Renting in Japan as a Foreigner - What You Should Know
Updated: May 7
Japan Life Guide by Sio
I got rejected multiple times during my first apartment search in Japan. Here are a few things I wish I knew beforehand.
1️⃣Landlords Concerns
Landlords often hesitate to rent to foreigners because they worry about the following:
Limited Japanese and communication issues
Cultural differences that may disturb neighbors
Little credit history or risk of late rent payments
Suddenly leaving Japan or ending the lease early
No Japanese guarantor — overall just more hassle
2️⃣Real Estate Agents
The most practical route is a foreigner-run agency: they know our pain points, communicate well with landlords, hold more foreigner‑friendly listings, help with guarantor applications and contract translation. Japanese agencies often need 2–3 days to set a viewing, foreigner‑run ones can manage same‑day with more flexibility.
3️⃣Useful Websites
🔎GaijinPot Apartments / Realestate.co.jp
Foreigner‑friendly listings with English; fewer options and usually pricier.
🔎SUUMO / Homes / CHINTAI / at home
Popular sites, huge inventory, but process is in Japanese only.
🔎 FB / IG / Tiktok etc
Search in your language to find agents who speak it.
4️⃣Rental Process
1) Apply (with guarantor application)
2) Screening (3–7 days)
3) Sign contract (Written in Japanese, explained agent)
4) Pay - first month rent, key money, deposit, agent fee, guarantor fee, insurance, lock change (total 4–6 mths’ rent)
5) Key handover (record room condition before moving in)
5️⃣Mental Preparation
Even if a listing says “Foreigner OK,” it only means the landlord is open to considering you. You’ll still face full screening, and can be rejected without any explanation. So give yourself time and manage your expectations!
Sio
Resetting life in Osaka after years in the UK, France, Spain, Canada & Argentina.
IG @ anothersio
