Furnished Apartment Ikebukuro: Foreign-Friendly Rentals Near Ikebukuro Station, Tokyo

Why Choose a Furnished Apartment in Ikebukuro?

Ikebukuro is the third-busiest station in Tokyo, serving nine train and subway lines including JR Yamanote Line, Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Tobu Tojo Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, and Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. This makes it one of the best-connected areas in the city. You can reach Shinjuku in about five minutes, Shibuya in roughly 12 minutes, and Shinagawa in under 25 minutes — all without a transfer.

For foreigners relocating to Tokyo, a furnished apartment in Ikebukuro solves several problems at once. Renting a traditional unfurnished apartment in Japan usually requires paying a security deposit (shikikin), key money (reikin), and a real estate agent commission — which can easily total four to six months' rent upfront. On top of that, you need to purchase furniture, appliances, and daily living essentials, which adds another ¥250,000 to ¥400,000 or more depending on the room size and your lifestyle needs.

A furnished apartment eliminates most of these hassles. You arrive with your suitcase, and everything you need — a bed, desk, refrigerator, microwave, washing machine, and sometimes even a TV — is already in the room. This is especially convenient if your stay in Tokyo is one year or less, because the cost of buying and later disposing of furniture often exceeds any rent premium you pay for a furnished property.

Ikebukuro's Lifestyle Appeal for Foreign Residents

Beyond the convenience of train access, Ikebukuro offers a lively urban lifestyle. The area is home to large department stores like Seibu and Tobu, electronics retailers, countless restaurants, and entertainment facilities. There are also parks nearby — Minami-Ikebukuro Park and Higashi-Ikebukuro Central Park provide green space within walking distance of the station. For daily shopping, multiple supermarkets and convenience stores are located close to most residential buildings in the Toshima-ku area, making day-to-day life easy and comfortable even if you do not speak Japanese fluently.

Ikebukuro also has a growing international community. English-speaking services, from clinics to real estate agencies, are increasingly common in this part of the city, which makes it a natural choice for foreigners who want an urban living experience without the extreme rent of central Minato-ku or Shibuya.

Types of Furnished Apartments in Ikebukuro

The Japanese rental market categorizes apartments by layout rather than by the number of bedrooms. Understanding these floor plan types is essential before you start your search. Here are the most common options available near Ikebukuro Station:

Studio / 1R (One Room)

A studio apartment — called "One Room" (1R) in Japan — typically ranges from 15 to 25 m² in size. The kitchen area is usually integrated into the main living space, with a separate bath and toilet. This is the most affordable and widely available option for single residents. Furnished studios near Ikebukuro generally start from ¥60,000 per month, though prices vary depending on the building age, floor level, and exact location.

1K / 1DK / 1LDK

A 1K apartment has a separate kitchen space, while a 1DK adds a small dining area, and a 1LDK includes a full living, dining, and kitchen area alongside one bedroom. The size ranges from about 25 m² for a 1K up to 40–50 m² for a 1LDK. These are popular options for professionals who want more space for comfortable long-term living. Furnished 1LDK apartments near Ikebukuro typically rent for ¥120,000 to ¥200,000 per month.

2LDK and Larger

For couples or small families, 2LDK apartments offer two bedrooms plus a combined living, dining, and kitchen area. These properties are less commonly available as furnished rentals in the Ikebukuro area but can be found through specialized real estate agencies and companies that cater to foreign residents.

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are a step above standard furnished rentals. They typically include weekly cleaning, front-desk concierge, and sometimes breakfast or other hotel-like amenities. These are popular with corporate executives and short-term business travelers. The monthly rent for serviced apartments near Ikebukuro can range from ¥200,000 to ¥500,000 or more, depending on the size and level of luxury.

Monthly Apartments (Monthly Mansions)

Monthly apartments — known as "monthly mansions" (マンスリーマンション) in Japan — are fully furnished properties designed for stays of one month or longer. They often include utilities, WiFi, and basic housewares in the rent, making them a convenient all-in-one option. Monthly apartments are especially popular among business travelers, students starting language school, and anyone searching for temporary housing while looking for a long-term lease.

