If you are planning to move to Japan, you may be surprised that renting an apartment involves many additional costs beyond the monthly rent.
These fees are often called “hidden costs”, and they can make the initial move-in cost much higher than expected.
In this guide, we explain the hidden costs of renting an apartment in Japan so you can better prepare your budget.
Exchange Rate Reference
For international readers:
1 USD ≈ 150 JPY
Why Renting in Japan Is Expensive at First
In many countries, renting an apartment only requires:
- First month’s rent
- Security deposit
However, in Japan you may need to pay 4–6 months of rent upfront when moving into a new apartment.
These additional costs are unique to the Japanese rental system.
Key Hidden Costs When Renting in Japan
1. Key Money (礼金)
Key money is a non-refundable payment to the landlord.
Typical cost:
¥50,000 – ¥150,000 ($330 – $1,000)
In many countries this fee does not exist, which is why many foreigners are surprised by it.
2. Security Deposit (敷金)
This works similarly to deposits in other countries.
Typical cost:
1–2 months of rent
Example:
If rent is ¥70,000
Deposit may be:
¥70,000 – ¥140,000
The landlord may deduct cleaning fees when you move out.
3. Agency Fee (仲介手数料)
If you use a real estate agent, you usually pay an agency fee.
Typical cost:
1 month of rent (+ tax)
Example:
Rent = ¥70,000
Agency fee:
¥70,000 – ¥77,000
4. Guarantor Company Fee (保証会社)
Many landlords require tenants to use a guarantor company.
Typical cost:
¥20,000 – ¥50,000 ($130 – $330)
Some companies also charge annual renewal fees.
5. Cleaning Fee (クリーニング費用)
Many apartments require a mandatory cleaning fee when you move in.
Typical cost:
¥20,000 – ¥60,000 ($130 – $400)
This fee is usually non-refundable.
6. Fire Insurance
Most rental contracts require fire insurance.
Typical cost:
¥15,000 – ¥25,000 for 2 years ($100 – $170)
Example: Total Move-In Cost
Example apartment:
Monthly rent:
¥70,000 ($470)
Initial move-in cost may be:
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| First month rent | ¥70,000 |
| Deposit | ¥70,000 |
| Key money | ¥70,000 |
| Agency fee | ¥77,000 |
| Guarantor fee | ¥30,000 |
| Cleaning fee | ¥30,000 |
Total:
¥347,000 ($2,300)
This equals about 5 months of rent.
How to Reduce These Costs
Some apartments offer “No Key Money” (礼金なし).
You can also find:
- No agency fee apartments
- No guarantor fee apartments
- Furnished apartments for foreigners
These options can reduce your initial moving cost significantly.
Related Guides
Average Rent in Japan
Average Rent in Tokyo
Conclusion
Renting an apartment in Japan can involve many hidden costs.
Typical move-in costs are often 4–6 months of rent, which surprises many foreigners.
Understanding these fees in advance can help you prepare financially and avoid unexpected expenses.