Pet-Friendly Housing in Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Expats

Moving to Tokyo with a furry companion? You’re not alone. As pet ownership rises in Japan, especially in urban areas, more landlords and property developers are recognizing the growing demand for pet-friendly housing. But as a foreigner, navigating Tokyo’s rental market with a pet can still be a complex experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about finding, renting, and enjoying pet-friendly housing in Tokyo—including what to expect, where to search, legal and cultural considerations, and how to make life comfortable for both you and your pet in the world’s most populous metropolis.

1. Is Tokyo a Pet-Friendly City?

The short answer is: increasingly yes, but with limitations.

Tokyo has come a long way in becoming more accommodating to pets. You’ll find pet-friendly cafés, grooming salons, dog runs, veterinary clinics, and even pet taxis. However, housing remains a challenge. While some modern apartments now advertise themselves as pet-ok (ペット可), many traditional landlords still prohibit animals—especially dogs.

Still, if you know where and how to look, finding a suitable place is very possible.

2. What Is “Pet-Friendly Housing” in Japan?

In Japan, a “pet-friendly” apartment is typically labeled as:

• ペット可 (petto ka) – “Pets allowed”

• ペット相談 (petto soudan) – “Pets negotiable”

• ペット応相談 – “Pets subject to discussion”

These terms appear on real estate listings and are often conditional. Some properties allow small dogs only, others allow one pet max, and very few permit large dogs or multiple pets.

Some apartments may also be pet-tolerant, meaning they’ll permit pets if extra conditions are met (e.g. added fees, stricter cleaning requirements).

3. Types of Pets Typically Allowed

Dogs

Small breeds under 10kg are generally accepted. Medium to large breeds are less common but not impossible.

Cats

Cats are often accepted more than large dogs but may be restricted due to landlords’ concern over scratching or odor.

Other Animals

Rabbits, hamsters, birds, and reptiles fall into a gray area. You must ask the landlord, even for animals kept in cages.

❗ Tip: Always clarify pet rules in writing (契約書 – keiyakusho) before signing.

4. What to Expect in Pet-Friendly Apartments

Compared to standard rentals, pet-friendly apartments often include:

• Tiled floors or scratch-resistant surfaces

• Air filtration or pet odor control systems

• Soundproofing

• Outdoor balconies or small patios

• Nearby dog runs or parks

However, they may also require:

• Higher rent (¥10,000–¥30,000/month more)

• Additional deposit (often 1–2 months extra)

• Cleaning or deodorization fees upon moving out

• Pet agreement forms signed by the tenant

5. Average Cost of Pet-Friendly Housing in Tokyo

Rent is typically 10–20% higher than the same unit without pets.

6. How to Search for Pet-Friendly Housing in Tokyo

English-Friendly Websites

• Tokyo Rent – Listings with pet filters

• Japan Home Search – Corporate housing with pet options

• RealEstate.co.jp – Searchable by “pet allowed”

• GaijinPot Housing – Expat-focused with pet categories

• Tokyo Apartment Inc. – Personalized support for pet owners

Japanese Platforms (need language skills)

• SUUMO (スーモ)

• HOME’S (ホームズ)

• CHINTAI (チンタイ)

Use filters like:

• ペット可

• ペット相談

• ペット応相談

Use Chrome + Google Translate for Japanese sites.

7. Neighborhoods Popular with Pet Owners

Not all Tokyo neighborhoods are equally pet-friendly. Here are some of the best:

Setagaya

• Quiet, green, and spacious.

• Home to Kinuta Park and several dog runs.

• Popular with families and pet lovers.

Kichijoji / Inokashira Park Area

• Artistic, laid-back, and full of dog owners.

• Good walking environment.

Nakameguro / Meguro

• Stylish area with walkable riverside paths.

• Close to pet-friendly cafés.

Yoyogi-Uehara / Yoyogi Park

• Near Tokyo’s biggest open green space.

• Ideal for active dogs and jogging with pets.

Tama Area / Western Tokyo

• More space, affordable prices, and larger units.

• You’ll need longer commute times but get more pet flexibility.

8. Legal and Practical Pet Ownership Rules in Tokyo

Registration & Vaccination

• Dogs must be registered at your local ward office.

• Annual rabies vaccination is mandatory.

• A metal tag (犬鑑札) must be worn.

Manners in Shared Spaces

• Always clean up after your pet.

• No letting dogs run loose in hallways.

• Cats must remain indoors unless leashed or crated.

Rental Agreement

• Some landlords require:

  • Pet description (breed, size, number)

  • Proof of vaccination

  • Pet liability insurance

9. Moving in With a Pet: What to Prepare

• Crate or carrier for transport

• Floor protection mats (especially for hardwood floors)

• Pet odor sprays and enzyme cleaners

• Quiet toys (avoid noisy or bouncing types)

• Pet insurance (some landlords require proof)

Some moving companies offer pet relocation services (e.g., Yamato, Nittsu).

10. What If I Already Have a Lease?

You cannot add a pet to your current lease unless the landlord agrees in writing. Sneaking a pet in is strongly discouraged and may lead to:

• Contract termination

• Loss of deposit

• Fines or legal issues

Instead, negotiate openly or find a pet-friendly alternative before bringing your pet.

11. Alternatives to Renting With a Pet

If finding the perfect apartment feels overwhelming, consider:

Share House with Pet Support

• Some share houses now offer pet-inclusive living.

• Pets may live in your room, or common areas.

Pet Hotels or Boarding

• Useful for temporary stays or business trips.

• Tokyo has hundreds of boarding options with grooming and veterinary services.

Co-living with Pet Owners

• Facebook groups like “Tokyo Pet Community” or “Pets in Japan” sometimes have shared housing offers among pet lovers.

12. Cultural Expectations Around Pets in Japan

In Japan, pets are deeply loved—but also expected to be quiet, clean, and well-behaved.

• Dogs should not bark excessively

• Cats should not scratch furniture or walls

• Walking pets without a leash is considered rude

• Letting dogs jump on others in public is discouraged

Being a considerate pet owner is not only polite—it protects your rental agreement and your reputation.

13. Pet Services in Tokyo

• Veterinarians: Many offer English support (look for “国際動物病院” or “International Animal Hospital”)

• Pet Grooming: Available in most neighborhoods

• Dog Runs: Free access in parks like Yoyogi, Komazawa, and Shiba

• Pet Cafés: Dog cafés, cat cafés, rabbit cafés

• Pet-Friendly Hotels: Some business hotels and ryokans now allow small pets

Final Thoughts

Finding pet-friendly housing in Tokyo as a foreigner may seem daunting at first, but it’s entirely doable with the right information and preparation. The key is to:

• Start your search early

• Use pet-specific filters

• Clarify all rules in writing

• Budget for higher costs

• Respect Japanese pet etiquette

Whether you’re bringing a loyal Labrador, a curious cat, or even a quiet rabbit, Tokyo offers a range of housing and lifestyle options that can make both you and your pet feel right at home.

Suggested Next Articles

• How to Rent an Apartment in Tokyo as a Foreigner

• Short-Term vs Long-Term Rentals in Tokyo

• Furnished Apartments in Tokyo: What to Expect

• Top Tokyo Neighborhoods for Expats

• Pet Services and Vets in Japan: English-Speaking Guide