Hi everyone,
I’m currently interviewing for a role in Tokyo. If successful, the company said that they'll handle my visa and paperwork and provide a lump-sum relocation allowance, but I’ll be the one responsible for organizing the practicalities of the move myself (i.e. flights, accommodation, etc.).
In preparation for my potential move, I’m asking for some local insights on the following:
- Foreigner-Friendly Agencies: What are some recommended agencies who could help me find a foreigner-friendly apartment in Tokyo?
- Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Is it worth finding a furnished rental to avoid the high upfront costs plus having to buy and assemble furniture? Or are these a complete rip-off?
- Neighborhood Recommendations: My workplace is near Shinagawa Station. What areas would you recommend that are:
- Relatively affordable and less crowded.
- Convenient for a short commute.
- Easily accessible to social hubs for my free time (occasional after-work & weekends).
- Temporary Accommodation (first 1-2months): Is it generally advisable to book an Airbnb or a temporary place on Booking.com for the first month or so and then start my apartment search when I arrive in Tokyo? (I can't see signing a rental agreement from overseas on a place I haven't viewed ever being a wise decision but also don't know how competitive the rental market is and if finding a place in 1-2 months is a reasonable time frame or not.)
What did you do when you moved to Japan? Aside from the above, do you have any general tips or advice that might help me with the move, or any words of caution regarding anything I should be aware of in this space?
by chriso1592