First, you need to know! What is a monthly apartment?
Monthly apartments are furnished rental properties suitable for medium-term stays of one month or more, and are popular for those relocating for work, business trips, temporary housing, or students staying for a short period. Unlike regular rentals, they often do not require a security deposit or key money, making them easy to move into.
Below, let's understand the differences between monthly apartments and other types of housing, as well as the specific benefits of using them.
Differences between weekly, monthly, and regular rentals
Here are the differences between them.
- Weekly apartments are typically rented on a weekly basis, while monthly apartments are typically rented on a monthly basis. Both types of apartments are characterized by being fully furnished with furniture, appliances, and Wi-Fi.
- Typical rental properties have a two-year contract, and often involve a security deposit, key money, and brokerage fees, resulting in high initial costs.
Additionally, you will need to provide your own furniture and other items. Weekly and monthly rentals, intended for short-term and medium-term stays, offer a convenient and flexible housing option.
Benefits and suitable users for different usage scenarios
Monthly apartments are ideal for business trips and training, temporary assignments, exams and job hunting, temporary housing during renovations, and even short-term stays for foreigners. With no security deposit or key money required and a simple move-in process, they perfectly fit the needs of those who "want to move in immediately," "don't want the hassle of furnishing," or "want to stay longer and cheaper than a hotel."
If you are responsible for arranging accommodation for employees on business trips lasting more than one month, please also refer to the guide on securing accommodation for long-term business trips on our corporate website.
It's also gaining attention as a cost-effective option for people who want to live in an urban area for a limited period, such as for travel or attending events.
Contract period, initial costs, and service features
One of the attractions of monthly apartments is the flexibility of contract periods, ranging from as short as one month to several months or even up to six months. Initial costs are often minimal, with many properties requiring no security deposit or key money; in some cases, you only need to pay the first month's rent and cleaning fee. Utilities such as water, electricity, and internet access are often included in the rent, eliminating the need for complicated contracts.
Furthermore, since the apartments come fully furnished with furniture, appliances, and bedding, you can move in immediately with just a suitcase. This is a convenient living style for busy business people and those living alone for the first time.
Top 6 Recommended Monthly Apartment Search Websites [2025 Latest Edition]
If you're looking for a monthly apartment, the first step is choosing a reliable search site. Recently, the options have diversified, ranging from large nationwide portal sites to specialized sites focused on specific regions or purposes.
Here, we've carefully selected six recommended real estate search websites for 2025. We'll explain how to compare their features from various perspectives, including the number of properties listed, area coverage, search functions, campaign information, and support systems.
Good Monthly | The leading nationwide portal
" Good Monthly " is the industry's largest information portal, allowing you to search across monthly and weekly apartments in all 47 prefectures of Japan, from Hokkaido to Kyushu and Okinawa. It supports a variety of search criteria, including prefecture, city/ward/town/village, railway line, and map, and also offers a wealth of detailed search options and recommended features.
Our appeal lies in our wide range of property options to meet diverse needs, including those for business trips, training, temporary housing, exams, cohabitation, and pet-friendly accommodations. We also provide a beginner-friendly "User Guide" and "Helpful Information," making it easy for even first-time monthly rental users to find a property with confidence.
Weekly & Monthly | Featuring advanced search functionality and special features.
" Weekly & Monthly " is a portal site characterized by its extensive search functions and purpose-specific features. The search function allows for detailed filtering options such as "women only," "cohabitation allowed," and "parking available." Recommended articles and property features categorized by scenarios such as business trips, training, sightseeing, and temporary housing are also popular.
The hassle-free contract style, which includes no security deposit or key money and no need to arrange electricity or gas, is gaining popularity. For those new to monthly rentals or those seeking short-term contracts, the ability to obtain all the necessary information in one place is a major attraction.
Weekly Residences | Japan's largest number of listed properties
" Weekly Residence " is a search site boasting one of the largest number of listed properties in Japan. It covers major cities throughout Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, and offers a particularly wide selection of properties in urban areas. In addition to searching by prefecture, you can also narrow down your search by popular areas, areas around train stations, and specific criteria.
This site allows you to compare properties suitable for short-term to medium-term stays all in one place, making it perfect for those who want to find accommodation that closely matches their preferences without spending a lot of time. If you prioritize reliability and comprehensiveness, this is a site you should definitely check out.
LIFULL HOME'S Monthly | Reliable partnership with major portals
" LIFULL HOME'S Monthly " is a monthly apartment rental service provided by "LIFULL HOME'S," a comprehensive real estate information website. Leveraging the stable operational structure and reliable property listings characteristic of a large company, it caters to a variety of purposes, including business use and student living alone.
With a user-friendly search system and recommended listings for popular areas, even first-time short-term renters can use the service with confidence. A wealth of customer reviews can also be used as a resource when choosing a property.
MAN3'S | Area rankings and abundant discount information
" MAN3'S " is a website specializing in searching and comparing weekly and monthly apartments, featuring attractive unique area popularity rankings and discount property listings. It also boasts a highly functional search system that caters to specific needs, including travel time searches and new discount information.
