Complete Discussion of the List of Destination Countries for Japanese People to Live 2023

Japan, with its rich culture and advanced technology, is a country that attracts many people around the world. However, like other citizens, Japanese people have their own reasons for moving and settling in other countries. These reasons vary from education and career to family reasons and the desire for new life experiences. So, which countries are the destinations for Japanese people to live in? Let's explore further.

Survey of Japanese Living Abroad

Have you ever met a Japanese person on the street? Nowadays, many Japanese people live and settle abroad, some of whom are famous people. For example, famous Japanese people in Indonesia are Haruka Nakagawa who is an ex-member of AKB48 and JKT48, Genki Sokorahen who is a YouTuber, Hiromitsu Harada who is a chef, and Nobuyuki Suzuki who is an actor.

Based on statistics since 1989, the number of Japanese living abroad has continued to increase until 2019, but began to decline in 2020 due to the pandemic. Which countries are the destinations for Japanese people to live and settle? The following is a discussion of which countries are the destinations for Japanese people to live and settle.

According to a statistical survey of Japanese living abroad conducted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2023, the number of Japanese living abroad was 1,293,565. Of this number, long-term residents decreased by 4.3% from the previous year to 718,838, while permanent residents increased by 3.2% to 574,727. 

By gender, 598,802 Japanese men and 694,763 Japanese women live abroad. In addition, Japanese men are mostly long-term residents, numbering 382,405, while Japanese women are mostly permanent residents, numbering 358,330.

By region, Asia, Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, South America, North America, and Western Europe all saw declines. Meanwhile, increases in Japanese living abroad occurred in Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, and Central America. 

By country, the top five Japanese living abroad are located in the United States, China, Australia, Canada, and Thailand. Meanwhile, Indonesia is ranked 16th with 15,510 people below Vietnam. 

By city, the top five Japanese living abroad are located in the Greater Los Angeles area, Bangkok, the New York Metropolitan area, Shanghai, and Greater London. South Jakarta is ranked 55th with 5,502 people below the Atlanta Metropolitan Area.

United States: The Fascinating Land of Uncle Sam

The United States (US) has consistently been one of the top destinations for Japanese people to live and settle abroad. This is driven by several key factors. First, the US has a reputation for world-class universities and research institutions. Many Japanese students choose the US to pursue postgraduate studies, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). After completing their studies, many choose the US as the destination for Japanese people to live and work, taking advantage of the abundant career opportunities in various sectors, especially technology and finance. Silicon Valley, for example, is a magnet for skilled Japanese engineers and programmers.

In addition, the US offers a diverse and open culture. While there are challenges to cultural adaptation, US society is relatively inclusive compared to some other countries. The large and widespread Japanese communities in many major US cities also provide support and comfort for newcomers. Cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco have significant Japanese populations, providing easy access to familiar foods, culture, and services.

China: The World's Second Largest Economy

China, as the world’s second largest economy, offers a wide and attractive employment opportunity for Japanese professionals as a destination for Japanese people to live and settle. Many Japanese companies have established operations in China, creating a huge demand for skilled labor in a variety of fields, from manufacturing and finance to technology and retail. These positions, often with competitive salaries and promising career development opportunities, are a major draw. Particularly in the automotive, electronics and information technology sectors, many Japanese companies are looking for skilled workers who understand Japanese culture and language as well as the Chinese market.

Many Japanese entrepreneurs see China as a huge potential market to expand their businesses. The sheer size of the Chinese market, with a population of over 1.4 billion, offers significant profit potential. A presence in China allows Japanese companies to reach Chinese consumers directly, avoiding the costs and barriers of importing and exporting. This has led to China becoming a destination for Japanese people to live and directly manage their businesses in China. Various Chinese government incentives for foreign investment are also important considerations.

China has a number of renowned universities offering high-quality study programs, attracting Japanese academics and researchers. Scholarships and collaborative research opportunities between Japanese and Chinese universities are also driving factors. In addition, for families with children, access to international education in China, while perhaps not always as easy as in Western countries, remains a consideration as a destination for Japanese to live and settle.

