Housing & Daily Life
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Last updated: June 11, 2026
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Starting a new life in Japan comes with a major hurdle, especially if you are staying for only 1 to 2 years: getting furniture and appliances.
"Buying is expensive, and getting rid of it costs money," "I can't pay in installments because I don't have a Japanese credit card" — these are common headaches. The solution? Furniture and appliance rental (subscription) services.
In this article, we thoroughly compare 5 major services that are easy for foreign residents and short-term visitors to use. We focus specifically on "ease of screening," "payment methods," and "cost performance" to help you find the best fit.
To put it simply: if you need to stock up on daily essentials, 'Kasite! Dotcom' is the strongest choice. No credit card required, almost no screening, and you can rent immediately after entering the country.
If you try to buy a "New Life Set" at a Japanese electronics store, the initial cost alone will be around ¥70,000 to ¥80,000. Even more troublesome is the "Sodai Gomi" (Oversized Garbage) problem when you leave.
The break-even point is "2 years". If your stay is within 2 years, renting is overwhelmingly better in terms of both money and time.
【Overall Rating: ★★★★★】 The definitive choice for life infrastructure. When in doubt, pick this.
Operated by Sunclan Co., Ltd., this is the industry's largest and most established service. If you prioritize "practicality" and "low price" over style, this is your best bet.
I was in trouble because I couldn't get a credit card right after coming to Japan, but cash payment was okay here. The delivery staff did everything from installation to taking away the trash, so I could start my life immediately.
If you want to get furniture and appliances at the industry's lowest price, look here. Start your new life from ¥158/day.
【Overall Rating: ★★★★☆】 Perfect for latest gadgets and 'Trial' use
If you want to rent a "Roomba," the latest hair dryer, or a high-end camera, Rentio is the place. Rather than basic life infrastructure, it's great for items that raise your QOL (Quality of Life).
Coverage for accidental damage capped at ¥2,000. Easy to use with Amazon Pay.
【Overall Rating: ★★★☆☆】 Interior design focused
Provided by Cosmo Life, famous for water dispensers. You can subscribe to stylish furniture similar to Nitori or IKEA designs.
Rent designer furniture with low initial costs. Feel free to redecorate anytime.
【Overall Rating: ★★☆☆☆】 Beware of stricter screening starting 2025
This used to be an easy-to-use service, but identity verification rules changed in December 2025.
For those who have a Residence Card. Good for renting smartphones and gadgets.
【Overall Rating: ★★☆☆☆】 If you insist on 'Brand New' items
The feature here is that all items delivered are "Brand New," but you must be careful with the contract type.
For those who dislike used items. Geared towards long-term use.
Finally, here is a summary of recommended services based on your situation.
"I want to get set up cheaply without hassle or screening." 👉 [Kasite! Dotcom] is the only choice. It is the only place that allows cash payment on delivery. The free consumables are also a nice hidden benefit.
"I want to try the latest cameras or beauty appliances." 👉 [Rentio] is recommended. The compensation system is solid, so you can use it with peace of mind.
"I want stylish furniture (and I have a phone number)." 👉 Consider [Cosmo SubscRental].
Let's use rental services wisely so you don't waste time and money setting up your life. In particular, "Kasite! Dotcom" completely eliminates the hassle of Oversized Garbage disposal (reservations, buying stickers, carrying out) when you move out, making your return home significantly less stressful.
No credit card needed, nationwide delivery, free consumables. Start your new life in Japan the fastest and cheapest way.
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A: Yes. Services like Subsclife, Rentio, and CLASs allow monthly furniture and appliance subscriptions. This is especially useful for foreigners on short-term visas or those who want to avoid the cost and hassle of buying and later disposing of items. Prices start around ¥2,000–5,000/month for basic appliance packages.
A: Cheapest options: (1) Sayonara sale Facebook groups where departing foreigners sell items cheap, (2) Hard-Off / Off House second-hand stores, (3) Mercari (Japanese secondhand app), (4) IKEA for budget new furniture, (5) Subscription services like Subsclife for appliances.
A: Large appliances (TV, refrigerator, washing machine) require a recycling fee under the Home Appliance Recycling Law. Bulky furniture requires scheduling a 粗大ごみ pickup with your local ward/city office, usually for ¥500–3,000 per item.
A: Short-term furnished apartments (マンスリーマンション) exist but are expensive — typically 2–3× the regular rental price. Share houses are furnished and popular with newly arrived foreigners as a lower-cost alternative.
A: Essential from day 1: refrigerator, washing machine, and bedding. Add within the first week: microwave, rice cooker (if you eat rice), and curtains. Air conditioner is typically installed already. Internet router rental is often included with your ISP contract.
CEO / Native Japanese Expert
Updated on: June 11, 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.
