🛟 What Do You Need to Rent an Apartment in Japan?

Q. Starting Your Life in Japan from Your Own Room

【What｜What is this?】
When you begin living on your own in Japan, you need to sign a rental contract (chintai keiyaku) with the landlord. This contract outlines important conditions, allowing you to live securely and responsibly.

【Why｜Why is this necessary?】
Some international students live in school dormitories, but if that’s not an option, you’ll need to rent an apartment or move into a share house on your own.

【When｜When should you start?】
Start searching about 2 to 4 weeks before your planned move-in date. This gives you enough time for property viewings and completing necessary procedures without rushing.

【Where｜Where to search?】

Real estate agencies, often located near train stations
Rental websites like SUUMO, CHINTAI, LIFULL HOME’S
Websites that specialize in properties for foreigners are also available

【Who｜Who handles the process?】
You, the tenant, must sign the rental contract yourself.
However, most landlords will require a guarantor. If you don’t have one, consult your school or a guarantor company for assistance.

【How｜Step-by-step process】

Search for a property and schedule a viewing
Submit the application form and required documents
(e.g., passport, residence card, student ID)
After passing the screening, sign the contract and pay the initial fees
(e.g., security deposit, key money, agent fee)

Regional Differences

【Differences between urban and rural areas】

Urban areas (e.g., Tokyo, Osaka): Increasing number of foreigner-friendly listings and English-speaking agents
Rural areas: More likely to require a guarantor; limited foreign-language support

FAQs and Key Points

Initial costs (including deposit, key money, advance rent, etc.) can total 4 to 6 months’ worth of rent
Breaking your lease early may result in penalties — check your contract carefully
You may be required to enroll in fire insurance

Support Services

University housing support desks
Real estate agencies with multilingual services (some offer English/Chinese)

Example Search Terms

「外国人賃貸東京保証人なし」
“apartment for foreign students in Osaka”