Living Independently in Japan

It's hard to find an affordable apartment here in Japan if you can't speak Japanese well. Read this post to give you tips in finding a place to live in.

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5/8/20241 min read

A traditional Japanese house is nestled within a lush garden, surrounded by dense greenery and trees. A tranquil pond reflects the green hues of the foliage. The house features a thatched roof and wooden exterior, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. A person is visible near the edge of the garden, adding a sense of scale.
A traditional Japanese house is nestled within a lush garden, surrounded by dense greenery and trees. A tranquil pond reflects the green hues of the foliage. The house features a thatched roof and wooden exterior, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. A person is visible near the edge of the garden, adding a sense of scale.

Living in Japan

Finding an apartment in Japan can be a unique and sometimes challenging experience, especially for those new to the country. The process typically begins with researching locations that suit your lifestyle, whether you prefer the bustling city life of Tokyo or the serene atmosphere of rural areas. It's essential to understand the different types of housing available, such as gaijin apartments, share houses, or traditional Japanese homes. Utilizing online resources, local real estate agencies, and word of mouth can significantly aid in your search. Additionally, it's important to be aware of the various fees and paperwork involved, including the key money and guarantor requirements. By approaching the process with a clear plan and an open mind, you can navigate the complexities of the Japanese rental market and find the perfect place to call home.

Here the top 3 recommended real estate agent in Japan:

1.Leopalace 21 Corporation- They provide affordable apartment for short and long term stay in Japan. They also have English- Speaking agents where you can inquire about the fees and requirements.

2.Suumo- A real estate agent that you can also access on your phone anytime by downloading their app to find the apartment that suits your taste.

3.Village House- One of the most affordable apartment that I can suggest especially to those who live with their family. They provide much bigger space and additional room at a low cost price.

Conclusion:

There are a lot of ways you can find apartment in your area by using the power of internet. Most of them provide different benefits and specific requirements so be sure to check with your real estate agent . Some of them don't accept foreigner for some reason or might accept for certain conditions like hoshonin or thru a guarantor. But a s for me, it is really better if you can find a direct owner or oyasan because they don't really sometimes require high deposit fee (atamakin) and additional fees.