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Top 12 Best Places to Live in Japan

Welcome to my blog about the best places to live in Japan!

Japan is consistently ranked as one of the best countries to live in. It has a high quality of life and a low cost of living. It also has a very low crime rate and is a safe place to live. There are many wonderful places to live in Japan, and it can be difficult to choose the right one for you. However, there are a few factors to consider that can help you make your decision. So let’s get started and enjoy the top 12 best places to live in Japan!

Best Places to Live in Japan, Meguro River
Best Places to Live in Japan, Meguro River

First, think about the climate. Japan is a country with a wide range of climates, from the frigid north to the subtropical south. Do you prefer warm weather or cool weather? Do you want to experience all four seasons, or would you prefer a more stable climate?

Second, consider the cost of living. Japan is a relatively expensive country to live in, so you’ll need to make sure you can afford the city you choose. Tokyo and Osaka are the most expensive cities, while smaller cities and rural areas are generally more affordable.

Third, think about your lifestyle. Do you want to live in a bustling city or a more laid-back environment? Do you want easy access to nightlife and entertainment, or would you prefer a quieter lifestyle?

Finally, consider the safety of the city you’re considering. Japan is generally a safe country, but crime rates vary from city to city. Be sure to research the crime rate of any city you’re considering before making your decision.

With these factors in mind, you should be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect city to live in Japan.

Climate in Japan

MonthMin (°C)Max (°C)Mean (°C)Min (°F)Max (°F)Mean (°F)
Jan2106365043
Feb2.610.86.7375144
Mar5.4149.7425749.5
Apr10.41914.7516658.5
May15.323.519.4607467
Jun19.22622.6667972.6
Jul233026.6748679.8
Aug24.331.428768982.2
Sep20.827.624.2708275.6
Oct15.322.218.7597265.7
Nov9.61713.3496356
Dec4.512.48.4405447.2
Yr12.820.416.55568.762
Tokyo – Average temperatures (1991-2020) (Source: Climatestotravel)

Japan is a country with four distinct seasons. The climate in Japan is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius. However, the temperatures can vary greatly depending on the region, with the northernmost island of Hokkaido being much cooler than the southernmost island of Okinawa.

In general, the weather in Japan is very stable, with few extreme weather conditions. The rainy season usually lasts from early June to late July, and typhoons often occur between August and October.

Winter in Japan is usually mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. However, snowfall is common in the northern regions of the country.

Spring is the best season in Japan. The weather is mild and the Cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Summer in Japan is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30 degrees Celsius or higher. The rainy season usually lasts from early June to late July.

Autumn is a beautiful time of year in Japan, with the leaves of the trees turning red and yellow. The weather is usually mild, although it can start to get chilly in the northern regions from October onwards.

Winter in Japan is usually mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. However, snowfall is common in the northern regions of the country.

MonthAverageTotal
January6195
February6170
March5.5175
April6180
May6180
June4125
July5150
August5.5175
September4125
October4130
November5150
December5.5175
Year5.31930
Tokyo – Sunshine hours

Geographical Position

Japan is an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of East Asia. It consists of four main islands (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu) and over 6,800 smaller islands.

The country can be divided into six main regions: Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kansai, and Shikoku. Each region has its own distinct culture and attractions.

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and hot springs. It is also home to the Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s most popular winter events.

Tohoku, located in the north of Honshu, is known for its scenic mountains and coastline. It is also home to some of Japan’s best ski resorts.

Kanto, the region that includes Tokyo, is the most populous in Japan. It is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and traditional culture.

Chubu, located in central Japan, is home to the Japanese Alps and some of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, such as Mount Fuji and Nagoya.

Kansai, located in western Japan, is the country’s historical and cultural center. It is home to cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.

Shikoku, the smallest of the four main islands, is known for its pilgrimage route, which consists of 88 temples.

12 Best Places to Live in Japan

The top 12 best places to live in Japan are:

1. Sapporo

Sapporo
Sapporo – Best Places to Live in Japan

With a population of just over 2 million people, Sapporo is the fifth largest city in Japan and the capital of the island of Hokkaido. Sapporo is known for its annual Snow Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world to see the massive snow sculptures on display. The city is also home to the Sapporo Dome, a multi-purpose stadium that has hosted both baseball and football games.

The city has a high quality of life and a low cost of living. It also has a very low crime rate and is a safe place to live. Sapporo is also a beautiful city, with many parks and green spaces. The people of Sapporo are friendly and welcoming, and there is a lot to do in the city. Sapporo is a great place to live for anyone who wants a high quality of life at a low cost.

