How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner (Complete Guide)

Renting an apartment in Japan as a foreigner can feel complicated at first, especially due to language barriers, paperwork, and unique local customs. However, once you understand the process and requirements, it becomes manageable and straightforward.

This guide explains how foreigners can rent an apartment in Japan, including required documents, costs, common challenges, and practical tips to secure housing smoothly.

1. Can Foreigners Rent Apartments in Japan?

Yes. Foreigners can legally rent apartments in Japan, regardless of nationality.

That said, some landlords prefer Japanese tenants due to concerns about communication, long-term stay, or cultural differences. Fortunately, many real estate agencies specialize in assisting foreign residents.

Key point:
Having a valid residence status (zairyū shikaku – 在留資格) greatly increases your options.

2. Types of Rental Housing in Japan

Understanding housing types helps set expectations.

Common options:

• Apartment (apāto – アパート)

  

  
  Lightweight construction, usually cheaper, thinner walls.

• Mansion (manshon – マンション)

  

  
  Reinforced concrete buildings, better sound insulation, higher rent.

• Share house (sheahausu – シェアハウス)

  

  
  Furnished, flexible contracts, ideal for newcomers.

• Monthly apartment (mānsurī manshon – マンスリーマンション)

  

  
  Short-term, furnished, higher monthly cost.

3. Documents Required to Rent an Apartment

Most landlords and agencies require the following:

• Residence Card (zairyū kādo – 在留カード)

• Passport (pasupōto – パスポート)

• Proof of income or employment

  • Employment certificate (zaishoku shōmeisho – 在職証明書)

  • Employment contract (koyō keiyaku-sho – 雇用契約書)

• Japanese phone number

• Emergency contact in Japan (renrakusaki – 連絡先)

Some properties may also require:

• Resident certificate (jūminhyō – 住民票)

4. Initial Costs (Upfront Fees)

Renting in Japan involves significant upfront payments.

Typical costs:

• Deposit (shikikin – 敷金)
  Usually 1–2 months’ rent (partially refundable)

• Key money (reikin – 礼金)
  0–2 months’ rent (non-refundable)

• Agent fee (chūkai tesūryō – 仲介手数料)
  Usually 1 month’s rent

• First month’s rent (yachin – 家賃)

• Management fee (kanri-hi – 管理費)

Total upfront cost:
💰 4–6 months of rent is common

5. Guarantor System (Very Important)

Most rentals require a guarantor.

Options:

• Personal guarantor (rentai hoshōnin – 連帯保証人)

  

  
  A Japanese resident with stable income

• Guarantor company (hoshō gaisha – 保証会社)

  

  
  Most foreigners use this option
  Fee: 30–100% of one month’s rent (renewed annually)

Using a guarantor company significantly increases approval chances.

6. Finding Foreigner-Friendly Apartments

Best ways to search:

• Real estate agencies specializing in foreigners

• English-supported housing websites

• Share houses for short-term stays

Search terms to look for:

• 外国人可 (gaikokujin ka – foreigners allowed)

• 英語対応 (eigo taiō – English support)

Tip: Large cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, Fukuoka, and Nagoya have more foreigner-friendly options.

7. Application & Screening Process

Once you choose a property:

1. Submit rental application (nyūkyo mōshikomi – 入居申込)

2. Background and income screening

3. Guarantor company review

4. Approval notice

5. Contract signing

Screening typically takes 3–10 business days.

8. Signing the Contract

Rental contracts are usually in Japanese.

Key items to check:

• Contract term (usually 2 years)

• Renewal fee (kōshinryō – 更新料)

• Early termination penalty (kaiyaku – 解約)

• Repair and cleaning fees

Tip:
Ask for English explanation or bring a Japanese-speaking friend if possible.

9. Moving In: Utilities & Setup

After receiving keys:

• Electricity (denki – 電気)

• Gas (gasu – ガス)

• Water (suidō – 水道)

• Internet (intānetto – インターネット)

Gas activation often requires someone to be present.

10. Common Challenges for Foreigners

• Language barrier

• Refusal due to nationality (less common than before)

• High upfront costs

• Complex contracts

Solution:
Work with foreigner-friendly agencies and prepare documents early.

11. Tips for Success

• Choose areas near train stations

• Start with a share house if new to Japan

• Prepare 5–6 months’ rent in advance

• Be polite and punctual during viewings

• Avoid overstaying short-term visas when applying

12. Final Thoughts

Renting an apartment in Japan as a foreigner is absolutely achievable with the right preparation. While the system may feel rigid, it is also predictable and transparent once you understand it.

With proper documents, realistic budgeting, and support from the right agents, you can secure comfortable housing and enjoy life in Japan with confidence.