Japan Living Cost

The cost of living is higher in Japan than in most other countries. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can get by on a comparable amount of money. Plan for between $20 and $30 a day for food and other personal expenses. (Please note: Breakfasts and dinners are included in the home stay option.) Prices and exchange rates are subject to change. Here are some information for you:

Food: Some Japanese dishes, such as 'sashimi' (slices of raw fish of various kinds) and 'sushi' (raw or cooked fish on rice), can be expensive. Most restaurants in department stores and office buildings, however, offer reasonable cost meals especially at lunch. These simple meals usually begin around 500-600yen. Convenience stores also offer a good selection of prepared food, which is often cheaper than at restaurants. The most economical places to eat in Japan may be fast food stores like McDonalds, or the Japanese equivalents "Yoshinoya" or "Matsuya," where cheap but nutritious meals of rice and fish/meat can be obtained. You will be able to find them in most areas.

Rent Fee: Rent fees depend on where and what kind of room you live in. Generally speaking, the countryside is cheaper than urban areas and a one-bedroom apartment is more expensive than a studio.

Goods: The quality of Japanese manufactured goods (e.g. electronic products, clothes, cameras, cars etc.) has been excellent for years and has continued to improve. Therefore, prices are usually higher than you expect. People do not generally bargain with the clerk when shopping in Japan. Prices are fixed in department stores as well as in most of the small shops or boutiques.

Sample prices to give you an idea of the cost of living