The Japan Navigator

How to Rent an Apartment in Japan Renting an apartment in Japan can feel complicated, especially for foreign residents. Multiple fees, guarantor requirements, strict screening, and detailed contracts make the process very different from many other countries. This guide explains the main steps, typical costs, and practical tips to protect your money when moving in and moving out. 1) Overview of the Renting Process The general flow when renting in Japan looks like this: Search for properties (online portals, agencies, corporate contacts). Property viewings (内見 / naiken). Application and screening (申込・審査). Contract signing (契約). Move-in inspection and key handover. At each stage, you may be asked for documents and payments, so it helps to understand the full cost picture upfront. 2) Typical Upfront Costs (Example: ¥100,000 Monthly Rent) For an apartment with ¥100,000 monthly rent, a typical initial cost breakdown might look like this: Deposit (敷金) : usual...

How to Rent an Apartment in Tokyo Without a Guarantor (2025 Guide) Housing in Tokyo can be challenging for newcomers, especially when you don't speak Japanese. Even with a stable job and a valid visa, many real estate agencies request a Japanese guarantor, a local emergency contact, and Japanese paperwork. For foreign professionals without local connections or experience, this becomes a real hurdle. This guide explains practical, legitimate ways to rent an apartment in Tokyo without a personal guarantor. We'll explain how the system works, the alternatives landlords might accept, what it costs, which documents to prepare, and how to avoid common issues. Use this as your step-by-step reference for a smooth rental experience. 1) How the Tokyo Rental System Works Most Tokyo rentals are handled through real estate agencies that mediate between you and the landlord. Standard move-in costs can be higher than in many countries because of a mixture of very u...

Cost of Living in Japan 2025 Japan remains one of Asia’s most desirable countries for expats, but living comfortably—especially in Tokyo or Osaka—comes with a significant price tag. This 2025 guide breaks down typical monthly costs for housing, utilities, food, and transportation, plus practical tips for managing expenses as a foreign resident. 1) Housing Costs Rent is the biggest expense for most residents. Prices vary by location, building age, and size. City 1LDK (Approx.) 2LDK (Approx.) Notes Tokyo (Central) ¥180,000–¥280,000 ¥250,000–¥400,000 Modern 10–15yo buildings preferred for safety Osaka ¥120,000–¥200,000 ¥180,000–¥280,000 Cheaper than Tokyo with spacious layouts Fukuoka ¥80,000–¥150,000 ¥130,000–¥200,000 Lower rent and utilities; growing expat sc...