Tokyo

1. Key Customs and Expected Behaviors for Tenants

In Tokyo, housing etiquette is deeply rooted in Japanese cultural norms of respect, cleanliness, and consideration for others. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

a. Removing Shoes Indoors

• Always remove your shoes at the entrance (genkan) of your apartment or shared housing. This is a strict custom in Japan to maintain cleanliness.
• Use indoor slippers if provided or bring your own. Avoid walking barefoot or in socks in shared spaces unless it’s explicitly allowed.

b. Respect for Neighbors

• Japanese apartments (called mansions or apāto) often have thin walls, so noise travels easily. Be mindful of your volume, especially during quiet hours (see below).
• Avoid loud conversations, music, or TV, particularly late at night or early in the morning.

c. No Alterations Without Permission

• Tenants are generally not allowed to make permanent changes to the property (e.g., painting walls, drilling holes) without the landlord’s explicit permission.
• If you need to hang items, use removable hooks or adhesive strips to avoid damaging walls.

d. Punctuality with Rent

• Paying rent on time is a strict expectation. Late payments are considered disrespectful and can harm your relationship with the landlord.

e. Respect for Shared Spaces

• If you live in shared housing (e.g., a guesthouse or share house), keep common areas clean and tidy. Always clean up after yourself in kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges.

---

2. Considerations for Shared Housing or Apartments

Shared housing is popular among foreigners in Tokyo due to its affordability and social opportunities. Here’s what to expect:

a. House Rules

• Most shared accommodations have strict house rules, such as designated cleaning schedules, quiet hours, and rules about guests.
• Some shared housing may prohibit overnight guests entirely, so check the rules before inviting friends.

b. Privacy

• In shared housing, personal space is limited. Respect others’ privacy by not entering their rooms without permission or leaving personal belongings in common areas.

c. Cultural Sensitivity

• Be mindful of cultural differences, especially if you’re sharing housing with Japanese residents. For example, avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion unless you know the other person well.

d. Waste Disposal in Shared Housing

• Waste disposal rules (see below) are often posted in shared housing. Follow them carefully to avoid conflicts with housemates.

---

3. Handling Waste Disposal

Japan has a highly organized and strict waste disposal system, and Tokyo is no exception. Improper disposal can lead to fines or complaints from neighbors.

a. Sorting Garbage

• Garbage is separated into categories such as burnable (燃えるゴミ), non-burnable (燃えないゴミ), recyclables (資源ゴミ), and oversized items (粗大ゴミ).
• Recyclables are further divided into subcategories like plastics, glass bottles, cans, and paper.

b. Designated Collection Days

• Each type of waste is collected on specific days of the week. Your local ward office (kuyakusho) or landlord will provide a waste collection schedule.
• Place your garbage in the designated area only on the morning of collection day (or the night before, if allowed).

c. Proper Bags

• Use the correct type of garbage bags, which may need to be purchased at convenience stores or supermarkets. Some wards require specific bags with the ward’s logo.

d. Cleanliness

• Rinse recyclables like bottles and cans before disposal to avoid attracting pests.

---

4. Quiet Hours

Quiet hours are an important part of housing etiquette in Tokyo, reflecting the Japanese value of maintaining harmony with neighbors.

a. Typical Quiet Hours

• Quiet hours are generally from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, though this can vary slightly depending on the building or neighborhood.
• During these hours, avoid loud activities such as vacuuming, playing musical instruments, or hosting gatherings.

b. Noise Complaints

• If a neighbor complains about noise, apologize sincerely and adjust your behavior immediately. Repeated complaints can lead to eviction.

---

5. Landlord-Tenant Relations

Landlord-tenant relationships in Tokyo are formal and professional, with clear expectations on both sides.

a. Key Money and Deposits

• When renting an apartment, you may need to pay key money (reikin), a non-refundable "thank you" payment to the landlord, in addition to a security deposit (shikikin).
• Be prepared for these upfront costs, which can amount to 3-6 months’ rent.

b. Communication

• Landlords typically communicate through property management companies. Direct contact is rare unless you’re renting from a private landlord.
• If you have issues, report them promptly and politely. Avoid being overly demanding or confrontational.

c. Move-Out Expectations

• When moving out, the apartment must be returned to its original condition. Professional cleaning fees are often deducted from your deposit.
• Notify your landlord at least one month in advance (or as specified in your lease) before moving out.

---

6. Costs and Typical Housing Sizes

a. Costs

• Rent in Tokyo varies widely depending on location, size, and type of housing. On average:
  • Studio apartments (1R or 1K): ¥50,000–¥100,000 per month.
  • Larger apartments (2LDK or more): ¥120,000–¥300,000+ per month.
  • Shared housing: ¥30,000–¥80,000 per month.

b. Utilities

• Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) are usually not included in rent and cost an additional ¥10,000–¥20,000 per month.

c. Housing Sizes

• Apartments in Tokyo are typically small compared to Western standards. A 1R (one-room) apartment may be as small as 10–20 square meters.
• Storage space is limited, so consider renting a storage unit if you have many belongings.

---

7. Cultural Norms Influencing Housing

Japanese cultural norms of harmony (wa) and respect influence housing etiquette in Tokyo:

a. Minimalism

• Many Tokyo residents embrace minimalism due to limited space. Avoid cluttering your apartment with unnecessary items.

b. Community Harmony

• Maintaining good relationships with neighbors is highly valued. Greet your neighbors with a polite bow or a simple “こんにちは” (konnichiwa).
• Some tenants give small gifts (e.g., snacks or towels) to neighbors when moving in as a gesture of goodwill.

c. Privacy

• Privacy is highly respected in Japan. Avoid prying into your neighbors’ lives or engaging in overly familiar behavior unless invited.

---

8. Tips for Foreigners Renting in Tokyo

• Use a Real Estate Agent: Many agencies specialize in helping foreigners find housing. Look for English-speaking agents if needed.
• Guarantor Requirement: Most landlords require a guarantor (hoshonin), who is legally responsible for unpaid rent. If you don’t have one, you may need to use a guarantor company (hosho gaisha).
• Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Most apartments in Tokyo are unfurnished, so budget for furniture and appliances.
• Short-Term Rentals: If you’re staying for a short time, consider serviced apartments or share houses, which are more flexible.

---

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only adapt smoothly to life in Tokyo but also build positive relationships with your landlord and neighbors. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant and dynamic city!