[rapid_jap]

Hi,

I am working in Tokyo right now and have got a job offer from a company in Hong Kong which I want to accept. However, I have some querries and doubts regarding moving from Tokyo to H which I am listing below:

1. First of all, how is HK as compared to Tokyo in terms of lifestyle, safety, cost of living and overall feel of the place?
2. Secondly, I have a work permit in Japan which is expiring this August. I intend to get that extended so that, in the worst case, if I end-up not liking HK for any reason, I can always come back to Tokyo. My point is, which one should I get done first, my HK work permit or the extension of my Japanese work permit?
3. Does it matter, I mean, the order in which I get the Japanese and HK work permit done? Does the stamping of one affect the chances of geting the other one?
4. Lastly, are the rules which govern HK work permit the same as rules which govern the Chinese work permit?

These are all the things I have to ask. Any kind of input, preferably sooner, is most welcome!! The decision is to be made in a day or two so I would really appreciate if anybody can get back to me real quick!

Thanks a ton!

[funnie]

can some one help on this?

1. First of all, how is HK as compared to Tokyo in terms of lifestyle, safety, cost of living and overall feel of the place?

[Namazu]

I moved from Tokyo to Hong Kong last year. Here are my impressions:

• rent is higher in HK
• food is cheaper
• (imported) Japanese foodstuffs are more expensive (obviously)
• No significant change in cost of living (except for increase in rent)

I am no visa expert, but other than convenience and timing your HK permit and Japanese visa are not connected so getting one would not affect the other.

[pil1]

I used to live in Tokyo for 9 years, no one year in HK

Tokyo is better in regards to air quality, friendliness of people, access to parks and nature, quality of restaurants, supermarkets (in City Super at IFC food poisoning is almost the rule). HK is a concrete jungle, the only advantage is the access to the airport.