Living in Japan as an Expat – How your first apartment in Japan will change your view of housing

For many people moving to Japan, one of the most memorable milestones is getting their first apartment. Expectations are often shaped by housing experiences abroad with larger layouts, certain amenities, and the idea of long-term permanence.

Stepping into a Japanese home, however, can feel entirely different. Spaces are typically more compact, designed with efficiency in mind, and often reflect a more minimalist approach to daily living. This contrast doesn’t just highlight cultural differences in housing, it can completely transform the way newcomers think about what makes a home comfortable and practical.

It’s also worth noting that in Japan, the word ‘apartment’ means something different than overseas. What’s called an apartment (アパート) usually refers to a small, two-story wooden building, while reinforced concrete condominium-style buildings are known as mansions (マンション). This apartment vs. mansion in Japan distinction often surprises newcomers. For simplicity, in this column we’ll use ‘apartment’ to describe both, as they are the most common entry points for newcomers to Japan.At Mr.LAND, we understand how these differences can feel surprising at first, and we guide newcomers and investors alike in discovering the opportunities and value that Japan’s housing market offers.

The Apartment Itself

Japanese apartments often come with a layout and set of features that can be surprising to those accustomed to housing abroad. To put this into perspective, consider the difference between a standard Tokyo apartment and one in the United States. In Japan, a 1LDK, which means 1 Bedroom + Living/Dining/Kitchen, typically ranges from 30 to 50 m² (323–538 sq ft), with an average around 40 m² (431 sq ft). In Tokyo, the average rent for this size is about ¥135,000 per month, which is roughly $900 USD (at an exchange rate of $1.00 = ¥150).

By contrast, the average one-bedroom apartment in the United States is significantly larger, averaging 735 sq ft (68 m²), with a national average rent of $1,713 per month. While the U.S. offers more space, Japanese apartments emphasize compact efficiency, often fitting the same functionality into nearly half the square footage. A typical 1LDK in Tokyo, again averaging around 40 m², makes use of every inch of space. Instead of expansive hallways or oversized living areas, the design prioritizes functionality: a compact kitchen, a multi-purpose living/dining room, and a single bedroom that often doubles as a flexible space. 

Some apartments still feature tatami flooring, offering a traditional touch that influences how furniture is arranged. Kitchens are generally smaller than Western standards, with two-burner stoves and limited counter space. Bathrooms often follow the unit bath system, where the shower and bathtub are combined, while the toilet is separated into a different room—something many newcomers find both unusual and practical.

Other quirks stand out as well. Insulation is often minimal, meaning seasonal temperature changes are felt indoors, and tenants rely heavily on air conditioning or space heaters. At the same time, small balconies are common, not just for fresh air but also for hanging laundry, as dryers are far less common than in other countries.

These details, some charming, others challenging, shape the first impression many newcomers have of Japanese housing. They also highlight the distinct priorities of urban living in Japan: efficiency, flexibility, and a closer relationship with seasonal rhythms.

Daily Life Adjustments

So, what happens after? Living in a Japanese apartment quickly changes the way people interact with their space. Because rooms are compact, organization becomes essential. Every item has its place, and if things are not put back after use, clutter builds up very quickly. The smaller the living area, the more visible dust, dirt, and mess become, encouraging residents to clean more regularly and keep their environment tidy. Over time, this habit leads to a heightened awareness of space and cleanliness, something many newcomers gradually adopt. Often times, new residents appreciate the concept of minimalist living.

This shift often aligns with a Japanese cultural value captured in the saying 「吾唯足知」 (ware tada taru wo shiru), meaning ‘I am content with what I have.’ Rooted in Zen philosophy, this idea reflects the essence of minimalism: appreciating sufficiency, rather than striving for excess. In a Japanese apartment, where space is limited, minimalism is not only a philosophy but also a practical necessity. Residents learn to live with fewer possessions, making conscious choices about what to keep and what to let go. For newcomers, this lifestyle adjustment can be transformative, reshaping ideas about comfort, necessity, and the meaning of “home.”

Another factor that impacts daily living is sunlight. Orientation matters greatly: for example, an east-facing apartment in Tokyo receives direct sunlight from as early as 5:00 a.m. during summer. While this creates bright mornings, it can also make the apartment uncomfortably hot if not managed with curtains or air conditioning. In a country often referred to as the “Land of the Rising Sun,” these subtle details, such as window direction and seasonal light, play a significant role in shaping everyday comfort.

Cultural Perspectives on Housing

Another key difference is the sense of permanence. In countries such as the U.S. or much of Europe, a home purchase is often tied to the idea of a “forever home”, a long-term investment and a symbol of security. In Japan, however, apartments are frequently regarded as temporary stages of life. Many people expect to move when circumstances change, whether due to career shifts, family needs, or evolving lifestyle preferences. This fluidity also reflects Japan’s real estate market, where the value of buildings tends to depreciate over time while land retains its worth.

Beyond the apartment walls, the neighborhood and community often play a larger role in shaping daily life. Local shops, parks, and train stations become extensions of the home. In dense urban environments like Tokyo, residents may spend as much time engaging with their neighborhood as they do in their living room, making the surrounding environment just as important as the apartment itself.

Conclusion

So, how does a first apartment in Japan change the way housing is seen by foreigners? It can show that a home does not need to be defined by size, permanence, or excess. Instead, comfort can come from efficiency, simplicity, and the way a space supports everyday life. Living in a compact Japanese apartment fosters minimalism, encourages organization, and places greater value on the surrounding community. It reshapes the idea of housing from being about owning more space to making the most of the space you have.

In the end, the experience shows that housing is not just about walls and square footage, it is about adaptability, lifestyle, and perspective. For many newcomers, that first apartment in Japan becomes more than just a starting point; it becomes a lesson in how to redefine what “home” really means.At Mr.LAND, we help newcomers and investors navigate these unique housing perspectives, whether it’s finding a first apartment, purchasing property, or exploring investment opportunities in Japan. With expert guidance and local insight, we make discovering a home in Japan not only possible, but deeply rewarding.