Tokyo Weekly Apartments: Fully Furnished Short-Term Rentals for Foreigners

What Is a Weekly Apartment in Tokyo?

A weekly apartment is a short-term furnished rental that can be rented weekly, without the long-term commitments required by standard Japanese apartments. These apartments are designed for people who need temporary housing in Tokyo for stays ranging from a few days to several weeks.

Unlike traditional rental apartments in Japan—which often require long contracts, guarantors, and high upfront costs—weekly units are built for flexibility. They are especially popular among foreign visitors, business travelers, international students, and newcomers who need a place to live immediately after arriving in Tokyo.

Most weekly apartments come fully furnished, meaning essential furniture, appliances, and household items are already included. Tenants can usually move in with just a suitcase, making weekly apartments a convenient option for short-term stays.

Key Features of Weekly Apartments

While specific services vary by provider, most Tokyo weekly apartments share the following characteristics:

• Short-term contracts (typically one week minimum)
• Fully furnished interiors, including a bed, a table, a refrigerator, and a washing machine
• Utilities included (electricity, water, gas, internet)
• Simple application process, often available in English
• Faster move-in compared to regular rentals

Because of this simplicity, weekly apartments are often used as temporary housing before finding a long-term apartment, or as a flexible base for short business or study stays.

How Weekly Apartments Differ from Standard Rentals in Japan

In Japan’s traditional rental market, tenants usually face:

• 1–2 year contracts
• A Japanese guarantor or guarantor company
• High upfront costs such as moving expenses, deposit, key money, and agency fees

Weekly apartments remove most of these barriers. While the weekly rent is higher on a per-day basis, the overall process is much simpler and faster—especially for foreigners who may not yet have Japanese documents, language skills, or local contacts.

For this reason, weekly apartments are often seen as a practical first step for foreigners who need housing immediately after arriving in Tokyo or Japan.

Why Weekly Apartments Are Popular with Foreigners in Tokyo

Weekly apartments are a popular housing choice for foreigners in Tokyo because they remove the barriers typically associated with renting property in Japan. For short-term visitors and new arrivals, speed, flexibility, and simplicity are often more important than long-term affordability—and weekly apartments are designed to meet exactly those needs.

Below are more details on why foreigners choose weekly apartments when staying in Tokyo.

No Long-Term Contract or Guarantor Required

One of the biggest challenges foreigners face in Japan’s rental market is long-term lease requirements. Standard apartments usually require contracts of one or two years, along with a Japanese guarantor or a guarantor company.

Weekly apartments, on the other hand, are contract-free or short-term by design. Most providers allow rentals starting from one week, without requiring a guarantor, residency card, or Japanese credit history. This makes weekly apartments especially attractive to travelers, expats in transition, and people who have just arrived in Japan.

Fully Furnished and Ready to Move In

Weekly apartments are typically fully furnished and ready to live in as-is. Furniture, appliances, kitchenware, and bedding are already provided, allowing tenants to move in immediately.

For foreigners arriving from overseas, this is a major advantage. There is no need to buy furniture, arrange utility contracts, or wait for installation appointments. Everything is ready from day one, which reduces stress during the initial adjustment period in Japan.

Utilities and Internet Included

Another reason weekly apartments are popular is their all-inclusive pricing. Rent usually covers electricity, water, gas, and internet, eliminating the need for separate contracts or Japanese-language paperwork.

For short stays, this simplicity is often worth the higher rent. Foreigners can focus on work, study, or travel instead of dealing with administrative tasks.

Fast and Simple Application Process

Many weekly apartment providers offer online reservations and English support, which is not always available in Japan’s traditional rental market. Applications are usually completed quickly, sometimes within a single day, and move-in can happen almost immediately.

This is particularly helpful for foreigners who need housing on short notice due to work assignments, visa timing, or sudden relocation plans.

Ideal for Short-Term and Transitional Stays

Weekly apartments work well for:

• Business trips and temporary assignments
• Students attending short courses or training programs
• Foreigners searching for long-term housing after arrival
• Visitors waiting for permanent housing to become available

For these use cases, weekly apartments offer a low-commitment, low-friction housing solution in Tokyo and throughout Japan.

