Tokyo is a preferred destination for corporate relocations, with many professionals and families choosing to move to the city. The reasons are many, including Tokyo’s economic prowess, high-paying jobs and vast job market. The city is home to the headquarters of several leading domestic and global corporations, bringing in a steady influx of travellers on long-term, semi-permanent and permanent assignments. Tokyo also offers an exceptionally high quality of life, with impeccable cleanliness, punctual subway and rail networks and high safety levels. The public amenities, cultural attractions and diverse shopping and dining options are other draws. 

Reports estimate the foreign resident of population in Tokyo at approximately 485,000 people, with new visa pathways driving growth in the global population. 

What You Should Know Before Moving to Tokyo 

There are several vital aspects that will help you seamlessly settle into life in Tokyo. Some of them include. 

Accommodation in Tokyo 

  • Furnished apartments come with kitchens, laundry, appliances, utilities and all the essentials you need. 
  • There is no need to spend time and money on logistics, shipping, renting/buying furniture and setting up utilities. 
  • Serviced Apartments also have flexible lease terms with all-inclusive weekly or monthly rates (that include utilities, housekeeping and internet). 
  • There are often discounts for long-term or extended stays as well, which reduce costs even further. 
  • Multi-bedroom layouts are available, along with dedicated workspaces, hotel-style services like housekeeping and concierge and on-site perks in many buildings (gyms, pools, meeting rooms, etc.). 
  • Check the lease terms carefully for hidden fees and inclusions, along with deposit terms, if any. 
  • It helps you settle into Tokyo swiftly before finding something more permanent, while bypassing a Japanese guarantor, which traditional rentals often ask for. 

Transportation & Getting Around

Here are some tips to help you navigate transportation in Tokyo more efficiently. 

  • Buy the IC Card: Get a physical or digital Pasmo or Suica card instantly for tap-and-go travel across subways, trains and buses. 
  • Train Travel Works Best: The JR Yamanote Line goes through central Tokyo, while linking key hubs like Shibuya and Shinjuku. 
  • Proper Train & Travelling Etiquette: Always put your phone on silent and do not take phone calls while on the train (as part of regular etiquette). Anticipate a lot of walking and follow the escalator rules (standing on one side and leaving space for others in a rush). 

Food & Lifestyle

  • Visit local supermarkets in the evening to get discount stickers on fresh food and Bento boxes. 
  • Use the Konbini infrastructure wisely. Convenience stores (Lawson, 7-Eleven and FamilyMart) offer ATM provisions, fresh meals and bill payment facilities. 
  • Do not tip at restaurants; good service is standard here and tipping may confuse staff members. 
  • Do not eat or drink while walking on the streets; finish your food in/near the station/stop where you purchased it. 
  • Register your local address at the municipal ward office within 14 days of finding a permanent residence. This will help activate your residence card. 
  • While IC Cards and cards are widely taken, many smaller outlets, temples and ramen outlets may still need cash. 
  • Tokyo has stringent recycling guidelines; they are divided into burnable, plastics and non-burnable. Public trash cans are rarely present; always carry a small garbage bag with you. 
  • Download translation apps like Google Translate for quickly reading local administrative circulars/notices and grocery labels. 

Best Neighbourhoods for Moving to Tokyo

Tokyo is home to several well-connected neighbourhoods where you can consider moving for a longer stay. Some of the best ones include: 

Minato

It is a premium and global ward that is home to several residential high-rises, embassies and a more refined environment. 

  • Connectivity: Multiple subway lines and key stations like Shinagawa and Hamamatsucho. 
  • Amenities/Infra: International grocery stores, top international schools and English-speaking medical facilities. 
  • Nearby Business Hubs: Toranomon, Roppongi and Shiodome. 
  • Nearby Tourist Landmarks: Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower. 
  • Suitable For: Multinational corporate transferees, affluent professionals and global families. 

Shibuya

Shibuya is a vibrant and youth-friendly commercial destination that is home to several fashion stores, boutiques, contemporary skyscrapers and delightful neon lights. 

  • Connectivity: Shibuya Station for the JR Yamanote and private metro networks. 
  • Amenities/Infra: Multi-level department stores, global dining options and premium co-working spaces. 
  • Nearby Business Hubs: Shibuya Scramble Square and Shibuya Hikarie. 
  • Nearby Tourist Landmarks: Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Miyashita Park. 
  • Suitable For: Entrepreneurs, young professionals and those who love fast-paced city lifestyles. 

Ebisu

Ebisu is a premium and relaxed locality that offers urban convenience and a cosy neighbourhood feeling. 

  • Connectivity: Minutes away from Shibuya through the JR Yamanote line. 
  • Amenities/Infra: Leafy green areas, artisanal bakeries, boutique coffee shops and outdoor bistros. 
  • Nearby Business Hubs: Roppongi, Shinjuku and Shinagawa. 
  • Nearby Tourist Landmarks: Museum of Photography and Yebisu Garden Place. 
  • Suitable For: Couples, young professionals and expats looking for a quieter lifestyle. 

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a city within a city, defined by its huge skyscrapers and vibrant entertainment and commercial zones. 

  • Connectivity: Shinjuku Station (busiest railway transit network in the world). 
  • Amenities/Infra: Underground shopping complex, serviced apartments, city government infrastructure and 24-hour convenience stores. 
  • Nearby Business Hubs: Nishi-Shinjuku financial district and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. 
  • Nearby Tourist Landmarks: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Kabukicho nightlife hub. 
  • Suitable For: Career-focused residents, workers and nightlife lovers. 

Moving to Tokyo is easy, provided you follow the tips mentioned above. Of course, booking apartments in advance is always recommended to avoid the last-minute rush.