10 Tips for Renting an Apartment in Japan Without Stress

Renting an apartment in Japan can be confusing—especially with unfamiliar fees, guarantor requirements, and paperwork in Japanese. But don’t worry! Whether you’re moving for work, study, or a new beginning, these 10 tips will help you navigate the process with less stress.

1. Start Early—Especially If You’re Moving in Spring

March and April are crazy busy in the Japanese rental market. Students and new employees are all moving at once, which means properties disappear fast. If you’re planning to move around this time, start your search at least 1–2 months ahead. The earlier, the better.

2. Have Your Documents Ready

Landlords and agents will usually ask for:

• Your residence card or visa

• Proof of income or employment

• Emergency contact in Japan

• Sometimes a Japanese bank account

• Certificate of Employment
  

3. Understand the Fees (They Add Up!)

Japan’s rental system comes with a bunch of upfront costs. Here are the main ones:

• Shikikin (敷金): Deposit (usually 1–2 months, sometimes refunded)

• Reikin (礼金): Key money—a non-refundable “gift” to the landlord

• Agent fee: Usually 1 month’s rent

• First month’s rent: Often due before move-in

• Guarantor company fee: If needed, usually half to one month’s rent
  

It’s not unusual to pay 4–6 months’ worth of rent upfront, so plan your budget accordingly.

4. Work With a Foreigner-Friendly Agent

Not all landlords are open to renting to foreigners, usually because of communication worries or cultural misunderstandings. A good agent can help you avoid this problem by showing you apartments where the owners are happy to rent to non-Japanese tenants.

5. Ask About the Neighborhood (Not Just the Room)

Is the area noisy at night? Are the walls super thin? How far is the nearest supermarket? What’s the train situation during rush hour?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions like these. A good agent will give you the real scoop, not just what’s in the listing.

6. Try to Visit in Person (or Get a Video Tour)

Pictures can be very misleading. If you’re in Japan, definitely go see the place. If not, ask your agent to send a detailed walk-through video.

Check for:

• Natural light

• Mold or weird smells

• Old fixtures or thin walls

• Whether there’s already an AC unit (not all places have one!)
  

7. Most Apartments Are Unfurnished—Sometimes Very Unfurnished

It’s normal for Japanese apartments to be bare-bones. Often you’ll need to buy:

• Light fixtures

• Curtains

• Fridge

• Washing machine

• Stove (in some older units)
  

Factor this into your move-in budget. Alternatively, if you’re staying short-term, look for furnished or monthly rental options (マンスリーマンション).

8. Guarantor Companies Make Things Easier

If you don’t have a Japanese friend or employer to act as your guarantor, a guarantor company (保証会社) can step in. They charge a one-time fee and usually make the process smoother for foreigners. Most landlords now actually prefer this system.

9. Ask for the Full Initial Cost Estimate (初期費用見積もり)

Before you commit, ask your agent for a full breakdown of the move-in costs. Don’t just look at the monthly rent—the initial payment can be the biggest hurdle. Make sure there are no surprise charges hiding in the contract.

10. Be Respectful of Noise and Building Rules

This one’s important: many Japanese apartments have thin walls, and neighbors expect quiet—especially at night. Also, trash separation rules can be strict, and you’ll likely have to follow set collection days.

Being a good tenant goes a long way, especially if you’re planning to stay long-term.

Renting in Japan might seem complicated at first, but once you understand how things work, it gets much easier. The key is to plan ahead, ask questions, and work with someone who understands both your needs and the local system.

If you're looking for help, we’re happy to guide you step by step—no pressure, no stress. Feel free to reach out anytime!