Shinagawa Apartment Rental Guide (2026): Prices, Best Areas & Foreign-Friendly Options

Why Choose Shinagawa for Apartment Rental in Tokyo?

Shinagawa is one of Tokyo's most strategically located wards, and in 2026, it is undergoing a level of transformation that makes it arguably the most exciting place to live in the capital. Situated in the southern-central part of Tokyo's 23 special wards, Shinagawa offers something rare: world-class transit connectivity, a mix of quiet residential streets and modern waterfront living, and rent prices that are noticeably more reasonable than neighboring Minato or Shibuya.

The ward's biggest draw is transportation. Shinagawa Station is a Shinkansen (bullet train) stop, giving you direct high-speed rail access to Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka without transferring. It is also the future terminus for the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line to Nagoya, and a key stop on the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Keikyu Line (with direct service to Haneda Airport in roughly 15 minutes), and the Tokaido Line. Whether you commute to Shibuya, Tokyo Station, or Yokohama, Shinagawa puts you within easy reach.

Adding to the momentum is the Takanawa Gateway City development — a ¥600 billion ($3.3 billion) mixed-use complex built around the new Takanawa Gateway Station on the Yamanote Line. The first phase opened in March 2025, and the full complex — including luxury residences, a JW Marriott hotel, an international school, convention centers, and approximately 200 shops — is completing its grand opening in spring 2026. This is one of the largest redevelopment projects in Tokyo's recent history, and it is reshaping the entire Shinagawa–Takanawa corridor into a global business and lifestyle hub.

For expats and international residents, Shinagawa offers a practical middle ground: close enough to Tokyo's central business districts for short commutes, connected enough for domestic and international travel, and affordable enough that you are not paying the Minato-ward premium. The ward also has a growing international community, particularly around the business districts near Shinagawa Station and the waterfront areas of Tennozu Isle.

Average Rent in Shinagawa (Studio, 1LDK, Family Apartments)

Shinagawa Ward sits in the mid-to-upper range of Tokyo's rental market — more affordable than the premium wards of Minato, Chiyoda, and Shibuya, but pricier than outer wards like Adachi, Itabashi, or Nerima. The exact rent you will pay depends heavily on the specific neighborhood, building age, distance from the nearest station, and whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished.

Below is a general overview of average monthly rent in Shinagawa Ward as of early 2026. These figures exclude management fees (kanri-hi), which typically add ¥5,000–¥15,000 per month.

USD estimates are based on an exchange rate of approximately ¥154 = $1 USD (early 2026). The weak yen has made Tokyo significantly more affordable for residents earning in dollars. However, exchange rates fluctuate — always check the current rate when budgeting.

Compared to neighboring Minato Ward, where a 1LDK can easily exceed ¥300,000, Shinagawa offers meaningful savings — often 20–35% less — while still providing excellent transit access and modern housing stock. Newer buildings near Osaki or the Shinagawa Station corridor tend to be at the higher end, while areas like Togoshi or parts of Oimachi offer better value.

Best Areas to Rent an Apartment in Shinagawa

Shinagawa Ward is more diverse than many newcomers expect. It stretches from the busy business districts near the bay to quiet, tree-lined residential streets further inland. Here are the five most popular neighborhoods for renters, each with a distinct character.

Gotanda

Gotanda is one of the most well-rounded residential neighborhoods in Shinagawa. Served by the JR Yamanote Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tokyu Ikegami Line, it offers superb connectivity to central Tokyo. The area around the station is lively with restaurants, izakaya, cafes, and retail, while the backstreets just a few minutes' walk away are remarkably quiet and residential.

Rent in Gotanda tends to be slightly below the Shinagawa ward average for studios and 1LDKs, making it a popular choice for young professionals. A 1K apartment within a 10-minute walk of Gotanda Station typically ranges from ¥80,000 to ¥110,000 per month. The area also has a growing number of coworking spaces and startup offices, giving it an increasingly international feel.

Oimachi

Oimachi is Shinagawa Ward's most practical, family-friendly hub. The station is served by the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, Tokyu Oimachi Line, and Rinkai Line, providing easy access to Tokyo, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and the waterfront areas of Odaiba and Ariake. Large commercial facilities, supermarkets (including Ito-Yokado), and a variety of restaurants surround the station.

