Renting an apartment in Japan can feel confusing for beginners because the contract includes several unique fees and rules. One of the most surprising is key money (礼金 reikin) — a non-refundable “gift” paid to the landlord when you move in. Not all apartments charge it, but many do, especially in big cities. Another important requirement is a guarantor (保証人 hoshōnin), someone who promises to pay your rent if you cannot. Since most foreigners don’t have a personal guarantor in Japan, many use a guarantor company, which charges a small fee each year. You may also see shikikin (敷金), the security deposit used for cleaning or repairs when you move out. Finally, most Japanese leases include a renewal fee (更新料 kōshinryō) paid every two years if you want to continue living in the apartment. Understanding these terms before signing helps avoid surprises and makes the renting process much smoother for foreigners living in Japan.