Housing Types and How to Choose
●Student Dormitories
Some schools provide dormitories specifically for international students.
Since facilities and fees can differ, it’s a good idea to check with your school’s office for more details.
●International student dormitories
These dormitories are operated by governments or private organizations.
They are affordable and well-equipped, but there may be restrictions on eligibility.
»Kyoto International Student Orientation Center
*Prospective tenants are asked to confirm the details with the person in charge at NATIONAL STUDENTS INFORMATION CENTER.
»Mukaijima Gakusei Center
»Kyoto International Students House
Refer to STUDYKYOTO MAGAZINEs as well！
●Public housing
These are government-run housing options managed by Kyoto Prefecture or local municipalities.
To apply, you must have lived in Japan for at least a year and have family members residing in the area.
However, special preferential treatment may be available for international students.
●UR (Urban Renaissance Agency) (nama lama: Public Housing)
These rental properties are available nationwide, and they do not require a guarantor, key money, agency fees, or renewal fees (only a two-month deposit is required).
International students can apply under the same conditions as Japanese citizens.
»UR Kansai(Japanese only)
●Private rental housing
| Broadly speaking, there are five types of private rental housing available | |
|---|---|
| Apartment | Typically a low-rise building made of wood or prefab materials, apartments may offer more basic facilities. |
| Condominium | A reinforced concrete multi-unit building with well-equipped facilities. Rent is usually higher for units on higher floors. |
| Detached house | A standalone house, with some properties featuring gardens. |
| Homestay | A popular choice for those wishing to immerse themselves in Japanese culture by staying with a Japanese family. »Homestay in Japan |
| Shared housing | A share house offers private rooms while sharing common spaces such as the bathroom and kitchen. Many of these homes are furnished with appliances and furniture, making them a cost-effective option for students and travelers. |
About Temporary Housing
If you're unable to secure permanent accommodation immediately after arriving in Kyoto, temporary housing can be a practical solution. These are typically rented on a monthly or weekly basis and are ideal for those searching for long-term housing or staying for short durations. Temporary housing is often more affordable than staying in a hotel. The two main options are:
●Monthly / weekly housing
These apartments often come fully furnished with appliances, commonly including:
- ・Example furnishing: TV, air conditioner, bed, refrigerator
【Features】
・Affordable move-in costs
Many apartments do not require key money, deposit, or agency fees, and most come furnished, saving you the cost of moving and purchasing household items.
※Some one-room type monthly lease mansions do not come with furniture or appliances. For these listings, you will need to buy your own furnishings and dispose of them upon your departure.
・Flexible contract terms
These properties typically involve less paperwork, with some not requiring a guarantor, allowing for an easy move-in and move-out process.
・More spacious and cost-effective than business hotels
These apartments tend to offer more space than a typical business hotel room. While the layout might be similar, the overall cost is much lower than the daily charges at a hotel.
●Guest house / hostel
This type of accommodation includes shared spaces such as the living room, kitchen, toilet, and shower room.
【Features】
A deposit (security bond) may be required when signing the lease.
Rent is typically affordable and it's a great environment for cultural exchange and meeting people from different backgrounds.
