Finding Accommodation in Japan as an Expat (2026)

Why Is Finding Housing in Japan Difficult for Foreigners?

The Japanese rental market is notoriously strict for non-residents. Landlords often require a Japanese guarantor (hoshōnin), proof of stable income in Japan, and a Japanese-speaking reference. Many properties are also listed only in Japanese, and some landlords explicitly do not rent to foreigners.

Additionally, traditional rentals involve significant upfront costs:

• Key money (reikin): a non-refundable gift to the landlord, typically 1–2 months' rent
• Security deposit (shikikin): 1–2 months' rent, partially refundable
• Agency fee (chūkai tesūryō): usually 1 month's rent
• First month's rent paid in advance

Total move-in costs can reach 4–6 months of rent before you even collect the keys.

What Are the Main Housing Options for Expats in Japan?

1. Share Houses (Shea Hausu)

The most accessible option for newly arrived expats. No guarantor required in most cases, flexible contracts (monthly), and costs are all-inclusive. Popular operators include Sakura House, Oak House, and Borderless House. Ideal for the first 3–6 months while settling in.

2. Furnished Monthly Apartments (Wīkly Mansion)

Fully furnished short-term units available without a guarantor. More expensive per month than standard rentals, but no large upfront fees. Useful for professionals on short assignments or those still job-hunting.

3. Standard Apartments (Manshon / Apāto)

The long-term standard option. Manshon are concrete buildings (quieter, better insulated); apāto are wooden structures (cheaper, noisier). Requires a guarantor — either a personal contact or a guarantor company (hoshō gaisha) if you have none, typically at an additional fee of 0.5–1 month's rent.

4. Employer-Provided Housing (Shakuyage)

Many Japanese companies offer subsidized housing for employees. If you are relocating for work, ask your employer explicitly — this can dramatically reduce costs and bypass the guarantor requirement.

✅ Practical Tip

Start with a share house or furnished apartment for your first 1–3 months in Japan. This gives you time to open a Japanese bank account, register your address (jūminhyō), and build the documentation required for a standard lease.

How to Search for Housing in Japan

Key platforms to use:

• Suumo (suumo.jp) — largest Japanese real estate portal
• Homes.co.jp — broad listings, some English content
• GaijinPot Apartments — listings specifically accessible to foreigners
• UR Chintai — public housing corporation; no key money, no guarantor required
• Local real estate agencies (fudōsan) in your target neighborhood

⚠️ Attention

All rental contracts in Japan are written in Japanese. Do not sign anything you do not fully understand. Consider having an expert or a bilingual professional review the document before signing.

What Documents Do You Need to Rent in Japan?

• Valid passport and residence card (zairyū kādo)
• Proof of income (employment contract, pay slips, or company letter)
• Japanese bank account details (often required at signing)
• Personal seal (hanko) or signature, depending on the landlord
• Contact details of a guarantor or proof of enrollment with a guarantor company

💡 Good to Know

UR Chintai (Urban Renaissance Agency) is a public housing option available in most major cities. It requires no key money, no agency fee, and no personal guarantor — only proof of sufficient income. An excellent entry point for expats with stable employment.

For a complete overview of life as an expat in Japan, see our guide: Expatriation in Japan 2026.