Yokohama

1. Main Categories of Furnishings and Appliances

When setting up a home in Yokohama, you’ll likely need items from the following categories:

Furnishings

• Living Room: Sofas, coffee tables, TV stands, bookshelves.
• Bedroom: Beds, futons, mattresses, wardrobes, bedside tables.
• Dining Room: Dining tables, chairs, bar stools.
• Storage: Shelving units, cabinets, drawers.
• Decor: Curtains, rugs, cushions, lighting fixtures.

Appliances

• Kitchen: Refrigerators, microwaves, rice cookers, electric kettles, toasters.
• Laundry: Washing machines, dryers.
• Climate Control: Air conditioners, heaters, humidifiers.
• Entertainment: TVs, sound systems.
• Other Essentials: Vacuum cleaners, irons, hair dryers.

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2. Typical Costs

Costs can vary depending on whether you buy new, second-hand, or rent. Here’s a general breakdown:

Furnishings

• New:
  • Sofa: ¥20,000–¥100,000+
  • Bed frame: ¥10,000–¥50,000+
  • Mattress: ¥10,000–¥40,000+
  • Dining table and chairs: ¥15,000–¥50,000+
  • Shelving units: ¥5,000–¥20,000+
• Second-hand: Prices are often 30–70% cheaper than new items.

Appliances

• New:
  • Refrigerator: ¥30,000–¥150,000+
  • Washing machine: ¥20,000–¥100,000+
  • Microwave: ¥5,000–¥20,000+
  • Air conditioner: ¥50,000–¥150,000+
• Second-hand: Prices are typically 40–60% cheaper than new items.

Rental Costs:

• Furnishings: ¥1,000–¥5,000 per month per item.
• Appliances: ¥1,500–¥10,000 per month per item.
• Rental packages (furniture + appliances): ¥10,000–¥50,000 per month, depending on the size of the package.

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3. Where to Buy or Rent Furnishings and Appliances

Yokohama offers a variety of options for purchasing or renting, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Buying New

1. IKEA Yokohama:

   • Location: Kohoku Ward, near Shin-Yokohama Station.
   • Specializes in affordable, modern furniture and home goods.
   • Website: IKEA Japan
   • Delivery: Available for an additional fee.

2. Nitori:

   • Japan’s largest furniture and home goods retailer, offering affordable and functional items.
   • Multiple locations in Yokohama, including near Yokohama Station.
   • Website: Nitori
   • Delivery: Available, often cheaper than IKEA.

3. Bic Camera / Yodobashi Camera:

   • Electronics and appliances stores with locations near Yokohama Station.
   • Offers a wide range of appliances, often with English-speaking staff.
   • Website: Bic Camera / Yodobashi

4. Muji:

   • Minimalist furniture and home goods, with a focus on quality and design.
   • Locations in Yokohama include Landmark Plaza and other shopping centers.
   • Website: Muji

Buying Second-Hand

1. Hard Off / Off House:

   • Chain stores specializing in second-hand goods, including furniture and appliances.
   • Locations in Yokohama include Totsuka and Kanagawa wards.
   • Website: Hard Off

2. Recycle Shops:

   • Independent second-hand stores scattered throughout Yokohama.
   • Prices are negotiable, and you can often find great deals.

3. Online Platforms:

   • Mercari: A popular app for buying and selling second-hand items.
   • Jimoty: A classified ads website where locals sell used furniture and appliances.
   • Yahoo Auctions: Japan’s version of eBay, offering a wide range of items.

Renting

1. Tokyo Lease Corporation:

   • Offers furniture and appliance rental packages for short- and long-term stays.
   • Website: Tokyo Lease

2. Nihon Rental:

   • Specializes in renting appliances and furniture to expats and newcomers.
   • Website: Nihon Rental

3. Sayonara Sales:

   • Expats leaving Japan often sell or rent their furniture and appliances at low prices.
   • Check Facebook groups like “Yokohama Sayonara Sales” or “Japan Garage Sale.”

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4. Procedures and Tips

Buying

• Delivery: Most stores offer delivery services for a fee (¥1,000–¥5,000). Some stores like IKEA and Nitori also offer assembly services.
• Payment: Credit cards are widely accepted, but some second-hand stores may only accept cash.
• Warranty: New items typically come with a warranty (1–5 years). Second-hand items may not have a warranty, so inspect them carefully.

Renting

• Rental Agreement: You’ll need to sign a rental contract, which may require proof of residence and a valid ID (e.g., residence card or passport).
• Deposit: Some rental companies may require a refundable deposit.
• Delivery and Pickup: Rental companies usually handle delivery and pickup, but fees may apply.

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5. Local Considerations for Newcomers

1. Space Constraints:

   • Japanese apartments are often smaller than Western ones, so measure your space carefully before purchasing large items.
   • Opt for multi-functional furniture (e.g., sofa beds, foldable tables).

2. Voltage and Plugs:

   • Japan uses 100V electricity with Type A plugs. Ensure appliances are compatible or purchase adapters.

3. Garbage Disposal:

   • Yokohama has strict garbage disposal rules, including for large items. If you’re discarding old furniture or appliances, you’ll need to arrange for a bulky waste pickup (粗大ごみ, sodai gomi), which requires a fee and advance booking.

4. Language Barrier:

   • While many stores have English-speaking staff, it’s helpful to learn basic Japanese phrases or use translation apps when shopping.

5. Seasonal Sales:

   • Look out for sales during New Year (January), Golden Week (May), and summer (July–August) for discounts on furniture and appliances.

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6. Summary

• Buying New: IKEA, Nitori, Bic Camera, Muji.
• Buying Second-Hand: Hard Off, recycle shops, online platforms like Mercari.
• Renting: Tokyo Lease Corporation, Nihon Rental, Sayonara Sales.
• Costs: Vary widely depending on whether you buy new, second-hand, or rent.
• Tips: Measure your space, check compatibility, and follow local disposal rules.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to furnish your home in Yokohama efficiently and affordably. Let me know if you need further assistance!