What is a Weekly Mansion?
A weekly mansion is a rental property that comes with furniture and appliances and can be rented for a short period of time, starting from one week. In many cases, utility fees and internet charges are included, and there are few troublesome procedures. Many properties do not require a deposit or key money, making them useful for sudden business trips or moving.
One of the attractions of these accommodations is that they have a more residential feel than a business hotel, making you feel like you're at home. They are the perfect choice for those looking for a comfortable short stay.
Basic Structure of Weekly Mansions
Unlike regular rental contracts, weekly apartments have a simple contract format that assumes a short-term stay. In most cases, you can sign a contract for one week to one month, and it is easy to extend the period. Since the apartment is equipped with furniture and appliances, you can start living there immediately from the first day you move in. Another major benefit is that the rent often includes utility bills and internet fees, which helps reduce additional expenses.
The difference between hotels and monthly apartments
Compared to hotels, weekly apartments are cheaper and you can cook your own meals and do your own laundry, making them economical for long-term residents. They are similar to monthly apartments, but they differ in that the contract period is more flexible and the initial costs are cheaper. While hotels offer a wide range of services, they have the disadvantage of lacking privacy and a sense of living.
On the other hand, weekly apartments offer the comfort of a home away from home and offer an excellent balance between cost and convenience.
Who is it suitable for?
Weekly apartments are especially popular with business people who need to stay for about a week on a business trip or training. They are also used as temporary housing for exams, job hunting, house renovations, and before and after moving. They are also perfect for travelers who want to cook their own meals and seek a calm living space during their stay. Because they can be used flexibly to suit your lifestyle, they are attracting attention as a living option that is "cheaper than a hotel and more convenient than renting."
Average weekly apartment rates
The cost of using a weekly apartment for one week will vary depending on the location and facilities of the property, but the national average is around 20,000 to 70,000 yen.
Another attractive feature is that utilities and internet charges are often included, so there are few additional costs. With furniture and appliances included and almost no initial costs, it is a very cost-effective option for short stays. There are also properties that offer discounts for consecutive nights, so if you look around carefully, you can get even better deals.
National average cost
Nationwide, the average weekly rent for a weekly apartment is generally in the range of 20,000 to 50,000 yen. However, if the facilities are simple or you are in a suburban area, you can often find one for as little as 20,000 yen, which is recommended for those who want to keep costs down.
On the other hand, if the property is close to a station, recently built, or has a spacious floor plan, the rent may exceed 50,000 yen. Prices vary depending on the area and time of year, so it's important to make reservations early and compare multiple sites.
Price range by city (Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Okinawa)
The average price of a weekly apartment varies greatly from city to city.
- Tokyo: 40,000 to 70,000 yen per week is typical, with higher rates in the city center and around terminal stations.
- Osaka: Prices are around 30,000 to 60,000 yen, and they are relatively easy to find even in the city center.
- Fukuoka: With prices ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 yen, the Hakata and Tenjin areas are popular because of their good value for money.
- Okinawa: 30,000 to 60,000 yen is the guideline, but resort-style and seaside properties tend to be a little more expensive. It's best to choose a place based on the purpose of your trip or business trip.
Breakdown of costs for a weekly apartment
The cost of a weekly apartment is not just the "rent" but also includes various other items such as management fees, cleaning fees, and utility fees. Some properties have a "package fee" that includes all of these, but there may be additional costs, so it is important to check in advance. Especially for those who are planning to stay for a long time or who want to keep costs down, understanding the breakdown thoroughly can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
In this chapter, we will take a closer look at the main cost items.
Rent (daily/weekly)
Rent for a weekly apartment is generally set on a weekly basis, with the average price ranging from 20,000 to 70,000 yen per week.
Many properties allow you to calculate the rent on a daily basis, so they can flexibly accommodate odd-numbered stays, such as 5 nights and 6 days. The rent often includes the cost of furniture, home appliances, and utilities, making them a popular place to stay for short periods of time with good cost performance.
However, prices may increase during peak seasons and for high-end properties, so we recommend making reservations early.
Management fee/common area fee
Weekly apartments may incur "management fees" and "common area fees" for cleaning and maintaining the property and managing the facilities. These fees are generally around 1,000 to 3,000 yen per week, and are often charged separately from the rent. These fees are for cleaning the common areas, disposing of garbage, and maintaining security, so they cannot necessarily be reduced.
