Housing & Daily Life
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Last updated: September 25, 2026
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House hunting in central Tokyo is "hard mode" even for Japanese people, but for foreigners, it’s practically "Mission Impossible." You face walls like "high deposit & key money," "need for a guarantor," "2-year contract bindings," and the dreaded "No Foreigners" policy. Many international students and working holiday makers find themselves at a loss when faced with these barriers. However, a new style of living is breaking these old norms: the "Share Door Apartment." It is operated by Cross House Co., Ltd. "Rent from 30,000 yen," "Initial cost 30,000 yen," "No guarantor required." Are these numbers real? What’s the catch? In this article, based on real data from the foreigner rental market and reviews from actual residents (via Reddit, etc.), we thoroughly explain why Cross House is called the "strongest starter kit for Tokyo life."
¥0 Deposit, ¥0 Key Money, ¥0 Brokerage Fee. Fully furnished—move in with just one suitcase!
When you hear "Share House," you might imagine a sparkling life where residents party in a spacious living room—like something out of a reality TV show. However, the "Share Door Apartment (SA-XROSS)" provided by Cross House is the exact opposite. In a nutshell, it specializes in the need to "live cheaply and conveniently, without the need for socializing."
The number "30,000 yen" dancing in advertisements is attractive. But taking this at face value is dangerous. Here, we simulate the "Real Cost" you will actually pay, with nothing hidden.
While many rentals require an initial cost of "4 to 5 months' rent," Cross House's "Initial Cost of 30,000 yen (Contract Fee)" is incredibly cheap. However, you can't move in with just this amount. 【Estimated Cash Needed at Move-in】
Let's look at the real monthly burden if you choose a property with 30,000 yen rent (like a dormitory).
| Item | Amount (Est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | 30,000 yen | Depends on property |
| Common Service Fee | 15,000 yen | Includes utilities, Wi-Fi, supplies |
| System Fee | 1,100 yen〜 | Maintenance fee equivalent |
| Total | Approx. 46,100 yen | Actual Payment |
| |
Even if the rent is '30,000 yen,' you need to budget around 50,000 yen per month including common fees. However, getting utilities and Wi-Fi included at this price in Shinjuku or Shibuya areas is frankly an 'unbeatable price'.
¥30k properties in popular areas fill up fast. Register for free to check availability first.
We gathered real voices from foreigners actually living there from Reddit and other sources. Cross House clearly divides people into those it "suits" and those it "doesn't suit."
I used Cross House for my first 3 months in Japan. The walls were thin, but not having to buy furniture or sign up for electricity was a huge relief. Once my life was stable, I took my time finding a regular apartment and moved. It's the best choice as a first 'Landing Pad'.
There are other share house operators for foreigners in Tokyo. Let's compare Cross House's position.
| Feature | Cross House | Sakura House | Oakhouse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Cheapest (¥30k〜) | Average (¥50k〜) | High-end (¥60k〜) |
| Quality | Function over form / Small | Retro / Older | High Quality / Spacious |
| Community | Minimal / Dry | Warm | Active / Many events |
| Relocation | Free | Consult needed | Sometimes paid |
| |
If you think of Cross House as a "forever home," you might be dissatisfied with the thin walls or small space. However, if you view it as a "Starter Kit for starting life in Tokyo," there is no service more excellent.
[WEB EXCLUSIVE] Initial Cost ¥30,000 Campaign Now On! Start your new life in popular Tokyo areas.
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A: Share Door is a Cross House brand offering apartment-style units where residents have private rooms but share common areas (kitchen, bathroom). Unlike a traditional share house, each room has a lockable door and more privacy. Rent starts from around ¥30,000/month with no deposit or key money.
A: The base rent covers a furnished room (bed, desk, wardrobe) and access to shared kitchen and bathroom. Wi-Fi is included. Utilities (water, electricity, gas) are either included or billed at a fixed monthly fee. No additional furniture purchase needed.
A: Cross House has properties spread across Tokyo including central areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro as well as suburban areas. Cheaper rooms (¥30,000–50,000) tend to be further from central stations; rooms near major transit hubs run ¥50,000–80,000.
A: Cross House allows stays from 1 month, making it ideal for foreigners who are uncertain about their stay length or need temporary accommodation while apartment hunting.
A: Cross House's website has English language support and foreigners make up a significant portion of residents. Staff communication may still require some Japanese or simple English, but day-to-day living is manageable without Japanese skills.
CEO / Native Japanese Expert
Updated on: September 25, 2026
※ The information in this article is accurate as of the time of writing. Laws and regulations may change, so please always check official sources for the latest information. We assume no liability for any damages resulting from the content of this article.
