Jan 31, 2025
So, you’re planning to study in Japan? That’s awesome! Whether you’re dreaming of walking through cherry blossoms on your way to class or enjoying late-night ramen runs, living in Japan as a student is an unforgettable experience. But let’s be real—before you get to all that fun stuff, you need to figure out your budget.
Here’s a breakdown of what it really costs to live in Japan as an international student in 2025, from housing and food to self-care and entertainment.
Food: Affordable and Delicious (¥25,000–¥50,000 per Month)
Food in Japan is one of the best parts of living there, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Cooking at home is the cheapest option, with essential groceries like rice, vegetables, and tofu costing around ¥10,000–¥20,000 per month. Supermarkets such as Gyomu Super and Don Quijote offer bulk deals, making them student-friendly choices.
Eating out is still affordable if you know where to go. A bowl of ramen, a curry plate, or a beef bowl can cost as little as ¥500–¥1,000. A mid-range meal might cost ¥2,000–¥3,000, but sometimes, a sushi or yakiniku splurge is worth it. Many supermarkets mark down pre-packed meals and sushi in the evening, which is a great money-saving trick for students looking for a good meal at a lower price.
Housing: Where to Call Home (¥30,000–¥80,000 per Month)
Housing will likely be your biggest expense, but there are different options depending on your budget and lifestyle preferences.
University dormitories are the most affordable, typically costing between ¥30,000 and ¥50,000 per month. Some include utilities, which helps keep costs down. If you’re looking for a more social environment, share houses offer a balance between affordability and community, with rents ranging from ¥40,000 to ¥70,000 per month. These are also great for meeting people from different backgrounds.
For students who prefer privacy, small apartments start at around ¥50,000 per month, though prices in central Tokyo can be significantly higher. In addition to rent, utilities such as electricity, gas, and water cost between ¥7,000 and ¥15,000 per month, while internet typically adds another ¥3,000 to ¥5,000. Websites like Sakura House and GaijinPot Housing are excellent resources for finding student-friendly accommodations.
Transportation: Getting Around (¥5,000–¥15,000 per Month)
Japan’s public transportation system is efficient, fast, and relatively affordable. Students can get discounted commuter passes, which typically cost between ¥5,000 and ¥10,000 per month, depending on how far they travel.
For shorter commutes, cycling is a popular and cost-effective option. A one-time investment of ¥10,000–¥20,000 in a bicycle can significantly cut daily transportation costs. Many student areas have dedicated bike lanes, making it a safe and convenient way to get around. Using prepaid IC cards like Suica or Pasmo helps make train and bus travel easier while offering small discounts on fares.
Entertainment: Balancing Studies and Fun (¥5,000–¥15,000 per Month)
Living in Japan isn’t just about studying—you’ll want to enjoy your time outside of class as well. Karaoke is a popular student activity, with sessions costing around ¥1,000–¥2,000. Going to the movies costs about ¥1,800 per ticket, though certain days offer discounts. Visiting museums and temples is another affordable way to enjoy the culture, with entry fees ranging from ¥500 to ¥1,000.
For nightlife, izakaya drinks start at ¥500, and club entry fees range from ¥2,000 to ¥5,000. That said, many of Japan’s best experiences, such as seasonal festivals and city events, are completely free. Keeping an eye out for local matsuri (festivals) is a great way to experience Japanese culture without spending much.
Self-Care and Health (¥3,000–¥10,000 per Month)
Taking care of yourself while studying abroad is important. All international students in Japan must enroll in National Health Insurance, which costs around ¥2,000 per month and covers 70% of most medical expenses. With this insurance, a standard doctor’s visit costs between ¥1,000 and ¥2,000.
For students who want to stay active, many university gyms offer free or low-cost access, while private gyms charge between ¥5,000 and ¥10,000 per month. Basic personal care items, such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste, typically cost between ¥2,000 and ¥3,000 per month. Discount drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi are great places to buy these essentials at lower prices.
Other Expenses: The Little Things Add Up (¥5,000–¥20,000 per Month)
Phone bills are another essential cost. Plans with providers like Rakuten Mobile or Y!Mobile range from ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 per month, which includes data and calls. Textbooks can be expensive, often costing between ¥3,000 and ¥10,000 per semester, while stationery and school supplies can add another ¥1,000–¥2,000 per month.
Many students take on part-time jobs to help with expenses. Student visa holders are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week, with common jobs such as convenience store clerk, English tutor, or restaurant staff paying between ¥1,000 and ¥1,500 per hour.
Total Monthly Budget Estimate
The overall cost of living in Japan as an international student varies depending on lifestyle and location. In cities like Tokyo, expenses tend to be higher, while other areas like Kyoto or Fukuoka offer slightly lower living costs. On average, a student can expect to spend between ¥73,000 and ¥190,000 per month, covering all basic needs and leisure activities.
How to Save Money as a Student in Japan
There are plenty of ways to cut costs while studying in Japan. Cooking at home rather than eating out regularly can save a significant amount of money each month. Many stores, museums, and transportation services offer student discounts, so always carrying a student ID is a good idea. Shopping second-hand through platforms like Mercari or Book Off can help save money on textbooks, clothes, and even electronics.
Using a budgeting app like Money Forward can help track expenses and prevent overspending. Keeping an eye out for special deals, discount days at supermarkets, and free cultural events can also make a big difference.
How LALALA NIHON can help with your Journey to Japan!
Our team specializes in guiding students through every step of their journey, from choosing the best language schools and universities to securing housing and understanding living costs. We help you make informed decisions so you can focus on enjoying your study abroad experience without unnecessary stress.
If you're ready to take the next step toward studying in Japan, let us help you create a plan that fits your goals and budget. Click below to schedule a free counseling session and get expert guidance on how to make your dream of studying in Japan a reality!