2. Sendai

Sendai
Sendai

Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region of Japan, with a population of just over 1 million people. Sendai is known as the “City of Trees” due to a large number of green spaces throughout the city. The city is also home to the Sendai Mediatheque, a unique building that houses a library, museum, and performance space.

The city is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the country, and it offers a high quality of life at a relatively low cost of living. It is also a very safe place to live, with a low crime rate. Additionally, Sendai is home to many wonderful places to visit and live, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an enjoyable and convenient place to call home.

3. Tokyo

Tokyo
Tokyo

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is the largest city in the country with a population of over 13 million people. Tokyo is a major global financial center and is home to the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The city is also home to a large number of museums, temples, and shrines, as well as the Imperial Palace.

Tokyo is also a major center for fashion and culture. It is home to many museums, galleries, and theaters. Tokyo is a safe city with a low crime rate. It is also a very clean city. Tokyo has a high quality of life and is a great place to live.

4. Yokohama

Yokohama
Yokohama

Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan with a population of over 3.7 million people. Yokohama is located south of Tokyo on the Tokyo Bay and is a major port city. Yokohama is home to the Yokohama Landmark Tower, the tallest building in the city. The city also has a large Chinatown and is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Yokohama is a great place to live for many reasons. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are many amenities and activities available. The city is also very safe, with a low crime rate. Yokohama is a great place to raise a family or to retire. There are many beautiful places to live, and the quality of life is high.

5. Osaka

Osaka
Osaka

The city of Osaka is located in the Kansai region of Japan. Osaka is the third largest city in Japan with a population of over 2.7 million people. Osaka is known as the “nation’s kitchen” due to its large number of restaurants and street food vendors. The city is also home to a number of major corporations, including Panasonic and Sharp. It is also a major transportation hub, with two airports and a large port.

Osaka has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and cool, mild winters. The average temperature in Osaka is 16.5 degrees Celsius. The city receives a lot of rainfall, so it is important to have an umbrella with you when you are out and about.

The cost of living and the crime rate in Osaka are quite low. The city is very safe to live in. There is a strong police presence and the streets are well-lit at night. You can feel safe walking around the city at any time of day or night.

There are many things to do in Osaka. The city is home to many museums, galleries, and parks. There are also many restaurants, bars, and clubs. You can find something to do no matter what your interests are.

If you are looking for a city with a high quality of life and a low cost of living, Osaka is a great choice. The city is safe, has many things to do, and is very affordable.

6. Nagoya

Nagoya - Best Places to Live in Japan
Nagoya

Nagoya is the fourth largest city in Japan with a population of over 2.3 million people. Nagoya is a major industrial city and is home to a number of automobile factories, including those of Toyota and Honda. The city is also home to the Nagoya Castle, a large castle built in the 16th century.

The city is located on the central coast of Honshu, the main island of Japan. Nagoya is a major transportation hub, with two airports and a bullet train station. The city is also home to a number of universities and research institutes.

Nagoya has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters. The city is known for its food, particularly its Miso-Katsu, a dish of pork cutlets in miso sauce. Nagoya is also home to a number of museums and art galleries.

If you are looking for a safe, affordable, and convenient place to live in Japan, Nagoya is a great option. The city has a lot to offer its residents and is a great place to call home.

7. Fukuoka

Fukuoka - Best Places to Live in Japan
Fukuoka

Fukuoka is the fifth largest city in Japan with a population of over 1.5 million people. Fukuoka is located on the southern island of Kyushu and is a major port city. Fukuoka is home to the Fukuoka Dome, a large baseball stadium, and the Fukuoka Tower, the tallest building in the city.

Fukuoka is a great place to live because it offers a high quality of life at a low cost of living. The city has a wide variety of amenities and activities, and its residents are friendly and welcoming. Fukuoka is also a safe place to live, with a very low crime rate. If you are looking for a place to live in Japan that offers a high quality of life at a low cost of living, Fukoka is a great option.

8. Hiroshima

Shukkeien Japanese Garden, Hiroshima
Shukkeien Japanese Garden, Hiroshima

Hiroshima is the capital of the Hiroshima Prefecture and the largest city in the Chugoku region of Japan (population of about 1.2 million). Hiroshima is best known as the site of the atomic bombing at the end of World War II. However, the city has been rebuilt since then and is now a thriving metropolis. Today, Hiroshima is a major industrial city and is home to a number of universities and research institutes. Hiroshima, Japan is a beautiful and historic city. It is located on the coast of the Inland Sea, and is surrounded by mountains.

