Why Preparation Makes All the Difference
Moving into a monthly mansion in Tokyo is far simpler than a standard Japanese apartment rental — but it still requires planning. Arriving without the right documents, supplies, or knowledge of local systems can turn your first few days into a frustrating scramble. This checklist is designed to help you arrive prepared and settle in comfortably from day one.
Four Weeks Before Move-In
- Confirm your contract and move-in date in writing with the provider.
- Arrange your Japan SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi. You'll need mobile data from the moment you land. Options include IIJmio, Rakuten Mobile, and short-term SIM cards from airport vending machines.
- Set up a Japanese bank account if needed. Some providers require bank transfer payments. Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) and Sony Bank are accessible for foreign nationals.
- Research your commute route from the new address to your workplace, school, or key destinations.
- Check what items are provided. Request a full inventory list from your provider so you know exactly what is and isn't in the unit.
Two Weeks Before Move-In
- Shop for personal essentials that won't be provided: toiletries, towels, kitchen utensils, and bedding (some mansions include bedding sets — confirm first).
- Arrange mail forwarding from your previous address if staying in Japan.
- Download key apps: Google Maps (offline Tokyo maps), Suica/PASMO app for transit, Google Translate with Japanese downloaded for offline use.
- Confirm the check-in process. Is it in person with a key handover? Is there a lockbox code? Is there a concierge?
Items to Bring or Buy Immediately
Even furnished apartments leave some gaps. Plan to acquire these shortly after move-in:
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Towels | Rarely provided; buy at any 100-yen shop or home center |
| Toilet paper | Starter supply; restock at local convenience store |
| Kitchen sponge and dish soap | 100-yen stores are your best friend |
| Laundry detergent | Check if washer is in-unit or shared laundry |
| Hangers | Often missing even from furnished units |
| Umbrella | Tokyo rain is frequent; convenience stores sell cheap ones |
On Move-In Day
- Inspect the entire unit thoroughly before settling in. Note and photograph any pre-existing damage — scuffs, stains, broken items — and report them to the provider immediately. This protects your deposit.
- Test all appliances: air conditioner, water heater, stove, washing machine, and door locks.
- Locate the breaker box (ブレーカー) and understand which breaker controls which circuit.
- Confirm your Wi-Fi credentials are working. Note the router's location and the network name and password.
- Take photos of meter readings (electricity, gas) if utilities are billed based on usage.
- Check where the trash disposal area is and ask for the local garbage collection schedule. Tokyo has strict rules on sorting rubbish.
Within Your First Week
- Register your address at the local ward office (区役所) if you have a residence card and plan to stay longer than 90 days.
- Locate your nearest convenience store (コンビニ) — these serve as ATMs, bill payment centers, and 24-hour grocery stores all in one.
- Get a Suica or PASMO IC card loaded with yen for seamless transit across Tokyo's train and bus networks.
- Introduce yourself briefly to neighbors — a simple nod and "よろしくお願いします" (yoroshiku onegaishimasu) goes a long way in Japanese apartment culture.