{"id":20083,"date":"2025-01-20T14:12:34","date_gmt":"2025-01-20T05:12:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/apartment-japan.com\/apj\/?p=20083"},"modified":"2025-11-14T18:05:13","modified_gmt":"2025-11-14T09:05:13","slug":"ya_rentalprocedure_1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/apartment-japan.com\/apj\/ya_rentalprocedure_1\/","title":{"rendered":"How to rent a home easily in Japan?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Complicated General Rental Procedures in Japan<\/h2>\n
\"Couple<\/div>\n

Renting a property in Japan can be a challenging experience for foreigners. Japan\u2019s rental process involves unique customs and practices that differ significantly from global standards, making it difficult to understand and navigate. In this article, we\u2019ll explore the complexities of renting in Japan and introduce a solution that simplifies the process for foreigners.<\/p>\n

1.\u00a0 What required when Generally Renting in Japan<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Japan\u2019s rental process includes several unique aspects that can be difficult for foreigners to manage. Below are some of the most common challenges:<\/p>\n

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  1. Key Money and Deposit<\/strong>
    \nTenants are often required to pay a refundable deposit (\u201cshikikin\u201d) and non-refundable key money (\u201creikin\u201d) upfront. Key money is a unique practice in Japan and can significantly increase initial costs.<\/li>\n
  2. Guarantors and Emergency Contacts<\/strong>
    \nA guarantor (a Japanese resident fluent in Japanese) is often required for rental agreements. Securing one can be a major obstacle for foreigners.<\/li>\n
  3. Guarantor Companies and Tenant Screening<\/strong>
    \nWhile guarantor companies are an alternative to personal guarantors, many companies do not accept foreign tenants, adding to the difficulty of securing a rental.<\/li>\n
  4. Automatic Rent Payments<\/strong>
    \nRent is typically paid through automatic withdrawals from a Japanese bank account. However, opening a bank account in Japan can be complicated for short-term residents.<\/li>\n
  5. Important Explanations (J\u016by\u014d Jik\u014d Setsumei)<\/strong>
    \nIf you deal via real estate brokerage agencies, before signing a lease, tenants must go through a legally required explanation of important terms and conditions. These explanations shall be done on face-to-face, are often detailed and conducted in Japanese, and making them hard to follow for non-speakers.<\/li>\n
  6. Lease Terms vs. Residency Status<\/strong>
    \nStandard rental contracts in Japan are usually for two years, which may conflict with the residency period of some foreigners, especially short-term residents.<\/li>\n
  7. Unfurnished Properties<\/strong>
    \nUnlike in many other countries, rental properties in Japan typically come unfurnished, requiring tenants to purchase all necessary furniture and appliances.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Additional challenges include:<\/p>\n