Average Cost of Weekly Apartments in Tokyo

The cost of weekly apartments in Tokyo varies depending on location, room size, building type, and included services. While weekly apartments are more expensive on a per-day basis than long-term rentals, they are priced for convenience and flexibility, not long-term affordability.

Below is a general breakdown of what foreigners can expect to pay.

Average Weekly Rent by Area

Weekly apartment prices in Tokyo typically fall into the following ranges:

Central Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato, Chiyoda wards)

¥50,000 – ¥90,000 per week

Popular with business travelers and first-time visitors due to excellent access and English-friendly services.

Inner Residential Areas (Nakano, Setagaya, Bunkyo, Meguro wards)

¥40,000 – ¥70,000 per week

A balance between convenience and slightly lower costs.

Outer Tokyo / Suburban Areas

¥30,000 – ¥50,000 per week

More affordable, but with longer commuting times to central Tokyo.

Prices increase for larger rooms, newer buildings, or locations close to major stations.

What Is Usually Included in the Weekly Price?

Most weekly apartments advertise all-inclusive pricing, which typically covers:

• Furniture and basic appliances
• Electricity, water, and gas
• Internet access
• Basic kitchen equipment
• Management and cleaning fees

This bundled pricing is one of the reasons weekly apartments are appealing to foreigners, as it avoids complex utility contracts and unexpected setup costs.

Why Weekly Apartments Feel Expensive

Although weekly apartments are convenient, they are more expensive than monthly leases or long-term housing.

For example, a weekly apartment costing ¥60,000 per week results in a monthly cost of approximately ¥240,000—often higher than the rent of a fully furnished monthly apartment or share house in the same area.

This pricing structure works well for very short stays, but costs add up quickly when staying longer than a few weeks.

Additional Costs to Watch Out For

While many costs are included, some providers may charge extra fees such as:

• Initial registration or cleaning fees
• Additional linen or towel services
• Higher utility usage caps
• Late check-in or early check-out fees

Foreigners should always confirm what is included in the advertised weekly price to avoid surprises.

Is a Weekly Apartment Cost-Effective?

Weekly apartments are cost-effective for short stays where speed and simplicity matter most. However, for stays longer than one month, many foreigners begin to look for alternatives that offer:

• Lower monthly costs
• More living space
• Better value for medium-term stays

This is where flexible furnished housing options can become a smarter choice.

Best Areas in Tokyo for Weekly Apartments

Choosing the right area is one of the most important factors when renting a weekly apartment in Tokyo. Prices, commute times, neighborhood atmosphere, and access to major business or tourist areas can vary significantly by location.

Below are some of the most popular areas for foreigners looking for weekly apartments in Tokyo, along with guidance on who each area is best suited for.

Central Tokyo: Convenience and Accessibility

Central Tokyo neighborhoods are the most popular choice for foreigners staying short-term. These areas offer excellent transportation access, English-friendly services, and proximity to offices, shopping, and nightlife.

Popular central areas include Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato, and Chiyoda.

• Weekly apartments in central Tokyo are ideal for:
• Business travelers with tight schedules
• First-time visitors to Tokyo
• Short stays where commuting time matters

The downside is cost—weekly rents in central areas are among the highest in Tokyo.

Residential Areas Near the City Center

Neighborhoods just outside the main city centers provide a good balance between price and convenience. Areas such as Nakano, Meguro, Bunkyo, and Setagaya are well-connected by train but offer a quieter residential atmosphere.

These areas are suitable for:

• Foreigners staying for several weeks
• Remote workers who want a calmer environment
• People looking to reduce costs without sacrificing access

Weekly apartments here are usually more affordable than in central Tokyo while still offering fast commute times.

Affordable and Commuter-Friendly Areas

For budget-conscious foreigners, areas further from central Tokyo can be a practical option. Neighborhoods along major train lines in eastern and western Tokyo often offer lower weekly rents.

These areas work well for:

• Longer stays on a limited budget
• Students and interns
• Foreigners who are comfortable with commuting

While commute times are longer, reliable train networks make daily travel manageable.

How to Choose the Best Area for Your Stay

When selecting an area for a weekly apartment, consider:

• Length of stay
• Daily commute requirements
• Budget constraints
• Preference for city life versus residential neighborhoods

For very short stays, central locations may justify the higher cost. For longer stays, choosing a residential or commuter-friendly area can significantly reduce housing expenses.

