Housing options range from one-room lofts to luxury apartments. As with most accommodation, if it’s newer, trendier, larger, or sunnier, it’s probably more expensive. Being close to the station is a particularly important point, as this can shorten your commute by up to 30 minutes. Japanese-style apartments and houses with tatami mats will often be cheaper than Western-style wooden floored ones.

Lofts and studios are perfect for students, singles or those looking to save money. They are also a means of living in a trendy part of town on a budget. Expect minimal floor space though, which can be anything from 4.5 jyô (approx. 7.5 sqm) to 6 jyô (approx. 9 sqm).

Apartments can be in standalone towers, or in smaller apartment buildings known as manshon. The average size of each room is about 6 jyô. Living room and kitchen areas are typically 7 jyô (11.5sq m) to 10 jyô (16.5sq m). Apartments offer more storage space than studios and lofts, and if they are located in a manshon building, they may come with extra storage space in a common storage area. Parking may or may not be included in the rent.

If you are looking for the communal experience, a gaijin house might be just the ticket. Your roommates will most likely be a mix of young, single expats or Japanese. They are a great money saver if you just want your own room and don’t need a fancy kitchen or bathroom and they’re really social (see Gaijin Houses on p.71 and Guesthouses on p.24).

Luxury apartments are just that. Rooms are larger with more light and there’ll most likely be a concierge. Other services and amenities may include a gym, swimming pool, parking and even car rental. These can be found in new high-rises such as Mori Tower, or the equivalent in high-end downtown areas like Azabu or Ginza.

Houses vary in size from small two room niches to spacious five bedroom affairs. You may have space for a garden, and it’s more likely that you will be able to have a pet.

Serviced apartments are good if you are only planning to stay short-term, are on an extended business trip, or are too busy to do housework. Typically, they are located near large international companies in areas like Shinjuku or Nihonbashi. The options are endless, and can include everything from cleaning services to food.