Cost of living in Japan for international students (2025-2026)

Thinking of studying in Japan? You’ve come to the right place! Moving to this fascinating country means more than just experiencing its rich culture and top-tier education; you’ll need to manage your finances effectively to enjoy a seamless study-abroad experience. From bustling Tokyo to serene Kyoto, the cost of living in Japan for international students varies greatly depending on the city, lifestyle choices, and university location.

This blog will walk you through the details of the average living expenses in Japan, including accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment costs. Plus, we’ll discuss tuition fees for studying in Japan and ways to optimize your spending. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring Japan’s bustling streets or indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine, budgeting wisely will make your journey stress-free and memorable.

Let’s dive into what makes Japan both affordable and manageable for international students in 2025–2026!

Cost of Living in Japan per Month in 2025-2026

The average cost of living in Japan for international students varies depending on the city, lifestyle, and university location. On average, students should budget between JPY 120,000–150,000 (INR 70,000–90,000) per month. This includes accommodation, food, transport, household bills, and miscellaneous expenses. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka are more expensive compared to smaller towns. Here’s an overview of the monthly living cost in Japan for international students:

Notes:

• Tokyo and Osaka tend to be more expensive than smaller cities like Kyoto or Fukuoka. 
• Many students can save on transportation costs by choosing university dormitories located near campus. 
• Proper budgeting and opting for shared accommodation or student dorms can significantly reduce monthly expenses. 

Accommodation cost in Japan in 2025- 2026

When planning to study in Japan for the 2025–2026 academic year, it’s essential to understand the expected accommodation costs, as they can vary significantly based on location, type of housing, and personal preferences. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you budget effectively: 

Types of Accommodation in Japan:

• University Dormitories: Many Japanese universities offer on-campus housing, which is often more affordable and provides a community atmosphere. However, availability is limited, and rooms are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 

• Private Apartments: Opting for a private apartments in Japan offers more independence but comes with higher costs and additional expenses such as security deposits and utility fees. 

• Shared Housing (Guesthouses/Share Houses): These are popular among international students for their balance between cost and social interaction. Residents have private rooms but share common areas like kitchens and living spaces. 

Average Monthly Rent by Region:

Accommodation costs in Japan vary by region. Below is a table summarizing the average monthly rent for international students in Japan different areas: 

Initial Move-in Costs in Japan:

When renting a private apartment, be prepared for upfront expenses, which may include: 

• Security Deposit (Shiki-kin): Typically, equivalent to 1–2 months’ rent; refundable upon move-out if there is no damage. 

• Key Money (Rei-kin): A non-refundable gratuity fee to the landlord, often amounting to 1–2 months’ rent. 

• Agent Fees: If using a real estate agent, expect to pay a commission fee, usually around one month’s rent. 

Transportation price in Japan in 2025-2026

Transportation in Japan is efficient and reliable, but costs can vary depending on the city and the mode of transport. International students should budget for daily commuting, occasional travel, and leisure trips. Here’s a detailed overview of transportation prices in Japan for 2025–2026: 

Monthly Transportation Costs in Japan

Transportation costs depend on the city size and distance traveled. Below are typical monthly expenses for students: 

Regional and National Travel Costs in Japan

Japan’s extensive public transport network makes it easy to travel between cities. Here are expected costs for intercity travel: 

Tips to Save on Transportation Costs

• Buy a Commuter Pass: If you frequently travel between two points, commuter passes offer significant savings. 
• Use IC Cards: Cards like Suica and Pasmo offer discounted fares on trains, buses, and even vending machines. 
• Opt for Bicycles: Ideal for short commutes and small towns; cycling is common and cost-effective. 
• Plan Long-Distance Travel: Book highway buses or flights in advance for discounts. 
• Share Rides: Use carpooling apps or shared taxi services for occasional trips. 

Transportation Costs in Major Cities

Costs vary by city. Here’s a quick snapshot of typical monthly transportation expenses in key locations: 

Food and grocery prices in Japan in 2025-2026

Food and grocery costs in Japan are a significant part of an international student’s budget. Japan offers a variety of options, from affordable local meals to more expensive imported groceries. For the 2024–2025 academic year, here’s a detailed breakdown of what students can expect for food and grocery expenses: 

Average Monthly Food Costs in Japan 2025-2026 

The cost of food depends on whether you prefer to cook at home or eat out frequently. Here’s a rough estimate of monthly food expenses in Japan for international students in 2025: 

Grocery Prices in Japan 

For those who plan to cook at home, groceries can be affordable, especially if you buy locally produced items. Imported goods, however, are relatively expensive. Here’s a snapshot of grocery prices in Japan in 2025: 

Tips to Save on Food Costs in Japan 2025 

• Shop at Discount Stores: Stores like Don Quijote and Gyomu Super offer affordable groceries. 
• Buy Local and Seasonal: Fresh produce and fish are cheaper when in season and locally sourced. 
• Student Discounts: Some restaurants near universities offer discounts to students. 
• Cook in Batches: Preparing meals in advance can save time and money. 
• Convenience Store Deals: While more expensive than cooking, many stores offer discounted prices on bento boxes after certain hours. 

Expected Cost of Studying in Japan (2025–2026) 

Studying in Japan offers international students a chance to experience top-tier education, cultural immersion, and cutting-edge research opportunities. However, the cost of studying in Japan varies depending on the university, program type, and additional expenses like admission fees, tuition, and course materials. 

Tuition Fees for Universities in Japan 2025-2026 

Tuition fees in Japan depend on whether you enroll in national, public, or private universities. Here’s a breakdown: 

Scholarships for International Students in Japan 2025 

Japan offers various scholarships to ease the financial burden for international students: 

Comparison of Study Costs for Popular Courses 

Different programs in Japan come with varying costs. Here’s an estimate of tuition fees for popular courses in Japan: 

Conclusion 

Living and studying in Japan is undoubtedly a transformative experience. While the cost of living in Japan for international students might seem daunting at first, with careful planning and budgeting, it’s absolutely manageable. Whether you’re saving money by sharing accommodation or taking advantage of scholarships like MEXT or JASSO, there are plenty of ways to ease the financial burden. 

From reasonably priced meals at local eateries to the convenience of Japan’s world-class transportation system, every yen spent contributes to an enriching study-abroad journey. By understanding the average living expenses in Japan, including tuition fees, food, accommodation, and more, you’ll be fully equipped to plan your adventure effectively. 

So, what are you waiting for? Begin your Japanese adventure today—immerse yourself in the culture, embrace the academics, and create unforgettable memories while staying financially savvy. Japan is ready for you!