Deciding where to live in Tokyo depends largely on how long you plan to stay. Below we explain the practical differences between short-term, mid-term, and long-term stays — and why monthly apartments are usually the smartest choice for stays of less than two years.

Overview: Short-, Mid-, and Long-Term Stays

For simplicity we use three categories:

• Short-term: 1 month — 12 months
• Mid-term: 1 — 2 years
• Long-term: 2+ years

Short-Term Stays (1–12 months)

Recommended option: Monthly / serviced apartments.

Benefits

• ✅ Fully furnished — bed, kitchenware, appliances and Wi-Fi included.
• ✅ Utilities often bundled — less paperwork (no need to set up electricity/gas yourself).
• ✅ No Japanese guarantor required and no long-term commitment.
• ✅ Move-in is fast — ideal for students, interns, or professionals on short assignments.

Considerations

• ❌ Monthly cost tends to be higher than a multi-year fixed lease.

Mid-Term Stays (1–2 years)

Even for stays under two years, monthly apartments often remain the best balance of flexibility and cost.

Why monthly apartments work well here

• Traditional Japanese rental contracts are commonly 2-year minimums and include cancellation penalties.
• Long-term moves usually require initial fees — commonly 2–4 months’ worth of rent for deposit, key money, agent fee, and guarantor charges.
• Monthly maintenance, repair and management fees can push a long-term rental’s total monthly cost close to a serviced apartment’s price — but with far less flexibility.
• Monthly apartments are also useful as a temporary home while you search for a long-term rental.

Long-Term Stays (2+ years)

If you plan to stay more than two years, a traditional long-term lease can become more cost-effective: lower base rent per month will typically offset the upfront costs over time.

What to expect for long-term leases

• Japanese ID documents and often a guarantor (or a guarantor company) are required.
• Upfront costs (2–4 months) are normal.
• Less flexibility to end the contract early without penalties.

Why Finding a Long-Term Rental Has Gotten Harder

Recently it has become more difficult to secure standard rental units in central Tokyo because of:

• Population concentration in central wards
• Increased number of foreign residents, international students, and inbound workers
• Tight vacancy rates and higher competition

As a result, monthly apartments are increasingly valuable — they let you lock a safe, comfortable base quickly without being forced into a two-year commitment.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Quick rule:

• Staying less than 2 years → Choose a monthly apartment for flexibility and lower upfront cost.
• Staying 2 years or more → Consider a long-term lease if you can accept paperwork and upfront fees.

Practical Tips

1. Use a monthly apartment initially if you’re new to Tokyo — it gives you time to explore neighborhoods and workplaces.
2. Compare the total monthly cost (rent + management + utilities) before signing a 2-year lease.
3. If you may leave early, confirm the early-termination penalty on any long-term lease.

Need help choosing a monthly apartment?

We specialize in helping foreigners find short- and mid-term monthly apartments across Tokyo. Contact us for a personalized recommendation — including neighborhood fits, commute estimates, and cost comparisons.