Having lived in Tokyo for several years, I want to share some of the reasons why I find life here surprisingly comfortable.
When I first visited Tokyo decades ago, my honest impression was that the cost of living was far higher than in the countryside.
But in recent years, I’ve discovered a very different reality.
Affordable Groceries in the Heart of the City
Of course, real estate prices in Tokyo remain higher than in regional areas.
However, when it comes to daily essentials like food, Tokyo has become remarkably affordable.
This is largely thanks to the spread of discount supermarkets, such as Don Quijote, which now has locations all across Tokyo.
In fact, grocery prices in Tokyo are now almost the same as those in many rural areas.
Yes, if you shop at premium supermarkets like Seijo Ishii, you’ll pay more—but that’s equally true in the countryside.
Housing Costs: A Matter of Choice
Tokyo real estate is expensive, but here’s the secret:
Japanese people have a strong cultural preference for new buildings.
This means that if you choose an older apartment, especially one a little farther from the station, rent can drop dramatically.
In many countries, living in a 100-year-old building is normal. But in Japan, even 20- or 30-year-old apartments are considered “too old” and are often avoided.
Earthquake Safety: The 1981 Standard
Of course, Japan is an earthquake-prone country, and safety matters.
In 1981, building laws changed significantly, introducing stricter earthquake-resistant standards.
Therefore, the best choice for most residents is to find an apartment built after 1981—safe, affordable, and often overlooked.
If you combine this with an older property a little farther from the station, you can enjoy both low rent and low grocery costs, making daily life in Tokyo very comfortable.
For Wealthier Residents: Invest in Minato Ward
On the other hand, if you have the budget, I strongly recommend purchasing property in Minato Ward, the most prestigious area in Tokyo.
Why? Because real estate prices there are extremely stable, and the risk of property value decline is very low.
I have clear reasons for this perspective, which I’ll share in detail in the premium version of this blog.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo may seem intimidating at first glance, but with the right choices—discount supermarkets, older apartments built after 1981, and smart location decisions—you can live here more comfortably and affordably than you might expect.
