Unparalleled safety, excellent cleanliness, and a vibrant culture – Tokyo has got it all. That said, renting an apartment in Tokyo isn’t quite easy. The first choice you’ll need to make is between furnished and unfurnished rentals.
Let’s focus on the latter for now. Here’s a short guide explaining the pros and cons of unfurnished rentals and what you should know before choosing one:
What Does “Unfurnished” Really Mean?
An unfurnished apartment in Tokyo essentially means an empty space or hall. A standard one- or two-bedroom unit usually includes only fixed installations. Some basic fixtures included in unfurnished rentals in Tokyo are:
- Lighting fixtures
- Bathroom fittings (toilet, bathtub, sink)
- Kitchen sink
- Countertops
You might also find major appliances:
- Stove
- Oven
- Refrigerator (in some cases)
Available flooring includes carpets, hardwood, or tiles. Buying and installing everything else is your responsibility. Here’s a list of items you won’t find in a Tokyo unfurnished rental:
- Washing machine
- Curtains and blinds
- Ceiling lights or fans
- Kitchen appliances like a coffee maker and a rice cooker
- Smart home appliances
- Furniture, including a bed, sofas, and storage shelves
Pros of Renting an Unfurnished Apartment
Here are four standout benefits of renting an unfurnished apartment in Tokyo:
Lower monthly rent
This is pretty obvious. An unfurnished apartment typically has a lower monthly rent than furnished ones. From furniture to curtains, you buy and install everything on your own, which is why landlords ask for low rents. This can lead to significant savings over time.
Ownership of items
In an unfurnished apartment, the tenant retains ownership of all their furniture and appliances. This can be seen as an investment. You can move these items to future homes or sell them if they are no longer needed.
Opportunity to customize
An unfurnished rental apartment is like a blank canvas, which is why you have the freedom to personalize it however you see fit. This level of customization allows you to turn your rental apartment into a home. You can enhance comfort and accommodate any unique living requirements.
Excellent for long-term stays
An unfurnished rental is an excellent option if you’re moving to Tokyo for an extended period. You can rent a space in a neighborhood close to your work and other commitments.
Cons of Unfurnished Rentals
On the flip side, there are some cons of renting an unfurnished apartment in Tokyo.
High initial cost
As mentioned earlier, you have to buy a ton of personal belongings when moving into an unfurnished apartment. This can be a considerable expense.
That said, if you already own essentials like furniture and appliances, you can save yourself from this high setup cost.
Time-consuming
Buying new furniture and appliances can be a time-consuming process. You also have to wait for the furniture and other essentials to arrive before moving in. For students and business travelers who need a move-in-ready space, an unfurnished rental might not be the perfect option.
All in all, unfurnished rentals are excellent alternatives for those who want to stay in Tokyo for an extended period and are looking to personalize their space.