Average Rent for Furnished Apartments in Ikebukuro

Short-Term vs Long-Term Cost Comparison

Rent in the Ikebukuro area varies significantly based on apartment type, contract length, and what is included in the monthly cost. Below is a general comparison of furnished apartment prices near Ikebukuro Station as of 2026:

Short-term monthly contracts typically carry a rent premium of 20% to 50% compared to long-term leases, but they eliminate the need for security deposits, key money, and agent commissions that come with a standard two-year rental agreement. For stays under 12 months, a furnished monthly apartment or share house often works out cheaper in total cost.

At XROSS HOUSE, furnished apartments with appliances start from ¥60,000 per month, and share house private rooms are available from just ¥29,800 per month — both with an initial cost of only ¥50,000. When you compare this to the traditional rental process in Tokyo, where move-in costs alone can exceed ¥400,000, the savings are substantial.

Furnished Apartment vs Serviced Apartment in Ikebukuro: What's the Difference?

Many foreigners searching for housing in Tokyo confuse furnished apartments with serviced apartments. While both come with furniture and are ready for immediate move-in, they differ in important ways:

For most foreign residents who want a balance of comfort and affordability, a standard furnished apartment is the better option. Serviced apartments are ideal for those on corporate housing budgets or who need the convenience of hotel-like services during a brief stay in the city. If you plan to stay for several months and are comfortable managing your own utilities and cleaning, a furnished apartment near Ikebukuro offers far better value for money.

Best Areas to Rent a Furnished Apartment Near Ikebukuro Station

While Ikebukuro Station itself is in the heart of Toshima-ku, several surrounding areas offer excellent options for furnished rentals with easy access to the station. Here are the top neighborhoods to consider:

Higashi-Ikebukuro (East Ikebukuro)

Located just east of the station, Higashi-Ikebukuro is a lively area with Sunshine City — a large complex with shopping, restaurants, and an aquarium. The nearest station, Higashi-Ikebukuro on the Toden Arakawa Line, is also within a short walk. This area has a good mix of newer apartment buildings and is well-served by convenience stores, supermarkets, and other daily living facilities. Walking time to Ikebukuro Station is typically 5 to 10 minutes.

Kanamecho / Zoshigaya

These quieter residential neighborhoods are located along the Yurakucho and Fukutoshin lines, just one or two stops from Ikebukuro. Rent is noticeably lower than right next to the main station, and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Zoshigaya is known for its charming local streets and proximity to Zoshigaya Cemetery, a large green park-like space. These areas are popular with students and young professionals searching for affordable furnished properties.

Otsuka / Sugamo

Just one station north of Ikebukuro on the JR Yamanote Line, Otsuka offers a mix of traditional shopping streets and modern apartment buildings at lower rent than Ikebukuro proper. Sugamo, two stops away, is famous for its Jizo-dori shopping street and has a distinctly local, welcoming atmosphere. Both areas are within easy reach — about five minutes by train — and offer more space for the same budget.

Mejiro / Takadanobaba

These areas sit just south of Ikebukuro on the Yamanote Line. Mejiro is one of the more upscale residential neighborhoods along the line, known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and proximity to Gakushuin University. Takadanobaba has a more vibrant, student-friendly atmosphere with affordable restaurants and international food options. Both are just 2 to 4 minutes from Ikebukuro by train.

Itabashi / Kita-ku

If you are willing to look slightly further from the station — about 15 to 20 minutes by local train — the Itabashi and Kita-ku areas offer some of the most affordable furnished apartments accessible to Ikebukuro. Many XROSS HOUSE properties are located in these neighborhoods, providing private rooms and furnished apartments at significantly lower rent while still maintaining close access to Ikebukuro via the Tobu Tojo Line or JR Saikyo Line.

Can Foreigners Rent a Furnished Apartment in Ikebukuro?

Yes, foreigners can absolutely rent a furnished apartment in Ikebukuro — but the process comes with some unique challenges in Japan. Traditional Japanese real estate agencies may require a Japanese guarantor (hoshounin), a Japanese bank account, a phone number with a Japanese carrier, and proof of a valid residence card (zairyu card) or visa. Some landlords and property management companies are still not accustomed to renting to non-Japanese tenants, especially those who do not speak Japanese.

