The Reality of Student Life in Japan
Japan is a wonderful country to study in, but it is important to go with realistic expectations. Having spoken with thousands of Nepalese students across Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and smaller cities, here is an honest picture of student life.
Accommodation
Most language school students live in:
- School dormitories — cheapest option (¥30,000–¥45,000/month), often shared rooms
- Share houses — popular among international students (¥35,000–¥55,000/month)
- Private apartments — more expensive and harder to rent as a new arrival (¥50,000–¥90,000/month)
- Convenience stores (コンビニ)
- Restaurants and food delivery
- Factory or warehouse work (especially on weekends for higher pay)
- Nepali restaurants (many in larger cities)
- Punctuality is sacred — being even 5 minutes late is seriously frowned upon
- Silence on public transport — no loud phone calls or music
- Waste separation — recycling is very strict; violations can cause friction with neighbors
- Language barrier — outside tourist areas, English is very limited
Tokyo is significantly more expensive than cities like Fukuoka, Sendai, or Matsuyama. If cost is a concern, consider schools in regional cities.
Part-Time Work
Student visas in Japan allow you to work up to 28 hours per week. Most students work in:
Average part-time wage: ¥1,000–¥1,300/hour (higher in Tokyo, lower in rural areas).
Monthly part-time income (20 hrs/week): approximately ¥80,000–¥100,000.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Amount (¥) |
| Accommodation | 35,000–55,000 |
| Food | 20,000–35,000 |
| Transportation | 5,000–15,000 |
| Phone | 2,000–3,000 |
| School fees | 60,000–80,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 5,000–10,000 |
| Total | ~127,000–198,000 |
Culture Shock
Japan is a beautiful but very different society. Common culture shocks for Nepalese students:
The Bottom Line
Life in Japan as a student is hard work but deeply rewarding. The experience of living in one of the world's most organized, safe, and technologically advanced societies changes you profoundly. Come prepared, come with an open mind, and the experience will be transformative.