Renting an apartment in Japan can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re dealing with a new language, unfamiliar customs, and a mountain of upfront costs. This guide covers everything you need to know about finding and renting an apartment in Hiroshima in 2026.
1. Can Foreigners Rent Apartments in Japan?
Yes. There are no laws prohibiting foreigners from renting in Japan. However, some landlords and management companies impose additional requirements, such as proof of stable income, a valid residence status, an emergency contact person in Japan, and passing a guarantor company screening.
Navigating the process is significantly easier if your Japanese is functional, but a growing number of real estate agencies in Hiroshima now offer multilingual support. Finding an agency experienced in working with foreigners can save you considerable time and frustration.
2. Upfront Costs Explained
Initial move-in costs in Japan are notoriously high. As a general rule, expect to pay four to six times your monthly rent upfront. Here’s a breakdown of each item:
| Fee | Typical Amount | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| First Month’s Rent | 1 month’s rent | Paid in advance when you sign the contract. |
| Security Deposit (Shikikin) | 1–2 months’ rent | Held by the landlord to cover unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. Partially refundable after deductions for cleaning and repairs. |
| Key Money (Reikin) | 1–2 months’ rent | A non-refundable “gift” to the landlord—a uniquely Japanese custom. In Hiroshima, many properties do not require key money. |
| Agency Fee | 1 month’s rent (+ tax) | The real estate agent’s commission for handling the transaction. |
| Guarantor Company Fee | 50–100% of monthly rent | Required for nearly all foreign renters who cannot provide a Japanese co-signer. |
| Fire Insurance | Around ¥20,000 (2-year policy) | Mandatory at almost all properties. |
| Lock Replacement Fee | ¥10,000–¥20,000 | Charged at some properties when a new tenant moves in. |
Example: For an apartment with ¥60,000 monthly rent, your total upfront costs will likely range from ¥240,000 to ¥360,000.
Some properties advertise zero key money, zero deposit, and zero agency fee, which can significantly lower initial costs. However, other basic fees—such as guarantor company charges and fire insurance—will still apply.
3. The Guarantor Problem—and How to Solve It
This is the single biggest hurdle for foreign renters in Japan. A traditional lease requires a rentai hoshōnin (joint guarantor)—someone who will assume legal responsibility for your rent if you fail to pay. For most foreigners, finding a Japanese national willing and financially qualified to serve as guarantor is nearly impossible.
The solution: a guarantor company.
Almost all foreigner-friendly rentals now accept—or require—a guarantor company instead of an individual guarantor. The guarantor company acts as your institutional co-signer for a fee.
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Initial guarantee fee: 50–100% of one month’s rent (one-time payment)
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Some companies also charge an annual renewal fee (approximately 10–20% of monthly rent)
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Screening typically requires: your Residence Card, passport, proof of income, or Certificate of Enrollment
Several guarantor companies provide multilingual support, including in English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Nepali, making the process far more accessible than it used to be.
4. Documents You’ll Need
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Residence Card (Zairyū Kādo) — This is the single most important document in your rental application
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Passport
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Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax withholding statement) or Certificate of Enrollment (for students)
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Emergency contact person in Japan — a friend, colleague, or university staff member (they do not need to be a guarantor, only a point of contact)
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Japanese phone number — the agent or guarantor company will usually call to verify
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Bank account details — for setting up automatic rent withdrawal
5. The Rental Process (Step by Step)
Step 1 — Set your budget and criteria: Your total monthly rent (including maintenance fees) should ideally stay within one-third of your monthly income.
Step 2 — Find an agent and view properties: Look for agencies with experience serving foreign clients, or filter for “foreigner-friendly” listings on platforms like SUUMO and HOME’S.
Step 3 — Submit an application: Once you’ve found a property you like, your agent will submit a rental application on your behalf.
Step 4 — Tenant screening: The guarantor company will review your documents and may call you to verify your information. Screening typically takes three to seven days.
Step 5 — Sign the lease: Review all terms carefully before signing. If you don’t fully understand a clause, ask for clarification—don’t simply nod along.
Step 6 — Pay upfront costs: Transfer all move-in fees as specified in the contract.
Step 7 — Set up utilities: Arrange for electricity, gas, and water to be connected, typically on the day before or the day of your move.
Step 8 — Register your address: Within 14 days of moving, visit your local ward office (kuyakusho) to update your registered address on your Residence Card.
Step 9 — Move in and settle into your new life.
6. Recommended Neighborhoods in Hiroshima
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Naka Ward (中区) — Hiroshima’s city center. Close to Hiroshima Station, shopping districts, and nightlife. Most convenient, but rents are higher.
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Higashi Ward (東区) — Good transport links, moderate rents, and home to large shopping malls.
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Nishi Ward (西区) — Mostly residential, quiet environment, well-suited for families.
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Asaminami Ward (安佐南区) — Farther from the city center but significantly cheaper. Offers more space and access to nature.
7. Foreigner-Friendly Housing Options
University dormitories: Hiroshima University, Hiroshima City University, and other institutions offer international student housing. Rents are affordable, guarantors are not required, and the application process is straightforward—making dorms the most hassle-free choice for newly arrived students.
Share houses: Monthly rent is low, rooms come furnished, and shared common areas make it easy to meet other residents—both Japanese and foreign. A great transitional option when you first arrive.
UR Rental Housing: Public rental housing managed by the Urban Renaissance Agency, a government-affiliated organization. Most UR properties require no key money, no agency fee, and no guarantor, making them exceptionally foreigner-friendly. You will need to meet minimum income requirements and hold a valid residence status. Note that the UR website and application process are primarily in Japanese, so having someone assist you is recommended.
8. Recommended Platforms
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SUUMO (suumo.jp) — Japan’s largest rental listing platform. Use keyword filters to search for “foreigner-friendly” (外国人可) properties.
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HOME’S (homes.co.jp) — Extensive listings with detailed search filters, including a “foreigners OK” option.
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Mooovin (mooovin.jp) — A rental portal built specifically for foreigners. Every listing on the platform is foreigner-friendly, and multilingual staff provide support throughout the entire process—from property search to contract signing. The platform also offers a foreign guarantor service and allows online contract signing, so you don’t need a personal seal (hanko).
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or real estate advice. Rental market conditions, fees, and legal requirements may change. Always verify current terms directly with a licensed real estate agency before signing any contract.
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