Over 1,400 cities in Japan see foreign population rise, total populations drop in new statistics

A recent study by Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has revealed a significant rise in the foreign population across the country, while overall population numbers continue to decline. Between January 1, 2025 and 2026, 1,436 municipalities experienced a drop in total population, but saw an increase in the number of foreign residents.

Osaka topped the list as the city with the most significant growth in foreign resident population, with an increase of 25,056 people. Following Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Kawaguchi also witnessed notable growths in their foreign resident populations, with increases of 11,056, 10,091, 6,483, 6,483, and 5,629 residents respectively.

Interestingly, Tokyo, despite not being among the first few in the list, occupies a crucial position in the overall statistics. Tokyo's Metropolis is comprised of multiple officially designated wards and cities, each counted separately by the Ministry. Collectively, 10 Tokyo wards/cities contributed to a total increase of 22,118 foreign residents, which would have placed Tokyo in second place on the list if combined.

The study noted that the increases in foreign residents were not solely due to increased immigration to Japan. Preexisting foreign residents moving into new municipalities, as well as births of children to foreign residents, were also factors. However, the rapid growth in foreign population across the country's major population centers suggests that increased immigration is a major contributor to Japan's expanding foreign resident population.