What is the appeal of the Namba/Shinsaibashi area?

Namba and Shinsaibashi, the heart of Osaka’s Minami area, is a very attractive place to live.
- Excellent access to transportation : Subway, JR, and private railways are all concentrated here, making it easy to travel within and outside of Osaka city. Namba Station and Shinsaibashi Station in particular are major terminal stations, making it easy to access the entire Kansai region.
- Ample commercial facilities : There are many department stores and shopping malls, making it convenient to buy daily necessities. Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street and Namba CITY are especially perfect for shopping lovers.
- Abundant dining and entertainment options : There are many gourmet and night spots, so you can have fun after work. There are also plenty of stylish cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Diverse living environment : A wide range of options are available, from studio apartments for single people to apartments for families. Close to the business district and a lively rental market.
Tips for finding a room

When searching for a property in the Namba/Shinsaibashi area, be sure to check the following points.
- Understand the rental market
- Namba area: Studio: 60,000-80,000 yen, 1LDK: 90,000-120,000 yen
- Shinsaibashi area: Studio 70,000-100,000 yen, 1LDK 100,000-150,000 yen
- Learn about the area’s features
- Namba is a lively area with a bustling atmosphere that is characteristic of Osaka.
- Shinsaibashi has many fashionable cafes and boutiques, and has a relaxed atmosphere.
- Decide on the property conditions
- Check the age of the building, facilities, distance to the station, crime prevention measures, etc. in advance
- Check out options such as free internet and furnished properties
Guide to Renting Housing for Foreigners
When renting a property in Japan, foreigners must go through special procedures.
① Prepare the necessary documents
- passport
- Residence Card
- Employment certificate or student ID
- Bank account in Japan
② Use a guarantor or a guarantee company
In Japan, many properties require a guarantor. If you do not have a guarantor, you can use a guarantee company affiliated with the real estate company.
③ Understanding deposits and key money
- Deposit : A deposit to cover repair costs when you move out (usually 1-2 months’ rent)
- Key money : A fee paid to the landlord (recently, there are an increasing number of properties with no key money)
④ Use a real estate agent
By choosing a real estate agency that can speak a foreign language, you can reduce anxiety when signing a contract.
⑤ Options for properties with furniture and appliances
If you are not planning on staying long term, choosing a rental property that comes with furniture and appliances can reduce the burden of moving.
How to find the right real estate agency in Namba/Shinsaibashi

Each real estate agent has their own specialty. By choosing a real estate agent that meets your needs, you can smoothly find your ideal property.
Locally based real estate agency
They have strong connections with local owners and can often introduce you to unlisted properties that are not listed online. Many of their staff are particularly familiar with properties in Namba and Shinsaibashi, and can provide you with detailed information about the properties and the area’s security situation.
Recommended for:
- Those who value negotiation
- Those who are looking for a sense of security while living alone for the first time
A real estate agency that caters to foreigners
If you go to a real estate agency that has staff who can speak English or Chinese, foreigners can search for properties with peace of mind. Some agencies also have special plans for foreigners, such as properties that can be contracted without a guarantor or short-term rental properties.
Recommended for:
- International students and people transferring overseas
- Those considering a short stay
A real estate agency specializing in designer and renovated properties
There are also real estate agencies that handle stylishly designed rooms and renovated properties. In particular, there are many real estate agencies in the Shinsaibashi area that specialize in stylishly designed properties, and they are recommended for those who are particular about the interior.
Recommended for:
- Those who want to live in a stylish room
- Those looking for a unique space that is different from others
Real estate agency that can reduce initial costs
There are also real estate agencies that handle many properties with no deposit or key money, or properties with free rent (free rent for a certain period after signing a contract). For those who want to keep initial costs as low as possible, these real estate agencies are a great ally.
Recommended for:
- Those who want to keep costs as low as possible
- Those who want to prioritize living expenses after moving
Real estate agency with expertise in corporate contracts
There are also real estate agencies that handle contracts under company or corporate names. They are characterized by having many furnished rental properties for people who are transferred, and they can smoothly process the procedures for corporate contracts.
Recommended for:
- Those who wish to enter into a contract under a company name
- Business representatives looking for company housing
summary
When looking for a room in Namba or Shinsaibashi, choosing the right real estate agency is key!
- Choose a real estate agency that suits your needs
- Understand the average rent and area characteristics to find your ideal home
- Foreigners should understand the unique contract procedures in Japan and take steps to ensure smooth procedures.