Moving to Japan as a student is exciting, but managing money in the beginning can be confusing. In my first week, I tried to understand how things work here—what is cheap, what is expensive, and where I made mistakes.
In this post, I’m sharing my real first week experience and expenses in Japan, along with important lessons for new students.
π Accommodation & Setup
When I arrived, my biggest concern was my room. I expected a small, crowded place because that’s what I saw on social media.
But in reality, it was completely different.
My room was clean, comfortable, and only two people were staying there. My language school also provided basic items like a bed and cooking essentials. Because of this, I didn’t have to spend money on setup in my first week.
π This helped me save a lot.
π Food Expenses (Saving Smart)
In my first week, I tried to spend less on food.
I cooked noodles that I brought from my home country
I avoided eating outside too much
I bought simple and cheap items
π Estimated spending: ¥4,000 – ¥6,000
Cooking at home really helped me control my budget.
π Shopping & Daily Items
I explored different stores near Kurashiki Station like:
Daiso (DO)
FamilyMart
7-Eleven
Lawson
That’s when I noticed a big difference in prices.
π‘ Real Price Comparison
Coca-Cola at Daiso: ¥120
Coca-Cola at convenience stores: ¥150
Same product, different price.
I was honestly surprised. At that moment, I understood:
π If you want to save money in Japan, choose the right store.
πΆ Transportation Cost
Cost: ¥0
In my first week, I walked everywhere around the station area.
π Walking helped me save money and also explore the area better.
π² Bicycle Mistake (Important Lesson)
Many students were buying cheap bicycles in the beginning. I thought I would buy one later.
But when I went to buy: ❌ All bicycles were out of stock
I felt really disappointed.
π Lesson: Don’t delay important things. If you see a good deal, take it early.
πΌ Part-Time Job Advice
In the first week, I didn’t start looking for a job immediately. I thought I could do it later.
But I learned something important:
π Many students who delay job searching don’t find work for 3–4 months.
❗ My Advice:
Start job searching early
Don’t wait too long
Even small steps matter
π° Total First Week Expense (Approx)
Food: ¥4,000 – ¥6,000
Shopping: ¥2,000 – ¥3,000
Transport: ¥0
π Total: Around ¥6,000 – ¥10,000
(Excluding rent and major setup costs)
π Mistakes I Made
Waited too long to buy a bicycle
Didn’t start job search early
Almost spent more at convenience stores
π What I Learned in My First Week
Shop smart (avoid expensive convenience stores)
Cook your own food
Don’t delay important decisions
Start earning as early as possible
π Final Thoughts
My first week in Japan was a mix of excitement, surprise, and learning.
Even though I was new and didn’t know everything, I started understanding how life works here. Small decisions—like where to shop or when to act—make a big difference.
π Japan is not just expensive. It depends on how you live.
This was just my first week, and I’m still learning every day.
π‘ Biggest Money Lessons from Week 1
1. Shop Smart
Avoid convenience stores for daily items. Use cheaper stores like Daiso.
2. Start Job Search Early
Don’t wait. Some students don’t get jobs for 3–4 months.
3. Don’t Delay Important Purchases
If something is useful (like a bicycle), buy it early.
4. Cook Your Own Food
Eating outside is expensive. Cooking saves a lot.
π What’s Next?
In my next post, I’ll share: π My first month expenses in Japan
π And how I started my part-time job journey
Stay tuned for more real experiences π―π΅ :::
Follow and give support for new students share this post for new students ✨️ π♥️
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