Step 1 — Decide Your Area

Choose an area based on commute, lifestyle, and convenience.
You can find more detail information  from Article 1.

• Commute & access: proximity to your workplace or major train stations.
• Neighborhood vibe: business districts (Chiyoda, Minato), residential (Setagaya, Meguro), nightlife (Shibuya, Shinjuku).
• Daily needs: supermarkets, international stores, hospitals.

Step 2 — Decide Your Length of Stay

Typical categories:

• 1–3 months: short business trips or temporary housing.
• 3–12 months: medium-term work or study stays.
• 12+ months: consider if you’d prefer to switch to a long-term rental later.

Setting the duration early helps find the best pricing and contract type.
You can find more information from Article 2.

Step 3 — Search Listings (Recommended Sites)

Start searching after you fix area + duration. For curated lists and top portals, see our roundup:

Best Websites to Find Monthly Apartments in Tokyo (TokyoMonthlyLiving)

Search tips

• Check both English-friendly and Japanese-only sites — the latter often have better deals.
• Filter by: furnished, minimum stay, utilities included, Wi-Fi included.
• Watch availability closely — popular dates fill fast.

Step 4 — Prepare Documents

Most monthly contracts require minimal documents:

• Photo ID with face (passport or Residence Card) — sometimes agencies request two IDs depending on the contract.
• Credit card — many bookings require card payment for reservation and identity verification.

Unlike long-term rentals, you generally won’t need a guarantor, employer letter, or heavy upfront fees.

Step 5 — Confirm Costs & Pay

Before finalizing, confirm the total upfront and monthly costs:

• Monthly rent
• Utilities (electricity / water / gas) — sometimes included
• Internet / Wi-Fi
• Cleaning fee or one-time admin fee

Money-saving tips:

• • Some providers offer early-bird discounts (examples: 20–60% off for early bookings).
  • Japanese-only listings can sometimes offer lower prices — use a bilingual agent if you don’t read Japanese.

Monthly Apartment FAQ — Common Questions

Below is a complete FAQ for foreigners renting a monthly apartment in Tokyo, covering procedures, costs, facilities, and move-in guidelines.

1. Do I need a guarantor to rent a monthly apartment?

No. In most cases, monthly apartments do not require a guarantor or a Japanese bank account, making them much easier for foreigners compared to standard long-term rentals.

2. Can I reserve a room before arriving in Japan?

Yes. Most companies accept online reservations from overseas, and payment can be made by credit card or international payment services.

3. What documents are required?

• • • A passport
    • An emergency contact (can be overseas)

Some agencies may request arrival information, but documentation is minimal.

4. How do I receive the key when moving in?

Most monthly apartments use self check-in. After your payment is confirmed, you will receive:

• • • A digital door code, or
    • Instructions for picking up a physical key from a lockbox or office

You can usually check in anytime on the move-in date.

5. Can I send luggage to the apartment before I move in?

Yes, but only with prior approval. Contact the agency in advance. They will provide:

• • • Delivery address
    • Allowed delivery dates
    • Required labeling

Some buildings cannot accept parcels before check-in, so always confirm first.

6. Are utilities and internet included? How are they paid?

Yes. Utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi are included in the monthly rent. No additional payments are required.

7. Is the apartment furnished? Are bedding and linens provided?

Yes. Monthly apartments generally include:

• • • Bed
    • Table & chair
    • Kitchen appliances
    • Washing machine
    • Wi-Fi

Bedding may be included or available as an optional rental set for an additional fee. Check details before booking.

8. Can I cook inside the room?

Yes. Most units include a kitchen or kitchenette equipped with:

• • • Stove
    • Microwave
    • Refrigerator
    • Basic cooking tools (varies by property)

If you need specific items, confirm with the agency in advance.

9. How is room cleaning handled during my stay?

Basic cleaning is the tenant’s responsibility. Most rooms provide a vacuum, mop, and cleaning tools.

Optional paid services may include:

• • • Professional cleaning
    • Linen replacement

A final cleaning fee is typically included when you book the room.

10. How secure are monthly apartments?

Monthly apartments offer similar security to standard Japanese apartments, including:

• • • Auto-lock building entrances
    • Security cameras
    • Digital door locks
    • On-site management (in some buildings)

Japan is generally safe, and monthly apartments are considered secure for foreign residents.

11. Can I register my address with City Hall?

Some buildings allow address registration, but not all. If required for residency or visa purposes, confirm before reserving.

12. Are visitors or overnight guests allowed?

Policies vary by building. Most properties allow visitors, but overnight guests may require prior notification.

13. What is the difference between a monthly apartment and a long-term rental?

14. What happens if I need to cancel?

Cancellation policies differ by company:

• • • Before payment → usually free
    • After payment → cancellation fees may apply

Always check the terms before booking.

15. Are pets allowed?

Most monthly apartments prohibit pets. Some properties offer pet-friendly rooms — ask the agency if needed.