What You Typically Need

For a standard furnished apartment rental in Tokyo, foreigners generally need to prepare the following: a valid passport and visa, a residence card (or certificate of eligibility), proof of income or employment, a Japanese phone number, a Japanese bank account for monthly rent payments, and in many cases, a guarantor or guarantor company. The screening process can take one to two weeks.

Foreigner-Friendly Options

Companies like XROSS HOUSE are specifically designed to serve foreign residents. XROSS HOUSE does not require key money, does not require a traditional guarantor, and the entire contract process can be completed online using a smartphone. Communication is available in English, and inquiries can be made via email, phone, LINE, WhatsApp, Messenger, WeChat, and KakaoTalk — making it accessible to residents from many different countries. The initial registration fee is just ¥50,000, and screening is straightforward with basic identification documents.

Short-Term & Monthly Furnished Apartments in Ikebukuro

Not everyone moving to Tokyo needs a long-term lease. Many foreign residents arrive for corporate training programs lasting a few months, language school semesters, internships, or extended tourism. For these situations, short-term and monthly furnished apartments in the Ikebukuro area provide the ideal solution.

Benefits of Monthly Contracts

Monthly apartments allow you to move in without a security deposit or key money. The room comes fully furnished with appliances, and many properties include WiFi and utilities in the rent. This means your total monthly cost is predictable and transparent — no surprise bills for gas setup fees or internet installation. The minimum stay is typically one month, though some properties offer weekly options as well.

Who Uses Monthly Apartments?

Monthly furnished apartments near Ikebukuro are popular with several groups: business professionals on temporary assignments from companies in Osaka, Kyoto, or other cities; international students starting at language schools or universities in Tokyo; remote workers and digital nomads who want a comfortable base in the city for a few months; and individuals who need temporary housing while searching for a permanent long-term rental or during building renovations at their primary residence.

XROSS HOUSE Monthly Options

XROSS HOUSE offers both share house rooms and furnished apartments on flexible monthly terms. With over 500 properties across Tokyo — 90% of which are within 20 minutes of major stations including Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Shinagawa — you have a wide selection of locations and room types to choose from. Their furnished apartments start from ¥60,000 per month, and share house private rooms from ¥29,800. Campaigns offering reduced or free registration fees are frequently available for residents who commit to a minimum stay.

What Is Included in a Furnished Apartment in Japan?

The definition of "furnished" varies between countries and even between different rental companies in Japan. Here is what you can generally expect in a furnished apartment in the Ikebukuro area:

Standard Inclusions

Most furnished apartments in Tokyo include the following items in the room: a single or semi-double bed with a mattress, a desk and chair, a wardrobe or closet for storage, a refrigerator, a microwave oven, a washing machine (sometimes shared in the building), an air conditioner, lighting fixtures, and curtains. Some properties also include a TV, a vacuum cleaner, and basic kitchen utensils.

What You May Need to Bring or Buy

Even in a furnished apartment, there are a few things typically not provided: bed linens and pillows (though rental services are available), towels, dishes and cookware, cleaning supplies, and toiletries. These can all be purchased inexpensively at stores like Daiso, Nitori, or Don Quijote, which are conveniently located near Ikebukuro Station.

Shared Facilities

In share houses and some apartment buildings, residents have access to shared facilities including a kitchen, bathroom or shower room, laundry room, and sometimes a common lounge area. XROSS HOUSE properties offer shared kitchens with cooking equipment, shower rooms, and laundry facilities as part of their standard amenities. Each private room is lockable and comes furnished with personal furniture and appliances.

How to Rent a Furnished Apartment in Ikebukuro (Step-by-Step Guide)

Renting a furnished apartment in Tokyo does not have to be complicated, especially when you choose a foreigner-friendly company. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process:

Step 1: Search for Properties Online

Start your search on English-friendly real estate websites or directly on the XROSS HOUSE website. You can filter properties by area (Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, or specific neighborhoods), room type, rent budget, and available move-in date. Many sites also let you search using a map view to visualize the location relative to Ikebukuro Station and surrounding areas like Meguro, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. Each property page typically includes 360-degree panoramic photos, floor plan details, room size in m², nearest station and walking time, lease conditions, and a list of included facilities and equipment.

