Housing Scams to Watch Out For in Tokyo

Tokyo is widely known for its safety and order—but like any big city, it’s not immune to scams. The housing market, in particular, can be a minefield for foreigners unfamiliar with local customs, regulations, or language. Whether you’re a student, expat, or entrepreneur relocating to Tokyo, being informed about common housing scams can save you money, time, and emotional distress.

This comprehensive guide will help you identify red flags, protect your finances, and find trustworthy accommodation in Tokyo.

️ Why Housing Scams Happen in Tokyo

Despite Japan’s reputation for low crime, housing scams persist due to several reasons:

• Language barriers make foreigners easy targets.

• High demand for short-term rentals creates a sense of urgency.

• Trust-based culture means scams are harder to detect until it’s too late.

• Cash-based transactions reduce digital traceability.

Common Housing Scams Targeting Foreigners

1. Fake Listings with Stolen Photos

Some scammers copy photos from legitimate listings and repost them with altered contact details. They promise a “great deal” to lure victims, then request upfront deposits.

Red flags:

• Price too good to be true

• Agent refuses physical viewing

• Only communicates via email or messaging apps

Tip: Reverse image search apartment photos on Google to detect duplicates.

2. “Ghost” Landlords

In this scam, the landlord doesn’t exist, or the person claiming to be the landlord has no legal right to rent the property. After collecting a deposit, they disappear.

How it works:

• The scammer shows the property using a duplicate key or photos

• They rush you into paying the deposit immediately

• No contract is ever provided

3. Deposit Traps

In Japan, renters typically pay key money, security deposit, and agency fees—but scammers inflate or fabricate these charges.

Example:

• A ¥150,000/month unit may come with a fake “cleaning fee” of ¥300,000

• The “deposit” is non-refundable and not stated in the lease

Always request a detailed breakdown of upfront costs. Legitimate agents provide a document called “重要事項説明書 (Important Matters Explanation).”

4. ️ Phishing Through Fake Rental Platforms

Scammers create entire fake websites resembling real estate platforms (like SUUMO or Homes.co.jp). They collect your personal and financial data under the guise of a lease application.

Red flags:

• Website URL looks suspicious (e.g. suumo-japan.net instead of suumo.jp)

• Poor Japanese/English translation

• Payment page requests credit card without contract

5. “Pay Before You Arrive” Scheme

Foreigners often fall for this when trying to secure housing before moving to Japan. The scammer uses urgency to pressure you into paying a reservation fee.

How it unfolds:

• They claim there’s “another interested tenant”

• You’re asked to transfer money internationally

• No one meets you when you arrive

Never pay rent or deposit for a place you haven’t seen or confirmed through a trusted channel.

6. ️ Bait and Switch

Some shady agents show you a great apartment, but say it was “just rented out” when you apply. Then they push you toward more expensive or poor-quality options.

Tactics include:

• Listing fake units as bait

• Charging a “viewing fee” upfront

• Refusing to refund if you walk away

7. Delayed Key Delivery Scam

This scam targets foreigners who prepay rent and arrive in Japan only to be told their keys aren’t ready. Delays continue indefinitely as the scammer avoids calls.

Warning signs:

• Agent goes silent after payment

• Vague move-in date

• No physical contract provided

Real Stories from Victims

Case 1:
“I transferred ¥200,000 for a ‘Tokyo Tower View’ unit listed online. When I arrived, the address didn’t exist. The contact blocked me.” — Sophia, UK expat

Case 2:
“My agent kept delaying key delivery, saying it was a ‘cleaning issue.’ I waited in a hotel for a week before realizing I’d been duped.” — Mark, US tech worker

How to Avoid Housing Scams in Tokyo

✅ Use Trusted Platforms

Stick to reliable websites such as:

• Suumo (suumo.jp)

• Homes (homes.co.jp)

• Realestate.co.jp (English support)

• Tokyo Room Finder

• Village House (low-cost options)

✅ Work with Registered Agents

Ensure the agency has a license number from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (国土交通省). Reputable agents will also:

• Show the property in person

• Provide a legally binding lease

• Issue a “重要事項説明書 (Important Information Statement)” before signing

✅ Visit Before Paying

Never pay rent or deposit until you:

• See the apartment

• Confirm its availability

• Receive the contract in writing

If you’re overseas, have a trusted friend or relocation service inspect the place.

✅ Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Deals

If a listing is:

• 40% cheaper than similar units

• Has stunning interiors with no flaws

• Promises “no key money, no deposit, no fees”

…it’s likely a scam.

✅ Verify Identity

Always ask for:

• The agent’s business card

• Their license number

• Japanese ID (passport or 免許証)

You can also search the company on the National Land and Building Transaction Business Operator Database (不動産業者検索).

✅ Use a Japanese Guarantor Company

These companies (保証会社) act as a legal buffer, ensuring legitimacy. Landlords often require one, especially for foreign tenants.

Popular ones include:

• Global Trust Networks (GTN)

• Nihon Safety

• Casa

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

1. Report to Police

File a report with the nearest Koban (police box) or at a major station like Shinjuku. Bring:

• Bank transfer details

• All correspondence

• Passport and residence card

2. Contact the Embassy

Some embassies offer legal advice or translation help.

3. Talk to Consumer Affairs

The Japan National Consumer Affairs Center (消費者センター) can advise on housing-related fraud.

4. Use Legal Assistance

Non-profit legal services and bar associations offer support to foreign residents.

Bonus: Tokyo Rental Terms You Should Know

✍️ Final Thoughts

Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, but housing scams remain a threat—especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the system. By understanding the most common tricks, working with registered agents, and never sending money before verifying a property, you can safely find your ideal Tokyo apartment.

Stay alert, ask questions, and trust your instincts. When in doubt, step back and seek advice.