Moving to Tokyo with Pets — Complete Guide

Chapter 1: The Reality of Living in Tokyo with Pets

Moving to Tokyo with a pet is absolutely possible — but it requires planning, patience, and realistic expectations.

Tokyo is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Apartments are smaller than in many Western countries, buildings are closely packed together, and noise travels easily. Because of this, pet ownership is regulated more strictly than in places like the United States, Canada, or parts of Europe.

How Common Are Pet-Friendly Apartments?

In central Tokyo wards (Minato, Shibuya, Chiyoda, Shinjuku), only about 10–20% of rental listings clearly allow pets. The number increases slightly in suburban areas like Nerima, Edogawa, or parts of Setagaya.

There are generally three categories:

1. No Pets Allowed (ペット不可)
2. Pets Negotiable (ペット相談可)
3. Pets Allowed (ペット可)

“Pets negotiable” usually means small dogs or cats under specific weight limits — often under 10kg.

Why Small Pets Are More Common

Tokyo apartments are compact. A typical 1LDK apartment may be 30–40 square meters. Large dogs are rare in the city center because:

• Limited indoor space
• Limited yard access
• Elevator restrictions in some buildings
• Noise concerns

Cats and small dogs dominate the urban pet population.

Extra Difficulty for Foreigners

If you are a foreigner renting in Tokyo, you already face additional screening:

• Visa status check
• Income verification
• Guarantor company requirement

Adding a pet increases landlord hesitation.

That said, thousands of expats successfully live in Tokyo with pets every year. Preparation makes the difference.

Chapter 2: Importing Dogs and Cats to Japan

Japan has one of the strictest animal import systems in the world because it is rabies-free.

The rules are managed by the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS).

Step 1: Microchip

Your pet must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.

Without a valid microchip, all subsequent vaccines are invalid.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations

Your pet must receive:

• At least two rabies vaccinations
• After microchip implantation
• Within valid time periods

Step 3: Rabies Antibody Test

A blood test must be conducted at an approved laboratory. The antibody level must meet Japan’s required standard (0.5 IU/ml or higher).

Step 4: 180-Day Waiting Period

After the blood sample date, you must wait 180 days before entering Japan.

If you skip this step, your pet may be quarantined for up to 180 days upon arrival — at your expense.

Step 5: Advance Notification

You must notify Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days before arrival.

Required Documents

• Microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificates
• Rabies antibody test result
• Advance notification approval
• Health certificate issued before departure

Missing paperwork can cause serious delays.

Chapter 3: Arrival in Japan

Tokyo has two main international airports:

• Narita International Airport
• Haneda Airport

Both have Animal Quarantine Service offices.

What Happens at the Airport?

1. Present documents
2. Microchip scan
3. Document verification
4. Possible visual inspection

If everything is correct, clearance can take a few hours.

If paperwork is incomplete, quarantine may apply.

Getting Home from the Airport

Regular trains and buses generally do not allow large pet carriers.

Options include:

• Pet taxi services
• Rental car
• Private car pickup

Pet taxis cost more but reduce stress.

Chapter 4: Finding Pet-Friendly Housing in Tokyo

This is often the hardest part.

Understanding “Pet-Friendly”

Even in pet-allowed buildings, restrictions may include:

• One pet only
• Small dogs under 10kg
• No large breeds
• Additional security deposit

Always confirm:

• Breed restrictions
• Size limits
• Number of pets allowed

Additional Deposit

Landlords typically require:

• +1 month rent deposit (sometimes +2 months)

This deposit covers potential damage or odor treatment.

Why Landlords Hesitate

Common concerns:

• Scratched flooring
• Odor
• Noise complaints
• Future resale value

Providing pet references or vaccination records can help build trust.

Best Areas for Pet Owners

Suburban wards often offer:

• Larger apartments
• Parks nearby
• More relaxed landlords

Areas like Setagaya, Nerima, and Edogawa tend to be more pet-friendly than ultra-central business districts.

Chapter 5: Costs of Living with Pets in Tokyo

Living with a pet in Tokyo involves both initial and ongoing expenses.

Initial Costs

• Extra deposit: 1–2 months rent
• Pet registration (dogs required)
• Initial vet check
• Microchip registration

Monthly Costs

• Food
• Grooming (¥5,000–¥15,000 depending on breed)
• Pet insurance (¥2,000–¥6,000/month)
• Routine vet visits

Emergency Vet Costs

Japan does not have universal pet healthcare.

Emergency surgery can cost:

• ¥100,000–¥400,000+

Pet insurance is strongly recommended

Chapter 6: Daily Life Rules and Pet Etiquette in Tokyo

Living with a pet in Tokyo requires adapting to unspoken social rules. Japan places strong emphasis on harmony, cleanliness, and respect for shared spaces. As a pet owner, you are expected to follow these standards carefully.

