Introduction
Thinking of moving to Japan? You’re not alone — thousands of people across the world dream of starting a new chapter in Japan. But if you’re like most people, you’re probably wondering:
“Where exactly should I go? Is Tokyo & Osaka my only real option?”
Good news — it’s not. In fact, many smaller Japanese cities are not only more affordable but also more welcoming to foreigners. Whether you’re a student, remote worker, or looking for a job with visa sponsorship, these cities offer realistic and supported pathways to begin your life in Japan.
best cities in Japan for foreigners professionals
Let’s explore the top cities in Japan for foreigners in 2025, based on affordability, job opportunities, support systems, and lifestyle.
| City | Monthly Living Cost (¥) | Main Job Sectors | Foreigner Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beppu | ¥150,000–185,000 | Hospitality, Tourism | APU housing, job boards |
| Sendai | ¥175,000–220,000 | Logistics, Care, Education | Job fairs, language centers |
| Matsumoto | ¥165,000–210,000 | Tourism, Agriculture, Education | SSW visa jobs, hiring support |
| Oita | ¥155,000–200,000 | Manufacturing, Tourism | Business incentives, relocation guides |
| Fukuoka | ¥190,000–250,000 | Tech, Startups, Remote Work | Startup visa, coworking hubs |
🌋 Beppu (Oita Prefecture) – Affordable & Expat-Friendly
Beppu is famous for its natural hot springs, but it’s also a fantastic choice for foreign residents. Thanks to Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU), the city has a thriving international community and offers excellent support to students and workers alike.
🛏 Low-cost living and subsidized/shared housing make it a budget-friendly option.
💼 Jobs in hospitality and tourism are widely available—especially during peak seasons.
🎓 Perfect for students or those applying under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa in tourism and food services.
📌 Monthly Cost Estimate: ¥150,000–185,000
🏞️ Sendai (Miyagi Prefecture) – Career Growth in a Calm City
If you want the perks of a big city without the chaos, Sendai is your place. As the largest city in the Tohoku region, it offers solid infrastructure, beautiful scenery, and a proactive approach to welcoming foreign workers.
💼 Growing opportunities in logistics, caregiving, and education
🏠 Government-backed housing subsidies and multilingual support
🌍 Regular job fairs and recruitment events targeted at foreigners
📘 Free Japanese language classes and international support centers
📌 Monthly Cost Estimate: ¥175,000–220,000
🏔 Matsumoto (Nagano Prefecture) – Work-Life Balance Surrounded by Nature
Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is peaceful, scenic, and rich in history. It’s ideal for people who want a blend of natural beauty and seasonal job opportunities.
💼 Seasonal jobs in tourism, farming, and food services
🛏 Affordable living, some employers offer housing assistance
🏕 Close to ski resorts and hiking spots—perfect for outdoor lovers
📘 Good option for short-term workers on SSW or Designated Activities visas
📌 Monthly Cost Estimate: ¥165,000–210,000
🏙️ Oita City – Japan’s Hidden Urban Gem
While Beppu is Oita’s resort town, Oita City is the region’s urban and industrial center. It’s great for professionals looking for more permanent roles and affordable city living.
💼 Jobs in manufacturing, research, and tourism
📈 Active government incentives for foreign-friendly companies
🌐 English resources and support for daily living
🏢 Emerging as a business hub within Kyushu
📌 Monthly Cost Estimate: ¥155,000–200,000
💻 Fukuoka – Japan’s Startup Capital
Fukuoka is where Japan’s traditional charm meets modern innovation. If you’re into remote work, tech, startups, or freelancing, this city is tailor-made for you.
💼 Home to Japan’s Startup Visa program
🖥 Thriving coworking and tech scene
🌍 About 3% of the population is foreign-born
✈️ Easy access to Korea, Taiwan, and the rest of Japan
Though a bit pricier than the other cities here, the opportunities and quality of life often make it worth it.
📌 Monthly Cost Estimate: ¥190,000–250,000
🎯 Final Take: Tokyo Isn’t Your Only Option
We get it—Tokyo is exciting. But these regional cities offer affordable living, visa-sponsored job opportunities, and active local support—making them realistic and even better options for many people.
Whether you want:
A relaxing spa town (Beppu)
A university city with career support (Sendai)
A cultural hub surrounded by mountains (Matsumoto)
An industrial center with growing incentives (Oita)
Or a creative-tech capital with startup vibes (Fukuoka)
Japan has something for everyone.
✍️ Bonus: Need Help Starting?
✅ Job hunting tips and real listings for foreigners in Japan
✅ Visa guidance made simple—no confusing search
✅ Resume & cover letter templates (Japanese & English formats)
✅ Life in Japan explained — from rent to ramen
✅ Travel guides & city recommendations for every kind of explorer
✅ Work culture insights to help you adjust and thrive