This platform is highly reliable, offering comprehensive guide content for first-time users and information for operating companies. It boasts a particularly large number of property listings in the Tokyo metropolitan area, making it popular for business trips, temporary housing, and short-term study abroad programs.
Mr. Business | Specializing in information for business use
" Mr. Business " is a specialized website primarily aimed at business travelers using monthly apartments. It offers a wealth of content to meet corporate needs, including property listings suitable for business trips and training, corporate contract services, and support systems for long-term stays.
Furthermore, it contains a wealth of information useful for corporate representatives, such as proposals that prioritize cost-effectiveness, area selection criteria for business professionals, and comparisons of property facilities. It is an ideal choice for corporate users who prioritize cost management and efficiency.
Search for a room
Only furnished properties with appliances are listed!
How to choose the best website for your area [Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama]
When searching for a monthly apartment, the key is to use search sites that have a large number of listings for each region and offer detailed area-specific information. In particular, in urban areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, each site has its own strengths and coverage area.
This section introduces recommended search sites for major city areas, comparing their features to help you find properties more efficiently. Choosing a site specializing in a specific area will allow you to find properties that better suit your needs more effectively.
If you're looking in the Tokyo area, this site is recommended.
If you're looking for a monthly apartment in Tokyo, we recommend "Tokyo Monthly 21," which features area-specific information. You can compare operators and properties in popular areas of the Kanto region such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Ueno, and there are many affordable properties listed with no security deposit or key money, furnished with appliances and utilities included.
Additionally, nationwide websites such as "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" feature Tokyo-specific sections, making it convenient to search for properties by train line or near stations. You can find a room that suits your needs, from corporate use to trying out living alone.
Where can I find monthly rentals in the Osaka/Kansai area?
If you're looking for a monthly apartment in Osaka or the Kansai area, websites featuring local, specialized rental agencies like "Goodstay" and "AS Monthly Osaka" are convenient. Nationwide portals such as "Good Monthly" and "Monthlys" also have extensive Osaka features, making it easy to search for properties around popular stations like Umeda, Namba, and Tennoji.
For those looking for accommodation for business trips, training, or assignments away from their families, the search filters for properties with no deposit or key money and short-term contracts are very useful. There are also plenty of options available even with specific requirements such as proximity to train stations, Wi-Fi, and utilities included.
List of websites where you can find cheap properties in Yokohama and Kanagawa.
If you're looking for an affordable monthly apartment in Yokohama City or Kanagawa Prefecture, we highly recommend using local portals such as "Y-ROOM (Yokohama Weekly Mansion)" and "Yokohama Monthly.com". Y-ROOM, in particular, is a direct site operated by Yokohama's largest real estate company and offers a wealth of unique services, including special campaign properties and cleaning fee discounts.
Furthermore, nationwide websites such as "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" allow you to narrow your search to the Yokohama, Kawasaki, Fujisawa, and Shonan areas, which is very convenient. These areas are also suitable for those looking for housing with a view to commuting to Tokyo.
Choose by purpose! Recommended search sites for different situations.
When choosing a monthly apartment, the key to success is utilizing search sites tailored to your purpose of use. Numerous portal sites have emerged that allow you to search according to your lifestyle and situation, such as business trips, temporary assignments, short-term student stays, training, or trial cohabitation. Each site has different strengths, such as "corporate contracts accepted," "no security deposit or key money," "furnished with appliances," and "short-term contracts OK," so it is important to use the appropriate site according to your needs.
This chapter introduces the best search sites for different situations to help you find properties efficiently.
Websites for business trips and temporary assignments that make short-term contracts easy.
For business trips or assignments away from home, we recommend search sites like "Mr. Business" and "Good Monthly," which offer corporate contracts and easy access to short-term rentals of one to several months. These sites feature a wide selection of properties equipped with amenities specifically for business use, including Wi-Fi, desks, and convenient locations near train stations, creating a comfortable living environment for working.
Furthermore, it supports invoice issuance and corporate name contracts, making it easy for corporate representatives to use. It's ideal for those who want to balance work efficiency with a comfortable lifestyle.
Student/Trainee Use | Many properties with furniture and appliances included, no security deposit or key money required.
If you're looking for a monthly apartment for a short-term training program, a trial period of living alone before starting university, or an internship, "Weekly & Monthly" and "Mansleys (MAN3'S)" are convenient options. These sites offer many properties that come furnished with appliances and require no security deposit or key money, allowing you to start living immediately with minimal initial costs.
Furthermore, the contract process is simple, and many properties allow online procedures without requiring a visit to the office, making them convenient for those staying from far away or underage students. There are also plenty of properties located near universities and train stations, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay.
Website for trial cohabitation and temporary relocation.
For trial cohabitation or temporary housing before or after moving, websites specializing in cohabitation-friendly properties or monthly apartments that allow multiple occupants, such as "Weekly Residence" or "Weekly & Monthly," are ideal. These sites offer search functions that allow you to filter by criteria such as "cohabitation allowed," "1LDK or larger," "accommodates 2 people," and "double bed," making them suitable for short-term stays for couples and families.
