A foreigner-friendly apartment is not only a room where the landlord accepts foreign tenants. It should also have a screening process, contract explanation, and communication route that a foreign resident can realistically complete.

Where to search

  • Foreign resident rental portals
  • Agents with multilingual staff
  • Company housing support routes
  • University or language-school housing partners
  • Serviced apartment and furnished apartment providers

Questions to ask before viewing

Ask whether foreigners are accepted, whether Japanese language is required, what documents are needed, whether overseas application is possible, and what the total initial cost will be.

Warning signs

If the agent cannot confirm foreigner acceptance before application, the property may waste your time. If the initial cost is unclear, ask for a written estimate before proceeding.