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Key Takeaways
Basic proficiency in Japanese (JLPT N5 or higher) is crucial for navigating daily life, especially in areas where English isn’t widely spoken.
Japan’s meticulous work culture values process and teamwork, which may differ from India’s more goal-oriented approach.
Income tax structure in Japan means expats at certain income levels may get more tax savings compared to in India.
Table of Contents
The importance of learning Japanese before you move
If you’re planning to rely solely on your English skills, you might want to rethink that strategy—especially outside the major cities, where English isn’t as common
There are jobs that on the paper won’t require you to be proficient in Japanese, but your colleagues will likely be more comfortable speaking Japanese. Learning the language can make you more approachable and help you integrate better.
The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the official test to certify your proficiency. There are five levels – N5 being basic and N1 being advanced. Even a basic level like N5 can help you navigate life in Japan, but going further can only enhance your experience.
The test is held twice a year in several cities across India, and you can check out the JLPT website for more details.
A basic ability to read and speak Japanese is often enough to get by. If you’re up for it, you could even dive into learning Kanji, the writing system, but that’s more of an optional challenge than a necessity.
Seasonal landscape in Japan
Everything from the environment and geography to the seasons and trees may feel like it’s a world’s away from India.
If you’re going to be based in Tokyo, average temperature in the hottest month is about 25° to 31°C, and in winter, it can range from 8° to -2°C. It may be colder during winter in Hokkaido or Nagano compared to Tokyo or Osaka—but nothing so extreme. Japan’s four distinct seasons are pretty consistent across the country with minor differences.
Juxtapose that with India, where neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala can have completely opposite climates – one might be drowning in monsoon rains while the other is roasting in the sun.
Book cheap flights to Japan from India
Interacting with locals
Japanese locals are often stereotyped as introverted, and Japan is famous for its restaurants and spots specially designed for those who prefer solitude without any social interaction. Yet, you’ll also notice that most Japanese are incredibly helpful and polite.
Compared to India, it might be a bit harder to connect with locals in Japan, and this is largely due to cultural differences. In India, celebrations and festivals are communal, and there’s a strong sense of welcoming others into one’s life. In contrast, Japanese culture places a high value on not inconveniencing or disturbing others, which possibly leads to less social interaction.
This outward behavior, though, doesn’t always reflect what they truly feel. The Japanese concept of Honne and Tatemae explains this well: Honne is what they actually think or feel, while Tatemae is how they present themselves to maintain harmony and avoid conflict. While this duality exists worldwide, it’s especially ingrained in Japanese culture, so it’s important to be aware of it.
It’s not just about avoiding direct communication; even subtle things can be seen as intrusive. For example, wearing strong cologne or perfume in public places, like on public transport, is considered inappropriate. Japanese people typically stick to light fragrances to avoid disturbing those around them.
If you’re someone who prefers to mind your own business, you won’t be disturbed – as long as you extend the same courtesy to others.
Here’s a good rule of thumb: if you manage to catch a Japanese local’s attention away from their phone or other distractions, it’s likely you’ve unintentionally bothered them. In that case, it’s best to give a polite bow and apologize.
Despite Japanese culture as a whole that values personal space and adherence to hierarchy, you’ll also likelier to find more individualistic behaviors in big cities like Tokyo compared to rural areas, unlike in India where the lines can blur, with some areas modernising yet holding onto their village roots.
That said, Japanese people are still incredibly accommodating, especially when they know you’re not a native; they’ll often go out of their way to help. Even though they’re polite and courteous, it’s best not to be too pushy or invade their personal space.
Japanese work culture
In Japan, companies are often seen as a second home. When a college graduate joins a company, it’s like becoming part of a new family. This sense of belonging means that employees are often committed to life, with traditional Japanese companies offering lifetime employment.
A strong sense of loyalty and respect for hierarchy, much like within a family, is ingrained in the workplace. The idea of work-life balance wasn’t traditionally a priority because the workplace was considered an extension of home life.
In contrast, Indian work culture has been shaped by Western influences, particularly after British colonization. Indian companies tend to view employees as individual contributors working towards specific goals, whereas, in Japan, teamwork and the process are more valued than the end result. The Japanese approach, known as Kaizen, focuses on continuous improvement by analyzing the entire process rather than just targeting the problem.
While the stereotype of long work hours persists, many multinational companies in Japan have modernized, especially post-COVID, with work-from-home options and flexible attendance.
