What Nepali Students Should Know About Living and Studying in Japan

Are you a student in Kathmandu dreaming of studying abroad? Japan is becoming a top choice for Nepali students because it offers excellent education, affordable living, and a rich cultural experience. Let’s break down what you can expect when you move to Japan for your studies.

1. Introduction

Japan’s reputation for quality education, innovative technology, and a safe, welcoming culture has made it increasingly popular among Nepali students. In the 2023/24 academic year, over 34,731 Nepali students received No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to study in Japan, a sign of the growing trend (1). This blog is here to help you understand what daily life in Japan looks like so you can be fully prepared.

2. Academic Life in Japan

Japanese Education System

• Structure: 6 years of elementary, 3 years of lower secondary, 3 years of upper secondary, then higher education (2).

• Classroom Culture: Expect a strong focus on group work, punctuality, and respect for teachers (3).

Common Challenges

• Language Barrier: Nearly 90% of university courses are in Japanese. Most programs require a JLPT score of N2 or N3 (4).

• Exam Style: Exams often focus on essays and practical projects rather than multiple-choice tests.

Study Routine

• Classes usually run 4–5 days a week, with an emphasis on independent study and group projects (5).

3. Living Conditions and Accommodation

Types of Housing

• Dormitories: Cost between ¥25,000 and ¥50,000 per month. These often include shared kitchens and common areas.

• Share Houses/Private Apartments:

  • In Tokyo, expect rent between ¥50,000 and ¥100,000 per month.

  • In Osaka or Fukuoka, rents are typically lower at ¥30,000–¥60,000 per month (6).

Utilities

• Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas add another ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 per month (7).

Living spaces may be small but are designed to be efficient and comfortable.

4. Language and Communication

Why Learning Japanese Matters

• Daily interactions, studies, and work opportunities are much smoother if you know Japanese.

• Most universities require a JLPT N2 or N3 certification (8).

Support Systems

• Many universities offer free language tutoring and conversation clubs.

• Institutes in Kathmandu, like OBGI and Hardford Education, offer intensive Japanese courses (9).

Tips

• Start learning at least 6–12 months before departure.

• Use language apps and online resources to practice every day.

5. Part-Time Work Opportunities

Work Regulations

• International students can work up to 28 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours during vacations (10).

Common Jobs and Earnings

• Convenience stores: ¥1,000–¥1,500 per hour.

• Tutoring: ¥1,500–¥3,000 per hour.

• Other jobs include work in restaurants and retail (11).

Balancing Work and Study

• Many students find part-time work a great way to support their living costs and gain local experience. Plan your schedule to ensure studies remain a priority.

6. Food and Daily Life

Japanese Food Culture

• Enjoy a wide range of foods—from sushi and ramen to bento boxes.

  • Ramen: Typically costs ¥600–¥1,200.

  • Bento boxes: Around ¥500–¥800 (12).

Availability of Nepali/Indian Food

• In cities like Tokyo (Okubo), Osaka (Tsuruhashi), and Nagoya, you can find specialty stores and restaurants serving familiar dishes (13).

Budgeting for Groceries

• Expect to spend around ¥30,000–¥40,000 per month on groceries if you cook at home (7).

7. Transportation in Japan

Public Transportation

• Monthly passes for trains and buses cost between ¥10,000 and ¥20,000.

• The transit system is punctual and reliable, making it easy to navigate (14).

Cycling Option

• Buying a bicycle costs about ¥10,000–¥30,000, though you must register it with local authorities (15).

Many students find a combination of public transport and cycling to be both cost-effective and convenient.

8. Cultural Differences and Adaptation

Japanese Etiquette

• Common practices include bowing, removing shoes indoors, and speaking softly in public spaces (16).

Culture Shocks

• You might be surprised by the quiet on public transport and strict waste separation rules (17).

Tips for Integration

• Join clubs, attend local festivals, and participate in language exchanges. These activities help build friendships and ease cultural transitions.

9. Health, Safety, and Support Services

Health Insurance

• International students must join Japan’s National Health Insurance, costing around ¥20,000 per year and covering about 70% of medical expenses (18).

Medical Care

• High-quality care is available, and many universities offer on-campus clinics and counseling services (19).

Support Services

• Universities provide academic and personal counseling, as well as emergency hotlines.

10. Festivals, Travel, and Leisure

Travel and Discounts

• The JR Rail Pass for students costs about ¥29,650 per week, making it easy to explore Japan (10).

Cultural Experiences

• Enjoy visiting Kyoto’s temples, Mount Fuji, and Okinawa’s beaches. Many museums and parks offer student discounts, so you can explore without breaking the bank.

11. Community and Networking

Nepali Communities

• There are active Nepali student groups and associations like the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) that help you connect with others and get support (20).

Staying Connected

• Social media groups on Facebook and WhatsApp allow you to keep in touch with friends and family back home and network with other students.

12. Final Tips for a Smooth Transition

Pre-Departure Checklist

• Prepare essential documents such as your Certificate of Eligibility, visa, and JLPT scorecard (1).

Must-Have Apps

• Download the Japan Official Travel App for navigation, LINE for messaging, and PayPay for cashless payments (14).

Advice from Students

• “Learn basic Japanese phrases before you go and pack warm clothes for winter,” say many current Nepali students.

13. Conclusion

Japan offers a blend of world-class education, manageable living costs, and a rich cultural experience. While adjusting to a new country can be challenging, strong support networks and practical advice are available to help you succeed. If you’re a student from Kathmandu ready to take the next step, connect with fellow Nepali students or reach out to consultancies for guidance.

References

1. Hardford Education – Study in Japan from Nepal

2. NICJP – Japanese Education System

3. Interac Network – Japanese Teaching Style

4. Shine Education Services – Guide for Nepali Students

5. ICLA – Why Study in Japan

6. Nestpick – Student Accommodation in Tokyo

7. Instarem – Cost of Living in Japan

8. Japan Foundation – Japanese Language Education

9. OBGI – Why Study in Japan

10. Japan Travelife – Part-Time Jobs for Students

11. ICLA – Part-Time Jobs

12. Arigato Japan – Food Culture for International Students

13. TripAdvisor – Nepali/Indian Cuisine

14. Go Tokyo – Getting Around

15. NRNA-Japan – Settling Down in Japan

16. Japan Tutor Melbourne – Enhancing Japanese Skills

17. Reddit r/JapanResidents

18. Japan Travelife – Health Insurance

19. International Student Insurance – Japan Coverage

20. Wikipedia – Nepalis in Japan