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Japan immigration

Foreigners in Japan hit record as Tokyo rolls out welcome mat

Chinese, South Koreans and Vietnamese lead immigrant influx

Participants in the government's technical intern trainee program represent Japan's second-largest contingent of foreign residents. (Photo by Ken Kobayashi)

TOKYO -- The number of foreigners living in Japan reached a record 2.83 million at the end of June, according to official data released Friday, which also indicates a preference for big cities that runs counter to the government's goals.

The figure, a 3.6% increase from the end of last year, represents 2.24% of Japan's total population and is on track for a seventh straight year of growth. The data excludes short-term visitors staying less than three months but covers medium-term residents such as students from overseas.

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