I didn't know where to post this...
I'm planning to study in Japan Tokyo and would like to know more about what to expect and the standard of living there. I am planning to go with a friend after a few years of intensive saving and was wondering if 13000USD is enough to cover 1 yr tution fees, a few months of housing fees (sch dorm) and daily expenses for a few months. I know it's hard to gauge... But I would be really grateful if anyone could shed some light on this. My friend and me is planning to work part time in Japan after a few months of being there to cover our daily expenses.

What do you think?

Hey moonie Toni is quite correct!

I personaly think it would be better for you to use a (Guest House) Gajin House, These are Houses or apartments which house anywhere from 3-100+ rooms depending on the guest house. YOu will get your own small room with a tv, internet, bed and futon, small fridge, and a closet, and desk. They are quite small rooms from a north american view but I found it perfect for myself. If you are traveling with a friend you can even share the room (Most have bunkbeds.) They are perfect for getting started as they have Shared kitchen, bathroom, laundry and community rooms. So you dont need anything when you first get here. They cost about 40,000yen+ With the average place in tokyo around 50-60,000.
You also don't need any key money, or anything unlike apartments, where deposits on apartments can run you 5-6x the rent fee ouch!) Usualy you just need a 10,000yen deposit.

After you get settled in Japan you can decied what you want to do, an apartment is cheaper in the long run if you share. Depending on how long you plan to stay in Japan

School fees in Japan are crazy. Which is why i don't goto school here. I think finding a job is not difficult if you are not picky about where you work!

I came to Japan with 2,500cdn and had a place to stay for 2 months. I found a job and went to a guest house after the 2 months and was fine. But I had to struggle very hard from month 2-4 because 2,500cdn is nothing in Japan! I highly suggest bringing 3,000/month as a start up if you need to find a job and place to stay, count on searching for a Job for 2-3 months,and the same for a school!

Stay in a guest house....take your time...get to know the city a bit...find a school,or job...enjoy Japan!

I hope this helps
I am writing a guide to coming to Japan for the first time but I just havn't had the time to publish it yet...sorry!

yeah v good luck and have fun!

Thanks for the advice! I would definitely go to Japan after saving enough $$. It would take some time though... But I kno win the end it will be all worthwhile!

What is the minimum wage over there?