Are you thinking about taking that big leap and moving to Japan? I don’t just mean visiting for a vacation, but actually packing your bags to live here! Are you unsure where to go? Let me help you make it easy on yourself by telling you exactly why you should move to Osaka.
Moving is never easy, especially when you’re relocating from a different country to a place you’ve never been before. You might be nervous and questioning which city is best for your lifestyle. That’s why I am so proud to bring you this article today.
There is a reason Osaka is consistently ranked as one of the best places in the world to live (sitting at number 7 on the Global Livability Index!). Take it from a local currently living here: I have been in the Kansai area for over 8 years now and have called Osaka home for six of those years. It is honestly the best place to live, and I’m going to tell you why.
Before we get started, if you’re looking for a few extra adventures to have in the city, you may want to check out these articles below:
*A Traditional Japanese Experience: Sazanka Osaka
* Grab A Drink at Osaka’s Asahi Beer Museum
Osaka is notoriously known for how casual, friendly, and talkative the people are compared to other areas in Japan. I can vouch that you will meet lifelong friends here who love to laugh and live up life (yes, even in their 30’s/40’s). People will happily speak with you, whether you’re stopped at a restaurant or sitting on the train.
Just last week, a Japanese woman started a conversation with me just about the book I had in my lap! If you keep an open mind and open energy, you’ll find the locals are incredibly welcoming. If you want to avoid feeling alone or isolated while living abroad, moving to Osaka is the perfect place to start.
If you have heard of Osaka, you have definitely heard of the food! Known as the “Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka is famous for having some of the most affordable and delicious street food. From Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki to lively izakayas, the late-night food culture is unmatched. Not to mention, if you are dining alone, it’s totally natural and doesn’t feel awkward at all.
Osaka is literally a place for everyone. If you’re someone who likes “chill” mornings, you can move around Sumiyoshi or Ikuno Town. Maybe you prefer nightlife and fun? Then Namba is your spot!
Regardless of where you live, you have ease of access to almost anywhere. On days when I want to be around nature, I can hop on a train to Minoh City or take a bus out to Tanabe. Kyoto is a short 45-minute train ride from the main hub, Umeda. Living in Osaka means having the best of Japan~Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, and Wakayama~nothing but a train ride away.
I can attest that Osaka is just a very “easy” place to live. The transportation system is great, and it’s so easy to walk around the different neighborhoods. It’s simple to find a good cafe, a gym to squeeze into your routine, a supermarket close to home, and even a clinic for any medical needs. The convenience of living in Japan is at its peak here in Osaka.
Compared to locations like Tokyo, you will find that the rent in Osaka is mostly cheaper. You can live in a slightly bigger apartment for a much better price, which means less financial stress and more “bang for your buck.” I highly recommend this if you don’t want to be in “survival mode” and want to spend money on things you actually like, such as hobbies, travel, and fun! It’s very easy to get your footing here as a solo liver.
You can read a bit about the rent here, Spring Room Hunting: Cherry Blossom Areas with Low Rent in Osaka.
There are hundreds of other reasons I could mention, like the amazing weather, the endless activities, and how Osaka is a personality in and of itself. I hope this article gives you a better idea of why I love this city so much.
Osaka is truly one of those places I’m happy to call home, and I’m proud to represent it as an Osaka Gyaru. You really can’t go wrong living here; your happiness will only grow as you fit into the community. I really hope this article helps you consider living in this wonderful Japanese wonderland.
Until next time, please stay happy, safe, and healthy! I’ll catch you in the next article!
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