Hosting in Tokyo

Business travelers, first-time visitors to Japan, families, and long-haul tourists using Tokyo as a base for day trips.

• Compact city apartments
• Aparthotels
• Whole-home machiya (rare)

Peak: Cherry blossom (late March–April) and autumn foliage (November); Golden Week (early May).

Low: Mid-January to February and the hot, humid rainy season (June).

Languages: Japanese, English (limited outside tourist areas)

Self check-in with a smart lock or keybox is common, but many buildings have specific rules. Clear, photo-led directions matter — addresses and building entrances can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Trains and metro are the default; guests often ask about IC cards (Suica/PASMO), the nearest station, and airport transfers (Narita/Haneda). Luggage forwarding (takkyubin) is popular.

Trash separation is strict and schedule-based, and rules differ by ward. Provide a clear, translated guide for burnable/non-burnable/recyclables and collection days — neighbors notice mistakes.

Tokyo is earthquake-prone; provide earthquake guidance and the nearest evacuation area. Typhoon season (roughly August–October) can disrupt travel — see the JMA for warnings.

• Navigating minpaku registration and the 180-night cap
• Strict building/neighbor rules on noise and trash
• Language barriers for guests outside central areas
• Confusing last-mile directions to building entrances

• Recommend a nearby konbini (convenience store) — guests rely on them for everything.
• Explain the IC card and the closest station clearly.
• Note quiet hours explicitly; apartment walls are thin and neighbors are sensitive to noise.