🏡 Getting Settled in Japan (2025 Edition) - updated

Moving to Japan is an exciting adventure, but settling into a new home can feel overwhelming — especially in a city as dynamic (and expensive!) as Tokyo. Here’s an updated guide with practical tips to make your move smoother and more confident.

📌 Step 1: Set Your Budget

Tokyo real estate isn’t cheap. Decide on your monthly rent budget before you start house hunting. A general rule is that upfront costs can be 4–6 months' rent, so budget accordingly.

📍 Step 2: Choose the Right Location

Your location will shape your daily experience. Consider:

  • 🚉 Commute – Living closer to work can save hours a week.

  • 🛍️ Amenities – Proximity to shops, restaurants, and hospitals.

  • 🏫 Schools – If you have children.

  • 🌳 Lifestyle – Parks, nightlife, quiet neighborhoods?

Tokyo’s public transport is world-class, so you don’t need a car — in fact, driving can double your commute time.

🏢 Step 3: Use a Licensed Real Estate Agent

Look for Fudousan Chukai Gyosha (不動産仲介業者) — real estate agents, often near train stations.

Check:

  • 🪪 They must display a government-issued license.

  • 📅 The license number includes how long they’ve been operating (e.g., (7) = 7th renewal = more experience).

Ask questions and visit properties yourself — never rely solely on agent descriptions.

📝 Step 4: Understand the Rental Contract

Before signing, confirm:

  • ⏳ Contract period (usually 2 years)

  • 💰 Monthly rent, maintenance fees

  • 🔁 Renewal terms — including potential renewal fees

  • 📅 Notice period to move out (usually 1–2 months)

💸 Common Upfront Fees

Here's what you might pay when signing:

Fee TypeJapaneseNotes
Key Money礼金 (Reikin)Non-refundable "thank you" fee to landlord (1–2 months' rent)
Deposit敷金 (Shikikin)Refundable but deductions for damage/cleaning apply
Agency Fee仲介料金 (Chūkai Ryōkin)Fee to the real estate agent (max: 1 month’s rent)

⚡ Setting Up Utilities

You’ll need to contact each company before moving in or out:

🧯 Electricity – Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO)

  • Move In: Switch on the breaker and send in the setup postcard or apply online.

  • Move Out: Call TEPCO to terminate and avoid unnecessary charges.

🔥 Gas – Tokyo Gas

  • You must be present when gas is turned on.

  • Contact your local gas office 2–3 days in advance.

💧 Water – Tokyo Metropolitan Waterworks

  • Move In/Out: Notify them via online form or call (03-5320-6326).

  • Billing is every two months.

📞 Telephone & Internet

📺 Cable TV

  • Services like Sky PerfecTV! offer a wide range of channels and streaming options.

💳 Paying Utility Bills

  • 🧾 Bills come monthly (water bills bi-monthly).

  • 🏪 Pay at convenience stores, banks, post offices — or sign up for auto-payment.

  • ⚠️ Late fees (around 3%) apply for overdue bills.

📬 After You Move

Make sure to update your address with:

  • 🏛️ City Hall – Register your new address & update residency card within 14 days.

  • 📮 Post Office – Fill out a mail forwarding form (valid for 1 year).

  • 🏦 Bank & Driver’s License – Notify them directly.

  • 🏥 Health Insurance Provider & Transport Pass – Update records as needed.

🛡️ Renters Insurance

Highly recommended! Most agents can help you purchase coverage for:

  • 🏠 Property damage

  • 🔥 Fire or water damage

  • 🧳 Lost belongings

Moving can be stressful, but Japan’s infrastructure is efficient — and with the right preparation, you’ll be sipping matcha in your new apartment before you know it. 🌸

Need help navigating the process or choosing the right neighborhood? Feel free to drop a comment or reach out — I'm happy to share tips!

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