Renting in Japan as a foreigner is manageable once you know the basics: neighborhoods are priced largely by train-station access, units tend to be compact, and most apartments are unfurnished. Upfront costs are higher than many countries—often 3–5 months’ rent—covering deposit (shikikin), sometimes key money (reikin), an agent fee, a guarantor-company fee, and the first month. Landlords usually require a guarantor and standard documents (ID/residence card, income proof), and building rules are taken seriously. A bilingual agent can smooth the process, matching your lifestyle and commute needs to a realistic budget.
In this edition, we feature an interview conducted by Isaac Correa from Amazing Realty with his boss, Edo Wataru, about the real estate world. The result was an honest, practical conversation full of useful information that we’d like to share with you today.
Why is the first month of rent so expensive?
In many cases, you have to pay a security deposit (“敷金 – shikikin”) and a non-refundable gratuity payment to the landlord (“礼金 – reikin”). On top of that, there’s the real estate agent’s commission (“不動産 – fudōsan”), which is usually equivalent to one month’s rent, plus the rent for the current month and sometimes even the following one in advance. It’s also common to be charged additional fees such as fire insurance (“火災保険 – kasai hoken”), lock change fee (“鍵交換費用 – kagi kōkan hiyō”), and if you don’t have a Japanese guarantor (“連帯保証人 – rentai hoshōnin”), you’ll need to hire a guarantee company (“保証会社 – hoshō gaisha”). Why are some places listed with no shikikin or reikin?
Why are some places listed with no shikikin or reikin?
Apartments with no shikikin or reikin —「敷金（しききん）・礼金（れいきん）なし」— are becoming increasingly popular, especially among students and foreigners. Many landlords are adapting to this trend and offering more accessible options from the start. However, it’s important to carefully read the contract, as there may be other costs involved. Always confirm the details with the real estate agency before signing.
Can I share the rent with someone else?
Yes, but it depends on the landlord. Some properties only allow cohabitation between family members or couples. In other cases, it’s completely prohibited. It also requires trust — if one person leaves or stops paying, the other is fully responsible. Issues related to cleanliness, living habits, or space sharing may also arise. It’s important to notify from the beginning if two people will be living there; otherwise, there could be penalties.
What do terms like 1LDK mean?
Términos como 1R, 1K, 1DK y 1LDK pueden parecer similares, pero la diferencia clave está en el tamaño del área de cocina–comedor, medido en tatamis (aprox. 1,62 m² cada uno):
1R (Studio)
The living room and kitchen are in one open space, with no separation.
→ Typical size: approx. 15–25 m²
1K
One main room with a separate kitchen, usually compact (under 4.5 tatami mats).
→ Typical size: approx. 15–25 m²
1DK
One bedroom plus a dining–kitchen area measuring 4.5–8 tatamis.
→ Typical size: approx. 25–35 m²
1LDK
One bedroom plus a Living–Dining–Kitchen area larger than 8 tatamis (>13 m²).
→ Typical size: approx. 30–50 m²
2LDK
Two bedrooms plus an LDK space, ideal for couples or small families.
→ Typical size: approx. 50–70 m²
3LDK (or more)
Three or more bedrooms plus an LDK space. Usually 70 m² or more, suitable for families.
→ Typical size: approx. 70–100+ m²
What if I have problems, want to move out, or my contract ends?
Contracts are usually for 1 or 2 years, but it’s possible to leave earlier. In such cases, you must give at least one month’s notice to the property management company (“管理会社 – kanri gaisha”). Depending on the contract, there may be penalties if you leave within the first year, so it’s crucial to check everything carefully from the start. Also, be mindful of move-out dates. For example, if your contract ends on August 31, but you stay until September 1, even just for one extra day, you’ll be charged for the entire month.
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