“I can’t read the entire contract in Japanese…”
“What if I don’t fully understand the key explanations?”
For many foreign nationals seeking to rent a home in Japan, the language barrier can make the leasing process feel daunting. However, Japan is becoming increasingly accommodating to international residents, and today, there are reliable ways to secure a lease even without strong Japanese language skills.
In this article, we offer clear guidance on the available options, essential preparations, and key considerations to help non-Japanese speakers rent a property in Japan with confidence and peace of mind.
Is It Impossible to Sign a Lease Without Speaking Japanese?
Even without Japanese language skills, it is entirely possible to secure a lease agreement—provided the right support is in place. Here are several effective approaches:
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Partner with a real estate agency offering multilingual services
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Bring a trusted interpreter to viewings and consultations
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Choose properties that provide support materials in your native language
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Ensure clarity through detailed communication via documents or email
Ultimately, it’s not your level of Japanese that determines your success—it’s your willingness to create a clear and supportive environment for understanding.
【1】Choose a Real Estate Agency with Multilingual Support
One of the most reassuring options is to work with a real estate agency that offers services in multiple languages—such as English, Chinese, Korean, or Vietnamese.
Tips for finding the right agency:
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Use search terms like “foreigner-friendly real estate in Tokyo” on Google or social media
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Consult international student support centers
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Seek referrals from cultural exchange organizations or nonprofits supporting foreign residents
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Ask your university or company’s HR department for trusted introductions
💡 Agencies that specialize in assisting foreign nationals often go beyond property matching—they can also coordinate with guarantor companies and landlords, providing a seamless and highly supportive experience.
【2】Bring an Interpreter or Use Professional Interpretation Services
During the lease signing process, the “Explanation of Important Matters” and the act of signing or stamping the contract carry legal weight. It’s essential to fully understand and consent to these terms.
To ensure a secure and informed agreement:
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Invite a Japanese-speaking friend or colleague to accompany you
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Arrange for a professional or volunteer interpreter to be present during the signing
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Pre-review contract contents using reputable translation apps
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Inform the real estate agency in advance if you’d prefer an English-language explanation—many are happy to prepare accordingly
💡 Some agencies are explicitly equipped to offer contracts with interpretation support, and may even provide pre-translated materials tailored for foreign clients—a valuable advantage for a smooth and transparent experience.
【3】Request the Lease Agreement in Advance for Translation and Review
In many cases, the lease contract and the “Explanation of Important Matters” can be reviewed prior to signing. Obtaining these documents early allows you the necessary time to translate and verify the terms thoroughly.
Key sections to pay close attention to:
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Duration of the lease and renewal conditions
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Detailed breakdown of rent, management fees, and other charges
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Move-out terms, including restoration requirements and notice period
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Prohibited items such as pets, musical instruments, etc.
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Costs and renewal policies of the guarantor company
💡 If you’re unable to read Japanese, tools like DeepL or Google Translate can offer a reasonable understanding of the content.
【4】Overcoming the Language Barrier Beyond the Lease: Living Comfortably After Move-In
Even after signing the lease, many aspects of daily life in Japan still involve the Japanese language, such as:
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Local garbage disposal rules and building notices
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Emails or postings from the property management company
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Communicating repair requests or handling unexpected issues
Practical strategies include:
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Confirm in advance whether your real estate or property management company can communicate in your preferred language
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Record emergency contact details and prepare translated phrases using reliable apps
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Look for properties that support LINE or chat-based communication, which can simplify exchanges
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Connect with university support centers or nonprofit organizations that assist foreign residents—these can be invaluable resources when questions arise
【5】Lower the Barrier by Choosing a Property Designed for International Residents
Some rental properties in Japan are specifically developed and managed with foreign tenants in mind, offering a more seamless and accessible experience.
Common features include:
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No guarantor required (guarantor companies accepted)
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Contracts and support available in English
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Fully furnished with appliances included
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
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Shared housing options with a high proportion of international residents
💡 These residences are intentionally equipped with language-friendly support, making both the leasing process and daily living notably more convenient from the very beginning.
Suggested English Search Keywords for Non-Japanese Speakers Seeking Rental Properties
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“Foreigner friendly apartment in Tokyo/Osaka/Fukuoka”
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“No guarantor required Japan apartment”
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“English speaking real estate agent Tokyo”
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“Rental property for international student Japan”
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“Short-term furnished rental Japan foreigner OK”
What Matters Most: Clear Intentions and Thoughtful Preparation
Even without fluency in Japanese, a genuine willingness to understand and complete the leasing process respectfully is often met with equal sincerity by property agents and landlords.
In fact, the greater risk lies not in asking questions—but in signing a contract without fully understanding its terms.
Ask freely when in doubt. Make use of translation apps or enlist the help of an interpreter. With proactive communication and preparation, you can secure a lease with confidence and find a home that meets both your needs and your peace of mind—even without strong Japanese language skills.