(General Guidance for Tenants)
This page provides general information about typical residential lease contracts in Japan.
Please note that actual terms and conditions always depend on your individual contract.
Standard Lease Term in Japan
In Japan, most residential lease agreements are signed for one year or longer.
If a tenant terminates the lease before completing one full year, it is common for the contract to require a penalty equivalent to one month’s rent.
This is a standard clause in many Japanese rental agreements and is intended to reflect administrative and re-leasing costs.
Notice Period for Moving Out
Tenants are generally required to notify the landlord at least one month before the intended move-out date.
In practice, this notice is usually submitted through the property management company or the housing office, rather than directly to the property owner.
Once the notice is officially received, at least one additional month of rent must be paid, regardless of the exact move-out date within that period.
Fire and Personal Liability Insurance
Tenants are strongly recommended to carry fire insurance and personal liability insurance during their stay.
This insurance helps protect against unexpected situations such as:
Fire
Water damage
Accidental damage to the property
Liability involving neighboring units
While specific requirements vary by contract, maintaining adequate insurance coverage is considered standard practice in Japan.
Shoes-Off Rule (No Outdoor Shoes Indoors)
Japanese homes are strictly shoes-off indoors.
Outdoor shoes should always be removed at the entrance (genkan).
This is an important cultural practice and helps protect flooring materials such as tatami mats and wooden floors.
Care and Responsibility for the Property
A rental property in Japan is the owner’s asset, not the tenant’s personal property.
Tenants are expected to:
Use the property with reasonable care
Avoid unnecessary damage
Follow usage rules stated in the lease agreement
Respectful use of the property helps ensure a smooth tenancy and an easier move-out process.
Final Note
This page describes common lease practices in Japan, but individual contracts may differ.