Living in Kyoto as a Foreigner — Cost of Living, Housing & Expat Guide (2025)
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most historically and culturally rich cities, and increasingly, it’s becoming a destination not just for tourists but for foreigners who want to build a life in Japan outside of Tokyo. With world-class universities, a growing tech and startup scene, and traditional craft industries, Kyoto offers a unique quality of life — but it comes with its own set of challenges and unwritten rules. The Character of Kyoto Kyoto is different from anywhere else in Japan. It’s the former imperial capital, home to over 1,600 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, and a city where tradition runs deep. Locals (Kyotoites) have a reputation for being polite but reserved — especially toward newcomers and foreigners. Building genuine community connections takes more time here than in other cities. ...