What is a weekly apartment? An explanation of how to rent one for a month.
A weekly apartment is a type of short-term rental accommodation that can be used for periods ranging from one week to several months. A major feature is that it comes fully furnished with furniture and appliances, allowing you to start living there immediately.
These properties are popular as temporary housing for business trips or before/after moving, as they can be used for periods of one month or longer, offer a high degree of flexibility in contracts and cancellations, and many do not require a security deposit or key money. Unlike regular rental properties, they are designed for short-term stays, so in many cases, utility contracts and guarantors are not required, making them very convenient.
What's the difference between a weekly and a monthly planner?
Weekly and monthly apartments are both short-term rentals, but they differ in terms of rental period and pricing. Weekly apartments are typically rented on a weekly basis, while monthly apartments are usually for a minimum of one month.
Furthermore, weekly apartments are subject to consumption tax, while monthly apartments are often tax-exempt, which can result in cost differences even for the same rental period. If you are considering a long-term stay, monthly plans tend to be more economical, so it's important to choose the plan that best suits your length of stay.
Reasons for renting on a monthly basis and features of the contract
Many weekly apartments are facilities that have obtained a hotel business license, and a key feature is that contracts can be made flexibly regardless of the number of days.
The reason why it's possible to use these accommodations on a monthly basis is that, unlike typical rentals, they are more like "fixed-term lease agreements" or "lodging contracts." The contracts are simple, and in many cases, you can move in with just identification documents. More and more properties are also available that can be completed online without needing to visit an office. The application process is also relatively lenient, making them convenient for sudden business trips or when you need temporary housing.
Who would benefit most from using this service for a month?
Weekly apartments are suitable for business people on short-term business trips, those looking for temporary housing until they find their next place of residence due to a job change or relocation, and students attending short-term university lectures or certification courses.
They are also suitable as temporary accommodation while renovating your home or preparing to move. For those who want to create a comfortable living environment while keeping costs down compared to hotels, a furnished weekly apartment with a high degree of freedom is an ideal option.
Average monthly cost of weekly apartments [by major city]
The monthly cost of a weekly apartment varies greatly depending on the region. Rent rates differ significantly between urban and rural areas, so understanding the typical rates for your destination is crucial. Prices fluctuate based on the property's location, age, and amenities, so understanding area-specific pricing trends will help you find a comfortable stay while keeping costs down.
In this chapter, we will look at the detailed market prices for each region.
Average cost of weekly apartments in Tokyo
For a one-month stay in a weekly apartment within Tokyo's 23 wards, the average cost is approximately 120,000 to 180,000 yen. In central areas such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Minato wards, many properties cost over 200,000 yen, and properties closer to train stations or with more amenities tend to be more expensive.
On the other hand, in suburban areas such as Itabashi, Adachi, and Nerima wards, you can find reasonably priced properties for around 100,000 yen. Even for short-term stays, finding the right balance between location and budget is key to saving money.
Price comparison in Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka
In major cities like Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, you can rent a weekly apartment for a month at a slightly lower price than in Tokyo.
Typical price range
- Osaka city: Approximately 100,000 to 150,000 yen
- Nagoya city: Approximately 80,000 to 130,000 yen
- Fukuoka City: Approximately 70,000 to 120,000 yen
In all these cities, rents increase the closer you get to the city center, but there are also many relatively inexpensive properties in areas with good transportation access, making them attractive for their cost-effectiveness.
Price trends in regional cities
Weekly apartments in regional cities typically cost around 50,000 to 90,000 yen per month, which is very reasonable compared to urban areas. In cities like Sapporo, Sendai, Hiroshima, and Naha, costs decrease the further you go into the suburbs, making them suitable for long-term stays.
However, since the number of properties may be limited, and the available amenities and floor plans may be restricted, it is important to carefully check the amenities and accessibility beforehand. This is an ideal option for those who want a comfortable stay while keeping costs down.
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Thoroughly check the breakdown of costs! What are the monthly fee items?
When renting a weekly apartment for a month, several expenses are incurred in addition to the rent. Typical expenses include basic rent, utilities (water, electricity, gas), management fees, cleaning fees, and internet usage fees. Another characteristic is that, unlike regular rentals, many weekly apartments do not require a security deposit or key money.
For those who want to keep initial costs down or are considering a short-term stay, knowing the total monthly cost in advance is the first step in choosing a cost-effective property. We will explain each item in detail.
Basic rent
The basic monthly rent for a weekly apartment is approximately 60,000 to 150,000 yen, but this varies greatly depending on the location and the quality of the property.
Rents tend to be higher for properties located in the city center, near train stations, and in newer buildings. Conversely, properties in the suburbs or older buildings may be priced more reasonably. If you are planning a one-month stay, it is recommended to check for rent discount campaigns or long-term discounts before signing a contract.
Water and electricity bills
In weekly apartments, utility costs such as water, electricity, and gas typically amount to around 10,000 to 15,000 yen per month.
These costs may be included in the rent, but some properties charge separately, so it's important to check when signing the contract. There may also be additional charges for excessive use, so it's reassuring to check the maximum charges and settlement methods beforehand. When creating your budget, be mindful of the "effective monthly cost," which includes utilities.
