Cost of living in Japan for international students: Your updated guide on tuition fee, daily to monthly expenses, and more!

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Is the cost of living in Japan for international students expensive?

Japan has fascinated everyone with its remarkable culture and endless innovations enjoyed worldwide. From introducing modern vehicles to inspiring philosophies, the country’s influential energy makes it an attractive location to live and study! 

With this, we created the most updated breakdown of the cost of living in Japan for international students. Aside from tuition fees to daily and monthly expenses, we also included tips on budgeting. 

Moreover, we will answer common queries about the cost of living in Japan for international students. 

cost of living in Japan for international students

Tuition fee

The tuition fee is an integral part of the cost of living in Japan for international students. As the country has many top-notch universities, you might expect costly charges.

TOKYO ECAMPUS – Most Affordable Educational Provider for Global Learners!

If you prefer a dynamic and progressive learning institution with a world-class standard of teaching, our Tokyo eCampus is for you!

Aside from studying at the heart of the city, where everything is within reach, you will have classes atBLINKJapan’s best coworking space!

Programs offered: Economics, Marketing, Politics, Social Sciences

Tuition fee:1,990 EUR per semester

cost of living in Japan for international students

Cost of living in Japan for International Students

After the tuition, below are other essential and non-essential daily and monthly expenses courtesy ofNumbeo.

Accommodation

One-bedroom apartment in the city588.10 EUR
One-bedroom apartment outside the city378.13 EUR
Three-bedroom apartment in the city1,233.51EUR
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city787.25 EUR

Monthly utilities

Electricity, heating, water, etc.152.52 EUR
Mobile phone with a monthly plan with calls and 10GB+26.10 EUR
60 Mbps or more internet connection at your accommodation30.58 EUR

Grocery items

1.5 liter of bottled water0.79 EUR
One liter of milk1.26 EUR
A loaf of bread1.37 EUR
One kg of rice2.98 EUR
A dozen of eggs1.70 EUR
Local cheese10.60 EUR
One kg of chicken fillet5.75 EUR
One kg of beef15.27 EUR
One kg apple4.40 EUR
One kg banana2.13 EUR
One kg tomato3.84 EUR
One kg onion2.11 EUR
One kg potato2.66 EUR

Transportation

Monthly pass51.18 EUR
One-way ticket1.31 EUR
Starting rate of a taxi ride3.65 EUR
One liter of gasoline1.05 EUR

Leisure and wellness

Gym membership51.92 EUR
Cinema ticket11.52 EUR
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant6.40 EUR
McDonald’s combo meal4.53 EUR
Cappuccino2.80 EUR
0.5-liter local beer2.56 EUR
.33 liter imported beer3.20 EUR
.33 liter Coke or Pepsi.99 EUR

Clothing

A pair of midrange rubber shoes50.23 EUR
Leather shoes69.33 EUR
Jeans35.15 EUR

Tips on how to budget the cost of living in Japan for International Students

  • The cost of living in Japan for international students generally varies per location. Tokyo is a bit costly, but the area’s vibe is surely inspiring. Aside from being equally innovative and fast-paced, there are many opportunities in the area for total immersion.
  • Setting a realistic and attainable budget is one of the best ways to help with the cost of living in Japan for international students. OurBudgeting Toolcan specifically help you allocate essential and non-essential expenses in studying abroad.
  • Tracking your expenses will surely help you know where your money goes and allow you to budget more effectively. You can write your daily and monthly fees in an online app or on a notepad.
  • Cooking meals is certainly more affordable than ordering online or in a restaurant regularly. Practice preparing dishes months before your departure and research online where to get the freshest yet inexpensive ingredients in your preferred location.
  • Pick accommodation near your university to lessen the transportation cost. Japan is generally known for its vast, safe pedestrian lanes, often offering stunning city and nature views.
  • Another effective to lessen the cost of living in Japan for international students is by joining free activities in the city. Go to free concerts, cultural events, and other exciting happenings in the area. Aside from total immersion, you will surely meet new local friends.
cost of living in Japan for international students

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Japan safe for international students?

Yes, Japan is generally a safe country to upgrade your studies. It has low crime rates and dependable police assistance during emergencies.

What are the visa requirements to study in Japan?

You must submit proof of financial capability or support, a university acceptance letter, and a medical certificate.

To learn more about the requirements, visit ourVisa and Passport page.

Is it required to learn Japanese to study in the country?

Learning institutions in the country have many English courses available for international students. Thus, you are not required to learn the language, but it is certainly useful to learn essential words to communicate effectively with the locals.

Can you work part-time to help with the cost of living in Japan for international students?

Yes, you can certainly work part-time to help with the living expenses in the country. However, you can specifically work 28 hours weekly after getting authorization from the Minister of Justice.

Can I work after finishing a degree in Japan?

Yes, but you must apply for a Designated Activities visa to work in the country. This type of visa specifically allows you to stay for a year and work in Japan.

What are some of the best places to visit Japan during school breaks?

It is ideal to include recreational activities in the cost of living in Japan for international students for total immersion. In Tokyo, you can visit the Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Imperial Palace, Ueno Park, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ghibli Museum, and more.

On the other hand, if you want to explore Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are the must-visit sites in the area.

If you prefer provinces in the country, Hokkaido is perfect as you can view majestic mountains and relax in natural hot springs.

In a nutshell – Cost of living in Japan for International Students

The “Land of the Rising Sun” must undoubtedly be on your list as it offers an affordable cost of living in Japan for international students and other exciting reasons.

Book a counseling session todayto start your refreshing journey in the “Land of the Rising Sun,” and our team will professionally guide you.

Moreover, you can visit ourVirtual Booth toview other exciting study abroad destinations in theUS, Europe,andAsia.

About the writer

Mark has been a professional content writer for four years. He is an expert in creating articles about education and studying abroad. His writings don’t only inform; he also wants to establish emotional connections with readers.