Finding a place to live in Japan can be exciting, whether you're moving for work, study, or a long-term stay. However, many newcomers are surprised by the amount of money required before they can even receive the keys. These upfront costs are commonly known as move-in fees, and understanding them can help you plan your budget and avoid unexpected expenses.
Move-in fees are the various costs that tenants pay when signing a rental contract in Japan. Unlike in some countries where you may only need to pay a security deposit and the first month's rent, Japanese rental agreements often include several additional charges.
Depending on the property, move-in fees can range from three to six months' worth of rent, and sometimes even more.
Let's look at the most common fees.
What it is:
A refundable deposit held by the landlord to cover unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Typical amount:
1–2 months' rent
If there are no major issues when you move out, part of the deposit may be returned. However, cleaning fees and repair costs are often deducted before any refund is issued.
What it is:
A non-refundable payment made to the landlord as a gesture of appreciation.
Typical amount:
0–2 months' rent
Key money is one of the most unique aspects of renting in Japan. While some newer properties no longer require it, many apartments still do.
Because it is non-refundable, it is important to factor this cost into your budget.
What it is:
A fee paid to the real estate agency that helped arrange the rental contract.
Typical amount:
Up to 1 month's rent plus tax
This fee compensates the agent for their services in finding and processing your rental.
What it is:
Payment for the first month of occupancy.
Typical amount:
1 month's rent
Depending on your move-in date, you may only pay a prorated amount for the remaining days of the month.
What it is:
Many landlords require a guarantor who agrees to cover rent if the tenant cannot pay. Since many foreign residents do not have a suitable guarantor in Japan, a guarantor company is often used instead.
Typical amount:
30%–100% of one month's rent
Some guarantor companies also charge annual renewal fees.
What it is:
Insurance that covers certain damages, accidents, and liabilities during your tenancy.
Typical amount:
¥15,000–¥25,000 for a two-year contract
Most landlords require tenants to purchase this insurance before moving in.
What it is:
A charge for replacing or rekeying the apartment's locks before the new tenant moves in.
Typical amount:
¥10,000–¥30,000
This fee helps ensure security and peace of mind for incoming residents.
What it is:
Some properties charge cleaning or maintenance fees either at move-in or move-out.
Typical amount:
¥10,000–¥50,000 or more
Always check your contract carefully to understand when these fees apply.
Imagine an apartment with a monthly rent of ¥80,000.
| Item | Approximate Cost |
| First Month's Rent | ¥80,000 |
| Security Deposit | ¥80,000 |
| Key Money | ¥80,000 |
| Agency Fee | ¥88,000 |
| Guarantor Fee | ¥40,000 |
| Fire Insurance | ¥20,000 |
| Lock Exchange Fee | ¥20,000 |
| Total | ¥408,000 |
Yes. Many properties today advertise:
No key money
No deposit
Reduced agency fees
Campaign discounts
Furnished apartments
Monthly rental accommodations
These options can significantly reduce the financial burden of moving.
For international residents, serviced apartments, share houses, and monthly rental properties are often attractive alternatives because they require fewer upfront payments and simpler application procedures.
Before committing to a rental property, be sure to:
Ask for a full breakdown of all move-in costs.
Confirm which fees are refundable.
Check whether annual renewal fees apply.
Review cleaning and restoration charges.
Understand the contract length and cancellation policies.
A clear understanding of these details can prevent surprises later.
Nana House offers furnished monthly rental accommodations designed to make moving into Tokyo easier, especially for international residents.
Benefits include:
✔ No Key Money
✔ No Guarantor Required
✔ No Agent Fee
✔ Furnished rooms ready to move into
✔ Flexible monthly stays
✔ Foreign-friendly support
Instead of paying several months' worth of rent upfront, residents can enjoy a simpler move-in process and avoid many of the traditional costs associated with standard Japanese rental contracts.
Whether you're in Tokyo for work, study, job hunting, or a temporary stay, Nana House provides a convenient housing option without the complexity of traditional leasing arrangements.
