How to rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese : Everything you need to know (2026)

Moving to Japan is an exciting experience, but trying to rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese can quickly become one of the most challenging parts of the process.

For many foreigners, the biggest concern is not only the price or availability of housing. It is the language barrier.

Questions often come up:

• Can I rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese?
• Do I need to understand a Japanese rental contract?
• Will landlords accept foreign tenants?
• How can I communicate with real estate agents?
• What documents do I need if I cannot read Japanese?
• Are there easier housing options for foreigners?

The short answer is: Yes, foreigners can rent apartments in Japan without speaking Japanese.

However, the traditional Japanese rental system was not designed with international residents in mind. Many steps, documents, and communication processes are still mainly conducted in Japanese.

Without preparation, foreigners often face unnecessary difficulties:

• unclear rental conditions;
• complicated contracts;
• difficulty communicating with agencies;
• rejection from landlords;
• unexpected fees;
• delays before moving in.

The good news is that understanding the process changes everything.

This guide explains how foreigners can successfully rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese, what challenges to expect, and how to make the process easier.

Why is it difficult to rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese?

1. In many countries, renting an apartment is relatively simple:

1. Find a listing.
2. Contact the landlord.
3. Sign a contract.
4. Move in.

In Japan, the process often involves more steps:

1. Search for a property.
2. Contact a real estate agency.
3. Submit an application.
4. Pass a screening process.
5. Prepare required documents.
6. Sign a Japanese rental contract.
7. Pay initial costs.
8. Receive keys.

For foreigners who do not speak Japanese, every step can create uncertainty.

2. Do you need to speak Japanese to rent an apartment in Japan?

A common misconception is: “I cannot rent an apartment in Japan because I do not speak Japanese.”

This is not true. Many foreigners successfully rent apartments without Japanese skills.

However, your options depend on:

• your Visa status;
• the length of your stay;
• your income situation;
• whether you have a Japanese guarantor;
• if the landlord accepts foreign tenants;
• whether the agency can communicate in English.

The difficulty is not the language itself. It is finding a rental process adapted to foreign residents.

3. The biggest challenges foreigners face when renting an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese

Challenge 1: Communicating with Japanese real estate agents

Traditional Japanese real estate agencies usually operate mainly in Japanese.

You may encounter:

• property descriptions only in Japanese;
• complicated explanations about contracts;
• limited English support;
• misunderstandings about conditions.

Even if an apartment looks perfect online, important details may be difficult to confirm.

Examples:

• Is the apartment available for foreigners?
• Is the contract length flexible?
• Are utilities included?
• Is furniture provided?
• Are there additional fees?

Challenge 2: Understanding Japanese Rental Contracts

Japanese rental contracts contain many specific terms.

Important concepts include:

• 敷金 (Shikikin) : A security deposit paid at the beginning of the contract.
• 礼金 (Reikin) : Key money, a traditional payment to the landlord that is usually non-refundable.
• 更新料 (Koshinryo) : Renewal fee, a fee paid when extending a rental contract.
• 保証会社 (Hoshou Gaisha) : Guarantee company, a company that guarantees your rent payment if required.

Understanding these terms is essential before signing anything.

A security deposit paid at the beginning of the contract.

Japanese landlords often conduct a screening process before approving tenants.

They may check:

• income;
• employment status;
• visa status;
• rental history;
• guarantor information.

Foreign applicants can sometimes face additional difficulties because:

• they have no Japanese rental history;
• their stay may be temporary;
• landlords may worry about communication issues;
• some landlords simply do not accept foreign tenants.

4. Documents foreigners usually need to rent an apartment in Japan

• Proof of identity : Passport
• Residence card (在留カード) : Required for foreigners living in Japan
• Visa information : Shows your legal status and length of stay
• Proof of income : employment contract, salary certificate, bank statements…
• Emergency contact or guarantor information. Some apartments require a Japanese guarantor or a guarantee company. For students, additional documents may include: university enrollment certificate, scholarship information, parental financial support documents.

