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How to Rent a Monthly Apartment in Tokyo: A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding a place to live in Tokyo can feel overwhelming, especially for foreigners who are new to Japan. Between the language barrier, unique rental system, and countless neighborhoods, it’s easy to get lost. But if you are planning a stay of one month or longer, renting a monthly apartment in Tokyo can be the perfect solution.

This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of renting a monthly apartment in Tokyo, covering everything from choosing the right area to signing the contract. Whether you’re a student, professional, or long-term traveler, this will help you settle in smoothly.

Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Area

Tokyo is massive, and each neighborhood offers a different vibe and lifestyle. Before you even look at apartments, decide what matters most to you—commute time, nightlife, cultural attractions, or peace and quiet.

In Tokyo’s 23 wards, real estate listings often distinguish between the central “Three Wards” — Chiyoda, Chuo, and Minato — and the surrounding “sub-centers” such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Bunkyo. This helps simplify Tokyo’s complex geography for newcomers.

This division reflects not only administrative boundaries but also practical living considerations—location, transit access, and urban functions. For foreigners seeking monthly rentals, choosing between the “central core” and these “sub-center” areas like Bunkyo can be a helpful first step.

_{Reference: https://www.fun-japan.jp/en/articles/12815}

Here’s a quick guide to Tokyo’s popular rental areas:

• Shinjuku & Shibuya: Vibrant, central, and convenient areas filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Perfect for those who want to live in the heart of the city, though rent tends to be higher.
  • Ikebukuro & Ueno: Affordable and student-friendly. Ueno offers traditional culture and access to museums, while Ikebukuro is a hub for entertainment and shopping.
  • Shinagawa: Great for business professionals with easy access to airports and Shinkansen lines. Clean, quiet, and well-connected to central Tokyo.
  • Naka-Meguro & Ebisu: Trendy and stylish areas popular with young professionals. You’ll find cozy cafés, boutique shops, and beautiful riverside walks.
  • Bunkyo: A calm, intellectual area home to the University of Tokyo and several

👉 Related guide: Step 2: Understanding Tokyo Apartment Costs

Step 2: Understand the Costs

Monthly apartments in Tokyo 23 wards are more flexible than traditional long-term rentals. They usually include furniture, utilities, and internet, which makes them much easier for foreigners.

Typical costs include:

• Rent: ¥130,000–¥380,000 for a studio (1R or 1K) in central Tokyo.
  • Deposit/cleaning fee: ¥20,000–¥50,000 (often non-refundable).
  • Insurance fee: ¥800/month~ (depends on property).
  • Utilities & Wi-Fi & Furniture: usually included in monthly rent.
    *Area : Chiyoda/Chuo/Shinjuku/Bunkyo/Meguro/Shibuya/Toshima
    *Space : more than 20 square meters
    *Built : within 15 years
    *Others : Foreigner acceptable, no guarantor required 

Recent Trends in Tokyo Rental Prices:

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, accommodation costs across Tokyo’s 23 wards have risen sharply—many areas have nearly doubled in price. Several factors have contributed to this trend:

• Growing inbound tourism and international relocation
• Depreciation of the Japanese yen
• Widespread adoption of dynamic pricing systems
• Increased demand ahead of major events such as the Osaka Expo

Compared to hotels or Airbnb, monthly apartments often provide better overall value for those staying longer than a week. They combine affordability with the comfort and privacy of a real home—making them an ideal choice for mid- to long-term stays in Tokyo.

👉 Related article: Managing Your Finances in Tokyo

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

One big advantage of monthly rentals is that you don’t need a Japanese guarantor (which is usually required for long-term leases). The process is simpler and foreigner-friendly.

• • • Passport (copy)
    • Credit card (for payment)
      VISA/MASTER/JCB/AMEX/DINERS
    • Emergency contact (in some cases)

Step 4: Contact a Foreigner-Friendly Agency

Finding the right agency makes the process stress-free. Some companies specialize in foreign residents and offer English-language support.

Comparison — Monthly Housing Providers for Foreigners (Tokyo)

(1) Oakhouse

Share houses, furnished private rooms; short-term stays from 1 month. Track record accepting foreigners. 

Pros

• Multilingual support (English, Chinese, Korean, French, etc.).
• Short-term contracts (from 1 month).
• No guarantor required in some properties — lowers initial cost.
• International environment — social opportunities.

Cons

• Mostly share-house style (shared kitchen/bath) — less privacy.
• Quality varies by property; some lower-grade units.
• Wide rent range; cheaper options may compromise comfort.

(2) Sakura House

Foreigner-focused furnished share houses & apartments across Tokyo.

Pros

• Targeted at foreigners — English enquiries & 1-month plans.
• Many central Tokyo listings; close to stations.
• Furnished & internet-ready units.

Cons

• Private units in central areas can be pricey.
• Some reviews mention older buildings or facility issues.
• Limited “local immersion” options for long-term residents.

(3) MetroResidences

Serviced-apartment style; 1 month+ stays in high-end Tokyo areas.

Pros

• Rent includes furniture, internet, utilities (caps may apply).
• Flexible 1-month+ contracts for business or expats.
• High-grade properties (Roppongi, Ebisu, Azabu).

Cons

• Higher rent due to premium service & location.
• Some report slow support or complex booking process.
• Different contract terms (cleaning fees, minimum nights, etc.).

(4) Hikari Homes

Real estate & rental support for foreigners and transferees. Offers furnished short- and long-term stays.

Pros

• English support and full move-in assistance (bank, utilities, internet setup).
• Wide selection including furnished & short-term options.

Cons

• Higher fees for foreigner-oriented services.
• Limited rent negotiation.
• Confirm monthly-stay contract terms before booking.

👉 Next: Understanding Tokyo Apartment Costs

Step 5: Sign the Contract and Move In

Once you’ve chosen an apartment, the final steps are straightforward: confirm terms, sign, pay, and move in. Most apartments come fully furnished with basic appliances and bedding.

Conclusion

Renting a monthly apartment in Tokyo doesn’t have to be difficult. By choosing the right area, preparing the necessary documents, and working with a foreigner-friendly agency, you can find a comfortable place to call home—even if it’s just for a few months.

👉 Continue reading: Living Comfortably in Tokyo

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Why contact us?

Monthly apartments are usually booked without viewing, and early　reservations can save you up to 60%.
With local support, you’ll get better options, better prices, and a smoother start in Tokyo.

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