I (23F) am planning to move in April 2025 to Kansai area for language school (1 year). Found two really great options, both at similar (?) monthly price points, and am a bit torn between them. Would appreciate some advice from those more experienced in the ways of lodging long-term in Japan.
Option 1 is a single room apartment (kitchen and bath included) for ¥47,000/mo. After additional fees and security deposit (1 mo. rent, refunded after a stay at least 10 mo. long), total move-in cost comes to an estimated ¥102,500. Approximate monthly cost around ¥56,000~¥56,500 (rounding up around ¥7,500 for the electricity and gas bill). Fully furnished. Coin laundry. As this accommodation is owned by the school, must move out within 3 days of graduation. If renewal is possible, it will be a 1 year contract.
Option 2 is a share house starting at ¥50,000/mo + ¥4,000 utilities. I've used this company to stay with before during shorter-term stints & can verify that extra utility costs can and will happen, especially during the summer and winter (AC usage). A good friend who is living in a different property (same city) owned by this company confided in me that the extra costs can get quite expensive, especially considering that all tenants are required to pay extra if there's an increase in usage, regardless of whose room the extra usage is coming from. Estimated move-in cost: ¥54,000. Approximate monthly cost around ¥54,000~¥64,000, utilities depending. Free bicycles available to rent. Free laundry. Fully furnished.
Both options are less than 30min walking distance from school, in an area I've lived in before and know my way around. It's cheap and chill.
After graduation, I do plan to move on from whatever part-time situation I've got going on and get a real job — ideally still in the same city, so I'm trying to imagine living in either accommodation for the next 2 years at least.
Is it worth it paying a bit extra for the luxuries of the single room apartment? Should I be concerned about the hidden utility expenses at the sharehouse? Any specific red flags I should ask about before rushing into a contract?
Converting currency is USD, if that makes a difference. Tight budget, not interested in anything above ¥65,000/mo.
This will be my first financially independent move, so I'd like to hear some opinions from people who've done this before or have been at a similar crossroads.
Much obliged and appreciative of any advice!
by himedreams937