Average rent for a studio apartment near Oimachi is around ¥80,000–¥100,000, with 1LDK units in the ¥110,000–¥150,000 range and family-sized 2LDKs from ¥150,000 to ¥200,000. Oimachi offers one of the best value-for-access ratios in Shinagawa Ward, and many listings on major real estate portals are available at or slightly below the ward average.

Osaki

Osaki has transformed from a quiet industrial area into a modern business and residential district over the past two decades. Major redevelopment projects — including Gate City Osaki and ThinkPark Tower — have brought sleek high-rise apartments, office towers, and retail into the neighborhood. The station sits on the JR Yamanote Line and Rinkai Line, putting Shibuya and Shinjuku within a 10–15 minute train ride.

Apartments in Osaki tend to skew newer and more modern than in other parts of Shinagawa, which means rent is slightly higher. Expect ¥95,000–¥130,000 for a studio and ¥150,000–¥220,000 for a 1LDK in a newer building. If you work in tech, media, or a startup, Osaki's modern infrastructure and proximity to the Yamanote Line make it a strong choice.

Tennozu Isle

Tennozu Isle is Shinagawa's waterfront district — a canal-side neighborhood with galleries, boardwalks, craft breweries, and a distinctly creative atmosphere that feels different from anywhere else in Tokyo. Accessible via the Rinkai Line and Tokyo Monorail, it is also a short walk or bus ride from Shinagawa Station.

The housing stock here includes modern mid-rise and high-rise apartments with views over the canal and Tokyo Bay. Rent is moderate by Shinagawa standards — studios start around ¥90,000, and 1LDK apartments are available from ¥140,000. Tennozu Isle appeals to creative professionals, couples, and anyone who values a more relaxed, waterfront lifestyle while still living within easy reach of central Tokyo.

Shinagawa Station Area

The area immediately surrounding Shinagawa Station is the ward's most premium rental zone. The Konan (east) side of the station features modern tower residences, while the Takanawa (west) side — now anchored by the Takanawa Gateway City development — is rapidly becoming one of Tokyo's most desirable addresses. International companies, embassies, and luxury hotels are clustered in this corridor.

Rent near Shinagawa Station is the highest in the ward. A 1LDK in a newer building typically costs ¥180,000–¥250,000, and 2LDK units in tower residences can exceed ¥350,000. However, for professionals with a corporate housing allowance or those who need to be close to the Shinkansen for frequent domestic travel, the convenience justifies the premium.

Types of Apartments Available in Shinagawa

If you are coming from the United States or Europe, the Japanese rental market has some unique categories and terminology that are worth understanding before you start your search.

Standard Rental Apartments

The vast majority of apartments in Shinagawa — and throughout Tokyo — are unfurnished long-term rentals with two-year lease contracts. "Mansion" (マンション) refers to a concrete apartment building, typically mid-rise or high-rise with features like auto-lock entry and an elevator. "Apaato" (アパート) refers to smaller, often two-story wooden or light-steel-frame buildings. Mansions are generally newer, more soundproof, and more expensive; apaato offer lower rent but less privacy and thinner walls.

Standard rentals come completely empty — no furniture, no appliances, and often no light fixtures. You will need to purchase everything from a refrigerator to curtain rails. This makes sense for residents staying two years or longer, but it creates a significant barrier for newcomers on shorter or uncertain timelines.

Furnished Apartments

Furnished apartments in Japan come equipped with essential furniture (bed, desk, storage) and appliances (refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, and often air conditioning). They are less common than unfurnished units and typically carry a 10–20% rent premium, but they eliminate the upfront cost of buying and the hassle of disposing of belongings when you leave.

In Shinagawa, furnished apartments are most commonly found near business districts and major stations — Shinagawa Station, Osaki, and Gotanda. They are popular with corporate transferees, diplomats, and expats on assignments of six months to two years.

