Finding a place to live is a crucial step when starting your life in Japan. However, Japan’s rent prices and how to find an apartment can be difficult to understand for foreigners.

This article will thoroughly explain rent prices and how to find an apartment in Japan for foreigners living in Japan.

You too will be able to smoothly find a place to live in Japan and live a comfortable life.

1. Japan’s rent prices

Japan’s rent prices vary greatly depending on the area, type of property, and size.

Generally, rent is higher in urban areas and lower in rural areas. Also, newly built properties and properties close to the station tend to have higher rent, while older properties and properties far from the station tend to have lower rent.

Looking at the layout, studio apartments and 1K apartments are relatively inexpensive for single people, while 2LDK and 3LDK apartments are more expensive for families.

To find out the specific rent prices, it is recommended to check real estate websites or inquire with local real estate companies.

2. How to find a property

There are mainly the following three ways to find a property in Japan:

2-1. Real estate portal sites

You can easily search for a wealth of property information on real estate portal sites such as SUUMO, HOME’S, and athome.

You can efficiently search for properties by entering conditions such as the desired area, layout, and rent.

2-2. Real estate company

At a real estate company, specialized staff will introduce you to properties that suit your needs.

If you are not comfortable with Japanese, look for a real estate company that can handle foreign languages.

2-3. Share house

A share house is a type of residence where you live with multiple people.

It is recommended for those who want to reduce initial costs because the rent is relatively cheap and furniture and home appliances are often provided.

3. Points to note when looking for a property

  • Contract period: Generally, a two-year contract period is set.
  • Deposit/Key money: At the time of the contract, a deposit (1 to 2 months’ rent) and key money (1 month’s rent) may be required.
  • Brokerage fee: If you make a contract through a real estate company, a brokerage fee (1 month’s rent + consumption tax) will be required.
  • Guarantor: A guarantor may be required to rent a property in Japan.
  • Foreigner occupancy allowed: Check if the property is available for foreigners to move in.

4. Others

  • If you are not comfortable with Japanese:
    Let’s utilize translation apps and translation tools.It is convenient to remember simple Japanese phrases. (Example: “How much is the rent?” “Is this room available?”)Let’s look for a real estate company that can handle foreign languages.
  • Cultural differences:
    Let’s understand the housing situation and customs in Japan.Let’s check the points to note, such as garbage disposal rules and noise problems.

5. Summary

Finding a place to live in Japan may have many things you don’t understand and不安, but please take your time and look for a property without rushing, referring to this article.

We hope that your life in Japan will be comfortable and wonderful!6. External Links