Thinking of studying in Japan? Understanding the cost of living is one of the most important steps in planning your journey. In a recent Instagram Reel by DEOW Japan, Mina breaks down what students can realistically expect to spend each month — and it’s more manageable than you might think!
Monthly Living Costs in Japan for Students
Our Counsellor Mina explains that while Tokyo and other major cities might have a reputation for being expensive, international students can comfortably live on ¥100,000–¥150,000 per month (approximately $650–$1,000 USD), depending on lifestyle and location.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
Rent (shared housing or student dorm): ¥50,000–¥80,000
Food: ¥20,000–¥35,000
Transportation: ¥8,000–¥12,000
School Supplies or Extra Feew: ¥3,000–¥10,000
Personal expenses & entertainment: varies but can be around ¥3,000–¥12,000
Japan also offers affordable dining options, low-cost groceries, and student discounts on transportation — all of which help reduce your monthly spend.
Tips from Mina for Saving Money
Mina highlights a few smart ways students can save:
Live in student dorms or shared apartments to cut down on rent
Use a bicycle or student commuter passes for local travel
Take advantage of free or low-cost activities offered by schools or local communities
Part-Time Jobs for International Students
International students in Japan are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week with a part-time job, as long as they obtain the appropriate work permit (typically granted alongside the student visa). This offers a great opportunity to offset living expenses — many students earn between ¥70,000 to ¥100,000 per month, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for rent, food, or entertainment. It’s also a great way to practice Japanese in real-life settings and gain cultural experience.
How DEOW Japan Can Help
Navigating budgets, accommodations, and school choices can be overwhelming — and that’s where DEOW Japan comes in. We help students from around the world study in Japan with:
Free personalized support
School placement guidance
Visa application assistance
Help finding housing options that fit your budget
Watch the Reel
To hear Mina explain it all in under a minute, check out the original Instagram Reel here.