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...