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

This luxury rental apartment with a total of 27 units is located in a quiet residential area, despite being only a 5-minute walk from Azabu-juban Station. The Azabujuban Shopping Street and Azabudai Hills are within walking distance, providing a privileged living environment where you can enjoy everything from daily shopping to going out on holidays. The apartment offers some units with LDK of over 100 square meters, together with a concierge desk and various shared facilities.

JPY 1,000,000 - 2,600,000/month

This low-rise apartment is in a convenient location for commuting to work and school, 5-mins walk from Gakugei-daigaku Station, having good access to Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Yokohama. With 6 local shopping streets around the station, the location is also convenient for daily shopping. The area around the apartment is a quiet residential area having a calm living environment, having Himonya Park within a little walk. The apartment offers various facilities and room equipment.

JPY 414,000/month

Located 4-mins walk from Ikejiri-ohashi Station, which is one stop from Shibuya Station, having good access to Otemachi and Nagatacho, providing the convenience of commuting to work and school. With many cafes and supermarkets around the station, the location has a comfortable living environment. It is also within walking distance of Setagaya Park and Meguro River, which are rich in nature. This rental apartment with a total of 29 units and stylish exterior design offers units with various amenities such as delivery locker and high-speed internet connection.Some units are furnished.

JPY 200,000 - 302,000/month

The YU is a stylish and luxurious property located in Minami Aoyama, the sophisticated residential area of Tokyo. Their curated furniture and appliances are fully furnished to suit each room for a comfortable and pleasant stay. Spacious and open that is very rare for a monthly rental property. All the equipment that we need for living such as kitchenware and beddings, etc... are all provided. It lets you start your Tokyo life smoothly and immediately. In addition, the workspace is also available. Ideal for expatriates, business people, business trips, digital nomads and families.

JPY 469,410 - 1,566,257/month

A tower apartment with 44 stories standing right next to the large Shinjuku Central Park. It houses a 24-h grocery store, a fitness gym, a sky lounge and offers a free shuttle bus service to Shinjuku Sta.

JPY 370,000 - 1,530,000/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 2,530,000/month