【Relieving Your Worries About Living in Takamatsu】Supporting Your Apartment Search! Rental Procedures and Tips for Comfortable Living
2026.07.07
Welcome to Japan! We are delighted to welcome you to your new life in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture. While living in a new place is exciting, the unique process of "apartment hunting" in Japan can be a little daunting. Especially for foreign residents, the language barrier and specific rental rules can feel like significant hurdles. At Global Center Chuo-dori Branch, we have assisted many foreign residents in finding their new homes. In this article, we will explain the "rules" and "tips" for finding your ideal home in Takamatsu with peace of mind, from a professional perspective. There is a set procedure for renting a property in Japan. Understanding this flow will help prevent unnecessary trouble and make the process smoother. Start by listing your ideal conditions. Be clear about your budget (a good guideline is 1/3 of your monthly income or less), how you will commute to school or work, and the surrounding environment you prefer. Once your criteria are set, contact a real estate agency with extensive experience supporting foreign residents. At Global Center Chuo-dori Branch, we provide attentive support tailored to each case, including multilingual assistance for international students and employees. Online information doesn't tell the whole story regarding actual space or brightness. Visit the property in person to check for sunlight, noise levels, and the placement of electrical outlets. Submit your application. The management company and the landlord will screen you to ensure you have the financial capacity to pay rent and can live stably in Japan. Before signing, you will receive an "Explanation of Important Matters." This covers property rules, facilities, and cancellation policies. It is very important, so please feel free to ask as many questions as you need until you are satisfied. Signing and stamping your seal completes the contract. Once you have set up your utilities (electricity, gas, and water), you are ready to move in! To clear the screening process quickly, have the following documents ready to present: ・Student ID or Letter of Acceptance: Necessary to prove your status and activities as a student. ・Employee ID or Employment Contract: Proof of stable income if you are working. ・Passport: Essential as identification. ・Emergency Contact: Consult in advance with someone you can rely on in Japan (a teacher, friend, or relative). Rental contracts in Japan often use difficult terminology, but understanding the basics will make you feel more secure. ・Reikin (Key Money): A gratuity paid to the landlord. Unlike the deposit, it is not refunded when you move out. ・Rent Guarantee Company: A service that guarantees your rent payments if you cannot provide a co-signer. It is now standard practice in most rental contracts. ・Fire Insurance: Mandatory insurance that covers not only fire but also accidents like water leaks that might damage the room. ・Contract Renewal: Rental contracts typically last two years. If you wish to continue living there, you will need to go through a "renewal" process, which may involve a renewal fee.
Takamatsu is a very livable city, offering a mild Seto Inland Sea climate and all the essential urban functions in a compact area.
Reading this will help you prepare for your new life smoothly and without confusion.
1. Six Basic Steps to Finding an Apartment in Japan
Step 1: Define Your Criteria (Budget & Area)
Step 2: Consult with a Real Estate Agency
Step 3: Property Viewing (Naiken)
Step 4: Application and Screening
Step 5: Contract Procedures (Important Matters Explanation)
Step 6: Key Collection and Moving In
2. Essential Documents for Smooth Screening
・Residence Card (Zairyu Card): The most important ID for your stay in Japan. Please keep the original with you.
3. Understanding Common Japanese Rental Terms
・Shikikin (Security Deposit): Money held to cover potential repairs or cleaning when you move out.
4. Living Manners in Takamatsu