Top Property Search Websites in Japan: Rent & Buy Apartments, Houses, and More

Finding the perfect apartment, house, or even parking space in Japan can be challenging, especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the market. Whether you’re looking to rent in Tokyo, buy a home in Osaka, or find a mansion in Kyoto, Japan offers a variety of real estate websites to help you in your search. This guide highlights the best property search websites in Japan, covering rentals, purchases, and specialized listings like mansions and parking spaces.

---

🏡 1. Suumo (スーモ) – Best Overall Property Search Website

Website: https://suumo.jp/

Suumo is one of Japan’s largest and most comprehensive real estate websites, covering everything from rentals and sales to new developments and renovations.

Why Choose Suumo?

✅ Covers all types of properties – Apartments, houses, mansions, and even land.
✅ User-friendly filters – Search by area, station proximity, budget, and amenities.
✅ Real Estate Agent Listings – Connects users directly with property managers.
✅ Foreign-Friendly? ❌ Mostly in Japanese, but Google Translate works well.

Best For: Those looking for a comprehensive platform to rent or buy property in Japan.

---

🏠 2. Homes.co.jp – Great for Detailed Property Listings

Website: https://www.homes.co.jp/

Homes.co.jp is another major real estate search site, offering both rental and purchase listings with detailed property descriptions.

Why Choose Homes.co.jp?

✅ Highly detailed listings – Includes floor plans, neighborhood details, and commute times.
✅ Comparison Feature – Compare multiple properties side by side.
✅ Covers Rentals, Sales & Investments – Ideal for investors too.
✅ Foreign-Friendly? ❌ Japanese only, but translation tools can help.

Best For: Those who need detailed information and comparisons before renting or buying.

---

🏢 3. At Home (アットホーム) – Best for Local Real Estate Agents

Website: https://www.athome.co.jp/

At Home is known for its strong network of local real estate agencies, making it easier to find exclusive listings not always available on bigger sites.

Why Choose At Home?

✅ Great for regional searches – Find homes in smaller towns and cities.
✅ Direct connections to realtors – Many properties are agency-listed only.
✅ Offers rental & purchase options – Great for both short-term and long-term needs.
✅ Foreign-Friendly? ❌ Limited English support, best used with an agent.

Best For: Those who want more local, exclusive listings and access to real estate agents.

---

🏗️ 4. Rakuten Lifull Home’s – Best for Investment & Commercial Properties

Website: https://www.homes.co.jp/

Rakuten Lifull Home’s is a powerful real estate platform with a large database of rental and purchase listings, including investment properties.

Why Choose Lifull Home’s?

✅ Covers commercial & residential – Good for business properties too.
✅ Detailed neighborhood insights – Crime rates, schools, and transport info.
✅ Strong focus on investment properties – Ideal for real estate investors.
✅ Foreign-Friendly? ❌ Mainly Japanese, but has property investment guides.

Best For: Those looking to buy property for investment purposes or commercial use.

---

🚪 5. GaijinPot Apartments – Best for Foreigners Renting in Japan

Website: https://apartments.gaijinpot.com/

GaijinPot Apartments is specifically designed for foreigners, making it the best rental site for expats in Japan.

Why Choose GaijinPot Apartments?

✅ English-friendly – Listings and inquiries are in English.
✅ No key money options – Many properties cater to expats who prefer to avoid extra fees.
✅ Short-term and long-term rentals – Ideal for students, workers, and tourists.
✅ Foreign-Friendly? ✅ Yes, fully in English.

Best For: Expats and foreigners looking for hassle-free rental options in Japan.

---

🚗 6. Parking Search Websites – Find Monthly Parking Spaces in Japan

Akippa (アキッパ) – Best for Parking Rentals

Website: https://www.akippa.com/

If you need a parking space in Tokyo or other cities, Akippa specializes in renting monthly or daily parking spots.

✅ Affordable options – Cheaper than traditional parking lots.
✅ Great for commuters – Reserve spots near train stations.
✅ Easy online booking – No need for a real estate agent.

Best For: Those looking for monthly parking rentals in Japan.

---

📝 Comparison Table: Best Property Search Websites in Japan

Website	Best For	Rental & Purchase	English Support
Suumo	Overall property search	✅ Yes	❌ No
Homes.co.jp	Detailed listings & comparisons	✅ Yes	❌ No
At Home	Local agency listings	✅ Yes	❌ No
Lifull Home’s	Investment & commercial	✅ Yes	❌ No
GaijinPot Apartments	Foreigner-friendly rentals	✅ Yes (Rentals Only)	✅ Yes
Akippa	Parking rental spaces	❌ No (Rental Only)	❌ No

---

🚆 How to Search for a Property in Japan

Step 1: Choose a Property Type

Decide whether you need:

• Rental Apartment (賃貸マンション) – Short-term or long-term stay.
• House (一戸建て) – Buying or renting a standalone home.
• Mansion (マンション) – High-rise residential complexes.
• Parking (駐車場) – Monthly parking space.

Step 2: Use the Right Website

• For renting, start with Suumo or GaijinPot.
• For buying, check Homes.co.jp or Lifull Home’s.
• For parking, use Akippa.

Step 3: Contact an Agent (If Necessary)

Some websites require a real estate agent to complete the transaction.

---