In this blog, I’ll share with you all the basic but important steps I had to go through when looking for a new place. Before we begin, let me share this important point: When you visit an agency (不動産屋 / Fudousan-ya), be sure to ask if they have English-speaking staff.

Share your budget (予算 / Yosan), preferred area(希望エリア / Kibou eria), and your top three must-haves (e.g, separate toilet, aircon, walking distance to the nearest station, etc). 

In my previous post, I shared the importance of having all required documents set and ready (How to Rent: Moving in Japan), so please make sure you check it out to get the first step check. Here I’ve listed the top items often required for leasing any property in Japan: 

• Special Insurance (火災保険 / Kasai hoken): You might need to get special renter’s insurance (usually around ¥20,000–¥30,000 for a year).
• Key Money (礼金 / Reikin): This is a one-time “gift” to the landlord; some places might require a deposit instead. So it’s good to clarify!
• Agency Fee (仲介手数料 / Chuukai tesuuryou): This covers the agency’s services.
• Deposit Fee(敷金 / Shikikin): Separate from key money—this is returned to you at the end of your lease, minus any damages.
• First and Last Month’s Rent(前家賃と退去時家賃 / Mae yachin to taikyoji yachin): Be ready to cover these upfront.
• Fire Insurance and Community Charges (火災保険・共益費 / Kasai hoken / Kyouekihi): Just a couple more things that might pop up.
• Lease Term (
  

  契約期間 / Keiyaku kikan): Most contracts last for two years, with options to renew. Make sure you’re clear on the details before signing!

3. Getting Ready: Documents and House Hunting

Before you head to a rental agency, it’s a good idea to get your documents sorted. Typically, all leasing agencies will need: 

– Your Passport (パスポート)

– Zairyu Card  (在留カード / Zairyu kaado – Residence Card

– Local Phone Number (日本の電話番号 / Nihon no denwa bangou – has to be in Japan)

– Hanko (判子 – a seal of your name)

– A Guarantor (連帯保証人 / Rentai hoshounin) : Having a Japanese friend can be super helpful, but some companies can assist as well! 

– Bank Card (銀行カード / Ginkou kaado) : A Visa or MasterCard debit/credit card is usually accepted. 

– Completed Forms (申込書 / Moushikomi sho) : Be ready to fill out a few application forms and provide any extra documents they might need. 

You’re almost set! Once you’ve gathered your documents and found an agency, it’s time to go house hunting! This part can be really fun: the agency will show you various places, and you’ll get to see them firsthand. Take your time—choose a place that feels like home, or wait for that perfect match. And remember, if you have questions, it’s okay to ask for help from a friend or a translator!

When you find your ideal spot, you’ll make an initial deposit (this covers the first month’s rent and any other fees), and then your monthly rent payments will typically be charged to your card. Before any payment, please make sure to go over the Leasing Agreement or the Rental Contract so you can get a vivid idea of what is expected from you (it’ll be in Japanese, so just use your Google translator or DeepL App).

Pro tip: look for places that include Wi-Fi (インターネット付き / Intaanetto tsuki) —it’s one less thing to think about as you settle in!

May you find the perfect place to call home in Japan!