Retire in Japan
Featured city: Fukuoka
US State Dept · Level 1 — Exercise Normal PrecautionsMid-range benchmark for a couple. Use the Matcher for FX- and inflation-adjusted comparisons.
Japan offers unmatched safety, cleanliness, and healthcare, plus a long-stay visa for self-funded retirees from certain countries. Smaller cities like Fukuoka and Matsuyama offer the Japanese experience at moderate cost.
World-class safety and healthcare, long-stay options
- Safety
- Healthcare
- Modern Infrastructure
- English is not widely spoken outside major cities — plan for a language learning curve.
- Long-term residency requires meeting specific income, investment, or paperwork thresholds — engage a licensed immigration attorney.
Retirement visa
A designated activities visa allows wealthy retirees (savings over ~$200,000) to stay for up to one year.
Cost of living
In Fukuoka, a one-bedroom apartment costs about $600, and the cost of high-quality food is surprisingly manageable.
Numbeo cost indexHealthcare
Japan has an world-class universal system; residents pay a percentage of their income to join the National Health Insurance.
Healthcare indexSafety
Japan is exceptionally safe with some of the world's lowest crime rates and high societal order.
travel.state.govReady to compare with your budget?
Run the calculator or open the Destination Matcher to see how Japan fits.
Other destinations in Asia
Educational content only — not immigration, tax, legal, or financial advice. Visa, golden-visa, and citizenship-by-investment rules change frequently. Verify with the official government source above and a licensed professional before making any relocation, investment, or citizenship decision.