Looking for Indian Expats in Tokyo?

Thinking about moving to Tokyo as an Indian? These pros and cons come from the InterNations Expat Insider 2026 survey, in which thousands of expats around the world share what they like and don't like about life abroad each year. The points below reflect what Indian expats in Tokyo wrote in their own words, backed up by survey percentages from all expats living there.

• Safety is unmatched. 98% of expats in Tokyo rate personal safety positively — among the highest scores anywhere — and Indians single out the sense of security.

• Healthcare and transport are superb. 85% rate healthcare affordability positively, 90% the quality of medical care, and 92% the availability of public transportation.

• Cleanliness and balance stand out. Indians praise the cleanliness, the humble, respectful locals, and — for many — a good work-life balance.

• It's greener and manageable. 96% rate the natural environment positively, and living costs feel reasonable (50% rate the general cost of living positively).

• The language is a steep wall. Just 22% of expats in Tokyo say it's easy to learn and 24% find it easy to get by without it, which also narrows job options.

• Belonging takes years. Only 26% say making local friends is easy and 46% feel welcome, and some Indians describe being looked down upon.

• Vegetarian food is scarce. Indians repeatedly mention how hard it is to find vegetarian or vegan options, with general living on the expensive side.

• Work hours can be long. Only 52% are happy with their work-life balance, and the job market rates 48%.

For Indians, Tokyo is safe, clean, and seamless, with world-class healthcare and transport. The trade-offs are the language wall, the slow path to belonging, and scarce vegetarian food. It rewards those who invest in the language and value order over an easy welcome.

Every year, we publish one of the biggest global surveys among expats — asking them about various aspects of their life, from work to leisure. Learn what motivated our Indian members to move abroad, what keeps them there, and what they struggle with or miss about home.

InterNations is a place where Indian expats in Tokyo exchange experiences and tips to support each other. The "Imperial Eastern Capital" can be a great place for expats - our community helps you make the most of your experience!

• Browse our Members Network to get to know Tokyo’s Indian expats.
• Take part in our Expat Forums to obtain first hand tips from fellow Indian expats in Tokyo.
• Use the Expat Guide for Tokyo to find information on your host city.

Our community in Tokyo is also very active offline. Our InterNations Ambassadors organize regular events and various expat activities, e.g. a dinner in Tokyo’s hippest restaurant or an outing with other Indian expats to explore Shikoku, the smallest island, famous for its 88-temple pilgrimage. These activities are a casual way to get to know expats from India in your local community as well as Indians in Japan nationwide. Interested? Simply become a member and we’ll be happy to welcome you among our Indians living in Tokyo!