🇯🇵 2026 Edition

Rent in Japan as a Foreigner — Without the Stress

10 languages · AI concierge · Honest comparisons · Real solutions for visa holders

Find Your Housing Option Read the Full Guide
10 Languages All Visa Types Honest Reviews Updated 2026
The Reality

Why Foreigners Struggle to Rent in Japan

01
No Guarantor
Most landlords require a Japanese guarantor. We show you every workaround.
02
Short Visa
Lease terms often exceed visa duration. Here's how to handle it.
03
Language Barrier
Contracts in Japanese only. We explain every clause you need to know.
04
Hidden Costs
Key money, agency fees, cleaning fees — the real move-in cost can be 5× rent.
05
Rejection
Landlords can refuse without reason. We explain why and how to avoid it.
06
Wrong Portals
Most portals ignore foreigners. We tell you which ones actually help.
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Resources

Essential Guides for Foreigners

Guide 01
The Definitive Renting Guide
Documents, costs, process — everything in one place.
Read Guide →
Guide 02
No Guarantor? Your Options
Guarantor companies, share houses, UR, monthly mansions compared.
Read Guide →
Guide 03
Why You Got Rejected
8 rejection patterns and exactly how to fix each one.
Read Guide →
Guide 04
Hidden Costs Exposed
Key money, fees, insurance — real numbers before you sign.
Read Guide →
Guide 05
Osaka & Kansai Guide
Area maps, rents, foreigner-friendly agencies.
Read Guide →
Guide 06
Visa-by-Visa Breakdown
What landlords accept for each visa type.
Read Guide →
Honest Review

How We Compare to Other Sites

Site Languages AI Concierge Honest About Problems Visa-Specific Advice Free
GaijinHome ★ 10 ✓ Yes ✓ Yes ✓ Yes ✓ Yes
GaijinPot 2–3 ✗ No ✗ No △ Partial ✓ Yes
Best-Estate.jp 4–5 ✗ No △ Partial △ Partial ✓ Yes
Sakura House / Oakhouse 3–4 ✗ No △ Partial ✗ No ✓ Yes
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners rent apartments in Japan? ▾
Yes, but it requires more documentation and often a guarantor or guarantor company.
What documents do I need? ▾
Residence card, passport, employment contract or enrollment certificate, income proof, and emergency contact details.
How much does it really cost to move in? ▾
Typically 3–6 months of rent upfront including key money, deposit, agency fee, and insurance.
What is key money (礼金)? ▾
A non-refundable gift to the landlord, usually 1–2 months' rent. Many zero-key-money apartments exist.
Can I rent without a guarantor? ▾
Yes. Guarantor companies, share houses, UR housing, and foreigner-specialist agencies all offer paths without a personal guarantor.