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Cost of Living in Japan for International Students 2024-25

Cost of Living in Japan for International Students 2024-25

Edited By Porishmita Paul | Updated on Jun 25, 2024 01:53 PM IST

Japan is an expensive country to live in for Indian students. The average cost of living in Japan with rent is around Rs. 55,000-78,000 per month for international students. This is an average cost calculated from analysing the earlier trends of living expenses in Japan. The actual cost of living in Japan per month may vary depending on the prices of food, accommodation, transportation, utilities, and other significant expenses.

This Story also Contains
  1. Cost of Living in Japan for Indian Students 2024
  2. Cost of Living in Japan for International Students 2024
  3. Tuition Fees in Japan for International Students 2024
  4. Top Student Cities in Japan 2024
  5. Cost of Living in Japan vs India
  6. Tips for Saving Money in Japan

The Japan living expenses 2024 for international students are very high when compared to those in India. As per the latest statistics, the cost of living in Japan per month for a single person is approximately 124.5% higher than in India.

The average living expenses in Japan 2024 for students is influenced by multiple factors such as expenses for food, accommodation, transportation, and others. However, the major two determining factors for monthly expenses in Japan for Indian students are tuition fees and accommodation in the city. The average study in Japan cost for an undergraduate degree is around Rs. 2,55,500 per annum for top Japan colleges. Whereas, rent prices in Japan range from Rs. 30,000-45,000 per month.

This article evaluates all the major aspects of the cost of living in Japan 2024 in comparison to India. Students who wish to study in Japan are advised to read the complete article to learn about differences in living expenses in popular Japanese cities, top university tuition fees, tips for saving money in the country, and more.

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Cost of Living in Japan for Indian Students 2024

Category

Cost of living in Japan in INR (per month)

Accommodation (1 bedroom apartment)

Rs. 30,000-45,000

Food (Groceries)

Rs. 10,000-15,000

Transportation (Monthly Pass)

Rs. 5,000

Utilities (Electricity, Water, water, etc.)

Rs. 10,000-13,000

Estimated Monthly Cost

Rs. 55,000-78,000

Cost of Living in Japan for International Students 2024

How much money do you need to live in Japan as a student? The average living expenses in Japan for international students is around Rs. 55,000-78,000 per month. This is the minimum living expenses in Japan 2024 calculated by adding all the important expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other significant utilities. The major categories for expenses which constitute the cost of living for international students in Japan include:

Also Read:Japan Student Visa

1. Study in Japan Cost

Tuition fees in Japan are relatively more affordable than in major study-abroad countries like the USA and UK. For undergraduate students, the average cost at the high-ranking University of Tokyo starts at Rs. 2,55,500 for an academic year.

Also, students will have to pay an admission fee ranging around Rs. 148000 for an academic year. This range may differ between universities and their specific programmes. Check the university website to learn more about the fee structure.

2. Accommodation Costs in Japan

Accommodation in Japan, on average, is 143.3% higher than in India. Without rent, the cost of living in Japan is 119.9% higher than in India. The rent for a single-bedroom apartment generally ranges from Rs. 30,000-45,000 per month. The rent is comparatively higher in the city centres than living outside the city.

Cost of Living in Japan for International Students: Accommodation

Accommodation

Average Monthly Cost

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre

46,800

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre

29,900

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre

95,600

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre

60,300

3. Food Prices in Japan

For food, Japan is considerably more expensive than in India. Although, Japan offers various pocket-friendly food options for students. However, restaurant prices in Japan are 87.7% higher than in India. Whereas, groceries prices are 127.6% higher in Japan than in India.

Meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant costs around Rs. 3000 for three courses. However, cooking at home can save you a good amount of money.

Food Expenses in Japan 2024

Category

Cost in Rs.

Milk (regular), (1 liter)

110

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)

120

Rice (white), (1kg)

290

Eggs (regular) (12)

170

Local Cheese (1kg)

880

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

490

Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)

1,300

Apples (1kg)

370

Banana (1kg)

180

Oranges (1kg)

330

Tomato (1kg)

340

Potato (1kg)

210

Onion (1kg)

180

Lettuce (1 head)

100

Water (1.5 liter bottle)

70

4. Clothing Costs in Japan

The cost of clothing in Japan can vary depending on several factors, including brands, quality, location, and season. Japan has a vibrant second-hand clothing market. Students can shop for clothing in those markets to save money on clothes and shoes.

Living Expenses in Japan for Clothing

Category

Cost in Rs.

1 Pair of Jeans

3,390

1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store

2,400

1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes

4,500

1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes

6,370

5. Transportation Costs in Japan

Japan has an extensive public transportation system which is comparatively convenient and relatively affordable for Indian students than taking a private bus or taxi. The prices for local trains start around Rs. 80 per trip for short distances. Students can use rechargeable smart cards like Suica or Pasmo to get slight discounts on transportation.

Transportation Cost in Japan

Category

Cost in Rs.

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

115

Monthly Pass (Regular Price)

4,200

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

300

Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)

220

Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)

1,790

Gasoline (1 liter)

90

6. Utility Costs in Japan

Utility costs are crucial for budgeting living expenses in Japan. The actual utility bills can vary depending on your specific usage, apartment size, location, and season.

Monthly Expenses in Japan: Utilities

Category

Cost in Rs.

Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage)

13,160

Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data

2,050

Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)

2,630

Tuition Fees in Japan for International Students 2024

University

Estimated Annual Tuition (approx.)