Step 2: Contact the Company and Ask Questions

Once you find properties that interest you, send an inquiry through the website, or contact the company via LINE, WhatsApp, email, or phone. At XROSS HOUSE, inquiries are accepted through multiple channels and a reply is guaranteed within 24 hours. Ask about availability, move-in dates, total cost including any campaign discounts, and the specific details of what is included in the room.

Step 3: View the Property

You can choose to visit the property in person or take an online virtual tour. XROSS HOUSE offers both options, making it possible to secure a room even before you arrive in Japan. The online tour uses video call apps, and the 360-degree photos on the website give a comprehensive view of the room and shared spaces.

Step 4: Apply and Complete Screening

Submit your application with the required documents — typically a passport, visa or residence card, and contact information. A simple screening process follows. XROSS HOUSE accepts applications from residents aged 18 to 39 years old. The screening is straightforward and does not require a Japanese guarantor.

Step 5: Sign the Contract Online

After approval, you can complete the entire contract process online using your smartphone. There is no need to visit a real estate office in person. Pay the initial cost (¥50,000 at XROSS HOUSE) and confirm your move-in date.

Step 6: Move In

On your move-in day, pick up the key and start living. Since the apartment is already furnished with all essential items, you can settle in immediately — no waiting for furniture delivery or appliance installation.

Common Problems Foreigners Face When Renting in Tokyo

Even in a modern, international city like Tokyo, renting as a foreigner can present specific challenges. Being aware of these issues ahead of time will help you plan more effectively:

Language Barrier

Many landlords and property management companies operate primarily in Japanese. Lease agreements, utility setup processes, and communication with building management are often conducted entirely in Japanese. Choosing a company that offers English support — or support in your native language — eliminates this barrier entirely.

Guarantor Requirement

Traditional Japanese rental contracts require a guarantor (hoshounin), usually a Japanese national who agrees to cover unpaid rent or damages. For foreigners who do not have a close Japanese contact willing to serve as guarantor, this is a major obstacle. Many furnished apartment providers, including XROSS HOUSE, use a guarantee company system instead, which removes this requirement.

High Upfront Costs

A standard unfurnished apartment in Tokyo may require deposits, key money, agent fees, and the first and last months' rent — easily totaling ¥500,000 or more before you even move in. Furnished apartments and share houses from companies like XROSS HOUSE drastically reduce these costs with initial fees as low as ¥50,000 and no key money or agent commissions.

Limited Availability and Strict Policies

"No foreigners" (gaikokujin fuka) policies still exist at some properties in Japan, although this policy practice is declining. Real estate listings often do not clearly indicate whether a property accepts non-Japanese tenants, and each landlord's rental policy may differ. Additionally, Japan has strict privacy regulations — under the country's privacy protection laws, personal data submitted during the application process (including your passport, visa, and financial details) must be handled responsibly. Make sure any company you work with has a clear privacy policy explaining how your information is used and stored. Using a foreigner-friendly company with transparent policies from the start avoids confusion and protects your privacy throughout the rental process.

Short Notice Relocations

Job transfers, sudden changes in plans, or dissatisfaction with a living situation can require a quick move. Traditional leases lock you in for two years with penalties for early cancellation. XROSS HOUSE offers a unique free relocation benefit — if you are unhappy with your current house or simply need to change locations, you can transfer to another XROSS HOUSE property at no additional cost. This kind of flexibility is rare in the Tokyo rental market and especially valuable for foreign residents whose circumstances may change.

Why XROSS HOUSE Is a Smart Choice for Furnished Apartments in Ikebukuro

XROSS HOUSE operates over 500 share houses and furnished apartments across Tokyo, with more than 6,500 rooms available. A large number of their properties are located within 20 minutes of Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, and other major stations — making them one of the largest and most accessible housing providers for foreign residents in the city.

Key Advantages

Affordable Rent: Furnished apartments start from ¥60,000 per month, and share house private rooms from ¥29,800 per month. Prices are typically 10% to 20% below market rate for comparable properties in the same area.

Low Initial Cost: Just ¥50,000 for the registration fee — no security deposit, no key money, and no agent commission. Compared to the average move-in cost for a solo renter in Tokyo (which can exceed ¥400,000 including furniture), the savings are significant.