However, the Japanese work style still emphasizes slow decision-making, meticulous attention to detail, and lots of paperwork, which contrasts sharply with the more goal-oriented work environment in India, where personal life and work are kept separate.
Salary and living costs in Japan
Per the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare data in 2023, the average monthly salary in Japan is around JPY 5,778,400 before taxes. This includes overtime pay and potential bonus.
In comparison, the average salary in India is around INR 9,30,000 annually. Even after accounting for Japan’s higher cost of living, the potential for savings and a higher quality of life can be significant.
Grocery prices in Japan are also significantly higher than in India. Listed are prices sourced from Rakuten.co.jp, a widely-used e-commerce site in Japan.
Other examples of living costs:
- Unlimited data mobile plan: JPY 5,500 – 11,000 (INR 3,078 – 6,155) for a Sakura (popular telecom brand) SIM or eSIM
- Electricity bill: JPY 10,000 (INR 5,703) for 300 kWh
- Movie ticket in a theatre with recliner seats: JPY 1,300 – 2,000 (INR 1,008 – 1,232) at TOHO cinemas
When it comes to renting in Japan, brace yourself for some hefty prices, especially in top-tier cities like Tokyo and Osaka. According to various real estate websites online, renting a one-bedroom apartment with kitchen and dining area in Tokyo can start from JPY 45,500 per month (around INR 25,993) depending on the area you’re living.
However, if you look at smaller-tier cities like Kyoto or Fukuoka, you’ll find more budget-friendly options, with one-bedroom rentals starting from JPY 30,000 to 70,000 (about INR 17,000 to 40,000) per month.
Income tax in Japan
The tax rates in Japan vary depending on your income, starting at 5% for earnings up to JPY 1,950,000 (around INR 11,25,100) and going up to 45% for incomes over JPY 40,000,000 (approximately INR 2,30,79,000). More details can be found in this Japanese tax-filing guide.
In contrast, India’s income tax rates are higher, with a top rate of 30% for incomes exceeding INR 15,00,000. For the same amount in Japan, you would be taxed at only 10%. Even after converting JPY to INR, the basic tax savings in Japan are still greater than in India. This makes Japan more tax-friendly compared to India.
Additionally, a 2.1% surtax is imposed on national income tax, and local governments levy a flat 10% local inhabitant’s tax based on the taxpayer’s prior year income, with an additional per capita tax possible. Non-resident taxpayers, on the other hand, face a flat 20.42% national income tax on Japan-source compensation.
Navigating Japan: owning a vehicle vs public transportation
When you arrive in Japan, you’ll quickly notice that most locals and expats prefer public transport over owning a vehicle. This isn’t because owning a car is inconvenient – it’s more about how exceptional Japan’s public transportation system is.
In India, it’s common to rely on personal vehicles, especially two-wheelers, to navigate traffic and cover short distances. However, in Japan, the opposite is true. Owning a car in Japan is also quite expensive, not only because of the purchase and maintenance costs, but even finding a parking spot in cities might become very challenging. Two-wheelers are rare in Japan, and while you can own one, finding service centers and dealerships can be difficult.
Japan’s public transportation, particularly its railway system, is world-class. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h, making long-distance travel quick and efficient.
The entire public transport system is renowned for its punctuality and reliability, so you can confidently plan your day without worrying about delays – a stark contrast to the often unpredictable and unorganized transportation options in India.
What are the requirements to move to Japan from India?
The first step on your journey from India to Japan is securing a work visa. There are three types available: a regular work visa, a visa for highly skilled professionals, and a digital nomad visa if you’re looking to work remotely from Japan. Each comes with its own set of requirements, so if you meet the criteria, you can go ahead and apply. Once your work visa is approved, you’re all set to head to Japan.
After landing in Japan, the first thing you’ll need is a resident card, also known as the Zairyu card. This card is your go-to ID for everything – from opening a bank account to renting a place and setting up utilities. You can pick it up at your nearest ward office (“Kuyakusho”) within 14 days of arriving. The Zairyu card has replaced the old visa stamp in your passport, making it your official proof of visa status in Japan.
For more detailed information about moving to Japan, check out our dedicated article on Moving to Japan.
If you have any issues regarding your application or need assistance with the process, you can contact the Japanese Embassy in New Delhi.
- Address: 12/1, Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021
- Phone: +91-11-26854040
Alternatively, you can approach one of the Japanese consulates located in Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, or Mumbai.
