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Asia

Japan

Japan's WHV is one of the most popular for Aussies: 12 months, no quota for Australian applicants. Niseko ski jobs, Tokyo English teaching and Osaka hospitality are the typical paths.

Currency

JPY

1 AUD = 99 JPY (mid-market, 2026-05-21)

Cost of living

70% of Sydney

Working Holiday Visa for Australians

Working Holiday Visa

Age 18-30 | up to 12 months

Smartraveller

Check live advisory

Emergency: 110 (police) / 119 (fire / ambulance)

Working Holiday Visa

Scheme
Working Holiday Visa
Visa class
WHV
Eligible age
18-30
Max stay
12 months

Source: www.au.emb-japan.go.jp

Tourist or short-stay entry

Visa-free entry

Up to 3 months. Work rights: none.

Australians can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists.

Source: www.mofa.go.jp

Highlights

  • No annual quota for Australian WHV applicants.
  • Affordable food; convenience-store meals are 500-800 yen and nutritionally fine.
  • World-class winter (Niseko, Hakuba) and easy domestic travel by shinkansen.
  • English-teaching market is well-organised; certification (TEFL) helps.

Watch outs

  • Renting requires a guarantor (most landlords); use share-houses (Sakura House, Oakhouse) instead.
  • Cash is still widely used outside Tokyo / Osaka; bring an ATM-friendly card.
  • Japanese language ability dramatically affects job options; Niseko hospitality is the main exception.
  • Earthquakes are routine; follow JMA J-Alerts and your accommodation's evacuation plan.

Money tips

  • 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs accept international cards 24/7; most local bank ATMs do not.
  • Suica or Pasmo IC card pays for trains, buses and convenience stores.
  • Tax-free shopping at major retailers needs your passport at the till, not after.
  • Tipping is not customary and can offend; do not tip taxi drivers or wait staff.

Typical costs (AUD)

Hostel bed per night
$40
Budget meal
$12
Mid-range meal
$28
Beer (bar)
$7
Public transport day pass
$14

Indicative only. Tourist-zone prices are usually 50-100% higher than local prices.

Practical basics

Power plug
Type A (two flat pins)
Drives on
Left (same as AU)
Emergency number
110 (police) / 119 (fire / ambulance)

Sources

Last updated 2026-05-21.

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