Japan Student Apartment Move-In Costs: Deposit, Key Money, Guarantor & Contracts

Quick Answer

Private apartment move-in costs may include deposit, key money, agency fee, guarantor-company fee, insurance, lock change, cleaning and advance rent. Not every contract uses every fee. Ask for a written total before agreeing.

Terms to Recognize

• Shikikin (deposit): may be partly refundable after deductions.
• Reikin (key money): generally a non-refundable payment to the landlord.
• Agency fee: payment to the real-estate intermediary.
• Guarantor company: screening and guarantee service with initial/renewal fees.
• Management fee: recurring cost separate from rent.
• Restoration/cleaning: move-out obligations defined by the contract.

Contract Checks

Confirm the total due before move-in, cancellation penalty, renewal fee, utility setup, furniture status, occupancy rules, commute and language support. Photograph the room condition at handover and keep the signed inventory.

Dormitory vs Apartment

A dormitory may have clearer setup and school support but less privacy or stricter rules. An apartment may provide independence but requires screening, contracts and larger upfront cash. Compare total first-year cost—not rent alone.

Safety

Use a verified school or licensed housing channel. Do not transfer a deposit from an unverified social-media message. Obtain the property identity, contract and receipt.

Student Planning

Ask your school what temporary housing is available if the permanent room cannot begin on arrival day. Keep an emergency buffer for hotel, transport or delayed keys.

Official Planning Source

Use Study in Japan as a general accommodation starting point, then rely on the actual housing provider's current written contract and fee sheet.