.

Join expat groups in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Okinawa to build a support network.

Pros and Cons of Living in Japan

Japan is often referred to as a land of contradictions. Traditional, yet modern. Kind, yet stern. Keeping with the theme, we have listed some pros of moving to Japan, contrasted by their cons:

Pros

 Fascinating culture
 Safe and clean cities
 Excellent public transportation

Cons

 Limited career growth without Japanese fluency
 Social isolation or ‘gaijin’ (or foreigner) label
 Expensive housing and food in cities

Things to Do in Japan

From spring cherry blossoms in Kyoto to karaoke in Tokyo, Japan offers endless experiences.
Don’t miss:

  • Seasonal festivals and fireworks
  • Hiking Mount Fuji
  • Exploring temples and onsens
  • Sampling regional Japanese cuisine

A Warm ‘Sayonara’ From Sirelo!

Now that you have made it this far, you should be a master of moving costs, and on top of all the things to do before moving to Japan. If you feel like you still need some extra help, we recommend that you check out the articles below.

Frequently asked questions

How much would it cost to move to Japan from the US?

What are the requirements to move to Japan?

Can I live in Japan as an American?

Is it easy to move to Japan?

What are the steps to move to Japan permanently?