Housing Options for Interns in Japan: Shared Houses, Social Residences, and Apartments
One of the most significant challenges for interns coming to Japan is finding the right place to live. A comfortable home-away-from-home can really improve the overall experience, not only in terms of how comfortable you are, but also in how well you immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. For interns, particularly those on a short-term stay or limited budget, three main housing options stand out in Japan: shared houses, social residences, and apartments.
Affordability is typically the first factor on most interns’ minds. The cost of living in Japan, especially in the main urban areas like Tokyo, can be high compared to other cities worldwide. So, choosing an accommodation that offers good value for money while meeting basic needs is essential.
Convenience is another important factor. While Japan has an incredible public transportation network, you'll still want to ensure you live close enough to your workplace and daily essentials. This will minimize commute times and give you more time to experience everything Japan has to offer outside of your work hours.
Lastly, the experience itself is also very important. Choosing an accommodation that allows you to meet people, either other interns or locals, will help deepen your cultural appreciation. With this in mind, let’s discuss these different accommodation options in detail to help you choose the one that best suits you and your internship!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Housing in Japan
💴 Budget
Rent in Japan can vary a lot depending on the region. Due to Tokyo being the country’s heart, rent will generally be higher than in cities like Osaka or Fukuoka. Keep in mind that some apartments may have, in addition to rent, utility and internet fees, and possible deposits like “key money.” As an intern, you’ll likely have a set budget, so it’s important to know these kinds of details to make the wisest choice.
📍Location
Location can greatly influence quality of life. For instance, the closer you are to your job, the less you’ll spend on commute time and costs. But also consider that being farther from the city center usually equals cheaper rent. Another thing to consider is whether you would like easy access to things like grocery stores, gyms, or entertainment districts when deciding which neighborhood to live in.
🛋️ Facilities & Amenities
When looking at potential housing, make sure to also check if the place is furnished or not. Furnished units support short-term residents by allowing them to save on having to buy basic furniture or appliances. Some housing options, like shared houses and social residences, may also include spaces like a lounge, gym, or study room. If those things matter to you, then look for accommodations that specifically offer those facilities.
🗣️ Cultural & Social Environment
Japan’s cultural and social norms might differ from what you’re used to back home. Some accommodations focus on community living, while others are better suited for more private lifestyles. If you’re a sociable person who enjoys meeting new people or would like to practice Japanese with fellow residents, a shared house or social residence might be perfect for you. On the other hand, those looking for more privacy may prefer a private apartment.
Shared Houses: Affordable and Social Living
A shared house is based on a communal living arrangement, and typically residents will have their own bedroom but share common areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges. Shared houses are particularly popular in bigger cities, where the rent for apartments is often too high for students or interns to afford.
In fact, shared housing has seen a major boom: according to a 2018 survey by Tokyo Shoko Research, 60% of share house providers had entered the market within the previous five years, and profits in the sector had risen nearly 40% over just two years. This rapid growth shows how shared houses have become the go-to option for more and more people looking for affordable living in Japan.
👍 Pros
- Affordable Rent: Shared houses are usually cheaper than private apartments since costs like utilities and maintenance are split among residents.
- Utilities Included: Many shared houses include basic utilities like water, gas, electricity, and internet into the monthly rent.
- Built-In Community: Living with others opens the door to new friendships, cultural exchange, and casual networking.
- Furnished Rooms: Rooms usually come with essentials like a bed, desk, and storage, making the move-in easier and cheaper.
👎 Cons
- Less Privacy: Sharing common areas naturally means interacting more with others, and it can be harder to fully disconnect or have time to yourself compared to living alone.
- Shared Facilities: Using the bathroom or kitchen might require a bit of coordination with fellow residents, and sometimes you’ll need to be flexible with timing or how others use the space.
- House Rules: Some shared houses have curfews, cleaning schedules, or other guidelines that might feel limiting if you’re used to the freedom of living by yourself.
Popular Companies Options
- Oakhouse: Offers a wide variety and options of shared houses throughout Tokyo and other cities, with options that range in size, style, and community vibe.
- Sakura House: Popular among international students and young professionals, with a focus on a multicultural living experience.
- Borderless House: Designed to encourage cultural exchange by pairing international residents with Japanese housemates, creating a natural environment for language and culture exchange.
Social Residences: A Mix Between Dorms and Apartments
Social residences take the shared house concept further by creating spaces that support both community and personal growth. Along with private rooms, residents often have access to coworking areas and multipurpose rooms. Social residences place an emphasis on community, where residents can organize events like workshops or seminars, as well as networking gatherings. It’s a popular choice for freelancers, students, and remote workers that blends home, work, and community in one place.
👍 Pros
- Larger Facilities: Kitchens, lounges, and study areas tend to be bigger and better equipped than those in smaller shared houses.
- Community Events: Regular social gatherings help residents meet each other and build friendships. This can be especially helpful if you’re new to Japan and excited to meet people.
- Furnished Rooms: Like shared houses, most rooms come with basic furniture, making it possible to move in right away.
👎 Cons
- Limited Availability: These types of residences aren’t as common as shared houses, so rooms can fill up fast.
