In Japan, rental contracts are usually either Fixed-term (定期借家契約) for a 1 year or less, or Standard/Ordinary (普通借家契約) for 1 year or more. In addition, Furnished Monthly Apartments provide an easy option for people on a digital nomad visa which is limited to a maximum of 6 months.
Fixed-term contracts have a set duration with a defined end date, and often aren’t renewable. They are often cheaper to rent, as the tenant doesn’t have the right to automatically extend the contract. The rent is fixed for the term of the contract. Fixed-term contracts are good for students and others on short-term visas.
Standard contracts don’t have a set duration, and are typically renewed every two years until either party decides to terminate it, with the tenant having greater rights. There are also legal limits on how often and how much the rent can be raised. Having the right to automatic renewal is a positive for longer-term residents, especially families.
With Japan’s digital nomad visa, you can stay in Japan for up to 6 months. It’s a great way to live in Japan, work remotely, and slip into the local lifestyle. We recommend furnished monthly apartments that provide the comforts and convenience of home, with a kitchen and laundry facilities. They are available in different parts of Tokyo, so you can choose the neighborhood you want to live in.
We can help you find the type of rental to best suit your lifestyle in Japan. There are 4 main types of properties available in Tokyo and the suburbs: Houses, Apartments, Mansion/Tower Mansion and Luxury Apartments. Each type of property is available furnished or unfurnished.
Detached houses are especially popular with families and long-term residents. They are usually located outside the city center, and offer more space, privacy, and the flexible use of space. Many have car parking and a small garden.
Apato - Apartment buildings - are usually low-rise housing made of wood or lightweight steel, from 2-4 stories in height. Units are generally smaller, more affordable, and located in suburban areas.
The description Mansion has a uniquely Japanese twist. A Mansion is typically a multi-story, multi-family unit building made of steel-reinforced concrete to meet earthquake and fire resistant standards, and as such also offer excellent insulation. In addition, they offer better facilities such as security doors, elevators, parking and communal spaces. They are located in both inner city and suburban areas.
Tower Mansions are high-rise apartment buildings, usually 20 stories or more. They are newer buildings with the majority built in the early 2000s and later, following amendments in the building code in 1997. They offer all the conveniences and facilities of Mansions, together with great views. Many are part of urban redevelopments in inner city locations, with great access to transport and urban living. They often include a suite of amenities.
Luxury apartment buildings are concentrated in prime locations in the inner city. They offer spacious layouts, high-end design and finishes, premium amenities, and apartments in Tower blocks also offer panoramic city views. They may also include private terraces, premium amenities such as rooftop gardens and pools, concierge services, advanced security, outstanding privacy and more. They offer sophisticated and comfortable living in the heart of the city.