Management fee/cleaning fee
Management fees and cleaning fees are set to cover the costs of maintaining common areas and cleaning when tenants move out, and are typically several thousand yen to around 10,000 yen per month.
In particular, cleaning fees after moving out are often billed as a lump sum at the time of signing the contract and are an item that is easily overlooked as part of the initial costs. It is important to consider this as a necessary expense for maintaining a comfortable living environment, even for a short period, and to include it in your total budget.
Internet charges and optional fees
Internet usage fees typically range from free to around 5,000 yen per month, and some properties even include Wi-Fi as standard.
On the other hand, there may be data capacity limits, or you may need to sign up for an additional high-speed internet connection as an option. Also, if you use optional services such as bedding rental or kitchenware rental, additional costs may be incurred. Therefore, the key to saving money is to choose only the services you need according to your lifestyle.
Will a security deposit, key money, and brokerage fee be required?
One of the biggest advantages of weekly apartments is that there is generally no security deposit, key money, or brokerage fee required. Compared to regular rental agreements, the initial costs are significantly lower and the procedures are simplified, making them a perfect fit for those with sudden job transfers or short-term stays.
However, a security deposit may be required for some luxury properties or long-term contracts, so be sure to carefully check the contract terms with the real estate company in advance.
Tips and checkpoints for keeping monthly expenses low
When renting a weekly apartment for a month, several strategies are needed to keep costs down. These include taking advantage of discount campaigns, targeting off-season periods with low demand, and avoiding unnecessary options. In particular, choosing a property with a good range of standard amenities such as furniture, appliances, and internet access can significantly reduce additional costs.
The key to saving money is to wisely compare options and choose a plan that suits your purpose of stay.
Target properties with campaigns or discounts.
Many weekly apartments offer limited-time promotions and discounts for long-term stays.
In some cases, rent can be reduced by 20% to 30% for stays of one month or longer, and benefits such as free initial fees and free cleaning are also not to be missed. Since official websites and portal sites often list discounted properties, it's recommended to compare multiple sites to find the best deal. Also, keep an eye out for advance booking benefits and last-minute discounts.
Cutting costs by using the service during the off-season.
The cost of a weekly apartment varies depending on the time of year.
You can significantly reduce costs by avoiding peak moving seasons such as spring and autumn, and the year-end/New Year period, and instead using the service during off-peak months in summer or winter.
Furthermore, during periods with many vacancies, rent may be negotiable and lowered, which can lead to significant savings for those with flexible schedules. If you can adjust your schedule, booking during the off-season is a wise move.
Choose only the essential equipment.
While some weekly apartments offer high-end properties with extensive amenities such as multi-functional appliances and automatic locks, you can reduce costs by focusing on only the amenities you truly need.
For example, if you don't cook, you might want to avoid properties with kitchens, or if you bring your own laptop, you might not need a high-speed Wi-Fi option. Choosing a minimalist property that suits your lifestyle is key to avoiding unnecessary expenses.
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What kind of property should you choose if you're only staying for a month? How to choose based on type.
When renting a weekly apartment for a month, it's crucial to choose a property that suits your lifestyle, considering factors such as location, amenities, and safety. Understanding the characteristics of each type of property and creating a comfortable environment for yourself will ensure a smooth and satisfying month-long stay.
Here, we will explain them by type.
Cases where proximity to the station and location are paramount.
If you prioritize convenience for commuting, going to school, and shopping, properties within a 5-minute walk from the station are ideal. In urban areas, weekly apartments near stations typically cost around 120,000 to 180,000 yen per month, but good access to transportation saves both time and travel costs.
Furthermore, if there are plenty of convenience stores, restaurants, and laundromats nearby, the comfort level of your life will improve dramatically. For people who want to live a stress-free life, even for a short period, properties that prioritize location are ideal.
Amenities-focused type for long-term stays
For stays of a month or longer, we recommend properties that prioritize amenities and are fully furnished with furniture and appliances. Having a refrigerator, microwave, washing machine, and cooking utensils allows you to cook and do laundry, saving you money on eating out and using laundromats. A spacious kitchen and ample storage space will also make your long-term stay more comfortable.
Especially if you plan to use it for working from home or studying, pay attention to factors such as the availability of Wi-Fi and a desk.
For women living alone and prioritizing security.
For a woman living alone for a month, choosing a weekly apartment with high security is paramount. Properties with features such as automatic locks, security cameras, on-site managers, and women-only floors offer peace of mind. Furthermore, choosing a property located on a well-lit street at night or in a busy area can reduce the risk of trouble.
While properties designed for women tend to be slightly more expensive, they are extremely popular because they offer a balance of safety and comfort.
summary
Renting a weekly apartment for a month is very convenient for short-term stays because it keeps initial costs down and comes furnished with all the necessary furniture and appliances. By understanding the average costs in major cities, clearly understanding the breakdown of expenses, and taking advantage of promotions and targeting off-peak seasons, you can further reduce costs.
Furthermore, choosing a property that meets your needs, such as proximity to the station, emphasis on amenities, and security, is key to a comfortable stay. Select a weekly apartment that suits your purpose and spend your month smartly.