Monthly & Short-Term Rentals

Monthly mansions (mansurii manshon) are fully furnished apartments rented on a month-to-month basis without the standard two-year lease commitment. Rent is higher than a standard lease — expect to pay ¥120,000–¥200,000 per month for a studio in Shinagawa — but the trade-off is flexibility: no key money, no guarantor, and a simplified application process.

These are ideal for people who have just arrived in Japan and need a temporary base while they search for a long-term apartment, or for business travelers staying one to six months. Several operators serve the Shinagawa area, including nationwide chains and smaller boutique providers.

Share Houses

Share houses are a distinctly Japanese housing format where residents have private bedrooms but share common spaces such as kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms. Rent is significantly lower than a private apartment — typically ¥40,000–¥70,000 per month in Shinagawa — and most share houses are fully furnished with all utilities included.

For foreigners, share houses offer several critical advantages: no Japanese guarantor requirement, no key money, no security deposit (in many cases), minimal paperwork, and a built-in social network of housemates. Many share houses in Tokyo actively welcome international residents and provide English-language support. XROSS HOUSE, for example, operates multiple properties in and around Shinagawa with flexible monthly contracts designed specifically for the needs of international residents.

Can Foreigners Rent Apartments in Shinagawa?

Yes, foreigners can and do rent apartments in Shinagawa. However, the process is more complex than in most Western countries, and there are real barriers that international residents should be aware of before they begin their search.

Common Challenges

The most significant obstacle is landlord reluctance. A substantial number of property owners in Japan are hesitant to rent to non-Japanese tenants. Concerns typically center on language barriers, unfamiliarity with Japanese tenancy norms (garbage sorting, noise rules, lease renewal procedures), and worry about tenants leaving the country before the lease ends. While this reluctance is gradually decreasing — particularly in central Tokyo — it remains a reality that limits the number of properties available to foreign applicants.

Required Documents

To apply for a standard apartment rental in Shinagawa, you will generally need:

• Residence Card (Zairyu Card) — proof of your legal status in Japan. Without this, almost no landlord or management company will process your application.
• Proof of income or employment — typically a recent pay stub, employment certificate, or tax withholding slip.
• Japanese bank account — most landlords require rent to be paid by bank transfer.
• Japanese phone number — needed for communication during the application process.

Guarantor (hoshounin) or guarantor company (hoshougaisha) — a Japanese individual who agrees to cover your obligations if you default, or a commercial guarantor company that provides this service for a fee (usually 50–100% of one month's rent upfront, plus a small annual renewal fee).

Agencies That Help Foreigners

If you do not speak Japanese or are unfamiliar with the rental process, working with an English-speaking real estate agency dramatically improves your chances. Agencies that specialize in serving foreign residents know which landlords and management companies are open to international tenants, and they can handle the negotiation and paperwork on your behalf. Online portals such as GaijinPot Apartments, Real Estate Japan, and the English-language sections of Suumo and Homes.co.jp are useful starting points for browsing listings.

Initial Costs & Move-In Fees in Shinagawa Rentals

One of the biggest surprises for foreigners renting in Japan for the first time is the upfront cost. Unlike the United States, where you typically pay first month's rent plus a security deposit, the Japanese system involves several additional fees that can push total move-in costs to four to six times the monthly rent.

Example: For an apartment with ¥100,000/month rent (1 month deposit + 1 month key money + 1 month agency fee + guarantor + first month + insurance + lock change), your total move-in cost could be approximately ¥480,000–¥550,000 ($3,100–$3,570 USD). That is before you buy any furniture or appliances.

The good news is that an increasing number of properties in Shinagawa — particularly newer buildings marketed to younger tenants — are listed with zero key money or zero deposit, which can cut your upfront costs significantly. Share houses and furnished monthly rentals typically require far less upfront money, with some operators asking only for the first month's rent plus a small administrative fee.

How to Rent an Apartment in Shinagawa (Step-by-Step)

The rental process in Japan follows a structured sequence that can take anywhere from two to six weeks from initial search to move-in.

Step 1: Define Your Budget and Requirements

Set a realistic monthly rent budget (the general rule in Japan is that rent should not exceed 30% of your gross income). Decide on your preferred apartment size (1R, 1K, 1LDK, etc.), must-have amenities (auto-lock, separate bath/toilet, in-unit washer hookup), and your acceptable commute time. In Shinagawa, most stations are within 10–25 minutes of major business districts.

