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Osaka is not as lavish and well-known as Tokyo. However, the city of Osaka boasts an immaculate charm that is often forgotten.
From the giant Ferris wheel to one of the world's largest aquariums, there is plenty to do in Osaka.
The food is equally as fantastic as Tokyo and may be served with a little more charm. Osaka should definitely make your list.
3. Kyoto (Kyoto Prefecture, Kansai Region)
Kyoto is the historical epicenter of Japan. It's not nearly as modern and involved in pop culture as Tokyo.
Kyoto offers great historical attractions such as museums, gardens and spectacular historical buildings that give you a true perspective of ancient Japanese architecture.
Modern amenities such as transportation are well established so getting around should be a breeze.
Additionally, the cost of living is much cheaper than Tokyo and gaining a historic Japanese perspective while studying will make your time in Kyoto worth it.
Kyoto is believed to be one of the most beautiful cities in all of Japan.
4. Fukuoka (Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyushu Region)
A truly enchanted city. Fukuoka is the largest city in southern Japan. Fukuoka is comprised of two cities that merged, Fukuoka and Hakata.
The same nightlife and shopping experiences exist in Fukuoka that may be looking for in other major Japanese cities.
If you love ramen, then you need to be here. Fukuoka is home to some of the tastiest ramen in all of Japan.
If you want to save some money compared to Tokyo and surround yourself with more locals, Fukuoka is a great place to look.
Hiroshima is famous in western culture for the Hydrogen bomb that was dropped by the United States.
However, this city still has a thriving historical presence. Miyajima, a small island off the coast of Hiroshima, is one of the most spectacular places in all of Japan.
Not known for much western culture presence, Hiroshima is wonderful if you consider yourself a history buff.
6. Sapporo (Hokkaido Prefecture, Hokkaido Region)
If you are into mild summers and being immersed in true Japanese culture without all of the foreigners, Sapporo is the spot for you.
Sapporo boasts about a 30% reduction in the cost of living as compared to Tokyo.
Furthermore, it is home to some of the best ski resorts in the entire world.
You can also beat the heat in Sapporo. It has very mild summers but that comes at a cost during the winter, often getting below freezing temperatures.
7. Yokohama (Kanagawa Prefecture, Kantō Region)
Yokohama boasts the second largest population in Japan. Although it fairly large, it is considered to be a bit more slower-paced than that of its counterpart, Tokyo.
Expenses can be dramatically reduced by becoming a student in Yokohama compared with Tokyo as the cost of living is significantly cheaper.
A trip to the big city, Tokyo, is only about a 25-minute train ride away.
Yokohama is one of our favorite choices as you will have double the living space for about a 2/3 the price.
You can plan a trip to Tokyo anytime you want because it's so close!
Opportunities In Japan Are Endless!
Becoming a student is never an easy choice.
The best part about making your decision is that there are so many wonderful cities and opportunities in Japan, including working experience and internship for international students.
If you have a specific want such as modern and trendy, then Tokyo might be the best choice for you.
However, if you want the same feel as Tokyo but at about 2/3 the costs, Yokohama might be the best choice for you.
If skiing and mild summers are on the top of your list, you would be truly remiss if you didn't head to Sapporo.
There are many excellent options to be a student in some amazing Japanese cities.
Have you ever been to Japan and would like to include a student-friendly city on this list?
Please share your experience in the comments section below. Likewise, feel free to share this article with your friends!
Explore An Internship In Japan
Not only are these 7 cities ideal destinations for international students to study, but also to explore internship opportunities.
With studies conducted in Japan along with international working experience, you will put yourself in a great position to further advance your professional career.