'No way I can pay that': Property resales drive steep rent hikes for tenants across Japan

Japanese cities, particularly Tokyo, are experiencing a surge in rents, primarily due to increasing land prices, material costs, and labor expenses. In some instances, properties are being resold repeatedly over short periods, leading to tenants receiving steep rent hikes each time the owner changes.

This issue was highlighted by a Tokyo resident who received a notice of a rent increase from 83,500 yen (approximately $530) to 120,000 yen (about $760) in August. The woman, who has lived in the 5-year-old building since March 2022, expressed her disbelief and frustration, stating that the hike exceeds 30% of her monthly income, which is considered a guideline for housing costs that can be paid without undue strain.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has received a significant number of consultations about rent increases in recent years, doubling from 700 in fiscal 2023 to 1,400 in fiscal 2024. In response, a special consultation desk was established in October 2025. Lawyers familiar with real estate-related laws and regulations suggest that landlords or tenants can request rent adjustments when the cost becomes unreasonable due to changes in economic conditions, such as land prices, or in comparison with neighborhood rents.

However, a lawyer and expert in real estate matters advises that tenants should consult an expert immediately when faced with a rent increase request. He notes that courts often consider the most recent agreement between the landlord and tenant when determining rent increases. The recent case mentioned involved a renewal of the tenant's contract in March 2026, but the lawyer believes that a large increase over such a short period is unlikely to be approved.