Step 2: Search Listings Online

Browse properties on portals like Suumo, Homes.co.jp, GaijinPot Apartments, and Real Estate Japan. Filter by Shinagawa Ward, your budget, and desired layout. Bookmark properties that match your criteria.

Step 3: Contact a Real Estate Agent

In Japan, you typically view properties through a licensed real estate agent (fudousan-ya). If you are a foreigner, choose an agency with English-speaking staff or one that specializes in international clients. Most agencies are free to use for tenants — their commission is built into the standard process.

Step 4: View Properties in Person

Your agent will schedule viewings for the properties you are interested in. Arrive on time and take note of noise levels, natural light, the condition of shared spaces (entrance, hallways, trash area), and the distance to the nearest station, supermarket, and convenience store.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Once you choose a property, submit a formal application (nyuukyo moushikomi) with your residence card, proof of employment or enrollment, and guarantor information. The landlord's management company will review your application — a process that typically takes three to seven business days.

Step 6: Sign the Lease and Pay

If approved, you will sign a lease agreement (typically in Japanese, though some agencies provide English translations). Pay the full initial costs (deposit, key money, agency fee, first month's rent, insurance, etc.) before receiving the keys. Most payments are made by bank transfer.

Step 7: Move In

Collect your keys on the designated date. For unfurnished apartments, coordinate furniture delivery and set up utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) — your agent or the building management can guide you through this process.

Furnished & Flexible Lease Options in Shinagawa

Not everyone moving to Shinagawa is ready to commit to a two-year lease, buy a refrigerator, and navigate the full Japanese rental process in a language they may not speak. For international residents — especially those arriving for the first time, on short-term assignments, or still exploring where they want to live long-term — furnished apartments and flexible-lease options are the more practical path.

Why Furnished and Flexible Matters

A standard unfurnished apartment requires substantial upfront investment: four to six months' rent in initial fees, plus ¥200,000–¥400,000 or more for furniture and appliances. You also need a Japanese guarantor, a bank account, and the ability to read (or have someone translate) a Japanese lease. For someone who has just landed at Haneda Airport with two suitcases and a new work visa, this is an enormous barrier.

Furnished options strip away most of this friction. You move into a room that already has a bed, desk, appliances, internet, and often all utilities included. Monthly contracts mean you can leave with 30 days' notice instead of being locked into a two-year commitment. And many operators — particularly those serving international residents — do not require key money, a security deposit, or a Japanese guarantor.

Share Houses as a Smart Entry Point

For newcomers to Japan, share houses offer the lowest barrier to entry and the most social environment. In Shinagawa Ward and surrounding areas, operators like XROSS HOUSE provide fully furnished private rooms with shared kitchens, living areas, and bathrooms. Rent typically ranges from ¥40,000 to ¥70,000 per month — a fraction of what a private apartment costs — and the application process can often be completed online in English before you arrive in Japan.

Beyond cost savings, a share house gives you something a bare-walled studio apartment cannot: a built-in community. Housemates who can explain how garbage sorting works, where to find the nearest clinic, and which local ramen shop is worth the line. For anyone arriving without a local network, this practical support is invaluable.

Shinagawa vs Other Tokyo Areas (Shinjuku, Minato, Meguro)

How does Shinagawa stack up against other popular wards for expats and international residents?

Shinagawa's key advantage is its unique combination of Shinkansen access, Haneda Airport proximity, and the Takanawa Gateway redevelopment — none of which Shinjuku, Minato, or Meguro can match. If your work involves domestic travel, international flights, or you simply want to live in a ward that is actively becoming more modern and more connected, Shinagawa offers the best forward-looking value proposition.

Shinjuku is best for those who prioritize nightlife, commercial variety, and being at the center of Tokyo's largest transit hub. Minato is the premium choice for executives and diplomats who want English-language services, international schools, and upscale living — at a significant price premium. Meguro suits those who prefer a quieter, more residential atmosphere with a stylish, low-key character.