However, some properties offer an "all-inclusive" rate that includes management fees, so be sure to check before signing a contract.
Cleaning fee and administrative fee
When you first sign a contract, you may be charged a "cleaning fee" or "administrative fee." The cleaning fee is roughly 5,000 to 10,000 yen per time, and is the cost of cleaning the room when you move out. You may also be required to pay an administrative fee of around 2,000 to 5,000 yen. These are one-time payments and are incurred regardless of the length of your stay. This can be a burden for short-term stays, but you can save money by choosing a property that includes these fees in the price. It is important to check the details before signing a contract.
Utility and internet charges
Many weekly apartments include utility bills such as water, electricity, and gas, as well as internet fees such as Wi-Fi, in the rent.
However, please note that some properties may charge additional fees depending on usage. Check whether Wi-Fi is available for free, and the speed and communication environment. If you want to clarify the cost, we recommend an all-inclusive "flat rate plan." Be careful not to use too much communication or electricity.
Rental fees for furniture, appliances, bedding, etc.
Generally, weekly apartments come equipped with furniture and appliances such as a TV, refrigerator, microwave, and washing machine, which can be used at no extra charge.
However, some amenities such as bedding and cooking utensils are optional and may require a weekly rental fee (e.g. bedding set starts from 2,000 yen/week). Check in advance what amenities you will need and whether they are included in the price to avoid unexpected expenses.
If I'm only staying for a week, is it better to stay overnight or stay in a hotel?
Many people are unsure whether to choose a weekly mansion or a hotel for a short stay. In conclusion, the best choice depends on the purpose of your stay and the points you value. Hotels are convenient and service-oriented, while weekly mansions are easy to live in and offer good value for money.
In this chapter, we will compare the two in terms of facilities, services, and cost, and see which one is more advantageous for the limited period of one week.
Compare facilities and services
Hotels offer a wide range of services, such as bed making, replenishing amenities, and front desk assistance, making for a comfortable stay, but they tend to limit daily life functions such as cooking and laundry.
On the other hand, weekly apartments come equipped with amenities such as a kitchen, washing machine, and refrigerator, making them suitable for long-term stays. They offer a high degree of freedom and give you the feeling of living in a place. For those who want to live a normal life during their stay, weekly apartments are definitely recommended.
Cost Comparison: Business Hotels vs. Weekly Apartments
We will compare the costs.
- Business hotels: The average price per night is around 5,000 to 10,000 yen. This translates to 35,000 to 70,000 yen per week, which can get quite pricey depending on the location and the time of year.
- Weekly apartments: The average price is around 20,000 to 50,000 yen per week, and since most have a flat rate system that includes utilities and Wi-Fi, they are generally cost-effective. In particular, the advantage is that you can keep your total costs down by doing your own meals and laundry.
Recommendations for different occasions such as travel, business trips, and temporary homecomings
- Travel: If you plan on going out a lot for sightseeing, a hotel will be more convenient and check-in and check-out will be smoother.
- Business trips: For stays of a week or more or business trips involving a lot of work, a weekly apartment with all the living facilities is comfortable and economical.
- When returning home temporarily or before/after moving: If you need a peaceful living space, a weekly apartment is definitely recommended.
You will be less likely to go wrong if you choose a hotel that prioritizes service or lifestyle depending on your style of stay.
Tips for renting a weekly apartment for just one week
Even if you are only planning to stay for a week, you can significantly reduce your expenses depending on how you search. In particular, weekly apartments have different fee structures and service contents for each property, so with a little ingenuity you can get a good deal. Being creative when searching for a property can make a big difference in your expenses.
Here are some specific techniques to help keep costs down.
Take advantage of campaign properties
Some operators may run limited time promotions.
For example, there are many cases where you can rent a property at a lower price than usual, such as "first-time discounts," "long-term stay plans," and "off-season prices." These special offers are often summarized on official websites and dedicated reservation sites, and if the conditions are right, you can get a great deal. The off-season is a particularly good time to look for them, so be sure to time it wisely.
Aim for last-minute bookings and room availability discounts
Weekly apartments that remain vacant until the last minute may suddenly lower their prices. Since operators want to avoid vacant periods, it is not uncommon for them to set special prices for last-minute reservations. If you have sudden plans for a trip or business trip, it may be a good idea to search for a room at the last minute.
You can also make it easier to find a property by using a site that allows you to narrow down your search by keywords such as "available room discount" or "last minute discount."
