Moving to Japan is an exciting adventure.

But for many foreigners, one of the biggest challenges is finding a place to live.

Japan’s housing system can feel confusing if you’re new. Many apartments require:

• Key money (礼金)
• Deposit (敷金)
• Agency fees
• A Japanese guarantor

This can make moving into an apartment expensive and complicated, especially for expats, students, and newcomers.

The good news is that there are housing options in Japan specifically designed to make renting easier for foreigners.

In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best apartment options for expats living in Japan, including affordable rentals, furnished apartments, and international-friendly housing services.

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1. Leopalace21 – Best Furnished Apartments

Leopalace21 is one of the most popular housing options for newcomers to Japan.

They manage around 570,000 apartments across Japan, making them one of the largest rental providers in the country.

Their apartments are designed to make moving to Japan simple and stress-free.

Why expats choose Leopalace21

• Most apartments are fully furnished
• Wi-Fi available immediately
• No agency fee
• Flexible stay options from 30 days
• Online apartment search and contracts

For people arriving in Japan with little time to prepare, Leopalace21 offers a move-in-ready solution.

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2. Village House – Cheapest Apartments in Japan

If your priority is affordable rent, Village House is one of the best options available.

Village House manages more than 100,000 apartments across Japan and focuses on providing low-cost housing with minimal upfront fees.

Key advantages

• No deposit
• No key money
• No agency fees
• No renewal fees
• Rent starting from around ¥20,000 per month

For students, expats, or anyone trying to reduce living costs in Japan, Village House can be an excellent choice.

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3. Oakhouse – Best Share Houses in Japan

Oakhouse is well known among foreigners in Japan.

Instead of traditional apartments, they offer share houses and social residences, where residents can meet people from different countries.

This makes Oakhouse a popular option for:

• international students
• digital nomads
• people new to Japan who want to make friends

Why people choose Oakhouse

• international community
• furnished rooms
• flexible contracts
• social events and networking

For people who want both housing and a community, Oakhouse can be a great choice.

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4. UR Housing – Government Apartments in Japan

UR Housing is a government-supported housing system that offers stable and affordable apartments across Japan.

One of its biggest advantages is that no key money is required.

However, some UR apartments require proof of income, which may make the process slightly more difficult for some newcomers.

Still, UR is widely considered one of the most reliable rental options in Japan.

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How to Choose the Best Apartment in Japan

When choosing housing in Japan, it’s important to consider your priorities.

Choose Leopalace21 if you want

• furnished apartments
• fast move-in
• flexible short-term stays

Choose Village House if you want

• the lowest rent possible
• minimal upfront costs

Choose Oakhouse or share houses if you want

• social living
• an international community

Each option has its own advantages depending on your situation.

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Tips for Expats Renting in Japan

Here are a few helpful tips if you are searching for housing in Japan.

Start your search early

Good apartments in major cities like Tokyo or Osaka can get rented quickly.

Prepare documents

You may need:

• passport
• residence card
• proof of income or school enrollment

Consider furnished apartments first

If you are new to Japan, furnished apartments like Leopalace21 can save you a lot of time and money.

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Final Thoughts

Finding an apartment in Japan doesn’t have to be difficult.

Today there are many services designed to help expats, students, and newcomers find housing quickly and easily.

Whether you’re looking for:

• a furnished apartment
• affordable rent
• a social share house

there are great options available.

If you are starting your housing search in Japan, the following options are worth checking out:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners rent apartments in Japan?

Yes. Many housing companies now provide apartments specifically designed for foreigners and expats.

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What is the easiest housing option for foreigners in Japan?

Furnished apartments and share houses are usually the easiest options because they require less paperwork and lower upfront costs.

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How much does an apartment cost in Japan?

Rental prices vary by location, but affordable options can start from around ¥20,000 to ¥50,000 per month depending on the provider and region.

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