Singaporean who moved to Japan 3 years ago shares the pros and cons of living there

Singapore, Singapore Jul 12, 2026 ALN: In 2023, Pascalle and her partner Jo made the bold decision to pack their bags, uproot their lives, and move to Japan. This significant transition marked a new chapter for the couple, who had previously enjoyed a stable life in Singapore, a city known for its economic prosperity and high standard of living. The move to Japan, a country rich in culture, history, and modernity, was not just a geographical change but a profound lifestyle shift.

After three years of living in the land of the rising sun, Pascalle took to Instagram to reflect on their journey. Social media has become a popular platform for expatriates to share their experiences, connect with others, and document their lives in foreign countries. In a post on July 3, she shared that she has been loving her time in Tokyo, where she and Jo have been staying. Tokyo, known for its bustling streets, vibrant neighborhoods, and a unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture, offers a plethora of experiences for both locals and newcomers alike.

"There's always stuff to do, see, eat, explore," she wrote, capturing the essence of life in one of the world's most dynamic cities. Tokyo is a city that thrives on innovation and creativity, making it an exciting place for individuals looking to immerse themselves in new experiences. From world-renowned cuisine to cutting-edge fashion and art, the city provides endless opportunities for exploration.

However, Pascalle started by admitting that there are some challenges, such as building wealth, which she said is much harder to do in Japan than in Singapore, especially since Jo is the only one working full-time while she freelances. This highlights a common concern among expatriates: the financial implications of relocating to a new country. Japan's cost of living, particularly in urban areas like Tokyo, can be quite high, and the job market may not always favor foreign workers, especially those who do not speak the language fluently. Furthermore, the cultural differences in work environments can pose additional challenges for expatriates seeking to establish their careers.

"But my quality of life has improved. The access to good food, goods, and services is amazing. It's what I always admire about Japan — many have a strong sense of pride for what they create, and [there is] strong local community support, so they always get to enjoy a lot of nice things," she shared. This sentiment reflects a broader appreciation for Japan's emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and community engagement. The Japanese culture places a significant value on local products and services, which often results in a unique shopping and dining experience that many expatriates find fulfilling.

Living in Japan has also allowed her to find peace and joy in the small things, she added. "So cliche, I know! But somehow, every coffee shop we find, every supermarket run we do, every time we cycle somewhere together, every nice human we meet, there is [contentment]." This perspective underscores an important aspect of expatriate life: the ability to find happiness in everyday moments. The slower pace of life in certain parts of Japan, combined with its beautiful landscapes and community-oriented culture, can lead to a more mindful and appreciative way of living.

On top of that, Pascalle feels that the move has helped her become more "creatively stimulated" and inspired. The vibrant arts scene, diverse cultural influences, and the opportunity to engage with a different way of thinking have contributed to her personal and professional growth. "Most importantly, the choice to move here has rewired my brain. Wealth accumulation is no longer the most important thing in my life," she shared. This shift in mindset is significant; it reflects a growing trend among younger generations who prioritize experiences and personal fulfillment over traditional markers of success, such as financial wealth.

Pascalle added that had she stayed in Singapore, she probably would not have started content creation or freelance work. The creative freedom that comes with freelancing allows individuals to explore their passions and interests in ways that traditional employment may not. "My brain now sees infinite ways of living life compared to the singular set path that I would most likely be on in Singapore," she noted. This observation speaks to the transformative power of travel and living abroad, which can broaden one's horizons and encourage unconventional paths.

For now, she and Jo are unsure whether this move to Japan is permanent, saying the question is still "up in the air." This uncertainty is a common theme among expatriates, who often grapple with the decision to stay in a host country or return to their home country. Factors such as career opportunities, personal relationships, and cultural integration all play a role in this decision-making process. But she has no regrets and said that this change was a necessary one for her. The experience of living abroad, despite its challenges, has enriched her life in ways she may not have anticipated.

In previous social media posts, Pascalle shared that she had quit her full-time corporate job in Singapore to fulfill her dream of living in Japan. This decision reflects a growing trend among professionals who seek to prioritize personal fulfillment and work-life balance over job security and financial stability. For a while, this meant that she was unemployed and that Jo was the main breadwinner, which resulted in feelings of "financial guilt" for her. Such feelings are not uncommon among expatriates, particularly those who take a leap of faith to pursue their dreams while relying on their partners for support. Eventually, she found freelance work, which has allowed her to contribute to their household income while pursuing her passions.

The couple, who are learning how to speak Japanese, shared that they had moved to Japan not just to experience living in a new environment, but to also learn how to speak the language better. Language acquisition is a vital part of cultural integration and can significantly enhance the expatriate experience. By learning Japanese, Pascalle and Jo are not only improving their communication skills but are also gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and society. Pascalle added that parts of their social media content are done in Japanese instead of in order to improve. This approach not only aids in their language learning but also engages with a broader audience, fostering connections with local communities.

Overall, Pascalle's journey reflects the complexities of expatriate life, balancing challenges with newfound joys and opportunities. Her experiences illuminate the multifaceted nature of living abroad, where personal growth, cultural immersion, and the pursuit of happiness can coexist with the realities of financial and professional challenges. As globalization continues to shape modern society, stories like Pascalle's serve as a reminder of the transformative potential of embracing new cultures and lifestyles. The decision to move to Japan has not only changed her surroundings but has also profoundly influenced her outlook on life, creativity, and what it means to truly thrive.