Survey Reveals High Satisfaction Among Foreign Residents in Saitama Prefecture
A recent survey conducted in Saitama Prefecture has revealed that over 90% of foreign residents are satisfied with their lives there. The findings highlight the positive experiences of individuals from various backgrounds, emphasizing factors such as safety and favorable working conditions.
The survey, carried out between November and December 2025, targeted foreign residents selected at random from the basic resident register. A total of 1,064 participants responded through online or written questionnaires. These individuals included university students, company employees, and technical intern trainees from countries like China, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The breakdown of residency status showed that 31% were permanent residents, 15% were under “engineering, humanities and international services,” and 11% were specific skilled workers.
In terms of life satisfaction, 49% of respondents reported being “satisfied,” while 43% indicated they were “somewhat satisfied.” The main reasons cited for this satisfaction included “good public safety and ease of living” (69%), “being able to understand the culture and customs of Japanese society” (52%), and “favorable employment conditions” (28%).
Despite the overall positive sentiment, 5% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction or some level of dissatisfaction. Notably, 39% of this group mentioned “discrimination against foreigners” as a key issue. When asked about their future plans, 59% of the respondents said they wished to stay in Saitama permanently.
Cultural Integration and Community Engagement
To foster better understanding between foreign residents and the local population, 69% of participants expressed a desire to actively “follow the rules of daily life in Japan.” This was followed by “greet others” (67%), “learn about Japanese culture” (51%), and “improve my Japanese-language skills” (48%). Many respondents also emphasized the need for more opportunities to interact with Japanese locals, suggesting that places where they can engage with residents would be beneficial.
In the free-response sections, several comments stood out. One respondent from China stated, “If Japan accepts any foreigner indiscriminately, crime and public safety could worsen, so proper screening of those entering Japan is important.” Another individual shared, “I’ve worked in Japan for over 30 years, bought a house and pay taxes, so please don’t treat me like undocumented foreigners who don’t.” Additionally, a respondent from Indonesia noted, “I want to study more Japanese, especially kanji, but it’s hard to do alone.”
Growing Foreign Population in Saitama
As of the end of June 2025, the number of foreign residents in Saitama had increased to 277,209, representing a rise of 14,827 from the end of December 2024. This accounts for 3.8% of the prefecture’s population. The increasing presence of foreign residents underscores the importance of policies that promote multicultural coexistence and integration.
The results of the survey will guide the prefectural government in shaping its multicultural coexistence policies, ensuring that the needs and concerns of foreign residents are addressed effectively. By fostering a welcoming environment, Saitama continues to attract and support individuals from around the world.
Bahran Hariz adalah seorang penulis di Media Online IKABARI.
