TOKYO — More Chinese are migrating to Japan than ever before, with many driven by a “search for freedom.” The easing of requirements for obtaining visas has made it possible for wealthy and middle-income Chinese to more easily move to Japan, and the number of Chinese residents in the country is expected to exceed 1 million in 2026.
But what does “search for freedom” mean, exactly? For many, it’s better educational opportunities.
In interviews by Nikkei, Chinese people said they were unhappy with the stifling atmosphere and anxiety they found in China, noting how fierce the competition is for entering universities there.
“We want to bring up our children in a better educational environment,” one person said.
“In China, graduating from a university does not lead to finding employment,” noted another.
Takadanobaba, a neighborhood in Tokyo, has become a hub for preparatory schools specializing in university entrance exams for Chinese people who dream of finding employment and living in Japan after graduation.
Song Jiaying, 19, is one of them. This spring, she gained admission to the prestigious Hitotsubashi University. “I like Japan’s atmosphere of freedom,” she said. “I’m no longer thinking of returning to China.”
Song is no exception. Chinese students already make up large percentages of foreign students at leading universities in Japan, representing as much as 70% at the University of Tokyo.
Liu Yanming, 50, migrated to Japan two years ago for his son, an elementary school student who likes soccer. He was attracted by Japan’s educational environment and did not hesitate about moving.
“In China, studying is really hard,” he said. “But in Japan, both study and soccer can be done with pleasure and in a balanced way.”
Jin Xin, 46, who runs a restaurant in China’s Liaoning province, looks forward to emigrating to Japan. His wife is already in Japan and has been making efforts over the past year to prepare for the family’s migration.
