Hi, I'm a student currently working in Singapore that's planning to move to Japan, Tokyo, for language school (2 years). I'm looking at starting school next year following their April intake and I am currently deep in my research on housing and rent options in Japan.
I have been looking into many other similar posts in multiple subreddits and majority mention that having a Japanese bank account, credit card and phone number would essential for qualifying for renting an apartment. However, as I am a student who has only been working part time in my home country, I don't even qualify for a credit card here (i only have a debit card and savings) This would also be my first time solo travelling out, much less moving into a different country for at least 2 years.
I am aware of websites like Hmlet that are foreigner friendly and don't require a Japanese bank account to rent. However, 140,000¥ per month is the maximum budget that i can afford for an 1DK or 1LDK apartment (I will be paying with savings) and I would preferably not want to hit maximum budget if possible so as to lighten the load of factoring in my costs of living.
I have looked at the option of sharhouses as well and I must truthfully say that im not all too keen on them if I had the choice as I enjoy my privacy very much. I have been mainly looking at furnished apartments (that's why my budget is set higher) as I would rather be able to move in at the get go without having to worry about furniture clean up after moving out.
Please, could yall share from your experience with other alternative websites that are similar to Hmlet or ones that don't require opening a Japanese bank account or having a japanese number? Preferably with lower costs as well🙏🏻🙏🏻Any other advice for first starting out in Japan would be immensely appreciated as well!!😖🙏🏻
by ManufacturerTotal723