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How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner: A Complete Guide
How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner
Moving to Japan is an exciting milestone. But navigating the local rental market for the first time can feel daunting — Japanese rental procedures differ significantly from most other countries. The good news: foreigner-friendly rentals are increasing rapidly, especially in Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama.
This step-by-step guide covers everything you need.
What Does It Cost to Rent in Japan?
Monthly rent in Tokyo ranges roughly from ¥40,000–¥120,000 for a single-person apartment. But upfront move-in costs are typically 4–6× your monthly rent:
| Cost | What it is | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 敷金 (Shikikin) | Refundable security deposit | 1–2 months' rent |
| 礼金 (Reikin) | Non-refundable key money | 0–2 months' rent |
| 仲介手数料 | Agency fee | ~1 month's rent + tax |
| 前家賃 | Advance rent | 1 month |
| 火災保険 | Fire insurance (mandatory) | ~¥15,000–¥20,000/year |
Good news: Many listings now offer zero key money (礼金なし), cutting upfront costs significantly.
What Documents Do You Need?
- Valid residence card (在留カード) — your residency process must have started
- Guarantor or guaranty company — a Japanese guarantor (保証人) or surety company (保証会社)
- Proof of income — employment contract, pay stubs, or a company letter
- Japanese bank account — helpful but not always required
Foreigner-Friendly Rentals
Not all properties accept foreign tenants. Look for:
- 外国人可 (Gaikokujin-ka) — properties that accept foreign residents
- English-speaking or multilingual agencies
- Properties without a guarantor requirement (保証人不要)
Every listing on Shin Housing is foreigner-friendly with multilingual support included.
How to Choose the Right Apartment
Location matters most:
- Walking distance to the nearest train station (10 min or less is ideal)
- Convenient train lines to your workplace or school
- Nearby convenience stores, supermarkets, and clinics
Room types explained:
- 1R — Studio; sleeping and cooking area combined
- 1K — 1 room + separate kitchen
- 1DK — 1 bedroom + dining-kitchen
- 1LDK — 1 bedroom + living-dining-kitchen
Building types:
- Mansion (マンション) — Concrete (RC/SRC), better soundproofing and insulation
- Apartment (アパート) — Wood or light-steel frame, more affordable
The Rental Process, Step by Step
- Search and shortlist properties on Shin Housing
- Book a tour — available in English, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and more
- Apply — submit documents and complete a background check
- Review and sign the lease — check renewal fees, pet rules, and deposit conditions
- Pay initial costs — due before key handover
- Receive keys and move in!
- Register your new address at your local city hall within 14 days
Tips for a Smooth Move
- Start searching 1–2 months before your intended move-in date
- Have document scans ready in advance (residence card, employment proof)
- Work with a multilingual agency to avoid contract misunderstandings
- Always confirm the renewal fee (更新料) — typically 1 month's rent every 2 years
Shin Housing specializes in helping international residents find their perfect home in Japan. Browse available properties →