Moving to Tokyo or already living in Japan and looking for a new place can feel overwhelming. Finding tokyo apartments for rent as a foreigner involves many details many people outside understand only partly. Whether you want a small studio near Shibuya or a larger apartment in a quieter area, this guide will walk you through what to expect, what costs to prepare for, and how to navigate lease terms. With the right knowledge, your search for apartments for rent in Tokyo can go smoothly.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Tokyo
Where you live in Tokyo will affect your commute, your daily convenience, and your monthly rent. These are some popular neighborhoods and what you should know.
Popular District (Shibuya, Shinjuku, etc.)
Shibuya is youthful, full of energy, fashion, nightlife, excellent shopping, and good transport lines. Prices are among the highest for smaller units. Shinjuku is a major business and transport hub. It includes large commercial areas, skyscrapers, and busy streets. Good choice if you want central and fast access to many locations.
Historic Neighborhoods (Ginza, Yanesen, etc.)
This neighborhood is for people who prefer traditional charm and cultural atmosphere. Ginza is Tokyo’s upscale shopping and dining district, offering luxury boutiques, high-end restaurants, and iconic architecture. Yanesen—short for Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi—retains a traditional Tokyo atmosphere with narrow streets, small temples, and family-run shops. These areas appeal to those who enjoy cultural history, quieter streets, and a slower pace compared to the bustling city center.
Downtown Areas (Ueno, Akihabara, etc.)
This area is for lively, convenient city life with easy access to transport and shopping. It blends cultural spots, parks, museums, a slightly more old-town atmosphere, and some more affordable options compared to Shibuya or Minato wards. Ueno is famous for its parks, museums, and the lively Ameyoko market, offering both cultural and shopping experiences. Akihabara is the hub for electronics, anime, and gaming culture, attracting both locals and tourists. Downtown areas provide excellent public transportation, convenience for daily life, and vibrant street life, making them ideal for those who want to be in the middle of Tokyo’s energy.
Tokyo Bay Area (Odaiba, Toyosu, etc.)
Tokyo Bay Area is for modern waterfront living and family-friendly environments. Odaiba is a futuristic man-made island featuring shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and waterfront views. Toyosu is home to modern residential complexes, Tokyo’s famous fish market, and riverside promenades. These areas are great for families, those who enjoy spacious apartments, or anyone seeking a modern, relaxed lifestyle near water and leisure amenities.
Transport, Amenities, Safety
Transport access is vital. Most people prefer being within 5-10 minutes walk of a major train or subway station. Amenities like convenience stores, supermarkets, and clinics matter. For safety, Tokyo is generally safe but personal comfort with neighborhood lighting, street traffic, and noise should guide your decision.
Step 2: Understanding Rental Terms
Knowing Japanese rental terms helps avoid surprises. Two big terms people from other countries often find confusing are shikikin and reikin.
Lease Duration, Renewal Options
Typical leases in Tokyo are 1-year contracts. Sometimes two-year leases are offered. When renewing, you may need to pay a renewal fee or updated contract fee. Make sure the contract states what happens at renewal: is rent likely to increase? Is renewal automatic or do you need to re-apply?
Shikikin (Deposit) and Reikin (Key Money)
Shikikin is the security deposit. Usually 1-2 months’ rent, though in some cases it can be more depending on the property size, condition, or whether pets are allowed. The unused portion is returned minus cleaning or damage costs.
Reikin, or key money, is a uniquely Japanese cost. It is a non-refundable payment to the landlord as a kind of gratitude or gift. It may be 1-2 months’ rent. Some landlords may waive it, especially outside premium wards.
Step 3: Initial Costs and Fees
When you rent an apartment in Tokyo, you must plan for upfront costs well beyond just the monthly rent.
Agency Fees, Utilities, Other Costs
– Agency fee: usually one month’s rent plus tax paid to the real estate agent or brokerage to help find the apartment.
– Fire insurance and other insurance fees are often mandatory and cost around ¥15,000-¥20,000 for two years in many cases.
– Rent Advance: Most contracts require the first full month’s rent in advance, sometimes also a part of the month depending on the move-in date.
– Other less obvious fees might include cleaning or restoration fee when leaving, lock change fee, or guarantor company fees if you don’t have someone in Japan who can guarantee your lease.
Example of Initial Total Cost
As a rule of thumb, many are advised to budget 4-6 times the monthly rent when moving in. For example, if rent is ¥100,000 per month, total initial costs (deposit, reikin, agent fee, insurance, first month rent, etc.) may reach ¥400,000-¥600,000.
Step 4: Lease Signing Tips
There are special considerations for foreigners when signing a lease in Tokyo. Being prepared helps.
Required Documents
Commonly needed documents include:
Passport and valid visa showing legal status in Japan
– Residence card (在留カード), front and back
– Proof of income or employment (salary slips, employment contract)
– Japanese bank account information for rent payments
– Depending on the property, copy of resident registration (住民票) or certificate of seal impression (印鑑証明書) may be requested.
Some landlords or agents may accept international phone numbers and credit history, but having Japanese documentation makes things easier.
Working with Bilingual Agents
Because many lease documents are in Japanese, working with a bilingual real estate agent can save time and help avoid misunderstandings. An agent who speaks English and Japanese can explain what each clause means, assist with application, and sometimes negotiate on your behalf (for example, asking for “no reikin” or lower agent fee).
It helps to ask agents whether all costs are included, how much in total you need before moving in, and to clarify responsibilities for repairs, utilities, and cleaning when moving out.
Additional Tip: Rent Prices by Ward and What You Pay
To help you set realistic expectations, here are some recent figures (2025) for apartments for rent in Tokyo by neighborhood or ward:
– In Minato and Chiyoda wards, 1LDK apartments are often ¥300,000 or more per month.
– Shibuya averages for 1LDK tend to be around ¥260,000-¥300,000 depending on distance from the station.
– More affordable areas such as Adachi, Katsushika, or outer wards often offer studio or 1K apartments for ¥70,000-¥100,000.
These numbers can vary depending on the size of the apartment, how new or old the building is, whether there is access to good transport, and whether the apartment is furnished.
Practical Checklist Before You Sign
Before you sign a lease, double check:
– That lease clearly states the duration, renewal fees, rent increase terms.
– Whether maintenance or cleaning costs when you move out are your responsibility.
– Check the condition of the apartment and take photos.
– Confirm utilities (gas, water, electricity, internet) and whether they are included or separate.
– Ask if the landlord is in favor of foreigners, pets, subleasing if needed.
Finding the right tokyo apartments for rent means doing your homework. Choose a neighborhood that suits your lifestyle, understand what shikikin, reikin, and agency fees will cost, prepare all required documents, and work with agents who can communicate clearly. If you budget carefully and ask the right questions, living comfortably and happily in Tokyo is totally possible.
Your apartments for rent in Tokyo will go much more smoothly if you know what to expect. So start early, ask lots of questions, and find a place that feels like home.
