1. Key Steps in the Japanese Renting Process
- Understand Apartment Types & LayoutsCommon layout labels include 1R, 1K, 1DK, 1LDK, 2LDK, etc. These indicate bedroom count and whether there’s a separate kitchen/dining/living area. In Tokyo, many units are compact (≈18-25 m² for 1K).
- Set PrioritiesDecide on budget, preferred neighborhoods, commute time, building age and amenities (elevator, security, etc.), pet policies, furnished vs unfurnished. Newer buildings typically more expensive.
- Estimate Upfront CostsExpect paying several months’ rent worth of costs before move-in. Typical fees include: security deposit, key money, agent-broker fee, guarantor or guarantor company fee, first month’s rent, insurance, lock change or cleaning fees.
- Searching & Viewing PropertiesUse online portals (SUUMO, HOME’S, GaijinPot, E-Housing etc.) or real estate agents (especially those serving foreigners) to find suitable listings. Tours typically involve multiple viewings.
- Submit Application & Contract SigningRequired documents often include: passport, residence card / visa, proof of income or employment, bank account, possibly Japanese stamp (inkan), emergency contact. A guarantor or guarantor company might be needed.
- Move-In & Utilities SetupAfter contract signing, you’ll get keys, inspect current property condition, set up utilities (electricity, gas, water), internet/phone service, register your address at local ward or city office. Furniture/appliances may or may not be included.
- Resident Etiquette & Ongoing Responsibilities
- Follow building and local rules (noise, garbage disposal, common areas)
- Clearly understand what belongs to landlord vs tenant (repairs, cleaning, changes)
- Do not sublease without permission, report damages or lost keys properly, etc.
2. How Dogpay Helps During the Renting Journey
| Scenario | Payment / Financial Pain Points | Dogpay’s Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Move-In Payments (Deposit / Key Money / Agent Fees etc.) | Large sums; international transfers can carry high FX fees and delays; currency fluctuations cause cost uncertainty | Dogpay enables faster cross-border payments with clear exchange rates and fees; you can lock in rates; reduce hidden costs; plan payments ahead |
| Document, Translation, Guarantor Fees | Translation, notarization, guarantor contract fees can be small but cumulative; may require foreign vendors or foreign payment methods | Dogpay helps consolidate these transactions; keeps receipts and records; helps in proof-submission and clarity of costs |
| Utilities, Furniture, Appliances Purchases | These sometimes need extra budget; payments may require local purchases; foreign cards or remittances might incur extra fees | Dogpay gives you tools to track and manage these expenses; facilitates clean and efficient payments; reduces FX losses or bank charges |
| Renewal / Move-Out Costs | Renewal fees, cleaning or repair deductions, lock change, damage fees—often deducted from deposit; disputes can occur if there’s no clear payment record | Dogpay provides transparent payment history; helps document payments and charges; useful evidence for resolving disputes |
3. Key Takeaways
- Renting in Japan requires more upfront cash than many people expect; besides monthly rent, factor in deposit, key money, agent fees, guarantor etc.
- Be clear on what you absolutely need versus what you can compromise, especially in high-cost cities like Tokyo.
- Use real-estate agents familiar with foreign tenants to help with language and process.
- Use Dogpay or similar cross-border payment tools to smooth large payments, reduce hidden costs, get reliable records, and de-risk payment delays.
