Wealthy Chinese Abandon the 'Chinese Dream' as Naturalisation in Japan Leads for the Second Consecutive Year

Mount Fuji in Japan. (Reprinted from 'Gan Jing World')

[People News] Statistics from Japan's Ministry of Justice indicate that around 9,200 individuals received naturalisation permits for Japanese citizenship in 2025, with approximately 3,500 of them coming from China, making it the highest number from any country for two consecutive years.

The Sankei Shimbun reported that Japan received a total of 14,103 naturalisation applications last year, with 666 cases denied and 9,258 approved. Since the start of record-keeping in 1967, the highest number of approvals was 17,633 in 2003. In recent years, the figures have generally fluctuated between 7,000 and 9,000. The Ministry of Justice noted that the number of naturalisations typically varies with economic conditions.

The Liberty Times highlighted that Japan's relationship with China has soured recently, with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) engaging in negative propaganda against Japan through official media, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokespersons, and online discourse. This includes both official and self-media amplifying reports of violence, robbery, or harassment faced by Chinese nationals in Japan, attributing these incidents to a decline in public safety in Japan, and issuing strong warnings about travel risks. For example, following the discharge of treated nuclear water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant, the CCP has depicted Japan as a 'toxic ocean' and called for a boycott of Japanese seafood.

Despite the Chinese Communist Party's efforts to exaggerate and highlight the risks associated with Japan, it has not deterred China's resolve to pursue naturalisation in Japan. Data indicate that, with the exception of 1973, South Korean and North Korean nationals have historically been the most common among naturalised citizens. However, in 2024, the number of naturalised Chinese nationals reached 3,122, surpassing both South and North Koreans for the first time. By last year, this figure had risen to 3,533, marking the second consecutive year that China held the top position.

The ranking of naturalisation permits by nationality for 2025 is as follows:

1. China: 3,533; 2. South and North Korea: 2,017; 3. Nepal: 695; 4. Brazil: 409; 5. Vietnam: 357; 6. Philippines: 352; 7. Myanmar: 273; 8. Sri Lanka: 248; 9. Bangladesh: 229; 10. Peru: 180; Others: 965.

'Rundai' has emerged as a focal point for immigration.

According to data from the Japanese Immigration Bureau, by the end of 2024, the number of Chinese residents in Japan reached 870,000. Projections suggest that by 2026, this number will exceed 1 million.

In an exclusive interview with the Central News Agency this month, Japanese international journalist Chuan Youda explained the reasons behind the trend of 'Rundai' among Chinese people. He stated, 'Because the space in Chinese society is becoming increasingly constrained.' Initially, many Chinese opted to migrate to Europe, America, and Southeast Asia. The trend of 'Rundai' began following Xi Jinping's constitutional amendment in 2018, which eliminated presidential term limits. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2022, along with lockdowns in cities like Shanghai, intensified the 'Rundai' phenomenon. It is estimated that to date, around 100,000 Chinese have 'Rundai-ed' to Japan, and it is anticipated that this year, for various reasons, the number of Chinese living in Japan will reach 1 million.

Chuan Youxiong Da further noted that most Chinese individuals in 'Runri' possess an international outlook and are dissatisfied with the current situation in China. After evaluating various countries, they have opted for Japan. Many of them hold assets in China and come from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, intellectuals, and media professionals. Generally, they are not fluent in Japanese and maintain a certain distance from the Chinese Communist government.

A netizen named Lin Yuan from 'Gan Jing World' expressed: 'It is only natural for people to aspire to a stable, equal, dignified, and respectable life. In recent years, many Chinese have taken to travelling abroad; once they experience the overseas lifestyle—characterised by minimal disturbances and a lack of oppressive feelings—it is understandable that many would contemplate leaving the high-pressure environment in China. Chinese citizens who have spent significant time abroad, having escaped the Chinese Communist firewall and the brainwashing of fake media, can access free information. These individuals have regained their ability to think independently and make judgments; how could they naively accept the CCP's fabricated narratives and harbour baseless animosity towards Japan and the U.S.? Abandoning the 'Chinese Dream' and choosing to naturalise as citizens of other free countries is a logical decision.'

According to reports from The Epoch Times, the recent wave of Chinese immigrants differs significantly from the previous generation, which primarily consisted of students, interns, and struggling workers. The current immigrants are affluent and financially astute. After carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages of various overseas destinations, they have ultimately chosen Japan.

What attracts Chinese people to Japan?

Chinese residents in Japan, particularly the recent immigrants who have opted for '润日' (runri), have a complex and deep-seated affection for the country. Their motivation extends beyond merely seeking a better material life; for many, moving to Japan is about achieving a 'low-risk, high-quality, and dignified' lifestyle.

Recent social observations and immigration data reveal five key factors contributing to the rise of the '润日潮' (runri tide):

1. Exceptional cost-performance ratio and convenience

With the yen currently at a historical low, Japan's prices are particularly appealing to individuals from China's first-tier cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.

Living quality: In Japan, properties come with full ownership, no shared areas, and are delivered fully furnished. With the same budget, the living standards available in Tokyo far surpass those in Beijing or Shanghai.

Food safety: Japan boasts extremely high food safety standards, with 'origin labelling' that is precise down to the county or even the farm level, effectively addressing the core food safety concerns of Chinese families.

Transportation efficiency: The public transport system is highly developed and punctual, with medical facilities, supermarkets, and parks typically within walking distance, making daily life very convenient.

2. Social security and a sense of psychological relaxation

Many immigrants note that one of Japan's most appealing aspects is the feeling of relaxation that comes from 'not having to be constantly on guard.'

Trust in society: There is a high likelihood of recovering a lost wallet, and merchant fraud is rare. This social credit system significantly lowers the psychological costs associated with daily living.

Personal safety: With an extremely low crime rate, children can safely walk to and from school alone, and women can walk at night with relative safety. This sense of security is a precious commodity in modern urban environments.

3. Comprehensive welfare and world-class healthcare

Japan's social security system is notably accommodating for foreign residents. As long as they possess a legal visa and pay the necessary premiums, they can enjoy the same benefits as Japanese nationals.

Healthcare system: The national health insurance offers extensive coverage, requiring individuals to pay only 30% of the costs, with a 'high-cost medical expense system' that caps monthly out-of-pocket expenses.

Childcare subsidies: The government provides substantial maternity benefits and monthly childcare allowances, and the distribution of educational resources is relatively equitable, significantly easing the financial burden on parents.

4. Escaping 'involution' and seeking quality education

A primary reason why Chinese parents choose to immigrate to Japan is for their children's education.

Relieving competitive pressure: While Japan does have its own school admission competition, it is less intense compared to China's 'Gaokao' and 'Zhongkao streaming'. Japan offers a more diverse and less stressful pathway to higher education.

Quality education: The Japanese education system emphasises the development of independent character, physical fitness, and etiquette, creating an environment that is believed to be more beneficial for children's physical and mental well-being.

5. Governance style and personal freedom

For the middle class and elite, Japan's 'predictability' is its greatest appeal.

Transparency in the rule of law: Policies remain stable and do not change abruptly, with strict protection of private property. This 'certainty' creates an optimal business environment for entrepreneurs.

Service-oriented government: Civil servants maintain a humble demeanour, processes are transparent, and the boundaries of authority are well-defined.

Sense of boundaries: Japanese society places a high value on privacy, and the cultural norm of 'not causing trouble for others' means that individuals are generally not intrusive in each other's personal lives or thoughts.

For many Chinese immigrants, Japan represents a social model where 'hard work yields rewards, allowing for a life of dignity and respect.' It serves not only as a physical haven but also as a spiritual sanctuary.△