Long-Term Living in Tokyo: What Expats Should Know

Expats are increasingly drawn to Tokyo for long-term relocations, assignments and extended stays with families. The city has a population of approximately 550,000 foreign residents, with the steady influx attributed to factors like the low crime rates, ultra-punctual subway and train networks and impeccably clean, maintained and walkable city neighbourhoods. Long-term residents also get access to the national health insurance system, while the culture, lifestyle and food are second to none.

This has led to sizeable demand for long-term accommodation in Tokyo for expats. However, there are some things that expats should know before making the shift. Let us cover them in more detail below.

Expat Relocation to Tokyo: Key Aspects to Cover

There are several crucial aspects that need to be kept in mind before relocating to Tokyo as an expat.

Housing/Accommodation

Expats will generally have to choose between unfurnished and furnished accommodation. Unfurnished properties typically come without appliances, furniture, or utilities, meaning you will need to arrange and pay for these essentials yourself, which can involve additional costs and hassle.

In contrast, booking serviced accommodation in Tokyo for the long term provides a move-in-ready home, typically equipped with essential furniture, a fully equipped kitchen, appliances, Wi-Fi, utilities, and hotel-style services such as housekeeping, laundry, and on-site fitness facilities.

Why Serviced Accommodation Over Traditional Rentals

Traditional leases will also require the reikin or key money, along with security deposits (3-6 months of rent), agency fees and other charges. You will also need a local Japanese guarantor or guarantor entity/company to sign the lease for conventional rentals. That is where serviced apartments are useful; they offer the right semi-permanent base to settle into Tokyo before you look for more permanent options.

How Serviced Apartments Ensure Higher Convenience and Savings

They have flexible short- and long-term leases, multi-bedroom configurations, ample space and privacy and great amenities. Self-catering and laundry enable more convenience, while dedicated workspaces and high-speed internet foster higher productivity. Since these units are ready-to-move, they enable higher time and cost savings on logistics, shipping and setting up/buying essentials. Flexible weekly/monthly rates cover utilities, services and Wi-Fi too. There are often discounts for extended stays.

Healthcare Requirements

You will have to enrol in the public health system, covering about 70% of medical costs (it is mandatory for anyone staying for more than three months). Local clinics are accessible, although language barriers are present; learning basic Japanese is necessary. Hence, the first step should be registering with the NHI (National Health Insurance).

Documentation & Finances

The Zairyu Card or residence card is the primary ID in Japan; any changes in address should be registered within 14 days at the local ward office. Opening a local bank account will need a local and fixed-term phone number, along with an established residency period.

Digital payments are accepted at several places, although cash is still necessary for temples, smaller stores and older ticket machines. Local inhabitants’ tax is based on the earlier year’s income and will come into play after your first year of residency.

Daily Life

There are convenience stores or Konbini across neighbourhoods, handling parcel deliveries, utility bills and 24/7 quick meals. Mobile plans are available in the form of long-term contracts with top carriers like SoftBank, AU and NTT Docomo. MVNO budget providers are often more affordable and easier to get.

Note that wards in Tokyo enforce stringent and highly extensive schedules to separate non-burnable, burnable and recyclable trash. The city has a vast subway and train network, which means getting a rechargeable IC card (Pasmo or Suica) is vital for daily commutes. Learning basic phrases and words in Japanese will help you communicate better with local clinics, ward offices and utility company personnel.

Top Neighbourhoods for Expats in Tokyo

There are several well-known neighbourhoods for expats in Tokyo. Knowing about them is essential before finalising your move. Let us look at them in more detail below:

Hiroo

Hiroo is a quiet, posh and well-established residential community nestled between several vibrant commercial areas.

● Connectivity: Hibiya Line, with direct routes to Ginza, Roppongi and Ebisu within minutes.

● Nearby Business Hubs: Toranomon Hills, Roppongi Hills and Ebisu Garden Place.
● Tourist Landmarks: National Art Centre and Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park.
● Local Amenities/Infrastructure: Global supermarkets like Nissin World Delicatessen, international schools and English-speaking medical clinics.
● Entertainment/Dining: Artisanal bakeries, brunch cafes, local ramen stores and premium bistros.

Ebisu

Ebisu is a trendy and vibrant neighbourhood that is remarkably well-maintained and popular with young professionals and long-term expats.

● Connectivity: Key stop on the JR Yamanote Line, Hibiya Subway Line and Saikyo Line.
● Nearby Business Hubs: Ebisu business district, Shibuya and central Roppongi.
● Tourist Landmarks: Ebisu Garden Place and Yebisu Brewery Tokyo.
● Local Amenities/Infrastructure: English-friendly clinics and banks, multiple grocery choices and wide roads.
● Entertainment/Dining: Craft beer bars, Michelin-starred restaurants, casual izakayas and classic Yokocho alleyways.

Azabu-Juban

Azabu-Juban is a charming neighbourhood that offers the appeal of a traditional Tokyo shopping street or shotengai with super-contemporary and affluent lifestyles.

● Connectivity: Oedo Subway Line and Namboku Subway Line.
● Nearby Business Hubs: Azabudai Hills, Shinagawa and Roppongi.
● Tourist Landmarks: Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower.
● Local Amenities/Infrastructure: Multiple international grocery stores, foreign embassies and English-friendly medical and dental clinics.
● Entertainment/Dining: Craft beer pubs, cocktail lounges, sushi bars and traditional eateries.

Nakameguro

Nakameguro is a stylish, appealing and creative neighbourhood on the canal that ensures a more relaxed artistic vibe that fuses neatly with urban refinement. There are several serviced apartments for expats in and around the neighbourhood.

● Connectivity: Hibiya Subway Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line.
● Nearby Business Hubs: Meguro, Shibuya and Ebisu.
● Tourist Landmarks: Meguro River cherry blossom promenades.
● Local Amenities/Infrastructure: Pedestrian-friendly walkways, organic grocery stores, boutique fitness studios and community-focused public services.
● Entertainment/Dining: Third-wave coffee shops, indie bars and riverside terrace dining.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Tokyo as an expat can be a smooth experience if you choose the right accommodation, learn some basic Japanese, and familiarise yourself with the key administrative and lifestyle requirements outlined above. It is also worth exploring these interesting facts about Tokyo to get a better feel for the city before you move. To secure better deals and a wider choice of properties, booking your long-term accommodation in advance is highly recommended.