Despite the cultural differences, many Japanese people find China to be an interesting place to explore and live. Its rich history, unique cuisine, and diverse landscapes offer a different kind of living experience than Japan. For some, this is the main reason why Japanese people choose to live and stay longer than just for tourism. Of course, cultural adaptation remains a challenge, but the allure of China’s rich culture is a magnet for some Japanese people to make it a destination for Japanese people to live.

China has a well-developed transport infrastructure, including a high-speed rail network connecting major cities. This makes mobility and business travel easy. Air connectivity is also excellent, allowing easy access to other countries in Asia and the world.

Australia: The Charming Land of Kangaroos

Australia, with its warm climate and easy-going lifestyle, also attracts Japanese. Similar to Canada, Australia offers a strong education system and good job opportunities, especially in the mining, agriculture and technology sectors. In addition, Australia has a relatively accessible immigration policy, making the process of moving and settling in smoother.

Australia's natural beauty, from beautiful beaches to tropical rainforests, is a drawcard. The outdoor lifestyle adopted by Australians also suits the tastes of many Japanese who seek a balance between work and leisure. Although the Japanese community in Australia is not as large as in the US or Canada, it still provides support and a sense of community for newcomers.

Canada: A Comfortable and Safe Choice

Canada, with its beautiful natural landscapes and reputation as a safe and peaceful country, is also a popular choice for Japanese people. Canada's high-quality education system attracts many Japanese students, while the diverse job opportunities, especially in technology and healthcare, attract them to settle.

Canada is also known for its relatively friendly immigration policies. Canada’s skilled immigration program is designed to attract skilled workers from a variety of backgrounds, including Japan. The laid-back pace of life and friendly communities make Canada an ideal place for those seeking a balance between career and quality of life. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have thriving Japanese communities, offering a support network and the opportunity to maintain ties to their home culture.

Thailand: Friendly Cost of Living and Lifestyle

Thailand is known for its more relaxed and friendly lifestyle compared to Japan. This is an attraction for Japanese people who are looking for a better life balance and less work pressure, making it a popular destination for Japanese people to live in. The more relaxed atmosphere and friendliness of the locals are significant differentiating factors.

The cost of living in Thailand, especially for housing, food, and transportation, is generally lower than in Japan. This allows Japanese retirees and other expats to enjoy a higher standard of living on a smaller budget.

Thailand's tropical climate, with warm and sunny weather all year round, is attractive to many Japanese people looking to escape Japan's harsh winters.

Thailand has many beautiful tourist attractions, from tropical beaches to ancient temples. The existence of these tourist attractions makes Thailand an ideal place for Japanese people who like to vacation and enjoy their free time. Easy access to travel to other countries in Southeast Asia is also a plus point making Thailand a destination for Japanese people to live and settle.

Thailand as a destination country for Japanese people to live and settle is relatively easier in terms of visa and immigration requirements compared to some other countries, making the process of moving and living in this country easier. Pension programs for foreign nationals are also available, making it easier for Japanese citizens who have entered retirement to live their retirement in Thailand.

Other Factors Influencing the Choice of Country of Residence for Japanese People

In addition to the factors mentioned above, several other factors may also influence the choice of destination country for Japanese people to live and settle abroad:

Immigration Policy: Friendly immigration policies and easy visa application processes are important considerations for Japanese people in choosing a country to live and settle in.

Language: The level of English language ability is an important factor, considering that English is an international language that is widely used in the countries where Japanese people live.

Cost of living: The cost of living in the country where Japanese people live and settle is also an important factor to consider.

Quality of Life: Factors such as safety, health and the environment are also important considerations in choosing a country for Japanese people to live and settle in.

Community Support: The presence of a large and active Japanese community in the country where Japanese people live can provide a sense of comfort and support for newcomers.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the choice of destination countries for Japanese people to live and settle abroad is very diverse and driven by a variety of factors. The United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom are consistently the top destinations, but other options in Europe and around the world are also increasingly popular. The final decision ultimately depends on the individual's priorities and goals.