“It used to be London or Singapore — but now, Tokyo feels safest.”

These words, spoken by a Hong Kong-based entrepreneur in his 40s who operates multiple businesses, reflect a powerful new sentiment among Asia’s affluent.

In recent years, relocating to Tokyo has emerged as a serious and strategic choice among high-net-worth individuals from Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

But why Tokyo, and why now? The answer lies in Tokyo’s exceptional balance — offering a rare blend of personal safety, world-class education, manageable living costs, and a stable, data-driven investment environment.

■ From Singapore and the West to Japan: A Shift in Preferred Destinations Among the Wealthy

For years, affluent individuals seeking relocation gravitated toward a familiar trio:

• Singapore – Favored for its tax incentives, safety, and structured education system

• London and Vancouver – Popular for English-language access and pathways to Western universities

• Dubai – A stronghold for asset protection and tax-free benefits

However, these locales are now facing mounting challenges: rising living costs, overcrowding, political uncertainty, worsening air quality, and cultural dissonance. In this context, Japan has quietly emerged as a new contender — a country that feels familiar, yet consistently exceeds expectations in terms of livability.

■ Why Tokyo? Five Reasons Cited by the World’s Affluent

1. Unparalleled Peace of Mind: Safety, Cleanliness, and Precision

• Walking safely even at midnight

• Lost items, including cash, often returned

• Public transportation operates with near-perfect punctuality — often to the minute

2. High-Quality Education and Healthcare at Exceptional Value

• Leading international schools in Tokyo typically cost between ¥2.5M–¥3.5M annually — globally competitive, yet far more affordable

• Japan’s medical system provides top-tier care with costs averaging half to a third of what’s standard in other developed nations

3. Exceptional Value for Cost of Living

• Across all categories — housing, dining, education, transportation, and insurance — Tokyo delivers premium quality at comparatively modest prices.
• For approximately ¥1,000,000 per month, one can enjoy a refined, central Tokyo lifestyle

4. A Strategic Investment Base

• Tokyo real estate remains attractively priced and highly liquid, with prime properties in areas like Minato available from ¥100 million

• As a yen-denominated asset, it offers excellent portfolio diversification

5. Cultural Affinity and Quality of Life

• Japan resonates deeply with those who value etiquette, family-centric living, and mutual respect.
• Everyday experiences — from cuisine and shopping to wellness and entertainment — are elevated in both refinement and reliability.

■ Real Stories: Why Thailand and Hong Kong’s Affluent Are Relocating to Tokyo

Bangkok Hospital Owner (Relocated to Hiroo):
“I wanted my child to grow up with grace and respect. Tokyo’s education system nurtures children quietly, yet profoundly.”

Hong Kong Family Office Principal (Moved from Central to Azabu-Juban):
“The quality of air and food is incomparable. I feel my health — both body and mind — is finally aligning.”

Thai Entrepreneurial Couple (Relocation + Investment):
“We purchased a luxury tower condo for ¥100 million and enrolled both children in an international school — yet our cost of living is far more manageable than it was in Hong Kong.”

■ Relocating to Japan: A Strategic Choice for Both Lifestyle and Asset Stability

Japan may not offer aggressive tax incentives — and yet, discerning individuals continue to choose it. Why?

Because the deepest sense of satisfaction lies in what can’t be quantified.

• A low-stress, orderly daily life

• Transparent governance and dependable regulations

• Emotionally effortless social interactions

• Sustainable access to quality education and healthcare

In the end, what high-net-worth individuals value most isn’t always written on a balance sheet — it’s the quiet, enduring quality of life.

■ Living in Japan: From Aspiration to Strategy

What was once a passing dream — “It would be nice to live in Japan someday” — is now evolving into concrete action:

• “Let’s establish a base in Tokyo first.”

• “Let’s secure our children’s education in Japan.”

For affluent families from Thailand and Hong Kong, Tokyo is no longer an exotic ideal — it’s becoming a rational, strategic decision.