Common Rental Myths in Japan
- FIRST STEP Co,. Ltd.
- 13 minutes ago
- 2 min read
If you search online for information about renting in Japan, you’ll quickly notice a lot of conflicting advice. Some of it is outdated, some is based on personal experiences, and some is simply wrong.
Over the years, these misunderstandings have turned into “rules” that many renters believe without questioning. Below are some of the most common rental myths in Japan—and what actually happens in real life.
Myth 1: “Foreigners Cannot Rent Apartments in Japan”
Reality: Foreigners can rent apartments in Japan.
While it’s true that some landlords prefer Japanese tenants, many properties are open to foreigners—especially in major cities. The key is working with an agent who knows which landlords are flexible and understands how to present your application properly.
The issue is usually not nationality, but concerns about communication, payment stability, or contract understanding.
Myth 2: “Key Money Is Mandatory Everywhere”
Reality: Key money (礼金 / reikin) is becoming less common.
Many modern apartments, especially in urban areas, now offer zero key money. Older buildings or traditional landlords may still require it, but it is not unavoidable.
In some cases, key money can even be negotiated or waived.
Myth 3: “The Security Deposit Is Always Fully Returned”
Reality: Deposits are rarely returned in full.
In Japan, security deposits (敷金 / shikikin) are commonly used to cover:
Professional cleaning
Minor repairs
Restoration costs
Normal wear and tear should not be charged, but cleaning fees are standard. Tenants should expect partial deductions.
Myth 4: “You Can Leave Anytime Without Penalty”
Reality: Early termination usually has conditions.
Most leases require 1–2 months’ notice, and some include early cancellation fees—especially within the first year. Leaving without proper notice can result in extra rent charges.
Always check the early termination clause before signing.
Myth 5: “Apartments Come Furnished”
Reality: Most Japanese apartments are unfurnished.
Standard rentals typically do not include:
Beds
Sofas
Washing machines
Refrigerators
Some units may include air conditioning, but fully furnished apartments are the exception, not the rule.
Myth 6: “Newer Apartments Are Always Better”
Reality: Older apartments can be great value.
Many older buildings offer:
Lower rent
Larger room sizes
Better locations
As long as maintenance is good, age alone does not mean poor quality.
Myth 7: “You Don’t Need a Guarantor Anymore”
Reality: A guarantor or guarantor company is still required in most cases.
While personal guarantors are less common now, guarantor companies are widely used. This is standard for both Japanese and foreign tenants.
Myth 8: “Online Listings Show Everything Available”
Reality: Many apartments are not publicly listed.
Some landlords only share properties with trusted agents, and availability can change daily. Online listings are a starting point, not the full picture.
Most rental problems in Japan don’t come from bad landlords or bad tenants—they come from misunderstandings. Once you separate fact from myth, renting becomes far less stressful and much more predictable.
The Japanese rental market has its own logic, and once you understand it, you can avoid unnecessary costs and missed opportunities.
If you ever feel unsure about what applies to your situation, speaking with an experienced local real estate agent can help you make decisions with confidence instead of guesswork.
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