[Sangetsu]

A lot of this depends on where in Japan you live. The typical entry-level pay for foreigners with a university degree is about 250,000 yen per month. If you live in the countryside, this is a lot of money, if you live in metro Tokyo, this may not be enough to pay the rent on a 1 room apartment.

Car taxes are based on the car's age and engine size. Almost all major highways charge tolls, and parking is scarce and expensive in the cities. Cars themselves are cheap (for used models).

You need to pay into the national healthcare system to receive medical treatment in a hospital. You are required to pay for services up-front, and the health care program will reimburse you.

Getting permanent residency is tricky, you must be in the country at least five consecutive years without a change in visa status. Some people who are minimally qualified are approved immediately, while many who are well qualified (professionals who speak good Japanese and who have lived in Japan for 10 years or more) are often turned down.

A foreigner can easily own property or a house in Japan, but permanent residency is usually required to qualify for a mortgage.

Personally, I like living in Japan. I work as a teacher part time, and I own a small business which provides extra income. I live in Tokyo, which I think is a wonderful place. My business allows me to live where I like, and I am thinking of perhaps buying a larger home in the countryside. Most of Japan is mountainous and forested, and as much as I like Tokyo, it would be nice to live in a more quiet place.