10 Cons of Living in Osaka as an Expat

Living in Osaka as an expat brings many benefits, such as the lively and fun atmosphere, delicious food, and warm weather. However, it also has its downsides: high living costs and a less polished yet unique culture (pros and cons of living in Japan). This section will list ten things that make life difficult for foreign residents of Osaka.

1.    You’ll have to Learn Japanese

Osaka is a great place for foreigners, but you will have to prepare yourself before coming here. A lot of people assume that Japan is just Tokyo or that it’s expensive and challenging to live in the capital city. However, Osaka has a very different feel altogether due to its open-minded and friendly people.

There is just one small problem: not many people in the city speak English, so if you plan to live here, you should probably prepare yourself for a little bit of linguistic homework. You’ll have to look into learning the basics of Japanese before leaving your home country; otherwise, you wouldn’t be able to do much in Osaka besides eating and sleeping.

There are a number of language schools in Osaka, so it won’t be challenging to find one that fits your schedule and budget. However, if you’re not the type to enjoy learning new things, then maybe Osaka isn’t the city for you.

2.    It’s Not As International As Tokyo

If you’re looking for a city that’s bursting with expats and people from all over the world, Osaka might not be the best place for you. While foreigners are living in Osaka, it’s definitely not as international as Tokyo – which can either be good or bad, depending on your preference.

If you’re looking to meet people from all walks of life and all corners of the earth, Tokyo would be a better choice; but if you’re looking for a more relaxed and quiet lifestyle, Osaka could be just what you’re looking for.

3.    It’s Not As Trendy or Modern As Tokyo

Again, this is simply a matter of preference. If you’re looking for the latest in fashion, the hippest clubs, or the trendiest restaurants, Tokyo is definitely where you should be. On the other hand, if you want to live in a less crowded city and be more relaxed when it comes to fashion, Osaka would be your best option. It might not have all of the latest trends available in Tokyo, but there is still plenty to do and see in Osaka.

4.    The Cost Of Living Can Be Expensive

As with any large city, the cost of living in Osaka can be a bit high – especially if you’re not used to prices in Japan. If you’re coming from a country where the currency is strong compared to the yen, you might have to do a bit of budgeting to make sure you can afford to live comfortably. Of course, there are always ways to save money, and with a little bit of research, you should be able to find affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

5.    It’s Not As Clean As Tokyo

This is another point that comes down to personal preference. Osaka is definitely not as clean as Tokyo, and if you’re the type of person who likes everything to be spick and span, you might find it a bit difficult to adjust.

Keep in mind that not all areas of Osaka are dirty – there are plenty of neighborhoods that are just as tidy as those in Tokyo – but there are certain areas of the city that are less than desirable. Just be prepared for the occasional litter and graffiti, and you’ll be fine.

6.    You’re No Longer an Individual

People who live in Osaka tend to act as one single entity, not as individuals with their own personalities or opinions that may clash with those of others. If you come to Japan and live in Osaka, you will become part of the group soul that is the people of Osaka.

You’ll constantly be thinking about how what you do or say could affect others and if they would approve of it. Your family and friends back home – unless they’ve lived in Osaka themselves – won’t get this because to them, you’re still the same old person. But if they come to visit, you’ll see how different their opinions of your new home are from yours and from those of other expats who have lived in Osaka.

7.    You Must Love Eating Out

Osaka is a haven for foodies. It’s got so many tasty treats – both traditional and modern – to choose from, so if you love food, this is definitely the place for you. However, there’s a downside to it. Every night out will eventually lead to a visit to Dotonbori (the leading entertainment and restaurant district in Osaka) or Shinsaibashi (less crowded but still close enough).

And if you don’t mind spending your hard-earned yen, you’ll be able to find any food you’re in the mood for. But eating out every night can get expensive, especially when you add up the cost of drinks on top of that.

8.    The Weather Can Be Unpredictable

Japan has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. In spring, the temperature is unpredictable, with days as hot as summer and nights as cold as winter. Things will start warming up around May-June, but it’s not unusual to still see snow in some places at that time. Summer can be really uncomfortable due to the humidity, with temperatures going past 35°C (95°F) regularly.

