Immigration to Japan 

Today’s NIKKEI (March 31, 2025) reports an interesting article about Chinese individuals who settled in Japan for freedom. Due to the relaxation of visa requirements for Chinese citizens, the number of Chinese residents in Japan has surpassed one million. 

But what drove them to make this significant move? Many Chinese students have shared their struggles with the rigorous entrance examinations and the limited job opportunities in their home country. They express a desire for a more supportive educational environment and a sense of freedom that they feel is lacking in China.

Takadanobaba, Tokyo, hosts many Chinese residents, and numerous prep schools for Chinese students are nearby. Many Chinese students study here to gain admission to Japanese universities, stay and work in Japan after graduation, and settle down.

Mr. A is one such student, having passed the entrance examination for Hitotsubashi University this spring. He said, “I love the free atmosphere in Japan. I am no longer considering returning to China. " Mr. A is not alone; many Chinese students comprise a significant percentage of the major Japanese universities, including 70% of the students at Tokyo University.

Mr. B, a 50-year-old father, made a life-changing decision two years ago. He moved to Japan with his son, leaving behind their familiar life in China. Their motivation? They found a better balance between academics and extracurricular activities, such as soccer, lacking in the Chinese education system.

Mr. C, 46 years old, manages a restaurant in China. He eagerly anticipates their move to Japan, and his wife has been preparing for their relocation for one year. Their wishes will soon come true.

 Source: Nihon Keizai Shinbun, March 31 issue