Rental market
Upfront costs are high, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.
Common housing types
- アパート (apāto): older wooden flats, cheaper
- マンション (manshon): reinforced-concrete condos
- 一戸建て (ikkodate): detached houses
- シェアハウス: share houses
Where to search
- Suumo.jp
- Homes.co.jp
- UR rental housing
- Leo Palace (expat-friendly)
UR and Leo Palace often ask for fewer guarantor hurdles than private landlords.
Move-in costs
Expect roughly four to six months’ rent in fees upfront.
- Shikikin (敷金): security deposit
- Reikin (礼金): non-refundable “key money”
- Agency fee: often one month
- Guarantor company: about 0.5–1 month
- Fire insurance: mandatory bundle
Requirements
- Japanese guarantor or guarantor company
- Income often 3× monthly rent
- Valid work or student visa
- My Number card
Lease length
Standard leases run two years and renew—read renewal and penalty clauses carefully.
Go deeper
Operational detail and official links—amounts and deadlines change; always confirm on the competent portal before filing or paying.
Upfront costs (summary)
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Security deposit (shikikin) | Often 1–2 months’ rent, refundable minus damage |
| Key money (reikin) | Non-refundable “gratitude” payment in many leases—check if landlords still ask for it in your area |
| Management fee (kanrihi) | Building upkeep separate from rent |
| Agent commission | Regulated brokerage fees—get a written quote |
Guarantors & insurance
Rental guarantor companies
Common for international renters when a personal guarantor is unavailable.
Fire insurance
Kaji hoken is often mandatory in the lease.
Utilities & internet
Power, gas, water
Separate contracts; start service after move-in with meter details from your landlord.
Fibre / Hikari
Installation lead times vary; check building MDU rules.
Ending a lease
Notice periods (kaiyaku) and move-out inspections—keep your contract and registered-mail proof.
This block complements the guide with institutional entry points—not legal or tax advice.