The fact that there's no security deposit or key money, and utilities are included, makes it easy to set a budget. Because you can easily try out the living experience, it's also used as a trial living arrangement before marriage or as temporary housing during the preparation period for relocation or moving.
Search for a room
Only furnished properties with appliances are listed!
Four key points to check when comparing recommended websites
When choosing a monthly apartment search site, important comparison points include not only the number of properties listed and search functions, but also the service area, transparency of pricing, support system, and campaign information. By considering not only the property information but also the actual contract and post-move-in support experience, you can make a choice for housing that you won't regret.
Here, we'll explain in detail the four key points you should consider when choosing a search engine.
Number of listed properties and coverage area
When choosing a search site, the most basic and important factors are the number of properties listed and the comprehensiveness of the areas covered. Nationwide sites like "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" cover not only major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, but also properties in regional cities and tourist areas.
Furthermore, whether the site supports station name searches and map searches is also an important point. For those who want to compare multiple properties or those who cannot limit their search area due to a sudden job transfer or move, a site with a wide coverage area and a large number of properties will be more convenient.
Clear pricing display and quotation function
Monthly apartments incur additional charges beyond the rent, such as utilities, management fees, and cleaning fees, so it's crucial that the pricing structure is clearly displayed. Some websites only show the "monthly rent," which can lead to a discrepancy between the advertised price and the actual amount paid.
Reliable websites often have features that automatically display the total monthly cost, daily rates, and estimates for different contract periods, making comparisons easier. To avoid problems after signing a contract, be sure to check the transparency of the pricing.
Support system (telephone, chat, on-site support, etc.)
For first-time users of monthly apartments, those moving unexpectedly, or corporate contracts, a comprehensive support system provides peace of mind. Websites that offer a variety of contact methods, including phone support, email, chat, and LINE, tend to respond quickly to problems and urgent inquiries.
Furthermore, some websites offer on-site support and consultations for viewing properties, making them suitable for those seeking meticulous service. High levels of support significantly reduce anxiety during the property search process and are a major factor in ensuring a smooth contract and move-in.
The abundance of great deals and special offers.
For those looking to minimize costs, the availability of campaigns and special offers is crucial. By utilizing websites that offer campaigns such as zero security deposit/key money, first month's rent discount, half-price cleaning fees, and long-stay discounts, you can rent the same property at a more reasonable price.
"Y-ROOM" and "Weekly & Monthly" regularly update their regional special offers, so the value can vary depending on the timing. It's recommended to check the site's homepage and featured sections to compare whether there are any ongoing campaigns.
Frequently Asked Questions about Monthly Apartment Search Websites
When searching for a monthly apartment, many people feel anxious about how to use search sites, how to choose a property, and the contract process. In particular, we frequently receive questions such as, "Where can I find the cheapest option?", "Are properties in rural areas listed?", and "What are the differences in contract methods?".
This chapter addresses common questions about choosing and using search engines, providing clear and easy-to-understand explanations so even beginners can use them with confidence.
Which site offers the best price?
If you want to rent a monthly apartment as cheaply as possible, the key is to use websites that offer plenty of campaigns and discounts. Websites like "MAN3'S" and "Weekly Residence" have many properties listed with benefits such as the lowest price guarantee, long-term discounts, and free cleaning. Depending on the property, you may even find options like the first month free or prices that include utilities, effectively reducing your overall cost.
Since prices can vary even for the same area and equipment conditions, it's recommended to compare total costs using a site that offers a quote function, even when comparing multiple sites.
Are there any websites where I can find monthly rentals in rural areas?
For those looking for monthly apartments outside of major cities, such as in regional cities, tourist destinations, or for temporary stays while relocating for work, nationwide portal sites like "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" are ideal. They cover all 47 prefectures and feature a wide variety of properties, including those in major cities like Sapporo, Sendai, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and Naha, as well as in regional core cities and around train stations.
Furthermore, many of these properties are partnered with local real estate agents, making it easy to access locally focused property information. There are also many properties available at lower prices compared to urban areas, making them a good choice for those prioritizing cost-effectiveness.
Do different websites have different application processes and screening criteria?
The contract procedures and application screening process for monthly apartments vary depending on the management company or operator listed, rather than the search website itself.
Generally, the application process for short-term rentals is relatively simple, and many properties do not require a guarantor or proof of income. However, there may be restrictions for foreign nationals or minors, so it's best to inquire about or request a quote for any property you're interested in to get the details right away.
Search for a room
Only furnished properties with appliances are listed!
summary
Choosing the right monthly apartment search site based on your purpose and desired area is the surest way to a comfortable and cost-effective stay. From large nationwide sites to comparison sites specializing in specific regions like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, each site has its own strengths.
Carefully compare factors such as the number of properties listed, clarity of pricing, support system, and campaign information to find the site that best suits your needs. By choosing a search site that meets your requirements, you can realize your ideal monthly rental lifestyle.
