Category
Housing in Japan for Foreigners
Renting in Japan involves unique costs and processes. This page covers what you need to know about finding a foreigner-friendly apartment, upfront fees, and the guarantor system.
What is here
- Upfront cost breakdown: deposit, key money, agent fee.
- The guarantor system and how foreigners navigate it.
- Tips for finding foreigner-friendly listings.
New to Japan?
See the full setup guide before you make the next move
If you are still sorting out essentials like SIM, banking, utilities, or insurance, use the checklist page to keep the overall order clear.
Key facts
What foreigners need to know about renting
Upfront costs: 4–6 months' rent
Expect deposit (shikikin), key money (reikin), agent fee, guarantor fee, and first month's rent upfront.
Guarantor required
Most landlords require a Japanese guarantor or a guarantor company (hoshō gaisha). Foreigners usually use a guarantor company for a fee of 0.5–1 month's rent.
"Foreigner OK" listings
Not all landlords accept foreign tenants. Filter listings by "外国人可" (foreigner OK) on portals like Suumo, Homes.co.jp, or use agencies that specialize in helping foreigners.
Two-year lease standard
Most contracts are 2-year leases with a renewal fee (kōshinryō) of about 1 month's rent. Breaking a lease early usually requires 1–2 months' notice.
How it works
Renting an apartment
1. Search listings
Use portals like Suumo or Real Estate Japan. Filter by 外国人可 (foreigner OK).
2. Visit and apply
Schedule viewings, then submit an application with your documents.
3. Sign and move in
Review the contract, pay upfront costs, and complete move-in paperwork.
Understanding upfront costs
Renting in Japan requires significant upfront cash. Unlike many countries where you only pay a deposit and first month's rent, Japan has additional fees unique to its rental market.
Shikikin (deposit) is typically 1–2 months' rent and is partially refundable. Reikin (key money) is 0–2 months' rent as a gift to the landlord — it is not refundable. The agent fee (chūkai tesūryō) is usually 1 month's rent plus tax.
Finding a foreigner-friendly apartment
Start your search on major portals like Suumo, Homes.co.jp, or Real Estate Japan (English-friendly). Use the filter 外国人可 to narrow results.
Consider agencies that specialize in serving foreigners, such as GaijinPot Apartments, Village House, or PLAZA HOMES. They understand visa documentation and can communicate in English.
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Utilities
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FAQ
Renting FAQ for foreigners
Common questions about finding and renting an apartment in Japan.
How much money do I need upfront to rent in Japan?
Typically 4–6 months' rent for deposit (shikikin), key money (reikin), agent fee, guarantor company fee, fire insurance, and first month's rent. Some zero-reikin listings reduce this.
Do I need a Japanese guarantor?
Most landlords require one, but foreigners usually use a guarantor company (hoshō gaisha) instead. The fee is typically 0.5–1 month's rent initially, with annual renewals.
Can foreigners rent apartments in Japan?
Yes, but not all landlords accept foreign tenants. Use portals that filter by 外国人可 (foreigner OK) or agencies specializing in helping foreigners.
What is reikin (key money)?
Reikin is a non-refundable payment to the landlord, traditionally 1–2 months' rent. Many newer listings offer zero reikin to attract tenants.
What documents do I need to rent?
Typically: residence card, passport, proof of income or employment, bank statements, and My Number notification. Requirements vary by landlord and guarantor company.
How long is a typical lease in Japan?
Most leases are 2 years. Renewal requires a fee (kōshinryō) of about 1 month's rent. Early termination usually needs 1–2 months' written notice.