Autumn is the most comfortable season, and winter ranges from cold to very cold, depending on where in Japan you are. So if you don’t like the cold or you’re not used to extreme weather changes, Osaka may not be the right place for you.

9.    The Crowds and Noise

Osaka is a busy city, and it can often be difficult to find a spot to sit down and eat or drink during rush hour. If you’re not used to crowds, Osaka might not be the best place for you.  Additionally, the city is known for its loud nightlife, and many people find it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.

10. The Lack of Nature

Compared to some of Japan’s other cities, Osaka is quite lacking in terms of nature. There are few parks or green spaces in the city center, so if you’re looking for a bit of greenery, you’ll need to head out of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions about Osaka

What’s the best way to get around Osaka?

Osaka is a really easy city to navigate, with an excellent public transport system. The subway is really efficient and covers most of the city. There are also plenty of buses and streetcars, which can be handy for getting around more touristy areas.

If you’re planning on moving around the city a lot, you could also consider getting a day pass for unlimited travel. Remember to keep your ticket with you as subway staff often conducts spot checks.

What is the best attraction in Osaka?

Osaka’s most famous attraction is Universal Studios Japan, which has some of the biggest rides and roller coasters in the world. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also check out Osaka Castle. It’s a beautiful building that has already been restored once after it burnt down in 1615.

How long will I need to visit each place?

The length of time you’ll need to spend at each place really depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re just interested in taking a stroll around the city, then a day or two should be more than enough. However, if you’re planning on doing some sightseeing and hitting up all the major attractions, then you’ll need at least four or five days.

What’s the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Osaka really depends on what you want to see and do. However, in general, spring (March-May) is the nicest time of year in Osaka, with plenty of cherry blossom trees in bloom. Obviously, summer (June-August) is also very hot, but tons of festivals throughout the city.

Fall (September-November) is also a great time to visit since it’s much less crowded than summer, and there are some gorgeous autumn leaves to admire.

What should I pack?

Because Osaka is just like the south of Tokyo, you won’t need many warm clothes if you plan on visiting between March and May. Just make sure you bring a raincoat since it does tend to rain quite a bit in the spring. If you’re planning on visiting in summer or autumn, make sure you pack some warmer clothes too, as Osaka is much hotter than Tokyo, and there can be a heatwave at any time of year.

Conclusion

Relocating to Osaka as an expat is a great decision. However, you need to ensure that all the necessary things are put in place. Understand the pros and cons of living in this beautiful city, and there you go to enjoy the life you want. Nonetheless, refer to this guide for more information about living in Japan.

Concept of Living in Osaka as an Expat

Osaka is one of Japan’s major cities and the capital of the Kansai region. A lot of people have heard of Tokyo or Kyoto, but few have heard of Osaka. That might be changing now, though, because Osaka has really started to transform itself in recent years.

It was always known as a city where all the young people went to have fun, but in recent years it’s become a beautiful place for people who want to live in Japan. If you’re moving to Osaka, you should know some things about living there before you go.

1)    The Good

Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan after Tokyo and Yokohama. This means that it has all the amenities you would expect from a major city, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

• It’s also a very convenient city to live in. The subway system is excellent, and there are plenty of buses too.
• Osaka is a really friendly place. People are always willing to help out if you need it, and they’re also very honest about things. One of the first things you’ll learn when studying Japanese is that people will always tell you their honest opinion if you ask for it, which goes double in Osaka.
• Like the rest of Japan, Osaka has a reasonable cost of living compared to other major cities. It’s not as expensive as Tokyo, and you can find plenty of affordable places to live.

2)    The Bad

• Osaka is a huge city, and it can be quite difficult to get around if you don’t know your way around. The subway system is great, but it isn’t straightforward if you’re not used to it.
• It’s also a bustling city, and it can be quite noisy at night. If you’re used to living in a quiet suburb, then Osaka might not be the best place for you.

