FIRE Number for Tokyo, Japan

A small but clean 1K or 1DK apartment (250-350 sq ft) in an affordable neighborhood like Kita-Senju, Nakano, or Koenji. Eating at budget chains and ramen shops, which are genuinely good. Getting around on the world's best train system. National Health Insurance covering 70% of costs. The apartment will be very compact and English is limited, so daily errands require adaptation. But the food, safety, and transit quality are remarkable for the price.

A spacious apartment (700-900 sq ft) in a premium area like Aoyama, Daikanyama, or a modern tower in Toyosu with bay views. Regular dining at excellent sushi counters, kaiseki restaurants, and high-end tempura spots. Metro plus regular taxis and monthly Shinkansen trips to Kyoto or Hokkaido. Premium private health insurance with annual ningen dock screenings at St. Luke's. Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any city on earth, and this budget gives you genuine access to that scene.

A premium penthouse in Azabu-Juban or Roppongi Hills with panoramic views, and possibly a second home — a restored farmhouse in the Japanese Alps or a villa on Okinawa. A housekeeper, a cook a few times a week, a bilingual assistant, and a full-time driver. First-class international flights and Gran Class Shinkansen. Concierge medicine with 24/7 specialist access. Regular fine dining at the world's most acclaimed restaurants. Tokyo is an expensive city, so this budget delivers a very comfortable, high-quality life rather than a feeling of limitless wealth — but the depth and refinement of what Tokyo offers is hard to match anywhere.