Is it Possible to Rent an Apartment in Tokyo for One Month?
Renting an apartment in Tokyo for one month is possible with short-term, furnished housing designed for stays longer than a week, but shorter than a typical long-term lease. These rentals are often called “monthly apartments” and are popular with those who need flexibility and want to avoid the complexity of Japan’s standard rental system.
Short-Term, Not a Standard Lease
Unlike regular apartments in Japan—which usually require a 1–2 year contract, a guarantor, and large upfront fees—one-month rentals are time-limited and flexible. Your stay period is typically fixed at 30 days or longer, with no long-term commitment.
Fully Furnished and Ready to Live In
Most one-month apartments in Tokyo come fully furnished, including:
- Bed, desk, and storage
- Kitchen appliances, refrigerator, and basic cookware
- Washing machine
- Wi-Fi and utilities already set up
This allows tenants to move in immediately without buying extra furniture or setting up utilities.
Designed for Non-Japanese Residents
One-month apartment rentals are often foreigner-friendly, with:
- Simple contracts
- English support
- No Japanese guarantor required in many cases
Monthly rentals are commonly used by business travelers, digital nomads, students, and people relocating to Japan who need temporary housing while searching for a long-term place.
No Long-Term Visa Required
Most one-month apartment rentals do not require a long-term visa. Travelers on tourist visas, business visas, working holiday visas, or student visas can usually apply, as long as they meet basic identity requirements.
No Japanese Guarantor Needed
One of the biggest barriers to renting in Japan is the requirement for a Japanese guarantor. Monthly apartments typically do not require a guarantor, making them accessible to foreigners who have just arrived in Japan.
Simple Documentation
The application process is straightforward. In most cases, you only need:
- A passport
- Basic personal information
- Your planned stay dates
Japanese language ability is usually not required, and many providers offer English-language contracts and support.
Designed for Short-Term Foreign Residents
Monthly apartments are made with short-term residents in mind, so landlords are more flexible about nationality, length of stay, and procedural technicalities. This makes one-month rentals one of the most practical housing options for foreigners staying in Tokyo temporarily.
Overall, renting an apartment in Tokyo for one month is not only possible for foreigners—it is often the easiest and most realistic way to secure private housing for a short stay in the city.
Average Cost of Renting an Apartment in Tokyo for One Month
The cost of renting an apartment in Tokyo for one month varies depending on location, room size, and building type, but monthly rentals are generally more expensive than long-term leases on a per-month basis due to their flexibility and furnished setup.
Typical Price Range
For a one-month stay in Tokyo, most furnished monthly apartments fall within the following range:
- Budget options: ¥120,000–¥160,000 per month
- Mid-range apartments: ¥160,000–¥220,000 per month
- Central Tokyo or larger units: ¥220,000–¥300,000+ per month
Apartments closer to major areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tokyo Station tend to be at the higher end of the range.
Why Monthly Rentals Cost More Than Regular Apartments
While a standard long-term apartment in Tokyo may have a lower base rent, moving itself often requires high upfront costs such as deposits, key money, agent fees, and utility setup. Monthly apartments eliminate these expenses, which is why they are often more cost-effective for stays of one month despite the higher monthly rate.
In summary, renting an apartment in Tokyo for one month typically costs more upfront than long-term housing, but offers simplicity, predictability, and convenience—key advantages for those staying short term in Tokyo and Japan.
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Best Areas in Tokyo for One-Month Apartment Rentals
Choosing the right area in Tokyo for a one-month stay depends on your purpose of visit, commute needs, and budget. Monthly apartments are widely available across the city, but some areas are especially popular with short-term foreign residents.
Shinjuku and Shibuya
Shinjuku and Shibuya are among the most convenient areas for short stays. They offer excellent train access, vibrant city life, and a wide range of restaurants and shops. These areas are ideal for first-time visitors who want to fully experience central Tokyo, though rent tends to be higher.
Tokyo Station and Central Areas
Neighborhoods around Tokyo Station and Ginza are popular with business travelers. These areas provide easy access to office districts via major public transit, including the Shinkansen and airports, making them practical for short-term professional stays.
Ikebukuro and Ueno
Ikebukuro and Ueno offer a good balance of affordability and accessibility. Both areas are well-connected by multiple train and subway lines, and often have more reasonably priced monthly apartments compared to the more central districts.
Residential Areas with Good Train Access
Areas slightly outside the city center, such as Nakano, Kichijoji, and parts of Setagaya, are popular with longer one-month stays. These neighborhoods offer a quieter living environment while still providing easy access to central Tokyo within 20–30 minutes by train.
For one-month apartment rentals, the best area is often one that combines direct train access, reasonable rent, and everyday convenience, rather than simply being in the city center.
Monthly Apartments vs Other Short-Term Housing Options in Tokyo
When staying in Tokyo for one month, there are several short-term housing options available. Monthly apartments are often chosen because they offer the best balance of cost, comfort, and flexibility compared to other alternatives.
Monthly Apartments
Monthly apartments are designed specifically for stays of one month or longer. They are fully furnished, private, and usually include utilities and Wi-Fi in the rent. Compared to hotels, they offer more space and a home-like environment, making them suitable for work and daily living.
Hotels
Hotels are easy to book and widely available, but they are usually the most expensive option for a one-month stay. Limited space, lack of kitchen facilities, and higher daily rates make hotels less practical for longer stays.
Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
Airbnb-style rentals can be an option, but availability in Tokyo is limited due to regulations. Prices vary widely, and quality is inconsistent. Long stays may also require separate utility payments or cleaning fees.
Weekly Apartments
Weekly apartments are similar to monthly apartments but are priced for shorter stays. While flexible, they often cost more per day and are less cost-effective for a full month compared to monthly rentals.
Overall, for a stay of a month or longer in Tokyo, monthly apartments offer the most predictable pricing. They also have fewer restrictions and better living conditions than other short-term housing options.
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Why XROSS HOUSE Is a Popular Choice for One-Month Apartment Rentals in Tokyo
XROSS HOUSE is a popular option for one-month apartment rentals in Tokyo because it is designed specifically for foreign residents. Properties are fully furnished, available on flexible short-term contracts, and require no Japanese guarantor or complex paperwork.
With English support, clear pricing, and locations across Tokyo with good public transportation, XROSS HOUSE makes it easy to secure comfortable housing for a one-month stay without stress.
Summary: Monthly Apartments in Tokyo
For stays of a month or longer, renting an apartment in Tokyo on a monthly basis is a practical and flexible housing option for many foreigners. Monthly apartments offer furnished rooms, simple contracts, and predictable costs without the requirements of long-term leases. For short through mid-term stays that require comfort and convenience, services like XROSS HOUSE provide an easy and reliable solution for living in Tokyo on a one-month basis.