3)    The Culture

• Osaka is known as the ‘nation’s kitchen’ and is home to some of the best food in Japan. There are restaurants of all kinds, from cheap ramen shops to Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Osaka also has a reputation for being the wildest place in Japan because of its love of yoshoku (western style food). This means that you can find everything from French toast to spaghetti at any restaurant in the city.
• Almost all Japanese people know about Osaka-ben, which is the Osaka dialect. It’s quite different from the standard Japanese dialect, and it can be difficult to understand if you’re not used to it.

4)    The Weather

• Osaka has a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from around 10 degrees Celsius in winter to about 30 degrees Celsius in summer. It doesn’t rain as much as in places like London or New York, but it’s grey for a lot of the time.
• The humidity can be very high in summer, which gets really hot and sticky. It’s probably best to avoid going out in summer unless you’re used to this kind of weather.

5)    The Expats

• Osaka has a large expat community, which is mostly concentrated in two city areas. The first one is around Takatsuki, a small city near Osaka. The other area is Sakai-Ku, which is towards the city’s southeast.
• If you’re lonely, then you might want to head to these areas, as they’re full of expats who are looking for friends. However, it’s worth noting that the expat community can be quite cliquey.

6)    The Education

• Osaka is a great place to study Japanese, as there are plenty of language schools and universities. In addition, a lot of people in Osaka speak English (especially in the expat areas).
• If you’re looking for an English-speaking school, then the best place to look is around Sakai-Ku. There are a lot of international schools in this area, and most of them teach in English.

7)    The Jobs

Osaka is a great place to work, as plenty of jobs are available. However, this also means that there are a lot of people competing for jobs, so you might have to accept a lower salary than you would in other cities (especially Tokyo).

10 Reasons to Live In Osaka as an Expat

If you’re coming to Japan as an expat, the chances are that one of the first cities you’ll be moving to is Osaka. And if that’s the case, then you’re going to have a hard time finding a good article telling you why it might be a good idea for you to move there. That’s where I come in – I’m going to give you ten reasons why living in Osaka is a great idea for expats.

Making Friends with Locals Is Easy

Osaka might be famous for being expensive, but it’s also renowned for having friendly people. So many expats enjoy living here because they are overwhelmed by the amount of support shown to them by local residents! It’s common to see foreigners mingling in the streets of Japan without any problems because of the friendliness of the locals.

The Food Is To Die For

Some people might be biased, but Osaka is undoubtedly famous for its cuisine. This may be because it is Japan’s kitchen, so there are many types of Japanese dishes available here that are not found in other regions of Japan. It may also be due to the fact that Osaka is close to the sea; in Japan, seafood is a staple food which makes it easy for expats to find food from their own culture.

Many Choices of Places to Walk Around

Osaka has got Kusatsu, Suita, and Wakayama prefectures surrounding it. For people who love mountains, there is also Kishiwada-Yama that can be reached in just 40 minutes by car. Some many parks and gardens attract locals and tourists alike to bask under the sun or venture into the occult at night.

Exciting Events Occurring Throughout the Year

You’re lucky if you live here because you get to experience different events every month of the year! This means that you are always looking for something new, even if it is just a blossoming sakura tree. And if you’re lucky enough, maybe you’ll get to have an omikoshi parade or even witness yatai culture in Kishiwada!

The Kansai Region Is Known For Its Dialect

People from the Kanto region might find it difficult to communicate with people in Osaka at first. This is because the Kansai dialect spoken here is quite different from the standard dialect spoken in Tokyo. However, this just makes a living here more fun and interesting, as you get to learn more about the culture and the people.

The Nightlife Is One of a Kind

Osaka never sleeps! This is because there are many places open until the early morning hours where people can go clubbing, drinking, or eating. If you’re an expat who likes to have a good time, you’ll never get bored living here.

The Transportation Is Reliable

Living in a big city like Osaka comes with downsides, such as transport issues. However, the good thing about Osaka is that the public transportation is very reliable, and it’s easy to find your way around. Taxis are also relatively cheap when compared to other major cities like Tokyo.

