Tokyo vs London for Internships: Which City Comes Out on Top

15 Sep Tokyo vs London for Internships: Which City Comes Out on Top

Choosing where to intern abroad is never an easy decision—especially when both options are global powerhouses like Tokyo and London. Each city has its own cultural edge, professional opportunities, and lifestyle perks that can shape your international internship experience in unique ways.

If you’re weighing your options between the neon-lit streets of Tokyo and the historic, bustling avenues of London, this guide will help you break it down. We’ll compare everything from career prospects to cost of living so you can figure out which city is the right fit for your internship abroad program!

Why Tokyo and London?

Both Tokyo and London are among the top global destinations for students seeking international internships.

Tokyo is known for its cutting-edge tech scene, global business networks, and unique cultural experiences. Internships here often emphasize innovation and adaptability.

On the other hand, the capital of England is a hub for finance, media, and hospitality. The city is filled with opportunities, especially during peak season—when students are abuzz with their summer internships in London.

But which city comes out on top for international students? Let’s take a closer look.

Tokyo vs. London

Internship opportunities

One of the first questions students ask is: ‘Which city has better internship programs?’ The truth is, it depends.

Ranking second in the Global Financial Centres Index, London is home to banks, consultancies, startups, and multinational corporations. Whether you’re looking for finance, IT, or hotel internships in London, the city’s diverse economy creates opportunities in almost every field.

While the city is also highly competitive, Tokyo internships tend to be concentrated in fields like technology, engineering, business development, and design. Japan’s focus on innovation makes Tokyo ideal for students who want to immerse themselves in industries that thrive on precision and creativity.

In the end, we can say that London has the edge in terms of variety, while Tokyo offers more niche, specialized internships that can set you apart.

Competitiveness

You may be wondering: “Are internships competitive in London and Tokyo?”

With a large number of international students, internships in London can be highly competitive. Summer internships especially draw applicants worldwide, so securing a spot often requires strong applications and early planning.

Internships in Tokyo are also competitive, but for different reasons. Opportunities may be fewer compared to other global cities, and many require a strong interest in local culture and work practices. This means that the programs available often provide hands-on experience and a chance to gain insights into Japan’s professional environment.

Both are competitive, but London’s market is saturated. Tokyo’s selectiveness, on the other hand, can lead to deeper professional experiences.

Pay and benefits

Another common question: “Which city pays internship stipends better?”

Some London internships, especially in finance or IT, may offer stipends. But many are unpaid or provide only travel or lunch allowances. Still, London’s strong legal protections mean interns are treated fairly, and paid opportunities are becoming more common.

In Japan, internships are traditionally unpaid, as they are often considered part of learning rather than employment. That said, companies may provide perks such as transportation reimbursement or daily meals.

Cultural differences at work

Internship programs aren’t just about the job—they’re also about how you adapt to different cultural environments. So, how do Tokyo and London internships differ culturally?

Work culture tends to be more direct and less formal in London compared to Tokyo. Interns can expect to voice ideas openly, ask questions freely, and collaborate in team-based environments. Punctuality and professionalism are important, but there’s also space for humor and casual conversation.

Japanese workplaces emphasize hierarchy, respect, and group harmony. Interns are expected to observe etiquette, from bowing to using formal language. Silence is often valued more than filling space with casual talk, and learning how to read the room is a valuable skill.

Choose London if you prefer open, communicative environments—and Tokyo if you want to challenge yourself by adapting to a structured, detail-oriented culture.

Cost of living

Living abroad is an adventure, but also an investment!. Let’s compare the basics.

London frequently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world. Rent, transport, and even a coffee can add up quickly. Budgeting is essential for students.

Tokyo is surprisingly more affordable in comparison, especially for daily expenses like food and transportation. Housing can be tricky, but student accommodations often help offset costs. 

Lifestyle and free time

Internships abroad aren’t only about work—your life outside the office matters too.

With countless free activities and student discounts, there’s always something to do in London. It’s a cultural haven filled with museums, theaters, food markets, and music venues. Plus, Europe’s travel network makes weekend trips to other cities easy. Travelers, rejoice!

Meanwhile, Tokyo offers a one-of-a-kind experience of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples. From anime culture to sumo matches to cherry blossom festivals, the city will immerse you in experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Exploring Japan’s rail system also makes traveling to Kyoto, Osaka, or Mount Fuji simple.

So if you’re looking for multicultural diversity and European travel access, go for London. If you’re seeking a unique cultural immersion, opt for Tokyo.

Safety and inclusivity

Students often ask: “Is it safe for interns abroad?” and specifically, “Which countries are LGBTQ+ friendly for interns?” So let’s get into it.

London is known for being inclusive and progressive, especially toward international students and LGBTQ+ communities. There are strong protections against discrimination in the workplace.

Japan is generally safe and welcoming, but social attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals are more conservative compared to London. However, major cities like Tokyo are becoming increasingly open, especially among younger generations.

Basically, both cities are safe, but London has a stronger framework for inclusivity.

So—which city should you choose between Tokyo and London?

Well, the answer depends on your priorities:

Choose London if you want:

• A wide variety of internships across industries
• A multicultural, inclusive city
• Potential for paid internships
• Easy access to European travel

Choose Tokyo if you want:

• Specialized internships in tech, engineering, and innovation
• A deep cultural immersion in one of the world’s most unique cities
• Lower living costs day-to-day
• A chance to challenge yourself in a structured professional environment

Interning abroad is about more than building your resume—it’s about growing as a global citizen. Both Tokyo and London offer incredible opportunities, but in very different ways.

Whether you picture yourself grabbing sushi after work in Shinjuku or sipping tea in Shoreditch, the right city for you is the one that aligns with your goals, personality, and career ambitions.

At Absolute Internship, our international internship programs are designed to help students thrive—whether that’s in the heart of Tokyo, the hustle of London, or one of our other global destinations.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our internship abroad programs today and find the perfect fit for your career journey.