ShimonosekiLivability Score

Kai

Shimonoseki's crime rate is 3.22 per 1,000 residents, with an excellent safety score of 62.6. Despite being a core city of about 255,000, crime rates remain low. As a historic port city facing the Kanmon Strait, both tourist areas like Karato Market and Ganryujima Island and residential neighborhoods maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

Kai

Shimonoseki's average land price is 47,594 yen per square meter, and the average rent is 39,322 yen, with a cost score of 58.3. Housing costs are quite affordable. While famous for fugu (locally called 'fuku'), being a production area means fresh seafood is available at reasonable prices. The integrated living sphere with Kitakyushu across the strait provides diverse shopping options.

Kai

The public transit usage rate is 11.3%, with a convenience score of 50.4. Shin-Shimonoseki Station serves the Sanyo Shinkansen, and the Kanmon Tunnel and Bridge provide direct connection to Kyushu. Kokura Station in Kitakyushu is just 15 minutes by local train — a major advantage. Retail density is 9.00 per 1,000 residents with 4.66 restaurants, and the food culture centered on Karato Market is deeply embedded in daily life.

Kai

The welfare score is 55.0. Medical facilities total an impressive 11.33 per 10,000 residents with 24 hospitals and 265 clinics — excellent healthcare coverage. The high clinic density ensures good access to primary care. Schools number 0.26 per 1,000 residents across 66 facilities. The warm maritime climate surrounded by sea on three sides creates small temperature ranges, making it comfortable for residents of all ages.

Kai

The economy score is 42.1. Taxable income per capita is approximately 3.06 million yen, with the port city economy based on fisheries and trade. Net migration is -1,265 with a rate of -0.50%. The Kanpu Ferry connecting to Busan, Korea positions Shimonoseki as a gateway to East Asia. The economic integration with Kitakyushu effectively expands employment options for residents.