Do I need a guarantor as a foreigner?

Monthly mansion companies usually don't require guarantors. Traditional apartments do, but services like GTN can act as your guarantor for ¥20,000-35,000.

Can I extend my stay once I'm there?

Most monthly mansions allow extensions if rooms are available. Give 2 weeks notice. Traditional apartments typically auto-renew unless you give 1 month notice to leave.

What if I don't speak Japanese?

Leopalace21, Oakhouse, and Weekly Mansion Tokyo have English support. Traditional real estate agents rarely speak English - bring a Japanese speaker or use translation apps.

Are utilities really included in monthly mansions?

Most include basic utilities but cap usage at ¥8,000-10,000/month. Exceeding this costs extra. Internet is usually included but may be slow. Check what's actually covered before signing.

How to Book Monthly Accommodation in Japan

Monthly rentals in Japan require upfront costs of 4-6 months' rent, but monthly mansion services like Leopalace21 and Weekly Mansion Tokyo offer furnished options with utilities included. Book 2-4 weeks ahead and expect to pay ¥80,000-200,000 per month in Tokyo.

Choose your rental type. Monthly mansions (furnished apartments) are easiest for foreigners. Leopalace21, Weekly Mansion Tokyo, and Oakhouse specialize in short-term furnished rentals. Traditional apartments require guarantors and massive deposits.
Book 2-4 weeks in advance. Popular areas fill up fast. Contact companies directly through their English websites or visit their offices. Most require phone verification, so have a Japanese contact number ready.
Prepare required documents. You'll need: passport, visa, proof of income or bank statement, emergency contact in Japan, and sometimes a Japanese guarantor. Some companies accept foreign guarantor services like GTN.
Pay upfront fees. Monthly mansions typically require: first month's rent + key money (¥20,000-50,000) + cleaning fee (¥20,000-40,000). Traditional apartments need 4-6 months' rent upfront including deposit, key money, and agent fees.
Complete the contract. Contracts are usually in Japanese with English summaries. Read carefully - most are auto-renewal and require 1 month notice to cancel. Get copies of everything.
Arrange utilities and internet. Monthly mansions often include utilities. For traditional apartments, set up gas, electricity, water, and internet separately. This takes 1-2 weeks, so book services immediately after signing.

Do I need a guarantor as a foreigner?: Monthly mansion companies usually don't require guarantors. Traditional apartments do, but services like GTN can act as your guarantor for ¥20,000-35,000.
Can I extend my stay once I'm there?: Most monthly mansions allow extensions if rooms are available. Give 2 weeks notice. Traditional apartments typically auto-renew unless you give 1 month notice to leave.
What if I don't speak Japanese?: Leopalace21, Oakhouse, and Weekly Mansion Tokyo have English support. Traditional real estate agents rarely speak English - bring a Japanese speaker or use translation apps.
Are utilities really included in monthly mansions?: Most include basic utilities but cap usage at ¥8,000-10,000/month. Exceeding this costs extra. Internet is usually included but may be slow. Check what's actually covered before signing.