Renting a Pet-friendly apartment in Japan

Post date: 10/27/2023

It is common practice that residential properties in Japan have very strict rules regarding the ownership of pets. These rules are decided and enforced by the building owner and or management. If you would like to have a pet in a rental property or already have a pet that you would like to live with, starting your search with properties that allow pets is recommended.

No-Pets-Allowed Rentals

When there is “no-pet clause” in a rental agreement, a tenant found in violation of this rule will have their rental agreement terminated and potentially be required to pay a fine for the infraction.

Rental Housing that Allows Pets

While the rental property may say they allow pets, there are still restrictions placed on the number of pets as well as the type. Common examples of restrictions would be allowing up to 2 small dogs, no large dogs allowed, or no cats allowed.

Due to each property having different rules, we recommend that you ask in advance about the pet policy specific to the property you are interested in.

Even in circumstances in which a large dog is allowed, the lessor of the property may refuse to rent an apartment/house to someone depending on the type or size of a dog. Generally, dogs that are stereotypically thought of as fighting, aggressive, attack, or hunting dogs are likely to be refused by a lessor.

For those will small animals such as hamsters, birds, and reptiles, permission in advance may be required before renting a property.

In general pet owners are required to agree to and sign a “Memorandum about Having a Pet Animal” document before being able to rent a property.

  • - You agree to pay careful attention to making sure the pet doesn’t cause any disturbances to your neighbors
  • - You agree to pay for any and all damages caused by the pet to other residents, animals, residences, or plants in the building
  • - You agree not to increase the number of pets owned when the total number owned will be more than the original number allowed by the lessor upon renting the property
  • - You are obligated to restore (including sterilization and deodorization) anything damaged by the pet to its original condition upon vacating the property and to pay all expenses associated with doing so.

In addition to the above memorandum, rental conditions may change such as requiring an extra deposit for those who have a pet.

Pet-friendly Apartments and Houses

Some rental properties are designed with the purpose of living a comfortable life with pets.

Examples:

  • - Having traffic lines for pets (pet lanes) arranged on the premises and in shared spaces.
  • - Having a foot bath for pets within the premises of an apartment

Some apartments and stand-alone houses with a garden allow the owning of a large dog.

We here at PLAZA HOMES have put together and up-dated listing of Pet-friendly Apartment and Houses in Tokyo.

Pet Friendly Properties in Central Tokyo and its Suburbs

A landmark tower building higher than 100m located in Hirakawacho, Shiyoda-ku, where important governmenal institutes are situated. It oversees the best view in Tokyo, including the rich greenery of the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower.

JPY 700,000/month

Within easy reach of 3 stations on 3 train lines, including a 3-min walk from the nearest Hamacho Station. This rental apartment with a stylish exterior design is located in a calm living environment close to a lush greenery of Hamacho Park only 1 min walk away and near Sumida River. The apartment offers all corner units only of 1LDK type together with various functional room equipment such as a bathroom dryer and free internet connection. It is a pet friendly apartment, which offers attractive shared facilities such as a foot washing place for pet and shared by-cycle as well.

JPY 284,000/month

A luxurious residence directly connected to Azabudai Hills Market, offering access to Janu Tokyo's hotel services within the building. Enjoy ample shared facilities such as valet services, guest rooms, and lounges. Featuring spacious layouts ranging from 1BR to 4BR, with some units including private pools and views of Tokyo Tower.

JPY 2,120,000/month

Located 3-mins walk from Todoroki Station on Tokyu Oimachi Line is a 8-story designer rental apartment with a total of 40 units. Todoroki Shopping Street stretches north and south across the station, offering many restaurants and convenient amenities for daily life. Todoroki Valley is also nearby. The apartment features stylish and complex exterior design and well-matched interior design having exposed concrete walls and wooden flooring. It offers unit types of Studio and 1LDK with various amenities such as delivery locker and bathroom dryer. Having a pet animal is negotiable.

JPY 135,000 - 253,000/month

A house for lease located in a quiet residential area on the banks of Senzoku Pond, 3-mins walk from Senzoku Station on Tokyu Ikegami Line and 13-mins walk from Ookayama Station on Tokyu Meguro Line. It is in a good location with lush greenery in Senzoku Pond Park Scenic Zone. From the living room and bedroom, you can enjoy the four seasons of Senzoku Pond. The house was fully renovated in January 2021.

JPY 500,000/month

This house for rent in a quiet location comes with a car parking garage and a total floor area of 102.52m2. It also features 2 lofts with plenty of storage spaces. Having a pet animal is negotiable.

JPY 680,000/month