What are the relatively cheap and expensive items when living in Japan, compared to China?

Living in Japan, some things are indeed cheaper than in China, but others are particularly expensive, with quite noticeable differences compared to back home.

First, the cheaper items:

Daily necessities and preserved foods are exceptionally well-managed. Products like shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, over-the-counter cosmetics, and everyday consumables offer stable quality and prices comparable to, or even cheaper than, major brands in China, especially with frequent discounts at drugstores. Also, convenience store foods like onigiri, bento boxes, and oden can get you a meal for 100 to 500 Japanese Yen (6 to 30 RMB), which is clean, convenient, and even a bit cheaper than convenience stores in China's first-tier cities.

Furthermore, Japanese home appliances and digital products are relatively inexpensive, especially with tax refunds available. For items like cameras, hair dryers, and rice cookers, local brands such as Panasonic and Toshiba offer great value, sometimes significantly cheaper than their official retail prices in China.

Now, for the expensive items:

The biggest issue is rent, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can easily cost 6,000 to 8,000 RMB, and the living space is small, perhaps only a dozen square meters. This is considerably more expensive than comparable cities in China.

Transportation costs are also staggering. A few subway stops can cost dozens of RMB, and a 1,000 JPY (over 60 RMB) bus card might be used up in two days. While monthly passes exist, the initial financial burden is high. Taxis are even more outrageous, with starting fares costing hundreds of RMB – unaffordable for most.

Additionally, fresh vegetables and fruits are extremely expensive. A single watermelon can cost 70 to 80 RMB, and apples are sold individually, sometimes costing over ten RMB each. Eggs are relatively cheaper, but a bunch of green vegetables can be 20 to 30 RMB, which could buy a whole bag in China.

In summary, industrial goods, daily necessities, and processed foods in Japan are cheap and reliable. However, basic living expenses such as housing, transportation, and fresh produce are quite costly. Compared to China, daily small expenditures are hassle-free, but major expenses pose significant pressure. If you are accustomed to being frugal and stay for a long time, the overall cost might be acceptable; but if you prioritize good food and spacious living, it will definitely be much more expensive than in China.