If you plan to work in Japan, one important question is:
How much is the minimum wage in Japan?
Unlike some countries, Japan does not have a single nationwide minimum wage. Instead, each prefecture sets its own minimum wage.
In this guide, we explain the minimum wage in Japan by prefecture, including the highest and lowest wages and what it means for workers.
Minimum Wage in Japan (National Overview)
Japan’s minimum wage is revised every year by the government.
As of 2026, the national average minimum wage is approximately:
¥1,004 per hour ($6.70 USD)
However, the actual wage depends on the prefecture where you work.
Highest Minimum Wage in Japan
The highest minimum wages are usually in major cities.
| Prefecture | Hourly Wage (JPY) | Hourly Wage (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | ¥1,113 | $7.40 |
| Kanagawa | ¥1,112 | $7.41 |
| Osaka | ¥1,064 | $7.09 |
| Saitama | ¥1,028 | $6.85 |
| Chiba | ¥1,026 | $6.84 |
Large metropolitan areas tend to have higher wages because the cost of living is higher.
Lowest Minimum Wage in Japan
Rural areas tend to have lower minimum wages.
| Prefecture | Hourly Wage (JPY) | Hourly Wage (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Iwate | ¥893 | $5.95 |
| Akita | ¥893 | $5.95 |
| Okinawa | ¥896 | $5.97 |
| Kagoshima | ¥897 | $5.98 |
| Miyazaki | ¥897 | $5.98 |
Even though wages are lower, living costs are also significantly cheaper in these regions.
Average Minimum Wage by Region
Minimum wages generally follow regional economic strength.
| Region | Average Wage |
|---|---|
| Tokyo / Kanto | Highest |
| Kansai | High |
| Chubu | Medium |
| Tohoku | Lower |
| Kyushu | Lower |
Tokyo and surrounding prefectures consistently offer the highest hourly wages in Japan.
Monthly Income at Minimum Wage
Let’s estimate the monthly income if someone works full-time.
Example calculation:
- ¥1,000/hour
- 8 hours per day
- 22 working days
Monthly income:
¥176,000 per month ($1,170 USD)
This is before taxes and social insurance.
Is Minimum Wage Enough to Live in Japan?
Living on minimum wage in Japan can be difficult in large cities like Tokyo.
Typical monthly expenses in Tokyo:
| Expense | Cost (JPY) |
|---|---|
| Rent | ¥60,000 – ¥90,000 |
| Food | ¥40,000 – ¥50,000 |
| Transportation | ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 |
| Internet | ¥4,000 – ¥6,000 |
Because of this, many workers share apartments or live outside the city center.
Why Minimum Wage Differs by Prefecture
Several factors influence minimum wages:
- Cost of living
- Local economic activity
- Labor demand
- Population density
Urban areas like Tokyo have higher wages because business productivity and living costs are higher.
Related Guides
Can You Live on Minimum Wage in Japan?
Is Japan Expensive to Live In?
Conclusion
Minimum wages in Japan vary significantly by prefecture.
The typical range is:
¥893 – ¥1,113 per hour ($5.95 – $7.40 USD)
Urban areas offer higher wages, while rural areas tend to have lower wages but cheaper living costs.
Understanding these regional differences is essential if you plan to work in Japan.