Everything Is Convenient

Osaka is known for its shopping districts like Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Umeda, but living here means that you can also find everything you need at your own doorstep. From supermarkets to pharmacies and even temples, everything is within walking distance which makes life much easier.

Home to Kansai International Airport

This means that you’ll never miss your flight to another destination because it’s just a short walk away! Expats who regularly fly out of Osaka don’t have to worry about paying for expensive taxi fares, as they can simply use the airport limousine bus service.

The Weather Is Nice

The best thing about living in Osaka is that you get to enjoy the beautiful four seasons throughout the year. During the summer, the sun shines down brightly on your skin and warms you up; during winter; it’s great to sit around a kotatsu and sip hot sake in one hand while holding a marshmallow in the other. And of course, who can forget about the amazing autumn leaves that turn the city into a postcard?

There Are Lots of Job Opportunities

One of the main reasons why people move to Osaka is because there are many job opportunities available here. This is especially true for bilingual expats who are looking to work in the international business industry.

Everything is very affordable

Due to the fact that Osaka is a major city, it has everything you need and more. However, the best thing about living here is that everything is surprisingly cheap! From food to shopping and even transportation, you’ll never feel like you’re breaking your wallet when living in Osaka.

Frequently Asked Questions about Osaka

How old is Osaka?

Osaka has a long and fascinating history. Many people know that Osaka is one of the oldest cities in Japan, but many don’t know exactly how old it is. The city was founded in 593 AD, over 1,200 years old! This makes it one of Japan’s oldest cities.

What is Osaka known for?

There are many things that Osaka is famous for. Some of the most popular ones include food, comic books (manga), and video games. Osaka has some of the best food in Japan, thanks to its unique style called “Kansai cuisine.”

Similarly, Osaka is also known for its lively comic book industry. Most notably, this is where the popular manga series Slam Dunk was set. Osaka has also produced some of Japan’s most famous video game companies, including Konami and Nintendo.

Is Osaka similar to Tokyo?

There are many similarities between Osaka and Tokyo, but some significant differences are also obvious. Both cities are important business hubs in Japan, and both are home to a large number of Japanese people.

However, Tokyo is much larger than Osaka, with over 13 million compared to Osaka’s 2.5 million. Additionally, Tokyo is more international and cosmopolitan than Osaka, with a greater variety of food and culture. That said, Osaka is still a great city to visit and offers a unique perspective on Japanese culture.

What should I see and do in Osaka?

There are many amazing things to see and do in Osaka; it can be hard to know where to start! Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Visit the Osaka Castle: This iconic castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Osaka, and for a good reason. With its imposing structure and beautiful gardens, the Osaka Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
• Go shopping at the Kuromon Ichiba Market: This vibrant market is a great place to buy local produce, souvenirs, and snacks. Be sure to visit the food section – it’s a paradise for local and international cuisine.
• Eat as much okonomiyaki as you can: Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake filled with all sorts of delicious ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables. It’s Osaka’s signature dish! Try some here.
• Dress up in kimono and go to Nishinomaru Garden: This beautiful garden is a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture. Many people come here to see the changing of the guard ceremony, where beautiful women dressed in kimono parade around the garden. It’s quite a fantastic site!

Conclusion

Osaka is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s no surprise why. With its rich history and vibrant culture, this city offers something for everyone. If you’re considering relocating to Japan as an expat, this article is something you should read carefully. Nonetheless, you can follow us for more updates.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Osaka is a great city to live in as an expat. It’s big and bustling but also manageable and comfortable. As of today, there are plenty of things to do, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. If you’ve been craving for an Asian city that feels a bit more familiar than Tokyo, Osaka is a great choice.

Aside from this fact, it’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of Japan. There are plenty of expat-friendly neighborhoods in Osaka, but I like living in Higashiyodogawa. It’s close to the city center, but it’s also got a relaxed, suburban feel to it. Besides, there are lots of parks and green spaces, which are great for kids, and the river runs right along the edge of the neighborhood.

In fact, I can’t imagine a perfect place to raise my family. My commute into work is easy too – just a short walk to the station, then 15 minutes on the train. The most significant difference between life in Japan and life in most other countries is the emphasis on groups over individuals.

