Most properties serve two meals a day, breakfast and dinner. However, some properties may offer three meals, or just breakfast, or just dinner, depending on the facility.
This varies by property. Many are closed on Sundays, holidays, during summer breaks, and around the New Year. However, some student halls and student accommodation
provide meals even on Sundays and holidays. When meals are not available, you can
cook for yourself in the shared kitchen.
Most properties do not offer refunds. The meal costs in student halls and student
accommodation are calculated by dividing the annual food costs by 12 months, so
there are no reductions in months with more holidays like summer or the end of the
year.
Student accommodations come in two main types:
(1) with all meals included, and
(2) flexible meal times, sometimes with a meal ticket system.
For type (1), meal costs are included in the monthly fee, and there are no deductions if you choose not to eat, which means you lose out if you skip meals.
Type (1) is recommended for students who want to eat well and lead a healthy
lifestyle.
Type (2), particularly those with a meal ticket system, is suitable for those who may
miss meal times due to work or club activities, or for those who want to try cooking
themselves. It's economical as you can tailor your meals to your lifestyle.
Costs vary by property, but on average, breakfast is between 300 to 400 yen and
dinner between 500 to 700 yen.
Meal times are generally fixed. Breakfast is usually from 7:00 to 8:30, and dinner from 18:30 to 20:00. Many places will hold a dinner reservation if you cannot make it back
in time. However, keep in mind that during the summer, due to hygiene concerns, the
arrangements might differ.
Most student halls and student accommodation with meal service allow for meal
reservations, so you can rest easy if you come home late from classes or work. When
searching for accommodation, it’s a good idea to check the reservation times or opt for a property close to your university.
Many student halls and student accommodation have meal reservations, so it is highly unlikely that you will miss a meal, but if you do, you will need to prepare it yourself.
Don't worry, there is a shared kitchen so you can cook your own meals. However, since it is shared, it might be difficult to make something elaborate. It's also fun to cook with friends on days you don't have a meal! If you prefer to cook whatever you like without worrying about time or others, choosing a unit with a private kitchen might be best.
Our in-house nutritionist prepares menus with nutritional balance in mind. To lead a
healthy student life, it would be good to take this opportunity to try overcoming your
dislikes. However, if that’s too difficult, opting for a small, home-like property where it’s easy to request specific menus might be better. Read more →
Meals are nutritionally balanced and tailored with calorie counts suitable for your age,
so eating at regular times shouldn't lead to weight gain. If you're still concerned, you
could request smaller portions at mealtime. A balanced diet is essential for healthy
weight loss.
Although it's challenging to get more side dishes as the portions are fixed, you can
often get second helpings of rice. Keeping your own furikake or other condiments might help too.
You can move into most properties.
You can live in some student halls and student accommodation. Many high school
students are particularly concerned about meals, so we recommend living in a student accommodation that provides meals.
We also offer properties exclusively for preparatory school students. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
You cannot reside in student condominiums, student halls, or student accommodations without student registration, so you will generally need to vacate upon becoming a
working adult after graduation. However, some student condominiums do offer options for graduates to stay. Please inquire for further details.
If you want to continue living in your accommodation after your contract expires, you will need to pay a renewal fee.
Contract periods vary by property (e.g., 1 year, 2 years), and renewal fees can range
from zero to the equivalent of an entrance fee or up to two months' rent. While you
can sign a 2-year contract, you are allowed to stay for only 1 year if you choose. The
maximum duration is 2 years.
Also, if you live in the property for 3 years, you can renew the contract for 2 years and then move out after one additional year.
There are properties that accommodate music college students by allowing them to
bring specific musical instruments into their rooms. Additionally, even if personal
instruments cannot be brought into individual rooms, some student halls provide piano rooms.
Furniture in furnished properties generally cannot be removed. If removal is absolutely necessary, it is essential to consult with the landlord or manager.
Internet access is generally available. Some properties have ready-to-use internet
setups that you can access immediately upon registering, while others may require a
separate contract. Costs vary; in some cases, they are included in the management
fees, while others might set specific fees.
Friends and family can visit in both student apartments and student halls. However,
entry to female-only properties is restricted to women. In student halls, you may need to inform the administrator beforehand. Overnight stays are allowed in most places but can vary by property.
In properties such as student halls that do not have a Washing Machine inside, you can use the shared laundry room. The cost is between 100 yen and 200 yen per session.