Weekly Apartments vs Other Short-Term Housing Options

When searching for short-term housing in Tokyo, weekly apartments are just one of several available options. Hotels, Airbnb, and furnished apartments all serve similar needs but differ in cost, flexibility, and overall living experience.

Understanding these differences helps foreigners choose the most suitable option for their stay.

Weekly Apartment vs Hotel

Hotels are often the easiest option for very short stays, but they are the most expensive option.

Hotels are best for:

• Stays of a few days
• Travelers who prefer daily cleaning and on-site services

However, compared to weekly apartments, hotels offer:

• Limited living space
• No kitchen or laundry facilities
• Much higher costs for stays longer than a week

Weekly apartments provide more space, privacy, and a residential feel, making them a better choice for stays longer than a few days.

Weekly Apartment vs Airbnb

Airbnb is a popular option for foreigners, but availability and quality in Tokyo can vary.

Airbnb works well for:

• Short tourist stays
• Groups or families needing flexible room arrangements

However, Airbnb may involve:

• Inconsistent quality and amenities
• Last-minute cancellations
• Limited customer support
• Compliance issues in certain areas

Weekly apartments are generally more reliable, with clearer contracts, consistent standards, and professional management.

Weekly Apartment vs Furnished Monthly Apartments

Furnished monthly apartments are designed for longer stays and usually offer better value over time.

Monthly apartments are ideal for:

• Stays of one month or longer
• Foreigners seeking lower average monthly costs
• People who want more stability

Compared to weekly apartments, monthly options often provide:

• Lower rent per month
• Larger living spaces
• More predictable pricing

For foreigners who expect their stay to extend beyond a few weeks, staying at a furnished apartment with a monthly rate can be a more cost-effective solution.

Weekly Apartment vs Share House

Share houses offer private rooms with shared common areas and are widely used by foreigners in Tokyo.

Share houses are suitable for:

• Budget-conscious residents
• Long-term stays
• People who are open to shared living environments

While weekly apartments offer privacy and independence, share houses are often much cheaper for medium- to long-term stays and can be easier to extend month by month.

Which Option Is Best?

The best housing option depends on:

• Length of stay
• Budget
• Need for privacy
• Willingness to share space

Weekly apartments are ideal for short, fixed-term stays where convenience matters most. However, as stays become longer, many foreigners begin to explore alternatives that offer better long-term value.

Why XROSS HOUSE Is a Popular Choice for Foreign Residents

For foreigners who initially consider weekly apartments, many realize that weekly pricing becomes expensive once the stay extends beyond a few weeks. This is where XROSS HOUSE becomes a popular and practical alternative.

XROSS HOUSE offers fully furnished housing with simple, flexible contracts, making it easy for foreign residents to move in quickly without facing the complexities of Japan’s traditional rental system. Furniture, appliances, and basic utilities are already included, allowing residents to settle in immediately—similar to weekly apartments, but with better long-term value.

Compared to weekly apartments, XROSS HOUSE is significantly more cost-efficient for medium-term stays. While weekly apartments can easily exceed ¥200,000 per month, XROSS HOUSE provides furnished rooms at much lower monthly rates, making it a smarter choice for those staying one month or longer.

Another reason XROSS HOUSE is popular among foreigners is its foreigner-friendly application process. No Japanese guarantor is required, and English support is available for many properties, removing the biggest barriers foreigners face when renting housing in Tokyo.

With properties across Tokyo in both central and residential areas, XROSS HOUSE allows foreign residents to choose locations that fit their budget and lifestyle. For many, it becomes the natural next step after a short stay in a weekly apartment—offering flexibility, affordability, and peace of mind.

Summary: All About Weekly Apartments in Tokyo

Weekly apartments are a convenient housing option for foreigners who need short-term, fully furnished accommodation without long-term contracts. They work well for brief stays where speed and simplicity matter most.

However, as the length of stay increases, weekly apartments can become costly. For foreigners planning to stay in Tokyo for a month or longer, flexible furnished housing such as XROSS HOUSE offers a more cost-effective and practical alternative.

By understanding the differences between weekly apartments and other short-term housing options, foreign residents can choose a solution that best fits their stay length, budget, and lifestyle in Tokyo.