Osaka, Japan Report of what it's like to live there - 05/26/26
Personal Experiences from Osaka, Japan
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
No. I have lived in Tokyo and also a few cities across Western Europe.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
From the U.S.: Osaka flies directly to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu. Getting there is easy, anywhere else is at least one stop or likely two. The current USG city pair fair from Osaka to Washington, DC is terrible; it requires an 11 hour layover in Seoul.
3. What years did you live here?
2022-2026.
4. How long have you lived here?
Four years.
5. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Diplomatic mission.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Many expats live in Kobe or nearby Kobe as the main international schools are on Rokko Island (Kobe) and big international businesses are in Kobe. Housing for expats is typically larger and more Western but still leaves a lot to be desired. It is hot and humid from May - September and in this region it is typically 90-100 F and 100% humid in July and August. Homes are not built very well and there are problems with mold and mildew. During World Expo 2025 it was challenging to find suitable housing for expats in Osaka. Even the expensive, "Western" apartments were small and disliked by many.
Many people commute 1+ hour to work in Kansai. It can be a slog especially in the summer months with the heat and humidity; trains are very crowded during rush hour. You can get between north Osaka (Umeda) and Kobe (Sannomiya ) in 30 minutes on an express train. However, living in neighborhoods between those hubs or beyond them adds a lot of time. Getting to the international schools on Rokko Island is also not easy or quick. From Umeda to Rokko Island takes an hour.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The cost of groceries for expats is lower than it has been in recent history due to the very weak yen. Fruits and vegetables can still be expensive, but generally food is very affordable. It is generally sold in smaller amounts (e.g. single servings) so if you have a family you have to buy double. The Hokkaido milk and butter are incredible. Many people shop for daily necessities at Costco or on Amazon Japan which are affordable. Department stores have basement gourmet stands where it is affordable to get prepared foods that are very popular.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Peanut butter, microwave popcorn, pretzels.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
The department store basement gourmet markets are the best for takeaway. Restaurant take out and Uber eats exist but is not available at many places, so options are limited and the markup on price is noticeable. I have found that Indian food seems the most easy to order on Uber eats. Pizza delivery is also available but rather pricey.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
I have not noticed any in the housing. There are a lot of mosquitos in summer; cicadas are noisy for a period in the summer and I've seen some sink bugs, but nothing is really bothersome.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
I use diplomatic mail service for sending and receiving mail with the U.S. There are local post offices and delivery options like Yamato Transport that are reliable and easy for domestic/Japanese mail and delivery.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
As diplomats we may employ household help; many sponsor third county nationals' visas. We do not.
3. Do you feel that it is safe to walk, run or hike outside? Are there areas where bike riding is possible? What is the availability and safety of outdoor space for exercising? Are these easily accessible?
Yes, definitely. It is very safe here. Many people exercise outside as there are running paths in Kansai and lots of nature to hike in. There are some bike paths but there are also many very steep hills in this area and narrow streets that make it stressful to bike on, so biking isn't for everyone.
4. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
The Anytime Fitness was about $50/month. There are many gyms/specialty fitness (e.g. boxing) studios.
5. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Credit cards: yes and no. I have never had a problem at a physical store with my non-Japanese credit card, however I have had problems using it to order online from Japanese stores (even U.S. brands). I have never had this happen anywhere else in the world...some places still only accept Japanese credit or debit cards or the Pay Pay app which I have not been able to use given lack of compatibility with either my non-Japanese phone/app store or non-Japanese credit card.
ATMs are common and all of the ATMs at convenience stores accept my non-Japanese debit card so it is very easy to get cash.
6. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
You need some Japanese to get by daily in Kansai. In Tokyo it was easier to get by in English. Language classes are available and affordable.
7. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
I think if you live in Osaka or Kobe proper it would be ok. In the suburbs it can be very hilly and difficult, especially in the hot summer months. The trains are very accessible though.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Yes. Trains and busses are plentiful, well connected, punctual and affordable. They are just crowded. Taxis are much more expensive than other East Asia cities like Taipei and Seoul. Uber and GO Taxi ride hailing apps have made it somewhat easier to get a ride from the suburbs. Though it is still challenging to hail one in the early morning and making an advance taxi reservation is suggested.
2. What kind of vehicle(s) including electric ones do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, infrastructure, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car or vehicles do you advise not to bring?
It is easier to buy a car in Japan that suits the right hand and right side drive. There are kei (light weight) cars that benefit from lower tolls. Many e-bikes are sold for getting around town on a bicycle.
I would not bring a large car as the roads are narrow and parking spots are small.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes, it can take a couple of days or so. We have had some issues where when we leave for too long, our internet goes down and someone from the provider has to come out and re-set it when we return (this is weird).
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
We use a local provider with an e-sim. It is very cheap. I pay about 3500 Yen/ month.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
Lots of rules about pet importation and quarantine. There is no rabies in Japan so they are very serious about keeping it out. If you do the importation paperwork wrong your pet could be quarantined for six months. There are good vets and kennels. Many people have small dogs they push around in strollers and dress up in clothes and bring to cafes, on the train, etc.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
Local salaries are LOW. Shockingly low if you think of Japan as modern and top GDP country. Some spouses work as teachers or teaching English. The salaries at the international schools are very low compared to others in the region.
2. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
People dress pretty formally and conservatively Black/gray/blue suits and white button down shirts and ties are the typical professional uniform. Many women wear blouses and long midi or maxi skirts. I have rarely seen people wear shorts or jeans, except for children. In the summer there is "cool biz" season where the dress code is relaxed to allow button down t-shirts, no tie, etc. It seems more accepting for women to wear shorter skirts rather than low cut blouses or ones exposing arms. Usually the chest and shoulders are totally covered. Most professional clothing is a sea of neutrals, a bright color really stands out.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Earthquakes are the most common health and safety concern. However, the trains and busses are also very crowded so it is easy to catch a cold or flu on the train or bus. Many people wear face masks during flu season and allergy season as a preventative measure.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
This is my biggest issue in Kansai. This region is known as a global life sciences hub with some of the best R&D on the planet and yet I have found the medical care completely lacking. It seems the standard of care is pretty low for everyone and is targeted to the aged demographic, but the health care is also set up for a national health care/single payer system and doesn't know what to do with non-Japanese.
As a foreigner I feel treated like I am from Mars and have found the medical care to be bad, bad, bad. It is MUCH better for foreigners in Tokyo, as is my personal experience. Many of my colleagues previously worked in East or Southeast Asia (Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore) and choose to return there for routine or specialist medical care rather than go to the doctor in Kansai. I have been to primary care clinics, hospital specialists for gastroenterology, dermatologist, obgyn, vascular clinic and it has all been terrible, even for routine care. My husband got a filling from a dentist and it fell out the next day. Fortunately we have had a great experience with our pediatrician, otherwise I would have left my job in Osaka much earlier for a job somewhere else as the bad health care has been really disturbing.
Even my Japanese-fluent speaking colleagues struggled with healthcare issues when they had to go to the emergency room. Pain management is non-existent. A colleague was in an accident and when the ambulance came, they sat there for 30 minutes unsure what to do with her and debating which hospital to take her while she was bleeding profusely and had multiple broken bones. I finally felt comfortable with a doctor to have a surgery when a Japanese friend talked me out of it, having gone through the same surgery and explaining the lack of care of pain management for weeks and months afterward would make the experience horrendous (I postponed until I return to the U.S.).
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
Mostly great, with occasional yellow sand cloud that causes some air issues. Can be a bit smoggy at times, as Osaka-Kobe is an industrial area.
4. What do people who suffer from environmental or food allergies need to know?
Spring has very, very, very bad pollen season (google the cedar trees planted 50 years ago). Spring allergies are horrendous.