Additionally, some student halls offer laundry facilities for free.
Yes, you can work part-time. There is no rule against part-time employment for
residents of student halls. Many residents work part-time while prioritizing their
studies. Please ensure that your work does not disrupt your academic commitments.
Note that some places, especially those for preparatory students, may require
notification or do not permit part-time work.
The general curfew for student halls is typically 23:00, though this can slightly vary
depending on the property.
If you anticipate being late due to train delays or unavoidable circumstances such as
school commitments, please inform the administrator in advance.
We consider safety a priority, so communicating any issues will help avoid problems.
General apartments house a diverse range of residents including students, working
professionals, and families, all with different lifestyles and increasingly less interaction with each other. In contrast, student apartments, student halls, and student
accommodations are exclusively for students, leading to a community of peers with
similar ages, academic lives, and daily rhythms. This environment is highly
recommended for students who are starting their student life or embarking on a new
chapter.
<Student apartment>
Although many student apartments lack on-site managers, these properties are
typically newer constructions with modern amenities akin to a private home. They
include separate toilet and washbasin facilities, auto-lock systems, and a
comprehensive internet setup to meet student needs comprehensively.
<Student Hall>
In many student halls, a manager is present around the clock, creating an environment similar to a hotel, complete with furnished rooms that include home appliances. This
arrangement is particularly suitable for female students prioritizing security.
< Student Accommodation>
This type of student accommodation features a dormitory manager and a dormitory
mother available 24/7, providing meals as well. It's tailored to students who value both security and the convenience of provided meals.
A student apartment, similar to a student hall, is a residential complex restricted to
students such as university and vocational school attendees. These apartments are
equipped with modern facilities to cater to student needs and offer extensive security
and support services. With no curfew imposed, they are ideal for students seeking both freedom and security. There are also exclusive options available for female students.
Please consult the room search procedure to begin your search effectively.
Room availability changes daily. Unlike regular properties, student apartments, student halls, and student accommodation may reopen for applications, even if fully occupied,
due to changes like a student switching schools.
For up-to-date room availability, please use the inquiry form on our website.
For regular apartments and condominiums, rent is charged immediately upon signing
the contract. However, for most student apartments, halls, and accommodations listed on Gakuroom, rent only starts in the spring, even if you apply earlier in the year. There are no unnecessary expenses. Note: Some properties may not offer this arrangement.
Once you have chosen a school, you can start the application process. Some properties begin accepting applications as early as October and have strict deadlines. Due to
limited availability, we advise applying as soon as possible.
Certain student apartments, halls, and accommodations offer reservations without a
confirmed school choice, allowing you to delay signing a contract until after the private or national university announcements. However, this flexibility is typically restricted to
the first half of the academic term.
"The reservation deposit is typically 50,000 yen, non-refundable if you cancel. However, if you proceed with the contract, this deposit will be applied towards your rental
deposit, meaning no additional fees upon moving in.
At some properties, the reservation deposit may be waived or refunded. Please contact us for specific details."
These services are not typically provided in standard
condominiums and apartments and are unique to student apartments, student halls,
and student accommodation!
Move-in dates vary by property; however, for student-only properties, existing tenants typically vacate by March 20th, allowing for move-ins to start from late March or by
April 1st, following room cleaning and preparations.
In some student halls, it might be possible to move in within one or two days. Additionally, you might occasionally be required to vacate your room early, depending on the
circumstances. Please inquire for details.
Initial costs include an admission fee (key money), a security deposit, one month’s
advance for rent and management fees, and brokerage fees, among others.
This payment is made to the landlord when you move into rental housing. It is required as a one-time fee at the time of signing the contract. No refunds are available after the contract has concluded.
This is a deposit held by the landlord as collateral against any unpaid rent or damage to the room. After the contract ends, you will be refunded the balance remaining after any deductions for such costs.
Management fees cover expenses for the administration, maintenance, and upkeep of
the property, such as cleaning common areas. Properties equipped with elevators,
staffed by a manager, or featuring extensive common facilities tend to incur higher
management fees.
Utility costs are typically not included in the management fee and are generally billed
separately. However, some student residences offer packages where utilities and
internet fees are included in the management fee, providing added value.
A brokerage fee is a payment made to the real estate agency that introduced the
property, typically equivalent to one month's rent. You are not required to pay this fee
if you decide not to apply after receiving a referral. Additionally, many of the properties we offer do not require brokerage fees.
