Job Discussion Forums

[naujokaitis]

Hello, I am thinking of working in Japan teaching English. Hopefully I will get a job. A few questions to people who have been there recently or are there now.

What is the price/living expenses difference, between large cities like Tokyo and smaller cities? Is it worth working in a smaller city to save money?

What are the prices like for internet (not super fast, just basic DSL) and mobile phone service (pay as you go). Also, what are the laws on downloading say torrents in Japan?

Also, for those living in Japan currently, if you could provide a short price list of everyday items like groceries, toilet paper, tooth paste, laundry detergent, things like that, I would appreciate it.

Thank you

[flyer]

I am sure someone else will fill you in on the exact prices of all those items.
I live the country and I have lived in a big city (but not Tokyo) so I will give you my 2c worth.
Yes, you can save money by living in the country, but whether its worth it or not will depend on you. From my experience the biggest saving is not going out (drinking and meals) so much (when in the country). Rent is a little cheaper but not much (although if you compare it to Tokyo it could be?) It can get boring in the country (if you are single) as there obviously isn't much to do and see. As far as shopping goes, I do a lot online so that saves time and money (I have found that amazon.co.jp is cheaper than most book shops and electric stores for basic items)
I suggest to get a rural job not too far away from a city, that way you can have the best of both?

Prices in general, Japan has a reputation as being expensive but you might be surprised how cheap some things are. I went home last year and I would say the prices were about the same on average. Depending where you are accommodation is the biggy.

Its very hard to be general as Japan is a big country with a lot of variations in costs etc. And we don't know which country we are comparing it to?