Moving to Yokohama, Japan

"Before moving to Yokohama, expats should know that the city is Japan's second largest city with a population of over three million people. It is a major commercial hub of the Greater Tokyo Area and offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with many foreigners living in the city. Expats should be aware that although English is taught in schools, many locals are not fluent in the language. Therefore, learning basic Japanese phrases and etiquette can greatly enhance your experience and make daily life easier. The cost of living in Yokohama is high, especially when it comes to housing. Expats should be prepared for small living spaces, as this is common in Japan due to population density. Yokohama has a reliable and efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, and a subway. Owning a car is not necessary and can be expensive due to toll roads, parking fees, and high fuel costs. The city is known for its safety and cleanliness. It's also prone to earthquakes, so expats should familiarize themselves with safety procedures in case of a natural disaster. Japanese healthcare is of a high standard, and all residents, including expats, are required to be enrolled in a health insurance plan. Yokohama has a variety of international schools, making it a suitable place for expats with children. The city offers a wide range of food options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to international food. It's also famous for its craft beer scene. Yokohama has a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. It's recommended to have clothing suitable for all seasons. Finally, Yokohama is rich in culture and history, with many museums, gardens, and festivals. Expats should take the time to explore and immerse themselves in the local culture," remarked one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"Finding a place to live in Yokohama, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a shared apartment to a private house. Next, you should identify the area in Yokohama where you want to live. Yokohama is a large city with many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Some popular areas include Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yamashita Park. Once you've identified your preferred area, you can start searching for available properties. There are several online real estate portals that list properties for rent in Yokohama, such as Suumo, Homes, and Athome. These websites allow you to filter properties based on location, price, size, and other criteria. You can also visit real estate agencies in Yokohama. These agencies have English-speaking staff who can help you find a suitable property. Some well-known agencies include Ken Corporation, Plaza Homes, and Hikari Home. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. If you decide to rent the property, you'll need to sign a lease agreement and pay a deposit. This usually includes a security deposit, key money, and the first month's rent. Finally, before moving in, you'll need to set up utilities such as electricity, gas, and internet. This can usually be done by contacting the relevant companies and arranging for the services to be connected. Remember, renting a property in Japan can be a complex process with many unique aspects, such as the requirement for a guarantor. Therefore, it's a good idea to seek advice from a local or someone who is familiar with the process," remarked one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Yokohama, is often located in one of the city's international neighborhoods, such as Minato Mirai, Yokohama Station area, or Motomachi. These areas are known for their high concentration of foreign residents and amenities catering to international tastes. The apartments themselves are usually modern and well-maintained, with a variety of sizes available, from compact studio apartments to larger family-sized units. They often come fully furnished, with contemporary furniture and appliances, including a washing machine, refrigerator, and sometimes even a dishwasher. The living area is typically open plan, with a combined living and dining space. The kitchen is usually compact but functional, often separated from the living area by a counter or half-wall. Bedrooms are typically smaller than what one might be used to in Western countries, but they are designed to maximize space with built-in storage solutions. Many apartments also come with a small balcony, which can be used for drying clothes or simply enjoying the view. Some of the higher-end apartments may even have access to shared amenities like a gym, pool, or rooftop terrace. Despite being in a bustling city, Japanese homes are designed to be tranquil and peaceful, with an emphasis on natural light and minimalistic design. Many expats appreciate the convenience of city living combined with the comfort and serenity of their Yokohama homes. In terms of location, these apartments are often conveniently situated close to public transportation, shopping centers, international schools, and parks. This makes it easy for expats to navigate the city, run errands, and enjoy their leisure time. Overall, a typical expat home in Yokohama offers a comfortable and convenient living environment, blending elements of Japanese design with the needs and comforts of international residents," said one expat in Yokohama.

"The average cost of housing in Yokohama can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a single bedroom apartment in the city center, the monthly rent can be quite high, while outside the city center, it can be significantly lower. If you're looking to buy property, the price per square meter can also be quite steep in the city center. However, these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and other factors," commented one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Yokohama, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Yokohama for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a home allows you to build equity over time and could provide a sense of stability and permanence. However, buying a home also comes with significant upfront costs, including a down payment, closing costs, and property taxes. It also requires a long-term financial commitment and may limit your flexibility to move. If you're not sure about your long-term plans or if you prefer not to deal with maintenance and other responsibilities that come with homeownership, renting might be a better option for you. Renting a home in Yokohama can offer more flexibility, especially if you're not sure how long you'll be staying. It's also typically less of a financial burden upfront, as you won't need to come up with a large sum of money for a down payment. Plus, you won't have to worry about maintenance costs or property taxes, as these are usually the landlord's responsibility. However, renting doesn't allow you to build equity, and you may face annual rent increases. You also have less control over your living space, as you'll need the landlord's permission to make any significant changes. In conclusion, whether you should buy or rent a home in Yokohama depends on your financial situation, long-term plans, and personal preferences. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider seeking advice from a financial advisor or real estate professional," commented one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"When moving to Yokohama, it's essential to pack clothing suitable for all four seasons, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Lightweight clothing for the hot and humid summers, and warm clothing for the cold winters, including a good quality coat, are necessary. Don't forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, as walking is a common mode of transportation in Japan. Also, consider packing a good quality umbrella for the rainy season and a hat or sunscreen for the summer months. If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last for your initial period in Japan, along with a copy of your prescription. It's also a good idea to pack a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic cream, and over-the-counter medication for common ailments like headaches and colds. Bring your important documents, such as your passport, visa, driver's license, and any necessary insurance documents. It's also a good idea to have copies of these documents in case they get lost. If you're planning on cooking at home, you might want to pack some of your favorite spices or food items that might be hard to find in Japan. Remember to pack your electronics, including your laptop, phone, and chargers. An international adapter might also be necessary as the plugs in Japan might be different from your home country. Lastly, bring personal items that will make your new place feel like home, such as photos, small keepsakes, or your favorite books. These items can help ease the transition and make your new place in Yokohama feel more comfortable and familiar," remarked one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"In Yokohama, it is considered rude to eat or drink while walking in public. It's best to consume food and drinks at the place they were purchased or at home. Avoid tipping as it is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting. The Japanese believe good service should be expected and not rewarded with extra money. When using chopsticks, never stick them vertically into your food, especially rice, as this is a ritual performed at funerals. Also, avoid passing food from chopstick to chopstick as this is another funeral rite. It's important to respect the local customs of removing your shoes before entering someone's home, certain restaurants, and temples. Usually, there will be a place provided for shoes, and sometimes slippers will be provided for indoor use. Avoid blowing your nose in public as it is considered impolite. If you need to blow your nose, it's best to excuse yourself and go to a restroom. In Japan, it's considered rude to interrupt or talk over someone. It's best to wait until the other person has finished speaking before you respond. Avoid pointing with your finger, as it's considered rude. If you need to point at something, it's more polite to use your whole hand with your palm facing up. It's considered impolite to be loud or draw attention to yourself in public places, especially on public transportation. It's best to keep your voice down and avoid talking on your phone. When visiting shrines or temples, follow the specific rules and rituals, such as cleansing your hands and mouth before entering, and avoid taking pictures where it's prohibited. Lastly, respect the Japanese culture of punctuality. Being late is considered very rude, so always try to be on time or even a little early," remarked one expat in Yokohama, Japan.