- Possibly Higher Rent: Extras like gyms, studios, or coworking spaces can make the monthly cost a bit higher than shared houses.
- Activity-Focused Environment: If you’re more introverted or prefer a quieter environment, the event-focused vibe might feel a little too overwhelming.
Popular Companies Options
Apartments: Independent Living
Apartments in Japan generally fall into two categories: furnished and unfurnished. Furnished units include basic furniture and appliances, like a bed, table, air conditioner, washing machine, refrigerator, etc., which makes them much easier to move into if you’re staying for a short- to mid-term period. But you have to pay close attention, as some apartments may have upfront costs like “key money” or a security deposit. Luckily, in bigger cities, it’s becoming more common to find services, like Oakhouse and LeoPalace, that offer furnished apartments without having to pay for these extra costs.
👍 Pros
- Privacy: You won’t have to share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms and can follow your own routine without worrying about shared rules or schedules.
- Deposit-Free Options: Rental platforms that are also aimed at foreigners offer options with no key money or large deposits, making the move-in process much simpler.
- Independence: Living on your own can also be a valuable learning experience, helping you build confidence as you figure out daily life on your own terms in a completely new country.
👎 Cons
- Higher Costs: Compared to shared houses or social residences, private apartments (especially those located in the city center) can be a lot more expensive.
- Smaller Spaces in Big Cities: Apartments in Tokyo tend to be smaller, and you might have to pay a lot just for a few square meters.
- Less Social Engagement: Living alone also means fewer opportunities to interact with other people, which can make some interns feel lonely or isolated.
Cost Comparison: Shared House vs. Social Residence vs. Apartment
Housing costs vary widely depending on the type of accommodation, but the estimates below offer a general idea of what to expect in major cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
🏡 Shared Houses
- Monthly Rent: Typically between ¥40,000–¥80,000 (~$275–$550), often including utilities.
- Extras: Some may charge additional fees for cleaning services or common-areas maintenance.
🏘️ Social Residences
- Monthly Rent: Usually ¥60,000–¥100,000 (~$410–$685), depending on features and location.
- Extras: Community events or the variety of areas and facilities may come with extra costs.
🏙️ Apartments
- Monthly Rent: Rent can range from ¥70,000 in suburban areas to well over ¥135,000 (~$480–$925+) in city centers. Depending on the type of rental, utilities may also be included.
- Extras: Upfront expenses like deposits, key money, or agency fees can make the initial payment higher.
When planning your budget, it’s important to consider different aspects like rent and whether utilities are included or not. Just keep in mind that you can pay a lot less for the same-sized room or apartment if you opt to live in a suburban neighborhood instead of in one of the main districts.
How to Find Housing in Japan as an Intern
There are different ways and services you can use to find the housing option that best suits your needs.
- GaijinPot: A well-known platform for foreigners in Japan, with apartment listings, job boards, and community tips.
- Suumo: Although the website is in Japanese, it offers a lot of different listings that can be navigated by translating the site.
- Real Estate Agencies: If you want to go through the most ‘traditional’ route, local agents know the neighborhoods well. Just keep in mind that agency fees and key money often apply.
- Internship Placement Companies: Some companies that offer internship placements also assist with finding housing, which can be a big help if it’s your first time in Japan and you’re unsure how to navigate the rental system.
Tips for Securing Accommodation Before Arriving in Japan
- Start Early: In high-demand cities like Tokyo, places fill up fast. It’s a good idea to start your housing search at least two to three months before your move-in date.
- Read the Small Print: Double-check things like lease length, refund policies, and any extra fees so there are no surprises.
- Verify What’s Included: Not every apartment or room comes with the same things, so make sure to check carefully whether furniture, utilities, Wi-Fi, etc., are included.
Challenges and Common Housing Issues Interns Might Face
Limited Short-Term Rental Options
The majority of apartments for rent have leases that last around 1–2 years, which isn’t ideal for interns staying just a few months. This makes short-term apartments or shared houses very popular and quick to fill up, leaving limited options especially for interns on a tighter budget.
Understanding House Rules and Cultural Differences
Expect some adjustment when it comes to things like trash sorting, quiet hours, or shared space etiquette. Japanese housing, especially shared houses, can come with more rules than what some are used to. A little research ahead of time can help you settle in more smoothly into your new neighborhood or shared house community.
Dealing with Upfront Costs & Deposits
In Japan, there is a cultural tradition known as “key money,” a non-refundable payment made to the landlord. Additionally, deposits and agency fees can add up. Some short-term rentals exclude or lower these charges, so it’s worth comparing options carefully.
Choosing the Right Housing for Your Internship
It can take a bit of research to find the right housing in Japan, but with so many options out there, something that fits your needs is definitely within reach.
Most importantly, the place you choose to live can shape your entire experience. A comfortable, well-located home makes it easier to focus on your internship and enjoy everything Japan has to offer. Start your search early, keep your options open, from shared houses to short-term apartments, and you’ll be one step closer to finding that (temporary) home that becomes part of an unforgettable time in Japan.
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🏘️ Would you like to intern in Japan but are worried about finding a suitable place to live? Worry no more! At Zentern, we help you find the perfect place based on your preferences. So don’t let that stop you and apply now or contact us and get ready to experience life in Japan!
