Looking for affordable, social, and flexible housing in Japan? Discover top-rated sharehouse companies that cater to international residents in Tokyo, Osaka, and beyond!

Guide to Japanese Sharehouse Companies for Foreign Travelers

Covered in this Article

• What is a sharehouse and why it’s popular in Japan
• Benefits for international residents
• Top sharehouse companies for foreigners
• Cost comparison and contract basics
• Tips for finding the right place

Introduction

Finding housing in Japan can feel intimidating — high upfront costs, Japanese-language contracts, and strict rental conditions can make it difficult for newcomers.

That’s where sharehouses (シェアハウス) come in.
They offer furnished, affordable rooms, shared facilities, and an instant community — making them ideal for foreign students, interns, digital nomads, and new arrivals looking to settle quickly.

In this guide, we’ll explore Japan’s most trusted sharehouse companies, how much to expect to pay, and what to know before moving in.

What Is a Sharehouse?

A sharehouse is a co-living space where residents have private bedrooms and share communal areas such as the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms.

Unlike traditional apartments in Japan, sharehouses typically:

• Require no key money or guarantor
• Include furniture, Wi-Fi, and utilities
• Offer short-term contracts (1–3 months minimum)
• Welcome foreign residents and Japanese locals alike

Fun Fact: The sharehouse boom began in Tokyo around 2010, catering to young professionals seeking affordable city living — and has since become a global model of “community living.”

Top Sharehouse Companies in Japan (2026 Edition)

Below are the most established and foreigner-friendly operators, known for transparent pricing, English support, and diverse residents.

1. Oakhouse (オークハウス)

https://www.oakhouse.jp/
Locations: Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto
Average Rent: ¥60,000–¥90,000/month

One of Japan’s largest and most foreigner-friendly sharehouse networks.

• English-speaking staff & online booking
• Fully furnished rooms often with utilities included
• Community events, coworking spaces, and study lounges
  Tip: Their “Social Residence” series includes gyms, studios, and cafés inside the property.

2. Sakura House (サクラハウス)

https://www.sakura-house.com/
Locations: Tokyo, Kyoto, Izu
Average Rent: ¥80,000–¥130,000/month

Operated by a company long trusted by foreign travelers and students.

• Foreign-friendly management
• Mix of sharehouses, guesthouses, and apartments
• Monthly rentals available without Japanese guarantor
  Best For: Short stays, interns, and language school students.

3. Borderless House (ボーダレスハウス)

https://www.borderless-house.com/
Locations: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Fukuoka
Average Rent: ¥65,000–¥95,000/month

A unique concept: half Japanese, half international residents — ideal for cultural exchange and language practice.

• Community-focused housing
• English and Japanese support
• Regular meetups and volunteer events
  Best For: Language learners and those seeking meaningful connections.

4. Share Style / Share House 180°

https://www.sharehouse180.net/
Locations: Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka
Average Rent: ¥45,000–¥75,000/month

Stylish, design-conscious sharehouse in japan with local charm.

• Trendy interiors and social layouts
• Japanese and partial English support
• Short-term contracts available
  Best For: Young professionals or digital nomads seeking mid-sized cities.

5. Social Apartment by Global Agents

https://www.social-apartment.com/
Locations: Tokyo, Yokohama, Kobe, Osaka
Average Rent: ¥85,000–¥120,000/month

Luxury-style sharehouses blending apartment privacy with hotel amenities.

• Private rooms + large communal lounges
• On-site movie theaters, cafés, and gyms
• English-friendly and high-end design
  Best For: Long-term expats or professionals wanting privacy + community.

6. Be Good Japan

https://bgj.co.jp/en/
Locations: Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama
Average Rent: ¥55,000–¥95,000/month

Focused on comfort, cleanliness, and modern interiors.

• Weekly cleaning and maintenance
• Furnished rooms with kitchen appliances
• English-speaking staff available
  Best For: First-time residents who want easy move-in support.

Typical Sharehouse Costs in 2026

Tip: Many companies offer “Move-in Campaigns” (move-in discounts) around April and October — Japan’s peak relocation seasons.

Why Foreign Travelers Choose Sharehouses

• Built-in community: Make friends easily with locals and expats.
• No hassle: Rooms are fully furnished — just bring your luggage.
• Flexible stay: Short-term rentals (from one month) are common.
• English support: Most major operators cater to non-Japanese speakers.
• Convenient locations: Close to train stations, universities, or city centers.

Tips for Choosing the Right Sharehouse Company

1. Define your priorities: Community events? Privacy? Budget?
2. Check the commute: Tokyo commutes can be long — look for direct train lines.
3. Ask about rules: Quiet hours, guests, and smoking policies vary.
4. Confirm total costs: Include deposit, move-out fees, and cleaning charges.
5. Read reviews: Sites like GaijinPot, Reddit Japan, and Google Maps show resident feedback.

Key Takeaways

Sharehouses in Japan offer affordable, social, and flexible housing for foreigners.
Leading companies: Oakhouse, Sakura House, Borderless House, and Social Apartment.
Expect rents between ¥60,000–¥100,000 with no guarantor needed.
Perfect for students, remote workers, and first-time residents.

Call to Action

Moving to Japan soon?
Contact Refer Japan for up-to-date housing guides, sharehouse reviews, and step-by-step relocation tips for students, travelers, and entrepreneurs in 2026.

Disclaimer

Rental terms and pricing may vary by region and season. Always confirm contract details with the housing provider before signing.