Is Shinagawa a Good Area for Expats and International Students?

Shinagawa is an increasingly strong choice for expats and international students — and in 2026, the gap between Shinagawa and the traditionally "foreigner-friendly" wards like Minato and Shinjuku is closing fast.

For Working Expats

Shinagawa is already home to the Japan headquarters of several major international companies, including Microsoft Japan and several global logistics and finance firms clustered around the Konan (east) exit of Shinagawa Station. The opening of Takanawa Gateway City is bringing additional international businesses, a JW Marriott hotel, and conference facilities designed to attract a global audience. English-speaking services — from real estate agencies to medical clinics — are more accessible here than in most Tokyo wards outside of Minato.

The transit connectivity is particularly valuable for expats who travel frequently. Direct Keikyu Line service to Haneda Airport means you can be at the international terminal in roughly 15 minutes. The Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station reaches Nagoya in about 90 minutes and Kyoto or Osaka in around two hours. Few residential areas in Tokyo can match this level of access.

For International Students

While Shinagawa is not a traditional student district in the way that Takadanobaba or Ikebukuro might be, it offers practical advantages. Rent — especially for share houses — can be competitive. The JR Keihin-Tohoku Line and Rinkai Line provide affordable, efficient commutes to universities across Tokyo. And the growing international community means you are less likely to face isolation compared to living in a more homogeneous residential ward.

For students on tighter budgets, share houses in Shinagawa typically cost between ¥40,000 and ¥65,000 per month with all utilities included — significantly less than renting even a basic 1R apartment privately. The lack of upfront fees (no deposit, no key money, no guarantor) makes share houses the most financially accessible option for international students.

Daily Life and Convenience

Shinagawa Ward has no shortage of everyday conveniences: 24-hour convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) are on virtually every block, supermarkets including Ito-Yokado, Aeon, and local chains are within walking distance of most residential areas, and the ward has hospitals, clinics, parks, and public sports facilities throughout. The Shinagawa Aquarium, Togoshi Ginza (one of Tokyo's longest shotengai shopping streets), and the waterfront promenades around Tennozu Isle add lifestyle appeal.

Find Your Shinagawa Apartment with XROSS HOUSE

If you are looking for a place to live in Shinagawa without the complexity and cost of a traditional Japanese lease, XROSS HOUSE offers a practical, foreigner-friendly alternative.

XROSS HOUSE provides fully furnished private rooms and share houses across central Tokyo, including properties accessible to Shinagawa Ward's key stations. Every room comes equipped with a bed, desk, storage, and all essential appliances. Wi-Fi and utilities are included in the monthly rent. Contracts are monthly — there is no two-year commitment, no key money, no security deposit, and no Japanese guarantor required.

What Makes XROSS HOUSE Different

• Low upfront cost: Move in with as little as first month's rent plus a small administrative fee — a fraction of the ¥400,000–¥550,000 required for a standard apartment.
• English-language support: The application process, contract, and ongoing support are available in English. You can apply online before arriving in Japan.
• Flexible terms: Stay one month or one year — you decide. Leave with 30 days' notice.
• Community: XROSS HOUSE properties attract international residents, giving you a ready-made social network from day one.
• Prime locations: Properties are located near major stations throughout Tokyo, including areas with easy access to Shinagawa, Gotanda, Osaki, and Oimachi.

Whether you are arriving in Tokyo for the first time, relocating for work, starting a language school program, or simply want a hassle-free living situation while you explore the city, XROSS HOUSE is designed for your situation. It bridges the gap between expensive short-term hotels and the daunting paperwork of a traditional Japanese lease — giving you the freedom to focus on your life in Tokyo, not on paperwork.

XROSS HOUSE at a Glance:

• Monthly rent: From approximately ¥40,000/month (share house) — utilities and Wi-Fi included
• Move-in cost: First month's rent + small admin fee only
• Contract: Month-to-month (30 days' notice to leave)
• Furnishing: Fully furnished (bed, desk, appliances, Wi-Fi)
• Guarantor: Not required
• Key money / Deposit: None
• Language support: English (online application available)
• Website: https://x-house.co.jp/en/