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If you’re moving to Japan to study long term, then you’ll want a comfortable place to stay that won’t break the bank. But finding accommodation in Japan as a foreigner can often be tricky. That’s why Go! Go! Nihon partners with the best accommodation providers who are both foreigner-friendly and offer excellent options for all needs.
Let’s take a look at our options!
Temporary accommodation options
A popular option for students when first arriving in the country is to book an Airbnb or a room in a hotel. This is a viable option, however, we strongly recommend students move into their permanent accommodation within 14 days of arriving in Japan.
This is because it’s compulsory to register your place of residence at your local ward or municipality office within 14 days of entering the country. Since hotels and Airbnb are temporary accommodations, you cannot use these addresses to register.
It’s also important to register because you won’t be able to sign up for the national health insurance scheme until you have a registered place of residence. We recommend you purchase travel insurance to cover any period where you are in Japan but not registered for national health insurance.
We’re partnered with WorldTrips and recommend them as a reliable insurance broker. Their insurance package covers both medical and travel expenses.
You can sign up here: Health and Travel Insurance for Japan
Sharehouses
This is the top choice for budget-conscious students who want a comfortable place to live and who want to make friends easily in a foreign country.
Usually, you will pay a set monthly amount to cover your rent and utilities and you will get your own room with bed and storage, as well as a desk and chair in some places. Bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, utensils, kitchenware, and living rooms are normally shared with other sharehouse residents.
Sharehouse companies usually also hold regular social events at the share houses to encourage residents to get together.
Our sharehouse partners in Tokyo are:
- Interwhao
- Oakhouse
- Be Good Japan
- Borderless House
- XRoss House
Average monthly rent: 50-70,000 yen.
Average monthly utility fees: 10-19,000 yen.
In Osaka, they are:
- Oakhouse
- J&F Plaza
- Be Good Japan
Average monthly rent: 40-50,000 yen.
Average monthly utility fees: 10-15,000 yen.
In Kyoto:
- Oakhouse
Average monthly rent: 40-55,000 yen.
Average monthly utility fees: 10-15,000 yen.
In Kobe:
- J&F Plaza
- Borderless House
- Oakhouse
Average monthly rent: 35-55,000 yen.
Average monthly utility fees: 10-15,000 yen.
Apartments
If you would prefer more privacy and having your own space, then apartments are your best choice. They will cost more to rent though, especially if you are studying in Tokyo, and they are often smaller in size than you are probably used to in your home country. Read more about Japan’s small living spaces here.
In Tokyo, we work with the following companies to help students find apartments:
- Oak House
- Interwhao
- Fontana
- Be Good Japan
- XRoss House
Average monthly rent: 60-140,000 yen.
Average monthly utility fees: 10-18,000 yen.
In Kyoto and Osaka:
- Oakhouse
- Be Good Japan (just Osaka)
Average monthly rent: 60-90,000 yen.
Average monthly utility fees: 15,000 yen.
Host family
Living with a host family is the best way to get to know Japanese culture, society, language, and way of life. It’s a full immersive experience and it is normally expected that you will help with chores and be a respectful guest.
Go! Go! Nihon partners with Nextage Homestay in Japan, which works with thousands of host families across Japan.
Monthly rent up to 72 nights: 159,000 yen.
Monthly rent for more than 73 nights: 150,000 yen.
Monthly utility fees: included.
Apply now!
Apply with us to study at a Japanese language school and find accommodation with one of our partners. Usually, reservations are available around one month prior to arriving in Japan.
You can contact our partners for more information from our accommodation page.
For more information about accommodation, studying abroad in Japan, and more check out our blog or contact us with any questions you may have.
