Japan is a fascinating country known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes and advanced technology. For those evaluating a long-term move, deciding where to relocate can seem difficult. Especially if you’re not moving specifically for work. However it is easier than ever to work remotely around the world, and Japan is enticing for many reasons, notably it’s excellent cuisine and the thriving culture.

This article will go over a few options, from the cheapest places to live in Japan, focusing mostly on the lowest average monthly rental. We’ll also look at the benefits of each location to help you work out where to live when moving to Japan.

1. Tokushima: ¥20,000 JPY ($174 USD)

Tokushima is a beautiful city located on Shikoku Island, known for its stunning natural landscapes and the famous Awa Odori Festival. The low cost of living in Tokushima allows you to enjoy a traditional Japanese lifestyle and explore the nearby mountains and beaches. For the average rental price, you can expect to find a small, cozy apartment in a residential neighborhood.

2. Kagawa: ¥29,000 JPY ($252 USD)

Located on Shikoku Island, Kagawa Prefecture is famous for its delicious udon noodles and beautiful Ritsurin Garden. Living in Kagawa is affordable, and you can expect to find a modest apartment for the average rental price. The area offers a relaxed lifestyle, with easy access to nature and cultural attractions.

3. Kochi: ¥30,000 JPY ($261 USD)

Kochi is a charming coastal city in Shikoku, known for its friendly locals and beautiful natural surroundings. The average rental price in Kochi allows you to find a comfortable apartment in a quiet neighborhood. The city offers a laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to explore the nearby beaches, mountains, and historical sites.

4. Ehime: ¥31,000 JPY ($270 USD)

Ehime Prefecture is located on Shikoku Island and is known for its beautiful castles, hot springs, and the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. With the average rental price, you can expect to find a small apartment in a residential area. Ehime offers a peaceful lifestyle and a strong sense of community, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more traditional Japanese experience.

5. Oita: ¥32,000 JPY ($278 USD)

Oita is a prefecture on Kyushu Island, famous for its hot springs and beautiful nature. The average rental price in Oita allows you to find a cozy apartment in a friendly neighborhood. Living in Oita offers a relaxed lifestyle, with easy access to stunning landscapes, such as the Beppu hot springs and Yufuin town.

6. Yamaguchi: ¥33,000 JPY ($287 USD)

Yamaguchi Prefecture is located on the western tip of Honshu Island and boasts beautiful nature, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The average rental price in Yamaguchi allows you to find a comfortable apartment in a quiet neighborhood. The area offers a peaceful lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the nearby beaches, mountains, and historical sites.

7. Fukuoka: ¥34,000 JPY ($296 USD)

Fukuoka is a bustling city on Kyushu Island, known for its modern architecture and vibrant food scene. Despite being a major city, the average rental price in Fukuoka is quite affordable, allowing you to find a small apartment in a convenient location. Living in Fukuoka offers a mix of urban excitement and laid-back charm, with easy access to parks, shopping, and cultural attractions.

8. Hokkaido: ¥35,600 JPY ($309 USD)

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island, known for its stunning landscapes, winter sports, and delicious seafood. The average rental price in Hokkaido allows you to find a cozy apartment in a residential area. Living in Hokkaido offers a unique experience, with opportunities to explore the great outdoors, including skiing, hiking, and wildlife watching.

9. Miyazaki: ¥36,000 JPY ($313 USD)

Miyazaki is a coastal city on Kyushu Island, known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and warm climate. The average rental price in Miyazaki allows you to find a comfortable apartment in a quiet neighborhood. Living in Miyazaki offers a relaxed lifestyle, with easy access to outdoor activities, such as surfing, hiking, and exploring the nearby Takachiho Gorge.

10. Shimane: ¥37,000 JPY ($322 USD)

Shimane Prefecture is located on the western coast of Honshu Island and is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals. The average rental price in Shimane allows you to find a modest apartment in a peaceful neighborhood. Living in Shimane offers a tranquil lifestyle, with opportunities to explore the nearby mountains, lakes, and historical sites, such as Izumo Taisha Shrine.

How easy is it to move to Japan?

Moving to Japan as a freelance remote worker without a Japanese work contract can be challenging, as there is no specific visa for digital nomads or remote workers. There is talk of a digital nomad visa for Japan, but this is something to keep in mind rather than to take for granted.

However, one option to consider is the Designated Activities Visa, which allows foreigners to engage in various activities, including remote work, for up to one year with the possibility of an extension.

Applicants must provide proof of sufficient financial resources and a detailed plan of their intended activities during their stay to be eligible.

Working remotely in Japan on a tourist visa is generally not allowed, and staying in Japan on a short-stay visa without work authorization may lead to the revocation of residence status. Make sure to explore the appropriate visa options and consult with the Japanese embassy or consulate for specific requirements and procedures.

Find out more about travel to Japan right here. First time visitors guide to Japan. Or, How to travel Japan on a budget.