However, if you’re not used to this way of life, it can be difficult to adjust, but eventually, you’ll find that it has a lot of advantages. In Osaka, people are very friendly and willing to help expats adjust to the city. This way, there are many things to love about Osaka!

Besides, the food is amazing, there’s always something going on, and there are many places to go. You don’t need a car, which saves you a lot of money, time and is better for the environment. Not to talk much, there are many things to do here. And that’s why we’ve compiled this article to explain the concept. Read further to get the full details.

9 Things to Know About Living in Osaka as an Expat

So, you’ve decided that moving to Osaka is the best thing ever, and you need a little help with some dos and don’ts to get started? Well, we’ve got you covered! Just keep in mind while reading this article, though: we’re only listing the bare essentials. You should always check this platform and take your time to learn more about Japan and its culture before committing to a life in Osaka.

1.    Tofugu Has Good Resources for Living in Japan

The editors of the website Tofugu are all Japanese language students, teachers, or graduates who live in Japan. They know their stuff when it comes to learning the language and how to get around the country. The website has an abundance of articles about living in Japan, and the Osaka section is no exception. Check it out for yourself if you want to learn more about the city.

2.    Learn Some Japanese Phrases before Moving

Even if you’re just planning on taking a weekend course before your move, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the language of the country you’ll be living in. In Japan, locals will really appreciate your efforts to communicate in Japanese, and you may find that it opens up more opportunities for you socially and professionally.

3.    Osaka Castle

The original castle in Osaka was built in the 16th century, but it burned down in 1615. The current castle was then constructed in 1931 and has become a city landmark. Visitors can tour both the exterior and interior of the structure to learn about its history and architecture.  There is also a museum at the site, and it houses a large number of artifacts from its past.

4.    The Language Barrier Is Very Real

Unless you’re familiar with [Kansai / Kanto] dialects, don’t expect people in Osaka to understand what you’re saying. This barrier has been a huge turnoff for some foreigners and has even lead to some feeling isolated. If you don’t know the language, be prepared to learn it or get by with a lot of hand gestures and broken Japanese.

5.    Osakans Are Extremely Friendly

Compared to the people in Tokyo, Osakans are a lot more friendly and welcoming to foreigners. This is probably because Osaka is considered the cultural and commercial center of Japan. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with someone on the street. And this is because; they’ll more than likely be happy to chat with you.

6.    Speaking Japanese Is Not Essential

Osakans are very accommodating to foreigners who can’t speak Japanese, but speaking a little bit will get you much further. Many people in Osaka understand conversational English, so it’s wise to know some of the basics at least. Even if you don’t know the language, there are plenty of English-speaking bars and restaurants to go to.

7.    The City Is Extremely Safe

Osaka is known for its extremely low crime rate, especially compared to Tokyo. Of course, it’s still important not to leave your items unattended or let down your guard while walking around the city late at night, but don’t expect to be pick-pocketed or mugged. Osaka is one of the safest cities in the world; it even ranked above Japan’s capital Tokyo.

8.    The City Has a Lot to Offer

Despite what people say about Osaka, it’s a great place that is very entertaining and full of life – if you know where to look. From cheap ramen noodles to upscale Michelin-starred restaurants, the city has something for everyone.

There are also plenty of opportunities here for those with entrepreneurial spirits. Osaka is a great place to get things done, so if you’re looking for a change of pace, this might just be the perfect city for you. There are many events and meet-ups to attend. The best part is that many of these events are catered to different nationalities, so it’s easy to find one that caters to your interests.

9.    Every Stop is a Different Language

If you’re like me, then this one may give you some trouble. When I first came to Japan, I would always get confused when changing trains because each stop was announced in Japanese, Chinese characters (kanji), and English.

It’s not that the announcements are particularly difficult to understand, but after a while, it can be hard to keep track of which stop is which. The best way to combat this is to get in the habit of reading the kanji for each stop as you come to them. This will at least help you get an idea of where you are and which stop is next.