5. How to find and rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese

Finding an apartment in Japan without Japanese ability is possible, but the method you use will significantly impact your experience.

Many foreigners make the mistake of searching exactly like Japanese residents do: using the same websites, contacting traditional agencies, and expecting the same process.

However, the Japanese rental market is often optimized for local residents who already understand:

• Japanese contracts;
• local procedures;
• required documents;
• communication expectations.

Foreigners usually need a more adapted approach.

Option 1: Use a Foreigner-Friendly Rental Platform

The easiest solution for many international residents is using platforms or services designed specifically for foreigners.

These services usually provide:

• English communication;
• translated information;
• clearer explanations of rental conditions;
• support with contracts;
• apartments that accept foreign residents.

This can save significant time because the biggest challenge is not finding apartments online.

The challenge is finding apartments where:

• foreigners are accepted;
• the conditions are understandable;
• the process can be completed without Japanese.

Option 2: Work With an English-Speaking Real Estate Agent

Some Japanese real estate agencies specialize in helping foreign residents.

They can assist with:

• property searches;
• communication with landlords;
• contract explanations;
• application procedures.

However, there are important things to consider.

Not every English-speaking agency has access to every property.

Many traditional agencies share listings through Japanese real estate databases, meaning the same apartment may appear through multiple agencies.

The important question is not only:

“Can this agent speak English?”

It is:

“Can this agent help me find a property that accepts my situation as a foreign resident?”

Option 3: Choose furnished apartment designed for international residents

For many foreigners, especially those staying temporarily in Japan, furnished apartments can remove many of the traditional rental barriers.

This is particularly useful for:

• students;
• working holiday participants;
• interns;
• exchange students;
• professionals relocating temporarily.

Compared with traditional unfurnished rentals, furnished apartments often provide:

• furniture included;
• simpler move-in process;
• fewer upfront purchases;
• shorter contracts;
• easier communication.

For someone arriving in Japan without Japanese ability, this can dramatically reduce stress.

Instead of managing:

• furniture shopping;
• utility setup;
• complicated negotiations;
• long-term commitments;

you can focus on settling into your new life.

6. Can you rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese before arriving?

One of the most common questions from foreigners is:

“Can I secure an apartment before I arrive in Japan?”

The answer depends on the type of rental.

Traditional Japanese apartments

Renting a normal long-term apartment before arriving can be difficult because landlords often require:

• Japanese documents;
• local contact information;
• residence registration;
• income verification;
• in-person procedures.

For someone still overseas, this creates additional challenges.

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Furnished apartments and international housing

Furnished apartments are often more suitable for overseas applicants.

Many foreigners choose this option because they can:

• search before arrival;
• confirm availability online;
• prepare documents remotely;
• move in immediately after landing.

This is especially valuable for people arriving with:

• student visas;
• working holiday visas;
• company transfers.

The ability to have housing secured before arriving removes one of the biggest uncertainties when moving abroad.

7. How to communicate during the rental process without Japanese

Even if you use an English-friendly service, understanding some basic rental vocabulary can make the process easier.

Here are essential terms:

Japanese term	Meaning
賃料 (Chinryo)	Monthly rent
管理費 (Kanrihi)	Management fee
初期費用 (Shoki Hiyo)	Initial costs
敷金 (Shikikin)	Deposit
礼金 (Reikin)	Key Money
保証会社 (Hoshou Gaisha)	Guarantee company
契約期間 (Keiyakukikan)	Contract period
更新料 (Koshinryo)	Renewal fee
家具付き (Kagu-tsuki)	Furnished
外国人可 (Gaikokujin-ka)	Foreigners accepted

Learning these basic terms helps you understand listings and avoid misunderstandings.

8. Common mistakes foreigners make before they rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese

Understanding common mistakes can save you time and money.

Mistake 1: Assuming every apartment accepts foreigners

Many apartments available online may not be suitable for foreign applicants.

Before applying, confirm:

• foreigners accepted;
• visa requirements;
• guarantor requirements;
• language support.

