🏡 Housing Guide for Foreign Residents in Japan
How to find and rent an apartment in Japan, including the rental process, costs, and tips for foreign residents.
かんたんな こたえ
Renting in Japan typically requires an initial cost of 4-6 months' rent (deposit, key money, agent fee, first month's rent). Foreign residents may need a guarantor company or a Japanese co-signer. Start your search at real estate agencies (fudosan-ya) or online platforms.
Understanding the Japanese Rental Market
かんたんな こたえ
Japan's rental market has unique customs including key money (reikin), deposit (shikikin), and guarantor requirements. Many landlords work exclusively through real estate agents.
Finding housing in Japan can be challenging for foreign residents due to language barriers and unique rental customs. Most apartments are rented through real estate agencies (不動産屋 / fudosan-ya).
Initial Costs Breakdown
| Cost Item | Amount | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit (敷金) | 1-2 months' rent | ✅ Minus cleaning fees |
| Key Money (礼金) | 0-2 months' rent | ❌ Non-refundable |
| Agent Fee | 1 month' rent + tax | ❌ Non-refundable |
| First Month's Rent | 1 month | N/A |
| Guarantor Fee | 50-100% of 1 month | ❌ Non-refundable |
⚠️ Budget Estimate
For a 70,000 yen/month apartment, expect initial costs of 280,000-420,000 yen (4-6 months' rent upfront).
Guarantor Companies (Hosho Gaisha)
かんたんな こたえ
Most landlords require either a Japanese guarantor or enrollment in a guarantor company. Guarantor companies typically charge 50-100% of one month's rent as an initial fee.
🤝 What is a Guarantor Company?
A guarantor company (保証会社 / hosho gaisha) acts as your rent guarantor when you don't have a Japanese co-signer. They guarantee your rent payments to the landlord in case of default.
💰 Typical Costs
- • Initial fee: 50-100% of one month's rent
- • Annual renewal: 10,000-20,000 yen
- • Required by most landlords
💡 Tip
Some real estate agencies specialize in foreigner-friendly properties and can help you find guarantor companies that accept non-Japanese applicants. Ask for agencies that work with foreign residents.
むりょう ひっこし みつもり
むりょう ひっこし みつもり →Required Documents for Renting
在留カード
Pay stubs, employment certificate, or tax certificate
パスポート
印鑑 — some landlords require it
Some landlords may also request bank statements or a letter from your employer. Students may need a letter from their school, and self-employed individuals may need additional financial documentation.
Online Apartment Search Platforms
🇯🇵 Japanese Platforms
- • Suumo — Largest listing site
- • Homes.co.jp — Wide coverage
- • at home — Good search filters
Some English support available
🌍 Foreigner-Friendly
- • GaijinPot Apartments — English interface
- • Real Estate Japan — Multilingual
- • Oakhouse — Share houses
No guarantor issues, English support
💡 Tip: Consider Share Houses
Share houses (シェアハウス) are a great starting option with lower upfront costs, shorter commitments, and a built-in community — perfect for new arrivals.
むりょう ほけん そうだん
むりょう ほけん そうだん →Public Housing Options
🏘️ Public Housing (公営住宅)
- • Reduced rents for low-income residents (including foreign nationals)
- • Eligibility varies by municipality
- • Usually requires living/working in the area for a minimum period
- • Application through periodic lottery system
💡 How to Apply
Contact your local city hall for application periods, eligibility requirements, and available units. Some municipalities have multilingual support for housing inquiries.
てじゅん
- 1
Set your budget and area
Determine how much you can afford (including initial costs) and preferred locations. Consider proximity to work/school and transportation.
- 2
Search online or visit agencies
Browse listings on Suumo, GaijinPot Apartments, or visit local real estate agencies. Tell the agent your requirements and budget.
- 3
View properties
Visit selected properties with the agent. Check the condition, neighborhood, and distance to the nearest station.
- 4
Apply and screening
Submit your application with required documents. The landlord and guarantor company will review your application (1-2 weeks).
- 5
Sign contract and move in
Pay the initial costs, sign the lease, receive your keys. Register your new address at city hall within 14 days of moving in.
よくある しつもん
Can foreigners rent an apartment in Japan?
What is key money (reikin) and is it refundable?
How much should I expect to pay upfront?
What is a guarantor company?
むりょう ひっこし みつもり
むりょう ひっこし みつもり →かんれんする てつづき
すまい — とどうふけん
Find すまい information specific to your area: