Product Designer Salary in Kyōto, Japan

In Kyoto's design talent earns a median of ¥4,250,000 annually. Mid‑level designers find opportunities at gaming studios, cultural institutions, and tech startups. The figure reflects the city's profile.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

¥2,950,000 to ¥3,700,000

Average (per year)

¥3,325,000

New designers in Arashiyama find roles with boutique agencies, tourism services, or small startups.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

¥3,750,000 to ¥4,750,000

Average (per year)

¥4,250,000

Designers with several years' experience take on projects focused on hospitality or traditional crafts.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

¥4,750,000 to ¥6,100,000

Average (per year)

¥5,425,000

Senior designers here lead UX for regional travel platforms or cultural institutions.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

¥6,250,000+

Principal or lead designers work for Kyoto-based international agencies or major hotel groups.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

¥1750 - ¥2400

per hour

Mid-level

¥2450 - ¥3150

per hour

Senior

¥3250 - ¥4200

per hour

Kyoto's median sits slightly above Japan's overall average for product designers, which hovers around ¥4,000,000. Housing prices and tourism‑driven services impact earnings.