cost of living

The difference in cost of living between locations isn’t huge, and excluding rent, the gap between all locations is very small.

On top of that there are many ways to reduce your living expenses. Here are some of our top tips:

 - Before you buy anything, check the biggest hundred yen shop around. They’ll often have high quality items for a great price. 

- Fruit and veg can be more expensive in Japan than you’re used to. Small local grocers often sell things much cheaper than big supermarkets, and some specialize in “misshapen” items at even lower cost. 

- Supermarkets often sell fresh items and preprepared bentos at big discounts in the evening or before closing.

 - While it doesn’t support the local community, online platforms like Amazon and Rakuten offer items, especially foreign ones, at much lower costs. Mercari and Jimoty are great for cheap second hand items, if you have a long-term visa.

 - Beware of tourist traps that will charge you an inordinate amount of money for food and/or services. To avoid this, ask our staff or your fellow classmates in school where the best/cheapest places are, and avoid talking to people on the street who invite you to a specific shop.