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," said one expat in 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," wrote a member in 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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," said 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," said one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"Expats considering retirement in Yokohama should be aware that the cost of living can be high, particularly in terms of housing and healthcare. They should also know that Japan has a national health insurance system, which everyone, including foreigners, are required to join. Understanding the language is crucial as English is not widely spoken outside of the major cities. Therefore, learning Japanese or having a translator can be beneficial. Japan has a unique culture and customs that expats should respect and adhere to. This includes removing shoes before entering homes, bowing when greeting others, and not tipping in restaurants. The climate in Yokohama is temperate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. However, Japan is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, so it's important to be prepared for these events. Public transportation in Yokohama is efficient and reliable, but it can be crowded during peak hours. Driving in Japan can be challenging due to the language barrier and different road rules, so many expats choose to rely on public transport instead. Japan has a low crime rate and is generally safe, but expats should still take basic precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings. Finally, expats should be aware that Japan has strict immigration laws. To retire in Japan, you will need a visa, which usually requires you to have a substantial amount of savings or a Japanese sponsor," commented one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"Expats in Yokohama often appreciate the local culture's emphasis on respect and politeness. They admire the Japanese dedication to maintaining harmony and balance in their daily lives. The cleanliness and safety of the city is also highly valued by expats. They enjoy the rich history and tradition that is evident in local festivals, architecture, and arts. The Japanese work ethic and punctuality is also something that expats in Yokohama admire. The local cuisine, particularly sushi and ramen, is another aspect of the culture that is greatly appreciated. Lastly, the efficient public transportation system and the city's walkability are also highly valued by expats living in Yokohama," said one expat in Yokohama.

"Expats in Yokohama often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Japanese is a complex language with three different writing systems, and while some locals speak English, it is not widely spoken or understood. Another challenge is the strict adherence to social etiquette and customs. Japanese culture places a high value on respect and politeness, and there are many unspoken rules and expectations that can be difficult for foreigners to navigate. The work culture in Japan can also be challenging for expats. The Japanese are known for their strong work ethic, often working long hours and rarely taking time off. This can be a significant adjustment for expats used to a more balanced work-life culture. Food can also be a challenge for some expats. While Japanese cuisine is internationally renowned, it can be quite different from Western food. Some expats may struggle to adapt to the local diet, which heavily features seafood and rice. Lastly, the high cost of living in Yokohama can be a challenge for many expats. Housing, in particular, can be expensive, and the overall cost of living is generally higher than in many Western countries," remarked one expat who made the move to Yokohama.

"Compared to many other cities of its size, Yokohama has a relatively low crime rate. The city is generally considered safe, with violent crime being particularly rare. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or bicycle theft can occur, but they are not common. The city's police force is efficient and responsive, contributing to the overall safety of the city. However, like any other city, it is always advisable for residents and visitors to take basic precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings," wrote a member in Yokohama.

"1. Yokohama International School (YIS): Established in 1924, YIS is one of the oldest international schools in the world. It offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from early learning to grade 12. The school is known for its diverse student body, experienced faculty, and commitment to service learning. [Website](https://www.yis.ac.jp/) 2. Saint Maur International School: Founded in 1872, Saint Maur International School is the oldest international school in Asia. It offers a comprehensive education from nursery to high school, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) for grades 11 and 12. The school is recognized for its strong academic programs, nurturing environment, and commitment to community service. [Website](https://www.saintmaur.ac.jp/) 3. Horizon Japan International School (HJIS): HJIS provides a comprehensive education from kindergarten to high school. The school follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, which is recognized worldwide. HJIS is known for its multicultural environment, small class sizes, and emphasis on character education. [Website](https://www.horizon.ac.jp/) 4. Yokohama Yamate Chinese School: This school offers a bilingual education in Japanese and Chinese from kindergarten to high school. The curriculum is based on the Chinese education system but also incorporates elements of the Japanese curriculum. The school is known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on cultural exchange. [Website](http://www.yamate-chinese.ed.jp/) 5. German School Tokyo Yokohama: This school provides a German-based curriculum from kindergarten to high school. The school is recognized for its rigorous academic programs, multicultural environment, and commitment to fostering global citizens. [Website](https://dsty.ac.jp/) 6. Yokohama Overseas Chinese School: This school offers a bilingual education in Japanese and Chinese from elementary to high school. The curriculum is based on the Chinese education system but also incorporates elements of the Japanese curriculum. The school is known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on cultural exchange. [Website](http://www.yokohama-ocs.ed.jp/) 7. Seisen International School: Seisen International School is a Catholic, all-girls school from kindergarten to high school. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and is known for its strong academic programs, nurturing environment, and commitment to service learning. [Website](https://www.seisen.com/)," commented one expat when asked about in Yokohama.

"Yokohama Japan is an awesome place to live. It is pretty quiet here at night when everyone goes home from work so it doesn't feel as crowded as Tokyo. The Japanese are kind-hearted and somewhat friendly, they respect your space and are not overtly rude like many other cultures can be," said an expat in Yokohama.