Struggling to Find an Apartment in Japan? Don’t Give Up Yet

Struggling to Find an Apartment in Japan?
Don’t Give Up Yet

Renting a home in Japan as an international resident can be challenging. Here is what makes the process difficult—and how Apartment Japan can help you overcome some of the most common barriers.

International residents searching online for an apartment in Japan
1

Why Is Renting in Japan So Difficult for International Residents?

Many people are surprised by how different the Japanese rental process can be.

  • Some landlords do not accept foreign tenants.
  • A Japanese guarantor may be required.
  • A Japanese bank account or local phone number may be requested.
  • Applications and contracts may be available only in Japanese.
  • Initial costs and rental conditions can be difficult to understand.

These barriers often make it difficult to find the right home—especially when you are still overseas or have only recently arrived in Japan.

International residents facing challenges while looking for housing in Japan
2

Apartment Japan Is Designed for International Residents

Apartment Japan is an online rental platform that helps international residents find and rent apartments in Japan.

Properties are listed directly by landlords, property management companies, and housing providers in major cities across Japan. All listings are intended for international residents, making it easier to find accommodation that suits your needs.

You can browse property details, lease terms, and estimated costs in English. Many listings also allow you to apply online, making the rental process more convenient.

Apartment Japan displayed on a computer screen

Browse foreigner-friendly rental homes across Japan.

3

Find the Right Home for Your Lifestyle

Apartment Japan offers different types of homes for different lifestyles, budgets, and lengths of stay.

Example furnished studio apartment

Furnished Studios

Move in with essential furniture and appliances already provided.

Example unfurnished apartment

Unfurnished Apartments

Create your own comfortable space for a longer stay.

Example family home

Family Homes

Explore larger apartments and houses with multiple bedrooms.

Example shared residence

Shared Residences

Choose a private room with shared facilities and community spaces.

4

Fewer Barriers, Simpler Procedures

What you may not need (for many properties)

Japanese Guarantor Japanese
Guarantor
Japanese Bank Account Japanese
Bank Account
Japanese Mobile Number Japanese
Mobile Number

What you generally need

Passport Passport
Valid Visa or Residence Status Valid Visa /
Residence Status
Credit Card Credit Card

Requirements and screening conditions vary by property and housing provider.

5

Search and Apply from Overseas

For eligible properties, the main procedures can be completed online.

  1. 1
    Search
    Search

    Find your ideal home

  2. 2
    Check Costs
    Check Costs

    Review costs and conditions

  3. 3
    Choose-Move-in-Date
    Choose Move-in Date

    Select your preferred date

  4. 4
    Apply-Online
    Apply Online

    Submit your application

  5. 5
    Sign-Electronically
    Sign Electronically

    E-sign the contract

  6. 6
    Pay-by-Credit-Card
    Pay by Credit Card

    Complete payment online


This can help you arrange your accommodation before arriving in Japan.

6

Your New Life in Japan Starts Here

Finding an apartment in another country is a major step. Apartment Japan was created to make the process clearer and more accessible for international residents.

Your new home in Japan may be closer than you think.

A person starting a new life in a new home in Japan