Where to Live in Japan: A Guide to Housing Options for Foreigners

Moving to Japan is exciting, but finding the right housing options in Japan can be a challenge—especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the local housing system.Whether you’re staying for a few months or a few years, it’s important to understand the main housing options in Japan available for foreigners. This guide breaks down the main options to help you choose the one that fits your lifestyle and budget.

1. Rental Apartments (賃貸アパート・マンション)

Rental apartments are a popular option for long-term residents like full-time workers or families. They’re usually unfurnished and require a formal contract, and the rental process can be tricky for foreigners.

Example:
A one-room (1R) apartment in Tokyo can cost around ¥70,000/month. Add an initial payment of ¥200,000–¥400,000 for key money, deposit, and agency fees.

Initial Cost Breakdown:

  • Security Deposit (敷金): ¥70,000
  • Key Money (礼金): ¥70,000
  • Agency Fee (仲介手数料): ¥70,000
  • Pro-rated Rent (日割り家賃): ¥70,000
  • Key Exchange Fee (鍵の交換費用): ¥15,000
  • Fire Insurance (火災保険料): ¥15,000

Total: ¥310,000

Pros:

  • Full privacy
  • Variety of locations and sizes

Cons:

  • High initial costs (key money, deposit, agent fees)
  • Guarantor often required (or extra fee for guarantor company)
  • Most contracts are in Japanese
  • Often unfurnished

Tip: Some real estate agencies like Tokyo Room Finder or Village House offer support in English and don’t require key money or a guarantor.

Useful Sites:
SUUMO
Homes.co.jp
GaijinPot Housing
etc.

2. Share Houses(シェアハウス)

A share house is a co-living arrangement where you rent a private room and share spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bathroom with other residents. It’s a popular and budget-friendly option for students, young professionals, remote workers, and travelers.

Example:
A furnished single room in an Oakhouse property in Tokyo starts around ¥40,000/month, with no deposit or key money.

Pros:

  • Low initial costs
  • Fully furnished
  • Utilities often included
  • Friendly community atmosphere

Cons:

  • Less privacy
  • House rules may vary

Tip: Check for properties with international communities if you want to connect with people from around the world.

Useful Sites:
Oakhouse
Sakura House
Tokyo Sharehouse
etc.

3. Guest Houses / Hostels

Guest houses and hostels are ideal for short-term stays in Japan, whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks. You can choose a shared dormitory room or pay extra for a private room, making them a convenient option for travelers.

Example:
Dorm beds in budget hostels around Tokyo typically start at about ¥2,500 per night, while private rooms usually range from ¥5,000 to ¥8,000 per night.
Pros:

  • Budget-friendly
  • No contract required
  • Great for travelers

Cons:

  • Shared dormitory rooms
  • Minimal personal space
  • Not ideal for long-term stays

Tip: Some guest houses and hostels like Wise Owl Hostels Tokyo and Guest House Wasabi offer discounts for longer stays.

Useful Sites:
Wise Owl Hostels Tokyo
Guest House Wasabi
Sakura Hostel Asakusa
UNPLAN Kagurazaka
Hostelworld

Bonus: Try a Capsule Hotel!

If you’re looking for a unique Japanese experience, consider staying in a capsule hotel. These compact, pod-style accommodations are typically found in major cities and offer a private sleeping space at a low cost—often starting around ¥3,000 per night.

Pros:

  • Unique experience
  • Very affordable
  • Perfect for solo travelers

Cons:

  • Extremely limited space
  • Short-term use only

Useful Sites:
FIRST CABIN

4. Company Dormitories / School Housing

If you’re coming to Japan through a university or employer, you may be offered a dormitory-style room with low rent and basic amenities.

Example:
Some university dorms cost around ¥20,000–¥40,000/month and include utilities. Company dorms may include meals and cleaning services.

Pros:

  • Very affordable
  • Conveniently located near schools or workplaces
  • Supportive environment for newcomers

Cons:

  • Limited personal space
  • Curfews or shared facilities
  • May be limited to the first year only

Tip: Always confirm what’s included (Wi-Fi, meals, etc.) and whether you’re allowed to invite guests.

5. Monthly/Weekly Apartments(マンスリーマンション)

These are short-term, fully furnished rentals available by the week or month. They are great for people who want independence without the hassle of signing a long-term contract.

Example:
A monthly apartment in Tokyo via LeoPalace21, Monthly ResiStay, or TokyoMonthly21 can range from ¥100,000 to ¥180,000 per month depending on size and location.

Rental Platforms:
LeoPalace21, Monthly Mansion, Monthly Apartment Japan, TokyoMonthly21

Pros:

  • No key money or guarantor required
  • Move-in ready (furniture, appliances, kitchenware included)
  • Utilities and internet usually included

Cons:

  • Higher rent compared to long-term leases
  • Smaller space

Tip: Great for those waiting for a long-term contract or staying a few months.

Useful Sites:
Housing Japan

Tips for Choosing the Right Option

  • Length of stay: Short-term travelers may prefer hostels or monthly apartments. Long-term residents may want rental apartments or share houses.
  • Budget: Share houses and dorms are the most affordable. Apartments require high initial costs.
  • Language skills: Choose a provider that offers English support if you’re not confident in Japanese.
  • Lifestyle: Want privacy? Go for an apartment. Want to meet people? Try a share house.

Final Thoughts

When comparing housing options in Japan, it’s important to consider privacy, budget, and how long you plan to stay. Japan offers a wide range of choices, each with its own advantages and challenges. Whether you’re here to study, work, or explore, there’s a living situation that fits your needs. Take your time, compare your options, and don’t hesitate to ask for help—finding the right home is the first step to a great life in Japan!

Some MobalPay users even use their MobalPay cards to pay their rent.
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