Whether you’re returning to Japan after living abroad or heading there for the first time, moving to Japan from Hawaii comes with more than just a change in location. It’s a major shift—logistically, culturally, and emotionally.
While both Hawaii and Japan are island-based cultures with deep traditions, daily life in each place is surprisingly different.
Here are 5 important (and often overlooked) points to consider before your move.
Japanese Homes Are Much Smaller Than You Think
Even if you’re used to compact homes in Hawaii, Japanese apartments and houses can still feel tight.
Expect:
- Small kitchens
- Narrow hallways
- Minimal built-in storage (especially in urban rentals)
If you’re planning to ship household items, downsizing and measuring everything ahead of time is essential.
Tip: Many apartments in Japan are unfurnished, but large American furniture often won’t fit through the entrance or hallways.
Shipping Takes Planning and Flexibility
When moving to Japan from Hawaii, your household goods will go through multiple stages—pickup, ocean freight, customs, and delivery.
Timelines can vary based on vessel schedules, customs procedures, and your final destination in Japan.
Did you know? Japan’s two busiest ports—Yokohama and Kobe—handle over 40% of the nation’s container traffic.
https://www.mlit.go.jp/kowan/kowan_tk6_000018.html
We recommend scheduling your move early and building in some flexibility for delivery times.
Some Things Are Cheaper, Others Are Surprisingly Expensive
You’ll likely save money on:
- Healthcare (thanks to Japan’s national system)
- Public transportation (fast, clean, affordable)
But you might pay more for:
- Utilities during the colder months
- Imported foods (like cereal, peanut butter, cheese)
According to 2024 Numbeo data, Tokyo’s average rent is 30–40% lower than in Honolulu, but grocery costs—especially for imported goods—can be comparable or higher.
https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Japan&city1=Tokyo&country2=United+States&city2=Honolulu%2C+HI
Japan Loves Paperwork—Be Prepared
You’ll need to navigate various administrative processes:
- Visas
- Resident registration
- My Number (national ID)
- Opening a bank account
If you’re a returning Japanese citizen, things may go smoother. But for families or dual citizens, planning ahead is crucial.
Tip: Some services, such as health insurance or pension enrollment, require documentation from both Japan and Hawaii.
Reverse Culture Shock Is Real
If you’re of Japanese descent or a returning citizen, you may expect the move to feel natural. But many report feeling like an outsider—at least at first.
Adjusting to:
- Strict trash separation
- Unspoken social rules
- Work culture norms
…can take time. But with patience, most people find a rhythm and come to appreciate Japan from a new perspective.
Reference: Studies on return migration have found that cultural re-entry shock can be stronger than initial culture shock.
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jjpsy/84/5/84_84.531/_pdf
Final Thoughts
Moving to Japan from Hawaii is more than a relocation—it’s a cultural adjustment and emotional journey. But with the right information and a thoughtful approach, it can also be deeply rewarding.
At Global FCL, we’ve helped many clients relocate from Hawaii to Japan with confidence. From packing to ocean freight and customs coordination, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Interested in a quote or need advice about your Japan move? Contact Global FCL today.