Mistake 2: Choosing the cheapest apartment without checking conditions

A low monthly rent does not always mean a better deal.

Important questions:

• Are utilities included?
• Is furniture provided?
• Are there renewal fees?
• Is the location convenient?
• Is the contract flexible?

The cheapest option can become expensive when adding hidden costs.

Mistake 3: Signing a contract you do not fully understand

Japanese rental contracts can contain many conditions that are unfamiliar to foreigners.

Never sign a contract without understanding:

• total initial costs;
• cancellation rules;
• contract duration;
• additional fees.

Mistake 4: Waiting until the last minute

Housing availability changes quickly in Japan.

Waiting until arrival can create unnecessary pressure, especially during busy periods:

• March–April (academic year);
• September (school starts);
• company relocation seasons.

Starting early gives you more options.

9. Is renting a furnished apartment better for foreigners who don’t speak Japanese?

For many international residents who want to rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese, the answer is yes.

A traditional unfurnished apartment can require managing:

• Japanese communication;
• furniture purchases;
• utility contracts;
• internet installation;
• complicated initial procedures.

A furnished apartment simplifies the move.

You can arrive with:

• luggage;
• personal belongings;
• your documents;

and immediately start living.

This is particularly valuable for people whose priority is experiencing Japan rather than spending weeks managing administrative tasks.

For short-term and medium-term stays, furnished housing is often the most practical solution.

10. How Enkostay helps foreigners rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese

Moving to Japan should be about discovering a new country, not struggling with an unfamiliar rental system.

For foreigners who do not speak Japanese, the biggest challenge is not simply finding an available apartment.

It is finding a place where the entire process feels accessible.

Enkostay focuses on making relocation easier by connecting international residents with housing options adapted to their needs, including:

• furnished apartments;
• clearer rental information;
• housing options suitable for foreigners;
• a smoother move-in experience.

Whether you are coming to Japan for studies, working holiday, or a longer stay, choosing the right housing solution before arrival can make your transition much easier.

FAQ: How to rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese

Can foreigners rent an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese?

Yes. Many foreigners successfully rent apartments in Japan without Japanese skills by using foreigner-friendly services, English-speaking agents, or international housing platforms.

Is it difficult to rent an apartment in Japan as a foreigner?

It can be more complicated because of language barriers, guarantor requirements, and landlord preferences. However, preparation and choosing the right rental option can make the process much easier.

Do I need a Japanese guarantor to rent an apartment?

Not always. Many apartments now accept guarantee companies instead of requiring a personal guarantor.

Can I rent an apartment in Japan before arriving?

Traditional apartments can be difficult to secure from overseas, but furnished and international housing options are often designed for remote applications.

What is the easiest way for foreigners to rent in Japan?

The easiest option depends on your situation, but furnished apartments and foreigner-focused rental services usually offer the simplest process.

Final thoughts

Renting an apartment in Japan without speaking Japanese is not impossible.

The key is understanding that the Japanese rental market works differently from many other countries.

The biggest challenges are not only the language itself, but also:

• unfamiliar procedures;
• contract complexity;
• landlord expectations;
• documentation requirements.

By choosing the right approach and preparing before arrival, foreigners can successfully find a comfortable home in Japan without needing advanced Japanese skills.

The right apartment is not just a place to sleep.

It is the foundation of your experience living in Japan.

Related guides

If you’re planning to move to Japan, these guides will help you prepare every step of your relocation:

• How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner (Complete Guide) : Learn the entire rental process, from searching for a property to signing your lease.
• How Much Does It Cost to Rent an Apartment in Japan? Understand monthly rent, upfront costs, hidden fees, and how to build a realistic housing budget.
• Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments in Japan : Compare both options to determine which best fits your budget, length of stay, and lifestyle.
• Can Foreigners Rent an Apartment in Japan Without a Guarantor? 
• How to Read a Japanese Apartment Listing 
• What Documents Do Foreigners Need to Rent an Apartment in Japan? 

These guides are designed to answer the most common questions foreigners have before moving to Japan and help you navigate the rental process with confidence.