GaijinPot Apartments
Japan's leading foreigner-friendly apartment listings - thousands of rentals with no Japanese guarantor required.
What it helps with
- Finding an apartment that accepts foreignersGaijinPot Apartments lists rentals from agents who work with foreign tenants, in English.
- Avoiding high upfront costsFilters show listings without key money, deposit or a Japanese guarantor.
- Talking to an English-speaking agentInquiries go to agents who can handle the contract in English.
About GaijinPot Apartments
GaijinPot Apartments is part of Japan's well-known GaijinPot network for foreign residents, listing thousands of apartments across the country specifically vetted to be rentable by foreigners - properties where language and lack of a local guarantor won't get your application rejected.
Key Features
- Foreigner-Friendly Filter: Every listing is confirmed to accept foreign tenants, unlike much of the general Japanese rental market.
- No Guarantor Needed: Many listings skip the usual requirement for a Japanese guarantor, using a guarantor company instead.
- English-Language Support: Browse, inquire, and sign contracts with English-speaking staff throughout the process.
- Detailed Listings: See rent, layout, size, nearest station and walking time, and whether key money or deposit applies.
How to Get Started
- Browse listings on the GaijinPot Apartments website by city, budget, and layout.
- Shortlist properties and submit an inquiry directly through the site.
- Arrange a viewing (in person or virtual) and provide the required documents.
- Sign the lease with English-language support and arrange move-in.
Before you use it
- Fees: Even without key money, expect a guarantor company fee, fire insurance and the agent’s fee of up to one month’s rent plus tax.
- Sign-up: Agents usually ask for a residence card, passport and proof of income or enrolment.
English available
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Does GaijinPot Apartments work with a foreign bank card in Japan?
- Not reliably - a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
- Is GaijinPot Apartments available in English?
- Yes, GaijinPot Apartments has an English-language interface.
- Do I need a local phone number to use GaijinPot Apartments?
- No, an international phone number generally works for GaijinPot Apartments.
- Do I need local ID or residency for GaijinPot Apartments?
- No, GaijinPot Apartments doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.
- Where can I use GaijinPot Apartments?
- Web
- How much does GaijinPot Apartments cost?
- Free to search; initial costs per listing, many without key money or guarantor