There are many reasons to live in Hiroshima, Japan. The city has a high quality of life, and a low cost of living. It is also a very safe place to live, with a very low crime rate. Hiroshima is a great place to live if you want to experience traditional Japanese culture. The city is home to many shrines and temples, as well as traditional gardens. Hiroshima is also a great place to live if you are interested in history. The city has many museums and memorials dedicated to the atomic bomb, and the city’s Peace Park is a must-see.

If you are looking for a great place to live in Japan, Hiroshima is a great choice. The city has a lot to offer, and is a great place to call home.

9. Kitakyushu

Kitakyushu - Best Places to Live in Japan
Kitakyushu

Kitakyushu is the largest city in the Fukuoka Prefecture with a population of just over 1 million people. Kitakyushu is a major industrial city and is home to a number of steel plants and chemical factories. The city is also home to the Kitakyushu Airport, the largest airport in Kyushu. Kitakyushu is full of beautiful parks and gardens, and there are many cultural attractions to enjoy. If you are looking for a place to live that has everything you need, Kitakyushu is a great choice.

10. Kawasaki

Kawasaki - Best Places to Live in Japan
Kawasaki

Kawasaki is the second largest city in the Kanagawa Prefecture with a population of over 1.3 million people. Kawasaki is located south of Tokyo and is a major industrial city. Kawasaki is home to a number of factories, including those of Mitsubishi and Nissan. The city is also home to the Kawasaki Racecourse, a horse racing track.

Kawasaki is a very livable city. It has a high quality of life and a low cost of living. The city is also very safe, with a very low crime rate. There are many great places to live in Kawasaki, and it can be difficult to choose the right one for you.

If you are looking for a city with a high quality of life and a low cost of living, Kawasaki is a great choice. The city has many great amenities, and it is a safe place to live. If you are looking for a city to live in Japan, Kawasaki is a great choice.

11. Saitama

Saitama - Best Places to Live in Japan
Saitama

Saitama is the capital of the Saitama Prefecture and the largest city in the Kanto region of Japan. Saitama is located north of Tokyo and is a major commuter city. Saitama is home to a number of large parks, including the Saitama Super Arena, a large indoor arena.

There are many reasons why someone might want to live in Saitama, Japan. For starters, the quality of life in Saitama is consistently ranked as being among the best in the country. Additionally, the cost of living in Saitama is relatively low when compared to other major Japanese cities. Finally, Saitama has a very low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.

When it comes to choosing the right place to live in Japan, it can be difficult to decide. However, if you are looking for a city with a high quality of life and a low cost of living, then Saitama is definitely worth considering.

12. Sapporo

Sapporo - Best Places to Live in Japan
Sapporo – Best Places to Live in Japan

Sapporo is the capital of the Hokkaido Prefecture and the largest city on the island of Hokkaido. Sapporo is best known for its annual Snow Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world to see the massive snow sculptures on display. The city is also home to the Sapporo Dome, a multi-purpose stadium that has hosted both baseball and football games.

Sapporo is consistently ranked as one of the best cities to live in Japan, and for good reason. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of amenities and things to do. The crime rate is also very low, so you can feel safe and secure living in Sapporo.

There are also many wonderful places to live in Sapporo. There are a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique character. Whether you’re looking for a lively and vibrant area or a more relaxed and quiet setting, Sapporo has something for you.

If you’re looking for a great place to live in Japan, Sapporo is a great choice. With its great quality of life, low cost of living, and variety of neighborhoods, Sapporo is a great place to call home.

Summary

Japan is one of the most livable places in the world and we hope you enjoyed the best places to live in Japan. It has a high life expectancy, a world-class education system, and a strong commitment to gender equality. It is also one of the most financially stable countries in the world.

There are many reasons why Japan is such a livable place. One of the most important factors is its high life expectancy. Japanese people have a life expectancy of 83 years, which is one of the highest in the world. This is due to a number of factors, including a healthy diet, a low incidence of disease, and a high level of access to healthcare.

YouTube video
Where’s the Best Place to Live in Japan? City vs. Countryside


Another important factor in Japan’s livability is its education system. The country has a number of world-class universities, and its students consistently perform well in international exams. Japan also has a strong commitment to gender equality, which makes it a great place for women to live and work.

Finally, Japan is one of the most financially stable countries in the world. It has a strong economy, and its citizens have a high standard of living. This makes it a great place to live for people of all income levels.

Japan is a great place to live for people of all ages and backgrounds. If you’re looking for a livable place with a high quality of life, Japan is a great choice.

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Marcel Kuhn