English and Multilingual Support: Inquiries and customer support are available in English and multiple other languages through email, phone, LINE, WhatsApp, Messenger, WeChat, and KakaoTalk. The contract can be completed entirely online.

Online Viewing and Contract: You can browse properties with 360-degree photos, take an online tour, and sign your lease without ever visiting an office. This is especially valuable if you are applying from overseas before arriving in Japan.

Free Relocation Within the Network: If you need to change your living location for any reason — a job change, a preference for a different area, or simply wanting to experience a different part of Tokyo — you can relocate to another XROSS HOUSE property without paying an additional registration fee.

Safe and Managed Properties: XROSS HOUSE maintains its properties with a comprehensive management system, including regular safety checks, two dedicated house managers, a customer center, screening for all residents, and periodic events for community building among residents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Furnished Apartments in Ikebukuro

Q: How much does a furnished apartment in Ikebukuro cost per month?

A: Rent for a furnished studio apartment near Ikebukuro Station generally ranges from ¥60,000 to ¥150,000 per month, depending on the property size, building age, and contract type. Share house private rooms can be found for as low as ¥29,800 per month through providers like XROSS HOUSE. Serviced apartments with hotel-level amenities can cost ¥200,000 to ¥500,000 or more monthly.

Q: Can I rent a furnished apartment in Ikebukuro without a guarantor?

A: Yes. Many foreigner-friendly companies do not require a traditional Japanese guarantor. XROSS HOUSE, for example, uses a guarantee company system, so you do not need to find a Japanese individual to vouch for your lease.

Q: What is the minimum stay for a furnished apartment near Ikebukuro?

A: Most furnished apartments and share houses have a minimum contract period of one month. Some monthly apartment providers offer weekly plans as well. Long-term leases of one year or more are also available at reduced monthly rent.

Q: Are utilities included in the rent?

A: It depends on the property type. In XROSS HOUSE share houses, the common service fee (¥15,000 per month) covers utilities and WiFi. For furnished apartments, tenants typically need to set up their own contracts for electricity, gas, water, and internet — similar to a standard rental apartment in Japan. XROSS HOUSE offers a utility setup support service for ¥5,500 if you prefer assistance.

Q: Can I apply for a furnished apartment from outside Japan?

A: Yes. XROSS HOUSE allows you to search properties, view rooms through 360-degree photos and online tours, and complete the contract entirely online. This is especially useful for students and professionals who need to secure housing before arriving in Tokyo.

Q: What happens if I need to move to a different area of Tokyo?

A: XROSS HOUSE offers free relocation within its network of over 500 properties. If your workplace changes, or you simply want to explore a different neighborhood, you can transfer to another XROSS HOUSE property without paying an additional registration fee.

Q: Is there an age limit for renting at XROSS HOUSE?

A: XROSS HOUSE accepts residents between 18 and 39 years old. A screening process is required for all applicants.

Q: What train lines serve Ikebukuro Station?

A: Ikebukuro Station is served by nine lines: JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Tobu Tojo Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, and the Seibu Yurakucho Line. This extensive network provides direct access to virtually every major area in Tokyo and neighboring cities.

Summary: Finding the Best Furnished Apartment in Ikebukuro

Ikebukuro is one of the most practical and vibrant areas in Tokyo for foreign residents seeking a furnished apartment. With its unmatched train access, affordable rent compared to areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku, and growing international community, it is an excellent base for students, professionals, and anyone starting a new life in Japan's capital city.

The key to a smooth rental experience as a foreigner in Tokyo is choosing the right housing provider. Look for a company that offers furnished rooms with low initial costs, English-language support, flexible contract terms, and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. XROSS HOUSE checks all of these boxes — offering over 6,500 furnished rooms across Tokyo, including many properties with convenient access to Ikebukuro Station, at prices that are 10% to 20% below market rate.

Whether you need a private room in a share house starting from ¥29,800 per month or a fully furnished apartment from ¥60,000, XROSS HOUSE provides a simple, foreigner-friendly path to comfortable living in one of Tokyo's most connected urban areas. With an online contract process, multilingual support, and the freedom to relocate between properties at no extra cost, it is designed specifically for the needs of international residents.

Start your search today at https://x-house.co.jp/en/ and find your ideal furnished apartment near Ikebukuro.