I moved to Japan on a one-year visa. I'm spending less on housing than I did back home while exploring new cities.
A Canadian couple shares their experience of moving to Japan on a one-year visa, opting for a nomadic lifestyle in short-term rentals rather than a traditional lease. They report that this approach has been more affordable and fulfilling than their previous life in Ottawa.
Why it matters
The story reflects growing trends in remote work and 'slow travel,' where individuals prioritize experiences and flexibility over traditional long-term housing commitments.
My husband and I moved to Japan with just one suitcase and one carry-on each. We've been spending our year here living out of short-term rentals. Alessa Hickman I left Canada, sold most of my stuff, and moved to Japan to spend a year exploring different cities. Moving between short-term rentals has been more comfortable and affordable than I imagined. Living out of a suitcase taught me to be more intentional about what I own and more open to change. Seven months ago, I left Canada after living in Ottawa my entire life. When my apartment lease was coming to an end, I knew I didn't want to make another expensive yearlong commitment in the only city I'd ever lived in — especially as the cost of living kept rising. I'd visited Japan once before, loved it, and couldn't stop thinking about going back.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in