Rent is your biggest expense. We compare Share Houses, Dormitories, and Private Apartments to help you save money.

Finding a place to live in Japan is hard. Finding a cheap place is even harder. Here is your guide to cheap student accommodation in Japan.

1. Share Houses (The Best Option)

• What is it? You have your own room, but share the kitchen, toilet, and shower.
• Cost: 40,000 - 70,000 JPY / month (Tokyo).
• Pros: Cheap, easy to make friends, usually no "Key Money" or "Guarantor" needed.
• Companies: Oakhouse, Sakura House, GG House.

2. School Dormitories

• What is it? Managed by your university or language school.
• Cost: 30,000 - 60,000 JPY / month.
• Pros: Closest to school, very cheap.
• Cons: Strict rules (curfews), often shared rooms (2-4 people).

3. Private Apartments (LeoPalace)

• What is it? Your own studio apartment.
• Cost: 60,000 - 100,000 JPY / month.
• Pros: Privacy.
• Cons: Expensive initial costs (Key Money, Deposit, Agency Fee can equal 3-4 months of rent upfront).

Conclusion

For your first year, choose a Share House. It's the easiest way to land in Japan without spending a fortune.

👉 Save Money: Study in Japan Cost Per Month: A Realistic Breakdown