Student dormitory
Affordable, secure rooms managed by your school, often within walking distance of class and ideal for your first months.
- Typical cost
- $300 - $450 / mo
- Best for
- First-year students
Life in Japan
Picture Your Life in Japan
From quiet morning streets and seasonal festivals to a safe daily routine, imagine the life waiting for you. We help you settle in with confidence — and guide your family every step of the way.
What to expect
Four pillars of everyday life
Studying in Japan is more than the classroom. Here is how learning, working, culture, and daily living come together into a life that feels both exciting and secure.
Cost of living
A transparent monthly budget
Real numbers help families plan with confidence. These figures are typical estimates for a student living modestly, and naturally vary by city, lifestyle, and season.
- Rent (share house)$520
- Food & groceries$300
- Transport$80
- Utilities$70
- Phone & internet$45
- Leisure & misc$120
Estimated monthly total$1,135
Where you'll live
Accommodation that fits your life
Housing is one of the first worries for families — and one of the first things we handle. Here are the most common options, with typical costs and who they suit best.
Share house
Private bedroom with shared kitchen and lounge — a friendly, budget-friendly way to meet people from around the world.
- Typical cost
- $350 - $550 / mo
- Best for
- Social, budget-minded students
Private apartment
Your own compact apartment for full independence and privacy, with our team supporting the contract and guarantor steps.
- Typical cost
- $500 - $800 / mo
- Best for
- Independent students
Homestay
Live with a vetted local family for daily language practice, home-cooked meals, and a gentle, supported introduction to Japan.
- Typical cost
- $600 - $900 / mo
- Best for
- Cultural immersion seekers
Culture & experiences
The everyday moments you'll remember
Beyond study and work, life in Japan is shaped by its seasons, food, and quiet traditions. These are the experiences that turn a destination into a home.
- Spring
Hanami under the cherry blossoms
- Festivals
Summer matsuri and lantern nights
- Food
From ramen counters to home cooking
- Etiquette
Quiet courtesy in daily life
- Autumn
Momiji and crisp mountain trails
- Temples
Stillness at shrines and gardens
- Winter
Snow towns and warm onsen
- City life
Neon evenings and quiet mornings
Part-time work
Earn, practice, and grow while you study
Most international students take on part-time work, and it does more than help with the budget. A few shifts a week sharpen your Japanese, build local connections, and give you real experience to put on a future resume.
Employers near schools are used to welcoming students, and many roles are beginner-friendly. We help you understand the rules, prepare, and find a job that fits your schedule and visa.
Up to 28 hours per week
With the standard work permission for student visas, you may work up to 28 hours weekly (and longer during official school breaks). Figures are general guidance — we'll confirm the rules for your specific visa.
Convenience store
Typical ¥1,050 - ¥1,300 / hr
Cafe & restaurant
Typical ¥1,100 - ¥1,400 / hr
Language tutoring
Typical ¥1,500 - ¥2,500 / hr
Kitchen & hospitality
Typical ¥1,100 - ¥1,400 / hr
Our team helps with resume basics, interview prep, and connecting you to student-friendly employers near your school — so finding that first job feels far less daunting.
Ready to begin
Let us prepare you for life in Japan
We'll help you settle in, from housing to your first week — so your new chapter starts with calm confidence.