Noise Sensitivity

Tokyo apartments have thin walls compared to many Western countries. Even normal barking can quickly become a neighbor issue.

Common complaints include:

• Dogs barking when left alone
• Excited barking in hallways
• Scratching doors

Many lease contracts include clauses stating that repeated complaints may lead to warnings or even contract termination.

Training is essential. Separation anxiety training is especially important if you work long hours.

Elevator and Common Area Etiquette

In many buildings:

• Pets must be carried in elevators
• Pets cannot walk freely in hallways
• Certain elevators are designated for pets

Some luxury buildings even provide pet-specific cleaning stations.

Waste Disposal Rules

Dog waste must be picked up immediately. This is strictly enforced socially (even if not always legally).

For urine:

• Owners often carry water bottles to rinse the area.
• This is considered good manners.

Failure to follow etiquette can damage relationships with neighbors quickly.

Registration Requirements for Dogs

In Japan:

• Dogs must be registered at your local ward office.
• Annual rabies vaccinations are mandatory.
• You will receive a tag that must be attached to the collar.

Cats do not require registration but vaccinations are strongly recommended.

Chapter 7: Veterinary Care in Tokyo

Japan has high-quality veterinary services, but costs are not subsidized.

English-Speaking Clinics

In central Tokyo (Minato, Shibuya, Setagaya), several clinics offer English support. However, outside major expat areas, English may be limited.

It is wise to:

• Locate the nearest 24-hour emergency hospital
• Keep emergency contact numbers saved

Typical Costs

General consultation:
¥5,000–¥10,000

Vaccinations:
¥5,000–¥8,000

Spay/neuter surgery:
¥30,000–¥60,000

Emergency surgery:
¥100,000–¥400,000+

Pet Insurance in Japan

Many Japanese owners purchase pet insurance.

Coverage usually:

• Reimburses 50–70%
• Has annual caps
• Does not cover pre-existing conditions

Insurance can significantly reduce financial stress in emergencies.

Chapter 8: Pet Services and Lifestyle in Tokyo

Despite space limitations, Tokyo is surprisingly pet-friendly in lifestyle options.

Grooming and Pet Salons

Professional grooming is extremely common. Small dog breeds especially require regular care.

Monthly grooming is typical for:

• Poodles
• Maltese
• Shih Tzus

Pet Hotels

If you travel, pet hotels are widely available.

Costs:
¥3,000–¥8,000 per night (depending on size and service level)

Some luxury facilities offer:

• Private rooms
• Web cameras
• Play sessions

Dog Cafés and Pet-Friendly Spots

Tokyo has:

• Dog-friendly cafés
• Pet-friendly parks
• Some pet-allowed shopping malls

However, pets are rarely allowed inside standard restaurants unless specifically stated.

Dog Parks

Many wards operate fenced dog runs. Registration may be required.

Setagaya and Nerima have particularly active dog communities.

Chapter 9: Long-Term Planning and Leaving Japan

Many expats underestimate the complexity of relocating again with pets.

Exporting from Japan

To leave Japan with your pet, you must:

• Check destination country requirements
• Obtain export health certificates
• Possibly conduct additional blood tests

Each country has different regulations.

Airline Policies

Airlines vary significantly:

• In-cabin transport (small pets only)
• Cargo hold transport
• Seasonal heat restrictions

Always confirm airline rules months in advance.

Planning Ahead

If you expect a future relocation:

• Keep all vaccination records organized
• Maintain regular rabies boosters
• Avoid lapses in documentation

This prevents restarting long waiting periods.

Chapter 10: Creating a Happy Life for Your Pet in Tokyo

Despite challenges, many pets thrive in Tokyo.

The key is adaptation.

Indoor Enrichment

Because apartments are small:

• Provide vertical space for cats
• Use puzzle feeders
• Schedule regular outdoor exercise

Routine Stability

Tokyo life can be busy and work hours long. Pets benefit from:

• Consistent feeding times
• Daily walks
• Predictable routines

Building Community

Pet ownership can help build social connections:

• Local dog park friendships
• Neighborhood pet owner groups
• Online community forums

For expats especially, pets can ease loneliness and help integrate into the community.

Mental Adjustment for Owners

Expect:

• Smaller space
• Higher costs
• More rules

But also expect:

• Clean public spaces
• Safe streets
• High-quality veterinary care
• A surprisingly strong pet culture

Final Thoughts

Moving to Tokyo with a pet is not the easiest choice — but it is absolutely manageable with proper planning.

The biggest mistakes people make:

• Underestimating import rules
• Not budgeting for extra housing costs
• Ignoring building regulations
• Skipping pet insurance

If you prepare carefully, Tokyo can become a safe, clean, and enriching home for both you and your animal companion.