One of the first big decisions when renting in Japan is whether to choose a furnished apartment or an unfurnished one. For foreign residents — especially those arriving without a shipping container of belongings — this choice has a real impact on your upfront costs, monthly budget, and how quickly you can settle in. This guide breaks down exactly what each option means in Japan, what you will likely need to buy, and where to get it without stress.
What "Furnished" and "Unfurnished" Actually Mean in Japan
Japan does not have one universal standard for what counts as furnished. The term can mean very different things depending on the landlord and the type of property, so always confirm the specific inclusions before signing.
Typical furnished apartments for foreigners in Japan
Furnished rentals aimed at foreign residents or short-to-medium-term tenants (sometimes called mansions or weekly/monthly apartments) generally include:
- Bed frame and mattress
- Desk and chair
- Wardrobe or clothing rack
- Refrigerator
- Washing machine
- Air conditioner (heating and cooling unit)
- Microwave or small oven
- Curtains or blinds
- Wi-Fi router (sometimes included, sometimes at extra cost)
Some higher-end furnished units also include a TV, rice cooker, vacuum cleaner, and basic kitchenware. Always ask for a written item list before you commit.
Typical unfurnished apartments in Japan
A standard unfurnished rental in Japan is genuinely bare. You should expect:
- An air conditioner (usually built in and considered a fixture)
- A kitchen stove or gas burner (sometimes, not always)
- Curtain rails, but no curtains
- Lighting fixtures, but often no light bulbs or lamp shades
- Nothing else
That means no fridge, no washing machine, no bed, no sofa — nothing. For many newcomers this comes as a surprise. Budget accordingly.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Furnished vs. Unfurnished
| Factor | Furnished | Unfurnished |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly rent | Higher (reflects convenience) | Lower |
| Upfront setup cost | Low — move in quickly | High — buy everything yourself |
| Flexibility | Better for short stays (under 1–2 years) | Better for longer stays (2+ years) |
| Personal style | Limited — use what is there | Full freedom to choose |
| Moving out | Easy — nothing to sell or dispose of | Must arrange disposal of large items |
| Foreign-resident friendliness | Often more flexible on guarantors | Standard Japanese contract process |
How to Decide Which Is Right for You
Ask yourself two questions: How long are you staying, and how much cash do you have right now?
- Staying under 12–18 months? A furnished apartment almost always saves money overall, even if the rent is higher. Buying, transporting, and then disposing of large appliances in Japan is time-consuming and can be costly.
- Staying 2 years or more? An unfurnished apartment usually works out cheaper in the long run. The lower monthly rent adds up, and you get to choose items that suit your lifestyle.
- Tight on cash right now? A furnished place removes the large lump-sum purchase at move-in — useful when you are already paying key money, deposit, and agency fees.
What to Buy for an Unfurnished Apartment: A Practical Checklist
If you go unfurnished, here is a realistic priority list. Buy the essentials first and add comfort items over time — you do not need everything on day one.
Immediate essentials (buy before or on move-in day)
- Bedding: mattress or futon set, pillow, duvet
- Curtains (measure your windows first — Japanese sizes vary)
- Refrigerator
- Washing machine
- Light bulbs or a simple ceiling light (shīringu raito)
- Toilet paper and basic cleaning supplies
First-week additions
- Microwave
- Rice cooker or small pot
- Basic kitchenware (plates, chopsticks, a pan)
- Small table or desk
- Hangers and a clothing rack if there is no wardrobe
Nice-to-have later
- TV or monitor
- Sofa or floor cushions
- Vacuum cleaner
- Bicycle (very practical in most Japanese cities)
Where to Buy Furniture and Appliances in Japan
The good news is that Japan has excellent options at every price point, and many stores have English-speaking staff in major cities.
- Nitori — Japan's most popular affordable furniture and homeware chain. Think IKEA-style range at reasonable prices. Very beginner-friendly.
- IKEA Japan — Available in major cities and online. Familiar to many foreigners and good for larger furniture.
- Yamada Denki, Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera — Major electronics chains for appliances. Staff can often show you English product guides.
- Hard Off / Off House — Japan's largest chain of second-hand furniture and appliance shops. Appliances are tested before sale and can be extremely good value. Highly recommended for newcomers on a budget.
- Mercari / Junk Mail — Japan's popular second-hand apps. You can find nearly new appliances cheaply, though you will need some Japanese or a translation app to navigate listings.
- Facebook Marketplace and expat community groups — Foreign residents moving out of Japan regularly sell perfectly good furniture at low prices. Search for groups in your city.
Note: Prices change regularly. Use the above as a starting guide and check current prices directly.
A Note on Disposing of Large Items When You Leave
In Japan, you cannot simply throw away large appliances or furniture. Items like fridges, washing machines, and air conditioners fall under the Home Appliance Recycling Law and require a paid disposal process. Sofas and beds are classified as sodai gomi (oversized waste) and must be booked with your local ward or city office for collection, usually for a small fee. Plan ahead when your lease ends — this is one reason furnished apartments are appealing for short-term stays.
Summary: Making the Right Choice for Your Situation
Choosing between a furnished and unfurnished apartment in Japan really comes down to your timeline and budget. Furnished apartments for foreigners offer a fast, low-hassle setup and are ideal if you are new to Japan or plan to stay for a year or less. Unfurnished apartments cost less per month and give you full control — the right fit if you are settling in for the long term and ready to invest in your space.
Whatever you choose, go in with a clear checklist, confirm exactly what is and is not included in writing, and remember that places like Nitori, Hard Off, and expat community groups make it very possible to furnish a comfortable home without breaking the bank. Japan can feel overwhelming at first, but thousands of foreign residents successfully set up their homes here every year — and with a little preparation, you will too.