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International Removals to Japan

Relocating to Japan? John Mason International delivers door-to-door expertise with professional packing, real-time tracking, and customs navigation tailored for UK expats. Embrace Japan’s vibrant culture and opportunities while our 140+ years of experience ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time.

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Removals from the UK to Japan

Packed with vibrant history, unique landscapes and high-tech cities, Japan is a bucket list destination for many. Yet very few have the opportunity to make the move and actually live in Japan. For those that do, you will get to immerse yourself in an entirely new culture. Whether you’ve been given the opportunity through work, or just wanted to explore an entirely new lifestyle, we can help get you there.

We provide a completely bespoke, end-to-end removals and relocation service. We have a UK-based, specialist team experienced in helping people move to Japan. With extensive knowledge of customs requirements and the emigration process, we take care of all the complexities that come with a move overseas, so you don’t have to. We even have specialists in packing so that you know your belongings will arrive safely.

We believe in transparency at all stages of the removals process, and understand that every customer’s needs are different. That’s why our dedicated support staff are always on hand to answer any questions you may have throughout the move. It is our aim to ensure your move to Japan is as simple and stress-free as possible.

What Our International Removals to Japan Include:

Pre-move survey and consultation
Comprehensive inventory list
Door-to-door shipment tracking
Professional packing and unpacking service
Customs clearance assistance
Delivery and placement of items in your new home

Optional Extras

Specialised crating for fragile or high-value items
Short-term or long-term storage solutions
Comprehensive insurance options
Handyman services for furniture assembly/disassembly
Speciality packing materials for sensitive electronics or artwork

How Do Our International Removals to Japan Work?

Moving your belongings from the UK to Japan is simple and stress-free with John Mason. Here’s an overview of the removal process in four simple steps:

Step 1: Get a quote

Book a free home survey or get an instant quote online.

Step 2: Help and advice

Your dedicated account manager will be on hand to help answer your questions based on your removal requirements and advise you on how to go about it.

Step 3: Belongings packed and shipped

Our team of packing professionals will take care of everything for you.

Step 4: Clearing and delivery

On arrival, our agents will be ready to handle customs clearance and deliver your goods to your new home.

Why Choose John Mason for your Removals to Japan?

By choosing John Mason for your move to Japan, you are choosing expertise. Helping people move abroad for over 100 years, we are one of the UK’s most trusted international removals companies.

A family business, we treat each of our customers as if they were part of it. We listen to your individual needs and take care of everything from documentation to helping you settle into your new home.

We believe in collaboration and transparency; that’s why we’ll put together a removals plan for you to sign off before beginning the process. There’ll never be any hidden costs and you’ll have access to a dedicated move manager at all times to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

We pride ourselves on diligence and care giving you peace of mind that your belongings are being treated with respect, minimising the risk of damage or loss.

Get your free no obligation quote today

Moving to Japan

Japan captivates expats with its harmonious blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal destination for those moving from the UK to Japan. From Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and Kyoto’s timeless temples to Osaka’s food scene and Hokkaido’s natural wonders, it offers serene gardens, efficient cities, and four distinct seasons. Professionals, families, and retirees choose international removals to Japan for its safety, world-class healthcare, and welcoming expat communities.

Career Opportunities in Japan

Japan excels in automobiles, electronics, gaming, biotech, and English education, with giants like Nintendo, Panasonic and Mitsubishi leading hires in Tokyo, Nagoya and Fukuoka. Regional revitalisation programs sweeten manufacturing and tech roles. UK professionals find a move from the UK to Japan rewards dedication with lifetime employment culture, cutting-edge projects, and excellent benefits.

Studying in Japan

Top institutions including Tokyo University, Keio, and Tohoku deliver globally-ranked degrees in AI, anime design, sustainability and medicine, many in English. MEXT funding covers tuition while homestays build fluency. Students arranging relocation services to Japan thrive academically amid sumo tournaments, cherry blossom festivals, and robot cafés.

Leisure Activities and Things to Do in Japan

Japan offers a captivating mix of serene temples, vibrant festivals, and modern entertainment, providing endless leisure options for expats after international removals to Japan from the UK. From ancient onsen retreats to thrilling theme parks and nature escapes, families and professionals discover relaxation and adventure across its seasons.

Iconic Temples and Cultural Sites

Wander the vermilion Fushimi Inari Taisha torii gates in Kyoto for a spiritual hike, or visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) reflecting in its tranquil pond. Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa buzzes with Nakamise shopping street, lanterns, and traditional incense rituals, perfect cultural immersion post-relocation.

Theme Parks and Family Fun

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea deliver magical parades, rides, and fireworks, while Universal Studios Japan in Osaka thrills with Harry Potter worlds and Nintendo adventures. Tokyo Skytree offers panoramic views alongside aquariums and sumo stable tours for authentic experiences.

