As Japan grapples with a persistently weak yen, which has made international travel increasingly difficult, the Tokyo government is stepping in to assist students wishing to study abroad. Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko announced that the metropolitan government is considering a new program aimed at supporting students’ overseas educational aspirations.
Under the proposal, students would be eligible for stipends to help cover expenses for short-term study abroad programs. These students could receive up to 900,000 yen (approximately USD $5,708) for travel and course fees.
For those pursuing medium- and long-term study opportunities abroad, the Tokyo government plans to offer a monthly stipend of 150,000 yen (about USD $951). Students studying overseas for an entire year could benefit from up to 3.15 million yen (USD $19,982) in support.
The program, which would target 500 students for short-term study and 100 students for long-term study, is expected to launch by the summer of 2025.
Meanwhile, as a record number of tourists flood into Japan, the weak yen has led many Japanese citizens to choose domestic travel instead of international trips. According to travel agency JTB, an estimated 14.1 million Japanese are expected to travel abroad in 2025, just 70.3% of the number who traveled in 2019. Many attribute this decline in international travel to the financial strain caused by the weak yen.
In a separate move, travelers are encouraged to stay connected while in Japan by renting pocket Wi-Fi devices, available for pickup at hotels or airports. These devices offer fast speeds and reliable customer service for both tourists and residents.
