What regulations should I be aware of when staying at an Airbnb in Tokyo?

Hey! So you're planning a trip to Tokyo and checking out Airbnb, right? Solid choice—great way to experience local life. Thing is, Japan has super strict rules about this, especially in Tokyo. They call it "Minpaku". To make sure your trip goes smoothly, I’ll break down the key things you need to know. These are all based on practical experience.

Think of it like navigating a few levels. Get these right, and you’ll have a fantastic time.

Level 1: The "Eagle Eye" Pre-Booking Check

This is the most crucial step. Pick the right place upfront, and everything else becomes much easier.

Look for the "ID Number" Japan introduced a law called the Residential Accommodation Business Act in 2018. Simply put: all legal short-term rentals must be registered with the government and receive a license number.

This number usually looks like this: Starts with M, followed by digits, e.g., M130000001.

You ABSOLUTELY MUST find this number on the listing page! Responsible hosts will clearly display it in the "License/Permit Number" section or the property description. If you can't find it anywhere after scouring the page, be very cautious. This is likely an illegal listing. The biggest risk? It could be reported by neighbors or shut down by authorities any time, meaning your booking might get canceled before you even leave, or even on the day you arrive. Disaster!
Avoid Suspicious "Code Words" If the host says strange things in the description or messages, like:
- "Absolutely DO NOT talk to the neighbors"
- "If anyone asks, say you're my friend"
- "Don't linger near the building entrance"
This basically screams: "My place isn't legal, let's keep this on the down-low." Move on immediately. This kind of nervous, secretive experience just isn't worth it.

Level 2: The "Standard Procedure" at Check-In

You've booked a legal place? Great! At check-in, there are still some standard rules.

Providing Passport Info is REQUIRED! Under Japanese law, hosts MUST collect identity information from all foreign guests. This includes your name, nationality, and passport number, and they must photocopy or photograph your passport.

So, if a host asks you to upload a passport photo online beforehand, or to scan your passport yourself using a tablet at check-in, this is completely normal and legal. Don't feel like it's an invasion of privacy; it's mandatory. Hosts who don't ask for this info are actually the suspicious ones.
Filling Out a Registration Form Besides your passport, they might also give you a simple form to fill out with your name, address, occupation, etc. This is also standard practice in the lodging industry. Just cooperate.

Level 3: Post-Check-in "House Rules"

Congratulations, you're in! Now, to be a welcomed "great neighbor" and not cause trouble for your host or others.

Noise! Noise! Noise! Said three times because it's essential. Japanese apartments, especially, have MUCH thinner walls than you'd expect. Voices at night, footsteps, the sound of suitcases dragging? Your neighbors can probably hear it all clearly.
- After 10 PM, keep the volume down – treat it like a library.
- Open and close doors quietly – no SLAMMING.
- Having friends visit is fine, but NO parties!
Garbage Sorting is NO Joke Japan's garbage separation is seriously complex. But don't worry, usually your host will provide very detailed instructions (with pictures!) explaining how to sort burnable, non-burnable, glass bottles, cans, PET bottles, etc., and which days each type can be thrown out.

You MUST, MUST follow this strictly! Don't just shove everything together and dump it in the building's trash area. It's not just about politeness; improper disposal causes massive headaches for the host and can even lead to fines.
Don't "Hog" Shared Spaces Hallways and common areas in apartment buildings are shared space. Don't leave your suitcases, umbrellas, or shoes outside your door – it creates obstacles for others.

To summarize, here's a Checklist for you:

☐ Before Booking: Find the license number starting with M on the listing. ☐ Before Booking: The host's instructions sound professional and above board; no suspiciously covert requests. ☐ At Check-In: Cooperate fully when the host asks to register your passport information. ☐ After Check-In: Keep noise levels down, especially after 10 PM. No loud talking or noise. ☐ After Check-In: Sort garbage strictly according to the host's detailed instructions.

Don't let these rules scare you! Honestly, most are just basic courtesy expected of any considerate guest. As long as you do your homework upfront to pick a reliable, legal place, and pay a little attention to your behavior, your Tokyo Airbnb experience will be absolutely amazing!

Have an amazing time in Tokyo!