The University of Tokyo (UTokyo)

Rs. 255500

Kyoto University

Rs. 274500

Osaka University

Rs. 281000

Tohoku University

Rs. 281000

Tokyo Institute of Technology

Rs. 281000

Nagoya University

Rs. 281400

Hokkaido University

Rs. 281400

Kyushu University

Rs. 281400

Waseda University

Rs. 770070

Keio University

Rs. 710100

Top Student Cities in Japan 2024

Japan is a popular destination for top student cities in the world. As per the latest QS Best Student Cities 2025 ranking report, Tokyo is the 2nd best student city in the world with an overall score of 99.2. Whereas, Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe and Nagoya were included among the top 150 QS Best Student Cities 2025. Tokyo is more expensive when compared to other cities in Japan followed by Osaka, Kyoto, and then Fukuoka.

Student Living Cost in Japan

Popular Cities in Japan

Living Cost in Japan for International Students in Indian Rupees

Tokyo

2,06,000

Kyoto

1,16,000

Sapporo

96,000

Kobe

1,52,000

Cost of Living in Japan vs India

Generally, the cost of living in Japan is comparatively higher than that of living in India. According to the latest report of Numbeo, the cost of living in Japan is 124.5% higher than in India. Whereas, rent prices are 143.3% higher than in major Indian cities. The difference is due to variables in the cost of housing, food, transportation, and other living expenses.

Living Expenses in Japan vs India

Category

Cost of Living in Japan in Rupees (per month)

Cost of Living in India in Rupees (per month)

Accommodation

Rs. 30,000-45,000

Rs. 5,000-15,000

Food

Rs. 10,000-15,000

Rs. 500-2000

Transportation

Rs. 5,000

Rs. 1,000-3,000

Utilities

Rs. 10,000-13,000

Rs. 8,000

Tips for Saving Money in Japan

Living expenses in Japan can be financially exhausting for Indian students. However, some effective tips can help students to save their money while study in Japan. Check out a few tips that can help you manage your living expenses in Japan while studying:

  • Opt for share houses or apartments outside the city centres to cut the expensive rent.

  • Cook your own meals at home to save money on expensive restaurants.

  • Use public transport and local trains to travel short distances.

  • Shop from second-hand clothing markets and department stores to save money on clothes.

  • Seek financial assistance and scholarships in Japan from the university to manage your tuition costs in the country.

  • Take advantage of free activities such as parks, festivals, and museums.

  • Check websites like GaijinPot or local job boards to apply for part-time jobs in Japan.

  • Use apps like LINE for communication, which offers free calls and messaging.

Also Read:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is studying in Japan expensive for Indian?

Yes, Japan is an expensive country to study for Indians. The average cost of living in Japan in Indian rupees is around Rs. 55,000-78,000 per month which is approximately 124.5% higher than in India. Therefore, plan your budget accordingly before applying to top universities in Japan.

2. Is it expensive for an Indian to live in Japan?

Yes, it is expensive for an Indian to live in Japan. The rent costs in Japan are 119.9% higher than in India. Whereas, groceries prices are around 127.3% higher than in India. Additionally, charges for utilities and other miscellaneous expenses are also more expensive than in India.

3. How much money do you need to live in Japan as a student?

For an Indian student, an amount of around Rs. 55,000-78,000 is needed per month to live in Japan. The amount may vary depending on the life choices and accommodation of the students.

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Hello Aspirant,

If you are a 12th cleared science student from India and you want to do medicine in Japan, here is how:

  1. Select a University: Find Japanese Colleges / Universities, which offers MBBS or equivalent course (generally an MD Program).
  2. Language Requirements: Most Medical courses in Japan, education is in Japanese, so you would need to clear JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) - N2 or N1 is ideal.
  3. Entrance Exams: You will most likely need to clear the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students), and a university or individual entrance test or interview.
  4. Apply for Admission: Once you have done your shortlisting of universities, check the admission guidelines. This will be available on the official website of the universities, so you will need to confirm the deadline and admission process. You will have to submit academic documents, test scores, a copy of your passport, and a Statement of Purpose.
  5. Student Visa: After being selected, you need to submit an application for a student Visa at the Japanese embassy in India.
  6. Scholarships: You can apply for MEXT scholarship, JASSO, universities scholarships, MEXT assists and provide financial support to students.


The list of selected students for Class 8 admission in Eklavya Model Residential Schools  is usually released by the respective state or district authorities. The selection is based on an entrance exam, and the names of selected candidates are often displayed on the official EMRS or state education websites. In some cases, the list may also be posted on the school’s notice board. Currently no public list of selected students’ names is available online. To know who was been selected you should check with the local EMRS office, visit the official website of state’s tribal welfare department, or directly contact the school to get accurate information.


Yes, the M.Tech in Food Science and Technology at IIT Guwahati includes an international semester in Japan as part of the International Joint M.Tech.

  • Japan Semester: 3.5 – 5.5 lakhs (approximate)

  • IIT Guwahati M.Tech Program: 2.5 – 3 lakhs

  • Total Estimated Cost: 6 – 8.5 lakhs

For latest details and admission info, visit:
Careers360 – IIT Guwahati M.Tech Food Tech

Hello,

To study economics and finance in Japan as a student from India , here are the key points to consider:

  1. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Educational Qualification: You should have completed your 12th grade and be pursuing or have completed an undergraduate degree in economics, finance, or a related field.
    • Language Proficiency: Most universities require proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Japanese (JLPT) depending on the course language.
    • Age Limit: Generally, students should be under 30 years of age at the time of application.
  2. Application Process:

    • Choose a University: Research Japanese universities offering economics and finance programs (e.g., University of Tokyo, Keio University).
    • Prepare Documents: Transcripts, recommendation letters, language proficiency test scores, Statement of Purpose (SOP), CV.
  3. Scholarships:

    • MEXT Scholarship : Apply through the Japanese Government (MEXT) scholarship for undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
    • University-specific Scholarships: Many universities offer their own scholarships, so check each institution's website for details.

Hope it helps !

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