Introduction

Renting an apartment in Tokyo can feel complicated for foreigners who are unfamiliar with the Japanese rental system.

Unlike many other countries, the process in Japan involves several steps, documents, and approval procedures before you can move into an apartment.

Understanding the Tokyo apartment rental process for foreigners can help make the experience much smoother.

In this guide, we explain the typical step-by-step process of renting an apartment in Tokyo.

entrance

Step 1 – Search for Available Apartments

The first step is finding apartments that match your budget, preferred location, and lifestyle.

Many expatriates choose to live in central Tokyo areas such as:

  • Minato-ku
  • Shibuya
  • Hiroo
  • Azabu
  • Roppongi

Working with an English-speaking real estate agent can make it easier to find suitable properties and avoid communication difficulties.

Step 2 – Schedule Property Viewings

Once several suitable apartments are selected, the next step is to arrange property viewings.

During the viewing, you can check important factors such as:

  • Apartment layout and size
  • Building condition
  • Distance to the nearest train station
  • Neighborhood environment

Apartments in popular areas can be rented quickly, so it is often important to make a decision soon after viewing.

Step 3 – Submit a Rental Application

If you decide to rent an apartment, the next step is submitting a rental application.

Typical information required for the application includes:

  • Passport
  • Residence card (if available)
  • Employment information
  • Income details
  • Emergency contact

Some landlords may have additional screening requirements.

Step 4 – Screening and Approval

After the application is submitted, the landlord and management company will review the information.

In many cases, a guarantee company will also review the application.

The screening process usually takes one to three days, although it can sometimes take longer depending on the property.

Once approved, the lease agreement can proceed.

Step 5 – Sign the Lease Agreement

After the application has been approved, the next step is signing the lease agreement.

In Japan, rental contracts are legally prepared in Japanese, and the official contract document will normally be written in Japanese.

This Japanese contract is the legally binding document between the tenant and the landlord.

For international clients, an English explanation or reference translation may be provided to help understand the contents of the contract.

However, this English explanation is provided for reference purposes only and does not have legal validity.

The legally binding agreement is the Japanese-language contract that is signed by both parties.

Before signing the contract, it is important to carefully review the terms, including:

  • Monthly rent
  • Lease period (typically two years)
  • Initial costs and fees
  • House rules and building regulations
  • Conditions for contract renewal or termination

If anything is unclear, your real estate agent can explain the contract details in English before signing.

Step 6 – Pay Initial Costs

Before moving into the apartment, tenants must pay the initial costs required for the lease.

These costs may include:

  • First month’s rent
  • Security deposit
  • Key money
  • Agency fee
  • Guarantee company fee
  • Fire insurance

The total initial payment is usually three to five months of rent.

Important Notice

Once the lease agreement has been signed, the contract is considered legally concluded.

If a tenant cancels the contract after signing, cancellation penalties may apply depending on the conditions of the lease agreement.

In general, the real estate agency fee paid to the real estate agent is non-refundable, as the brokerage service has already been completed.

Payments made to the landlord, such as key money or certain deposits, may also not be refunded because these payments are typically not intended to be returned once the contract has been finalized.

For this reason, tenants are strongly advised to carefully confirm all contract conditions before signing the lease agreement.

Step 7 – Move In

Once the contract is signed and the payments are completed, the keys to the apartment will be provided.

At this point, tenants can officially move into the apartment.

Before moving in, it is also important to arrange utilities such as:

  • Electricity
  • Gas
  • Water
  • Internet

Your real estate agent may be able to help with these arrangements.

Tips for Foreigners Renting in Tokyo

The Japanese rental system can feel unfamiliar at first, but the process becomes much easier with proper guidance.

Helpful tips include:

  • Prepare required documents in advance
  • Understand the initial costs before applying
  • Work with an English-speaking real estate agent
  • Be ready to make decisions quickly in popular areas

With the right preparation, renting an apartment in Tokyo can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

Looking for an Apartment in Tokyo?

If you are planning to move to Tokyo and are searching for rental apartments, Aoki Real Estate Tokyo can help.

We specialize in assisting international clients looking for apartments in central Tokyo areas such as Minato-ku, Azabu, Hiroo, Shiba, and Mita.

Our services include:

  • Apartment search support
  • Communication with landlords and management companies
  • English explanation of rental contracts
  • Full guidance throughout the rental process

If you would like help finding an apartment in Tokyo, please feel free to contact us.

Contact Aoki Real Estate Tokyo