The renewal fee is the amount required to continue the lease agreement after the
initial lease term has ended.
The duration of the contract varies by property, and some properties do not require a
renewal fee.
The cost depends on usage, but for a student living alone, it averages about 10,000
yen per month.
You can reduce costs by frequently turning off switches and being careful not to leave water running unnecessarily. Avoiding waste can lead to significant savings.
Some properties have fixed rates for utilities like water and electricity.
Explore student apartments, student halls, and student accommodation—how do they differ from regular apartments or condominiums? For a clear understanding of commonly used
terms and to simplify your room search, click here.
Exclusively for students, these properties boast top-notch safety features like auto-lock security systems and have no curfews.
Typically supervised by owners or full-time curators, student halls are exceptionally safe and often come fully furnished, eliminating unnecessary costs. Note: management fees are high and a curfew is enforced.
These are student halls equipped to provide meals. Meal costs can vary, from meal
voucher systems to monthly payments. Rest easy knowing that a professional chef will cater to your nutritional needs with well-balanced meals.
Occupied by both students and professionals, these properties typically offer a wide
selection but may leave you guessing about who your neighbors might be.
These properties allow you to rent rooms on a weekly or monthly basis. Some offer
units without key money or security deposits and include furniture; however, they are
not ideal for long-term residence.
Properties designated for exclusive occupancy by either women or men. Typically, overnight stays by the opposite sex are not permitted, even if they are relatives.
Properties that permit pianos, a rare allowance in standard housing. These units
feature enhanced soundproofing, justifying the higher rent. Performance times may be restricted, and such properties are commonly tailored for musicians.
An apartment is typically a mid-to-high-rise residential building constructed from
reinforced concrete or steel-framed concrete. These buildings offer superior heating
and cooling efficiency, soundproofing, and earthquake resistance compared to standard apartments, which is reflected in their higher market prices.
An apartment often refers to a low-rise housing complex constructed primarily from
wood or light steel, typically not exceeding two stories. While generally more
affordable, these buildings provide good ventilation but may be slightly less efficient in
terms of heating and cooling.
Generally, student apartments and other residential units such as apartments and
condominiums are not furnished. However, many student halls come with essential
furnishings like beds and desks pre-installed, significantly reducing the initial moving
costs.
Encounter unfamiliar terms related to room equipment? Explore their meanings here to
understand the facilities better and make informed decisions.
BT refers to properties where the bath and toilet are separate. In some cases, the bath may share a space with the sink. This feature is common in new constructions and is
also known as 'separate'.
UB stands for 'unit bath', which includes a bathtub, washbasin, and toilet in a single,
molded reinforced plastic unit. Also known as a 3-point unit. 'UB' might be used to
describe separate bath and toilet facilities as well, so reviewing the floor plan is
advisable for clarity.
A gas kitchen features a kitchen equipped with a gas stove, which may be pre-installed or require self-installation. Electric stoves, utilizing electricity, offer safer operation than traditional stoves though they generally provide less heat, except for IH (Induction
Heating) stoves, which have strong heat output.
This refers to designated areas where a washing machine can be installed, available
either indoors, outdoors, or on balconies, depending on the property design.
A card key is a security device that uses a card to authenticate access and secure the
door. It offers superior crime prevention; however, users must ensure they do not
misplace it.
Auto-lock is a security system that requires a PIN or card verification to unlock the door upon entering a building. This feature enhances safety by preventing unauthorized
access.
A delivery box is a secure locker that allows you to receive parcels while you are away, enabling you to leave home without concern for the timing of deliveries.
Resident management involves an onsite manager who lives within the property and
provides continuous oversight, commonly seen in student halls.
Day shift management refers to managers who work regular hours to oversee the
property, often living nearby. This setup is typical in many residential properties.
Note that managers may not be present on Sundays and holidays.
Carpet offers superior soundproofing compared to traditional flooring, making it ideal
for room redecorations without the risk of damaging the floor with furniture, etc.
The beauty of the wood grain provides a clean and attractive appearance, earning it
substantial popularity among young people. However, it can be prone to dust and feels particularly cold in the winter.
Tatami is favorable for Japan's climate as it remains cool in the summer and warm in
the winter, making it extremely comfortable to live with.
