Money
What do 'move-in costs' in Japan actually include?
For a private apartment in Japan, initial rental fees often total four to six months' rent. Ask for an itemised estimate before signing.
At ¥70,000 monthly rent, a four-to-six-month estimate is ¥280,000–¥420,000. Flights, furniture and initial phone and transport costs are separate. Share houses and dormitories often have lower upfront fees, but check the full contract. Common charges include:
- A deposit, shikikin (敷金), part of which may be returned after deductions
- Key money, reikin (礼金), a non-refundable payment to the landlord
- Agency and guarantor-company fees
- Fire insurance, lock replacement and the first rent payment
What may vary
Fees vary by landlord, agency and region, so these are typical market ranges, not quotes. UR housing asks only a two-month deposit plus prorated rent and common-area fee (no key money, agency fee, renewal fee or guarantor; campaigns sometimes lower the deposit), and some foreigner-friendly landlords advertise no deposit or key money. Read the explanation of important matters (重要事項説明) before paying anything.
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