Use a no-broker site
To reserve a weekly apartment, you may need to go through a property information site or a real estate agent, but it is best to use a site that does not charge an agent fee whenever possible.
Intermediary fees can cost anywhere from several thousand yen to 10,000 yen per contract, which can be a big burden for short-term use. If you use an official reservation site managed directly by the operating company or a dedicated portal that does not require an intermediary, you can cut out unnecessary costs. When comparing, it is also important to check whether or not there is a fee.
Weekly apartment contract process and points to note
Compared to regular rentals, the contract for a weekly apartment is simpler and quicker, but there are still some things you should check beforehand. First-time users in particular tend to be anxious about when to sign the contract and what documents are required.
Here we will clearly explain the key points to ensure success even when using the accommodation for a short period of one week, from the checkpoints to be checked before signing the contract, to the check-in and check-out procedure, and tips to avoid any problems.
Things to check before signing a contract
Be sure to check the following items before signing a contract.
- "What's included in the price?"
- "Cancellation Policy"
- "Contents of fixtures and equipment"
In particular, things like utility fees, availability of Wi-Fi, and paid options for bedding and cooking utensils are often overlooked. Check-in and check-out methods and support systems (24-hour availability) are also important points to compare. Neglecting to check these points, even if it is a short-term stay, can lead to unexpected expenses and inconvenience, so be sure to check them thoroughly before signing a contract.
Check-in and check-out process
- check-in
It depends on how you receive your keys. In most cases, they are delivered to a local key box or by mail from the management company. The password and detailed instructions will be sent to you in advance, so it's important to check your email or My Page.
- Check-out
In most cases, you can complete the process by simply leaving by the designated time and returning the key. Since there is generally no front desk service like in a hotel, be sure to read the instructions in advance to ensure smooth entry and exit.
Tips to prevent trouble
To prevent trouble, it is essential to read the contract documents and terms of use carefully. After moving in, check the condition of the room immediately, and if there are any defects, take photos and report them to the management company. It is also important to pay attention to points that can easily lead to trouble with neighbors, such as noise, garbage disposal, and smoking rules.
In addition, if you save emergency contact information and support desk information on your smartphone, you will be able to respond immediately in the event of an emergency. Preparation is the key to avoiding trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions Q&A
Those using a weekly apartment for the first time are likely to have concerns and questions about the contract process, fee structure, and necessary procedures.
In particular, many people have basic questions such as "Do I need a guarantor?", "Can I cancel?", and "How do I pay?". Here, we will explain frequently asked questions and their answers in an easy-to-understand manner for those considering short-term use of a place for just a week. If you check in advance, you can sign a contract and stay with peace of mind.
Is a guarantor or screening required?
If you are renting a weekly apartment for just one week, most properties do not require a guarantor or a full-scale rental screening. Generally, you can sign a contract by simply submitting identification (driver's license, My Number card, passport, etc.), and the procedure is usually completed online.
However, for luxury properties and long-term rental plans, you may be required to go through a simple user screening process and submit emergency contact information. If you choose a property that does not require a guarantor or a plan that allows you to move in on the same day, you can make the contract smoother.
Can I cancel?
It is possible to cancel a weekly apartment reservation, but cancellation policies vary depending on the property and management company, so it is essential to check in advance.
In most cases, you can cancel free of charge up until a few days before check-in, but cancellations at the last minute or on the day of check-in may incur a cancellation fee (from one night's stay to the full amount). Also, if you book through an online reservation site, be aware that each site's own rules apply. Be sure to check the cancellation conditions with the operating company before signing the contract.
How do I pay?
Payment methods for weekly apartments vary depending on the management company and reservation site, but the most common are credit card and bank transfer. Some properties also accept convenience store payments and electronic money such as PayPay.
Some properties allow you to pay on site, but as a general rule, advance payment is required. If you are making a reservation in a hurry, it will be smoother if you choose a property that allows online payment immediately.
summary
Weekly apartments are a convenient option for those who want to rent for just a week, as they provide a comfortable living space while keeping costs down. They come with furniture and appliances, and the initial costs are low, making them ideal for a variety of situations, such as business trips, temporary housing, and travel. If you understand the market price, cost breakdown, comparison with hotels, and contract process in advance, you can use them smoothly and at a good price. Make good use of campaign properties and last-minute discounts to find the weekly apartment that's perfect for you.