This flooring consists of a durable sheet made from vinyl chloride, offering resistance to moisture and easy maintenance with just detergent.
A loft is a small space within a living area accessible by ladder or similar means.
Typically featuring low ceilings, it is frequently used for storage.
The size of a room is measured in tatami mats. Generally, 1 jo equals 1.65 square
meters, corresponding to the Chukyo-ma standard.
A bathroom vanity equipped with a hand shower designed for washing both your face
and hair.
This service allows for continuous internet access either within your room or a
communal area. Typically, a fixed monthly fee is paid, which is usually less expensive
than standard provider contracts.
This refers to storage space made available by utilizing the area beneath the floor.
BS and CS terminal indicate that a joint antenna for BS and CS broadcasting has been
installed. You can access these broadcasts by setting up a tuner and paying the
necessary license fee.
CATV refers to compatibility with cable television equipment.
This is a feature that allows you to reheat or boil water in the bathtub.
A designated area for storing bicycles, motorbikes, etc. Some properties may charge a
fee for this facility, depending on their location.
A structure that extends from the building’s wall. It is considered a common area and
can serve as an evacuation spot in emergencies. A balcony typically does not have a
roof, whereas a veranda does.
Walking time from the station is calculated with an 80-meter distance representing one minute. This standard does not include time spent waiting at traffic lights.
Pipe space is an area designated to house water, sewage, and gas pipes.
A walk-in closet is a storage space designed with sufficient height and room to allow for easy movement and access.
A living room is defined as "a room that is continuously used for activities such as
living, working, or entertaining," according to Article 2, Item 4 of the Building
Standards Act.
Many people are renting a room for the first time. What are the required procedures from application to contract? What documents are needed? How about the costs? Let's cover these fundamental aspects. Additionally, let's familiarize ourselves with some basic real estate
terminology to avoid delays in finding a room or signing a contract due to unfamiliar terms!
"Landlord: The individual who owns the property or is the sublessor actively recruiting
tenants.
Tenant: Someone who has entered into a contract to rent a property."
This is the form you fill out when applying for a room.
Applicant's (prospective tenant's) address, name, age, date of birth, chosen school,
co-signer’s name, relationship to co-signer, co-signer's date of birth, address,
permanent domicile, workplace, etc.
Money paid to a real estate agency as part of the contract fee when submitting an
application for occupancy. This fee, usually equivalent to one month's rent, will be
applied to the initial costs at the time of contract signing. However, it may not be
refunded if the tenant cancels after payment.
The process through which landlords or management companies decide whether to
rent a property to a prospective tenant. This involves checking the application form for accuracy and the applicant's ability to pay the rent. Typically, this screening takes about one week.
A document detailing key information about the rental property, including the
property’s name, location, landlord, contract details, and prohibited activities. Real
estate companies must ensure that a licensed real estate broker provides an
explanation of these details to prospective tenants before finalizing the lease
agreement.
Outlined in the Disclosure Statement. Typically, activities that may disturb neighboring
residents, such as pet ownership or playing musical instruments, are prohibited.
An individual who has passed the real estate broker exam and holds a valid certificate. A broker must be present in every real estate office, and it is mandatory for them to
explain all crucial details before a contract is signed.
A document specifying the property location, tenant details (names and number of
tenants), move-in costs, and rules for property use. The agreement is finalized when
both the tenant and the landlord (or their guarantors) have signed and sealed the
document.
Items needed include the tenant's or co-signer's resident card, proof of income, seal
registration certificate, and the contract money, etc.
A person responsible for all liabilities in case the tenant causes any issues. Typically,
if the tenant is a minor, the guarantor will be a parent or legal guardian. Nowadays,
many properties allow contracts without a personal guarantor by utilizing guarantor
agency services.
Documents provided to assess whether the tenant can afford the rent. Income is often verified through withholding tax slips.
A certificate confirming a seal registration filed with local government authorities.
Funds required at the time of signing the contract, typically including the security
deposit, key money, rent for the move-in month, management fees, miscellaneous
expenses, and brokerage fees.
A deposit held by the landlord under the rental agreement to cover potential damages
caused by the tenant, such as failure to pay rent or physical damage to the property.
This deposit is refundable at the end of the tenancy, provided there are no breaches of the contract by the tenant.
A lump-sum payment to the landlord when you move in, which will not be returned
even after the contract period ends.
