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Nihongo Online School > Tips for More Effective Studying > How I Found an Apartment in Japan as an International Student (Step-by-Step Story)
How I Found an Apartment in Japan as an International Student (Step-by-Step Story)
2025/07/08
Director: Kotaro Muramoto
Principal of Nihongo Online School
In September 2019, he founded "Nihongo Online School". Since then, has been teaching Japanese online lessons, with a total of over 1,000 students.
He has designed an individualized curriculum based on student’s needs and study goal. And is conscious of making the classes speech-centered in order to improve students’ speaking skills.
The school asks students to submit homework assignments worth 2 hours per lesson to improve faster. By supporting students with these features, students are able to efficiently improve Japanese language skills.
When I first landed in Tokyo with a suitcase, a pocketful of yen, and the dream of mastering Japanese, I had no idea just how hard it would be to find a place to live. This blog post is a mix of personal experience and everything I wish I had known before moving to Japan as an international student. Let’s dive into the full guide — from types of housing to hidden fees and paperwork tips.
Contents
1. Choosing Where to Live: Location Matters
If you’re studying at a Japanese language school, your choice of neighborhood will shape your daily life. Consider the following popular areas in Tokyo:
- Takadanobaba (Shinjuku): Student-friendly, full of affordable eats.
- Ikebukuro (Toshima): Great access and tons of shops.
- Kichijoji (Musashino): Trendy and peaceful, near Inokashira Park.
- Nakano, Koenji, Shimokitazawa: Budget-friendly, artistic, and vibrant.
📍 Tip: Choose a place less than 30 minutes from your school, and check the train line for overcrowding during rush hours!
2. Apartment Types for Students
- Private bedroom, shared kitchen and bathroom
- No key money or guarantor required
- Rent: ¥40,000–¥80,000/month
Student Dormitories
- Managed by schools or housing companies
- Basic facilities, sometimes with curfews
- Rent: ¥30,000–¥70,000/month
Monthly Apartments (マンスリーマンション)
- Fully furnished, short-term stay
- High rent, but low move-in fees
- Rent: ¥80,000–¥120,000/month
Standard Apartments (賃貸アパート)
- Long-term contract, often unfurnished
- Upfront fees and documentation required
- Rent: ¥50,000–¥90,000/month + fees
3. The Real Cost of Moving In
Let’s say you find a place for ¥60,000/month. Here’s what your initial bill might look like:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| First Month’s Rent | ¥60,000 |
| Security Deposit (敷金) | ¥60,000 |
| Key Money (礼金) | ¥60,000 |
| Agency Fee | ¥60,000 |
| Guarantor Company Fee | ¥30,000–¥60,000 |
| Fire Insurance | ¥10,000–¥20,000 |
| Total | ¥280,000+ |
4. Documents and the Application Process
Documents You’ll Need:
- Passport + Residence Card (在留カード)
- Certificate of Enrollment (在学証明書)
- Japanese bank account or proof of funds
- Emergency contact in Japan
- Guarantor or guarantor company contract
Steps to Apply:
- Find a property online or visit a real estate agency (不動産屋)
- Schedule a viewing
- Submit your application and documents
- Pass guarantor screening
- Pay initial fees
- Move in!
5. Tips for International Students
- Use English-friendly platforms: Real Estate Japan, GaijinPot, Tokyo Room Finder
- Check for appliances: Some places don’t include lights or fridge
- Take move-in photos: To avoid surprise “cleaning” charges
- Be ready for small spaces: Use vertical storage and foldable furniture
6. My Personal Story: From Lost to Settled
After days of failed applications, I finally walked into a tiny real estate office near my school. The agent didn’t speak English. I didn’t speak much Japanese. But somehow, we got it done (thanks to Chat GPT sensei). I ended up in a modest 1K apartment for ¥58,000/month in Setagaya — no key money, but with a guarantor fee. I slept on a futon on the floor the first night, with no fridge, and woke up at 5AM with the sunlight pouring in. But it was my space. And I made it home.
7. Final Advice
Finding an apartment in Japan is hard work — especially as a student. But don’t give up! Start with a share house if you’re unsure, or lean on your school for support. Understand the fees, prepare the documents, and stay flexible. In the end, there’s nothing like having your own quiet space to study, grow, and just breathe.
Have Questions About Moving to Japan?
Leave a comment or reach out to the Nihongo Online School team! We’re happy to help you navigate life as an international student in Japan.