Foreign residents in Japan are facing continued financial pressure as the yen remains at historically weak levels, with a new NHK public opinion survey revealing widespread concern about the currency's impact on the Japanese economy. According to an NHK poll published on July 13, 2026, 61% of respondents believe the current yen weakness is having a negative effect on Japan's economy, compared to just 22% who see positive impacts. This sentiment reflects the reality that many residents—both Japanese and foreign—are experiencing as import costs rise and purchasing power declines. As of July 13, the yen was trading around 162 yen to the US dollar in the Tokyo foreign exchange market, according to NHK. The currency weakened further during Monday trading as crude oil futures prices rose, prompting investors to buy dollars. This level represents a continuation of the historic weakness that has characterized the yen's performance in recent months. For expats living in Japan, the practical implications are significant and multifaceted. Those earning yen-denominated salaries while supporting family abroad or maintaining financial obligations in stronger currencies face an increasingly difficult situation. A salary that might have converted to $3,100 per month at 130 yen per dollar now yields only $2,470 at the current 162 yen rate—a loss of over 20% in dollar terms. The weak yen also affects daily life through higher import costs. Japan imports approximately 60% of its food supply and nearly all of its energy resources, meaning that currency weakness directly translates to higher prices at supermarkets and gas stations. Expats accustomed to imported goods from their home countries are particularly affected, as these items have become substantially more expensive. However, the situation isn't uniformly negative. Foreign residents who receive income in foreign currencies—such as remote workers for overseas companies, retirees receiving foreign pensions, or those with investment income abroad—are experiencing increased purchasing power in Japan. The 22% of survey respondents seeing positive impacts likely include exporters and tourism industry workers, sectors that benefit from foreign visitors finding Japan more affordable. The Japanese government is reportedly monitoring the situation closely, with Yahoo Japan reporting that the administration is particularly sensitive to rising long-term interest rates, which could signal market concerns about Japan's fiscal situation or expectations of policy changes from the Bank of Japan. For expats planning their finances, several strategies may help navigate this environment. Those with the flexibility to negotiate contracts might consider requesting partial payment in foreign currencies. Building savings in stronger currencies can provide a hedge against further yen weakness. Additionally, expats should review their remittance strategies, as the timing of currency exchanges can significantly impact the value received. The weak yen also presents opportunities for those looking to travel domestically within Japan, as tourism and hospitality services become relatively more affordable compared to international travel. For expats considering major purchases like real estate, the situation is complex: while property prices in yen terms may be stable, financing costs could rise if interest rates increase. Looking ahead, the currency's trajectory remains uncertain. The yen's value depends on multiple factors including Bank of Japan policy decisions, US Federal Reserve actions, global energy prices, and Japan's trade balance. The recent movement linked to crude oil futures, as reported by NHK, demonstrates how quickly external factors can influence the exchange rate. For foreign residents, staying informed about currency trends and maintaining financial flexibility will be crucial in the coming months. While the majority of Japanese citizens view the current situation negatively, individual circumstances vary widely, and expats should assess their personal exposure to currency risk and adjust their financial strategies accordingly.