Nature and Onsen Escapes

Soak in steaming onsen hot springs in Hakone with Mt. Fuji views, or hike bamboo groves in Arashiyama. Spot snow monkeys bathing at Jigokudani Park, ski Niseko’s powder slopes in winter, or cherry blossom hanami picnics in spring, ideal weekend getaways using relocation services to Japan.

International Removal Costs from the UK to the Japan

As we offer a completely bespoke service, it can be tricky to provide an accurate estimation of costs. It will vary depending on many things such as the number and size of belongings being transported, removal method (sea or air freight), customs requirements and more.

On the whole, shipping items is much cheaper than air freight. It is also generally cheaper to ship a smaller number of items as part of a group container (a container shared with other people). As a rule, complexity adds costs.

If your removal is fairly straightforward, for example if access, packing and distance from the ports in both countries is reasonable, then the price will be lower.

To gauge a more accurate idea of how much your removal to Japan could cost, use our handy instant quote tool.

Popular Cities for Expats Moving to Japan

Tokyo

Tokyo remains Japan’s premier city for UK expats, offering world-class international schools, diverse job markets in tech and finance, and vibrant neighbourhoods like Shibuya and Roppongi. With efficient public transport, endless sushi dining, and cherry blossom parks, over 600,000 foreigners call it home for its unmatched energy and convenience.

Osaka

Osaka attracts UK expats with its warm Kansai hospitality, street food paradise (takoyaki, okonomiyaki), and 30% lower living costs than Tokyo. Families enjoy Universal Studios nearby while professionals access business hubs; easy day trips to Kyoto add cultural depth to urban living.

Yokohama

Yokohama provides a relaxed seaside alternative just 30 minutes from Tokyo, featuring the world’s largest Chinatown, Minato Mirai waterfront, and international schools. UK expats appreciate lower rents, parks for kids, and cosmopolitan vibe without central Tokyo’s intensity.

Kyoto

Kyoto enchants British expats seeking cultural immersion amid 1,600+ temples, geisha districts, and serene gardens. Excellent public transport, university-driven international communities, and seasonal festivals like Gion Matsuri create authentic yet accessible living.

Our Other International Removals and Relocation Services

Packing Services

Ensure a stress-free move to Japan with our comprehensive packing services. We handle your belongings with the utmost care so you can be assured they arrive safely and on time.

Insurance

Our comprehensive insurance policies mean you’re completely covered if anything should happen to your belongings during the removals process. Designed to give you peace of mind so you can focus on what’s important; starting your new life.

Pet Relocation

Our pet relocation service means you can take your furry friends with you as you embark on your new adventure. We take care of everything to ensure your pet has a stress-free journey.

Helpful Guides & Resources

Japan Country Customs Guide

Adapting to a new culture

Packing Hints and Tips

Five Reasons to Move to Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any items that cannot be transported to Japan?

As with each country, Japan has their own customs requirements detailing what can and cannot be brought into the country. On the whole, you will be fine transporting most household goods into the country however, you should always check the requirements beforehand to avoid issues.

If you choose John Mason for your international move to Japan, our experts will be able to help you to ensure you know exactly what you can and can’t take.

Can you assist with customs clearance and other necessary paperwork upon arrival in Japan?

Yes, that’s what we do! We’re not only here to transport your belongings, but we make sure all the necessary paperwork has been completed beforehand so the removals process is as straightforward and as efficient as possible.

Can you help me find a job in Japan?

If you’re looking to find work in Japan so you can move there, unfortunately we are unable to assist. However, there are many opportunities for English-speaking Assistant Language Teachers in Japan. ALTs are responsible for helping students improve their communication, as well as to serve as an ambassador to promote cultural understanding and international communication. You can apply for ALT roles with Interac.

For those not looking to teach, you may be able to find a job in other sectors however many roles require you to speak Japanese fluently.

Do you offer insurance for my belongings during transit to Japan?

We offer removals insurance as an optional extra, to give you peace of mind throughout the removals process. Whilst it’s unlikely anything will happen to your belongings in transit, accidents do sometimes happen. Having insurance can help make sure you’re covered if the worst should occur.

Do you offer storage options if I need to temporarily store my belongings before moving to Japan?

Yes, we have storage facilities in the north and south of England. Whether you want to store your belongings prior to your move for a short time, or for a longer period of time whilst you’re away, we have options to suit. Each of our storage facilities has 24/7 security, with quick and easy access should you need to collect anything.

How long do removals from the UK to Japan take?

When using sea freight, removals from the UK to Japan generally take around 8-20 weeks. If you choose a sole-use container, you can expect shipping to take between 8-10 weeks. If you choose a group container, shipping is generally around 16-20 weeks as you may need to wait for the container to be filled. Air freight is much quicker but costs considerably more.