Japan Guide Renting an apartment in Japan is one of the biggest challenges for foreigners. The process, costs, and rules are very different from many countries.
But once you understand the system, it becomes much easier and less stressful.
This guide explains how to rent an apartment in Japan step by step, what documents you need, common costs, and foreigner-friendly resources you can trust.
Can Foreigners Rent Apartments in Japan?
Yes, foreigners can legally rent apartments in Japan.
However, some landlords prefer Japanese tenants, mainly because of:
- Language barriers
- Contract misunderstandings
- Emergency communication concerns
The key is choosing foreigner-friendly agencies and properties.
Step 1: Decide Where and What to Rent
Popular Options for Foreigners
1. Share House
- Furnished
- Short contracts
- No key money
- Easy for newcomers
2. Private Apartment
- More privacy
- Higher initial cost
- Long-term stability
3. Monthly / Furnished Apartments
- Higher rent
- No long contracts
- Good for first 1–3 months
Step 2: Understand the Real Costs (Very Important)
Japan has upfront costs that surprise many foreigners.
Typical Initial Fees
| Item | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Rent | Monthly rent |
| Deposit (敷金) | Refundable (1–2 months) |
| Key Money (礼金) | Gift to landlord (non-refundable) |
| Agent Fee | Real estate service fee |
| Guarantor Fee | Required if no Japanese guarantor |
| Insurance | Fire & disaster insurance |
💰 Initial cost is often 4–6 months’ rent.
Step 3: What Documents Do You Need?
Prepare these before visiting an agent:
- Residence Card
- Passport
- Japanese phone number
- Japanese address (temporary is okay)
- Proof of income or job offer
- Bank account (sometimes required)
Some apartments also require a guarantor company (very common).
Step 4: Use Foreigner-Friendly Real Estate Services
These agencies are used by many foreigners and offer English support.
Recommended Resources (Foreigner-Friendly)
🏠 GaijinPot Housing
- English support
- Share houses & apartments 🔗 https://housing.gaijinpot.com/
🏠 Sakura House
- Furnished rooms
- No guarantor needed 🔗 https://www.sakura-house.com/
🏠 Leopalace21
- Nationwide
- Foreign resident support 🔗 https://en.leopalace21.com/
🏠 Real Estate Japan
- English listings
- Direct landlord options 🔗 https://realestate.co.jp/
🏠 MetroResidences (Monthly)
- Short-term furnished apartments 🔗 https://www.metroresidences.com/jp-en/
Step 5: Visiting and Choosing an Apartment
When viewing an apartment, check:
- Distance to station
- Noise level
- Sunlight
- Internet availability
- Furniture (usually unfurnished)
Apartments in Japan are often smaller than expected.
Step 6: Signing the Contract
Contracts are usually in Japanese.
Important things to confirm
- Contract length (usually 2 years)
- Renewal fee
- Cleaning fee on move-out
- Rules (noise, pets, guests)
💡 Ask for an explanation or translation before signing.
Common Problems & How to Avoid Them
❌ Apartment rejects foreigners
✅ Use foreigner-friendly listings
❌ No guarantor
✅ Use guarantor companies
❌ High initial cost
✅ Choose no-key-money or share houses
❌ Language barrier
✅ Use English-speaking agents
Tips to Save Money
- Avoid “key money” listings
- Live slightly outside city centers
- Choose share houses at first
- Look for campaigns and discounts
Example Monthly Rent (Tokyo Area)
| Type | Approx. Rent |
|---|---|
| Share house | ¥50,000–¥80,000 |
| 1R / Studio | ¥80,000–¥120,000 |
| 1LDK | ¥120,000–¥160,000 |
Other cities are usually cheaper.
Final Thoughts
Renting an apartment in Japan as a foreigner is possible and manageable with the right approach.
Start with foreigner-friendly services, understand the costs clearly, and don’t rush decisions.
Many people begin with a share house, then move to a private apartment once settled.