For food allergies, it is very difficult to have substitutions or accommodations at restaurants. Many restaurants now use peanut oil to fry which has caused issues with those with nut allergies.
5. Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
Japan is a highly depressed place. It is easy to feel very isolated here, though Kansai is friendlier than Tokyo. The isolation and "overwork" culture combined with low wage and negative attitudes towards foreigners all align to cause mental illness, especially depression, in people. Therapy is not really available.
6. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
June - September is very hot (80-100F) and humid (100%). Fall (Oct-Nov) is short but great, cool (50-70 F) and dry. Winter (Dec - Feb) is surprisingly lovely with lots of very bright blue sunny days, not too cold (maybe 35-45 F) and very dry. Spring is cool 50-65 F) and weather is mixed dry and humid but the seasonal allergies are so bad it is had to enjoy if you suffer.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
The largest International School is Canadian Academy on Rokko Island. It is pre-K-12 and works on the Western calendar and is an IB school. It has been warm and welcoming. There are other schools on Rokko Island but do not serve through 12th grade. There are some international schools in Osaka but most expats all go to the Rokko Island schools.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
I do not think Canadian Academy caters really to exceptional learners one way or another, though there are assistants available (at your own cost) for those who need the help. Speech therapy can be offered at school as needed (and at your own cost).
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Canadian Academy has a pre-K. There are also lots of international/English speaking preschools and also public Japanese preschools that are affordable and can provide after-school care. We had a great experience with a private, international preschool in our neighborhood.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Yes, Canadian Academy offers after school clubs and has some sports, though no swimming. There are private swim and sports clubs too (soccer, tennis, karate, dance) which we have found affordable.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
There are some expat hubs in and around Kobe mostly. Many expats band together as it can be hard to make friends with locals. Kobe is very international and has a lot going on for expats, more so than Osaka in my experience.
2. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Some expats live in company housing which creates a community. Many go to church or socialize with others from their country. Canadian Academy has some evening and morning sports/workout classes for parents.
3. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
It has been hard for singles from what I hear, as it can be difficult to meet people organically. Some have said they feel lonely or isolated. Couples and families seem to enjoy the region more, as it is safe and there are a lot of travel opportunities.
4. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Are there any prejudices or any ethnic groups who might feel uncomfortable here?
It is challenging: language, established friend groups, rising anti-foreigner sentiment, and people work long hours.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
I think so but I am not sure. There seems to be a community, and there is an annual Pride parade in Osaka.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
There is rising anti-foreigner sentiment for sure. I have noticed it personally as a Western/white person but it seems worse toward Southeast Asian, South Asian, and African colleagues.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Super safe, clean, very cute culture and lots of good shopping and food. Japan is easy to explore by train and has so many hidden gems. The Osaka-Kobe region has access to a lot of beautiful nature like the Rokko mountains, Suma beach, Awaji Island, etc.
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
Minoh falls is a nice hike on a warm spring or fall day; I love the Nunobiki gardens in Kobe too. Going to a jazz club in Osaka or Kobe. Walking around Nakanoshima in Osaka and exploring all of the little different neighborhoods; I like Nakazakicho and Minamisemba in Osaka and Kyukyoruchi in Kobe.
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Yes, there is so much shopping in Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto. Kyoto has a handicrafts center. Tamba is a pottery town. Osaka/Sakai City is known for knives.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Kansai people are pretty down to earth, practical, and funny, comparatively. You can get to a lot from Osaka-Kobe: Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, Hiroshima, etc., are all within an hour or so. Lake Biwa is close and beautiful get away in summer or winter. There are many onsens and sentos around.
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
The subpar medical care for foreigners.
2. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Yes, but would have sought external medical care early on instead of trying so many local doctors.
3. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
pepper spray
4. But don't forget your:
sun hat/parasol/misting fan.
5. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
No, but something explaining how Kansai people are different than Tokyo people might be helpful.