This refers to the room's rent, which may include management fees and common area fees depending on the property. The advance rent system means that the rent for the
next month is paid at the end of the current month.
If you sign a contract partway through the month, the rent will be calculated based on the number of days from the contract signing day (or the following day) to the end of
the month. The formula used is: (monthly rent + management fees) divided by the
total days in the month, multiplied by the number of remaining days.
The date on which rent obligations begin. Rent will be calculated from this date, even if you move in later.
The date when the property will be ready for occupancy, typically after it has been
restored to its original condition post the previous tenant's departure.
For student halls and student-only apartments, these fees cover the personnel costs of the manager. For properties without a manager, the fees are utilized for cleaning
common areas and garbage disposal areas. Generally, condominiums with elevators
and automatic locks have higher fees than apartments with fewer common areas.
Costs for utilities such as water, gas, and electricity. These are paid separately from the rent and management/common area fees, although in some student residences, they might be included in the management fees upfront.
An intermediary acts between the landlord and tenant to facilitate the signing of a
rental contract. It is also known as a medium.
This is a fee paid to the real estate company that acts as an intermediary to finalize the rental contract between the landlord and tenant. You are not required to pay this fee
unless you apply for the property. The Real Estate Transaction Business Law caps the
brokerage fee at a maximum of one month's rent.
Commonly required when renting a room, the cost of fire insurance typically ranges
from 10,000 to 20,000 yen for two years. Depending on the property, you may also
need to subscribe to student insurance.
Receive the key to the room you have contracted. Generally, the key is provided by the real estate company you contracted with or the landlord.
Room contracts are typically set for one or two years. If you wish to continue residing
in the home after the contract period has expired, you can do so by renewing the
contract. The fee paid at this time is known as the contract renewal fee. There is no
need to pay new key money or a new security deposit when renewing the contract.
Also known as a fixed-term rental contract. Normally, a building lease contract
requires a minimum duration of one year; however, a fixed-term building lease contract allows the contract period to be freely determined, even allowing for periods shorter
than one year. Principally, fixed-term building lease contracts cannot be renewed.
However, if the contract includes a provision for renewal, it is possible to continue living in the property by renewing the contract.
This license is necessary to operate a real estate business and is usually displayed
inside a real estate company’s office. The license will specify either a number from the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism or from a Governor, indicating whether the company operates in more than one prefecture (requiring a national
license) or just in one prefecture (requiring a prefectural license). The license is
updated every five years, and the license number increases with each renewal, serving as an indicator of how long the business has been operating.
Areas shared by all residents, such as stairs, elevators, garbage storage, and bicycle
parking areas. The cleanliness of these areas can indicate the quality of the building's management.
The exclusive area refers to the living space of each room, including storage, toilets,
and baths. It is advisable to physically inspect these areas to understand the actual
usable space available, excluding these areas.
1R/Studio: A single room that includes a kitchen.
1K: Features a kitchen that is separate from the room.
1DK: Offers a kitchen of at least 4.5 tatami in size along with a separate space for
dining.
1LDK: Provides a kitchen of at least 8 tatami mats and a separate dining area.
2K: Includes two rooms and a separate kitchen.
2DK: Consists of two rooms, a kitchen of at least 4.5 tatami in size, and a dining area. Suitable for two people.
These are properties either still under construction or completed within the last year
and not yet occupied. Their cleanliness is assured as there have been no previous
tenants.
Properties constructed within the last few years. Many of the newer condominium-type properties come with enhanced security features such as automatic locks and have
separate bathrooms and toilets, ensuring a clean and modern living environment.
These are older properties that have undergone significant internal renovations to
make the interiors more livable and aesthetically pleasing. The renovation process often mimics that of new constructions, including major updates like replacing tatami with
modern flooring and wall renovations.
Under normal circumstances, property repairs are the responsibility of the landlord.
However, if repairs are necessitated by the tenant’s intentional or negligent actions, the cost must be borne by the tenant.
Some student housing facilities offer a program where students can temporarily reside
in the housing for a few days to experience living there.
Refers to the rent of the most affordable room in a property, which is typically located
on the first floor.
Describes the general price range of properties in the area. In central Tokyo (e.g.,
around the Yamanote Line), western Tokyo (e.g., near the Chuo Line, Keio Line), and
southern Tokyo (e.g., along the Odakyu Line), property prices are generally high due to popularity. Prices tend to decrease as you move further from the city center.