How to Read Japanese Apartment Layouts(1R, 1K, 1LDK Explained)
- 成美 太田
- 13 分前
- 読了時間: 3分
If you’re apartment hunting in Japan, you’ll quickly come across listings labeled 1R, 1K, 1LDK, etc…
In this article, I’ll clearly explain how Japanese apartment layouts work, what each type means, and how to choose the right one for your lifestyle in Japan.
How Japanese Apartment Layouts Work
Japanese apartments are described using numbers and letters.
The Number
The number shows how many separate rooms there are (not including the kitchen or living space).
The Letters
The letters describe the type of shared area:
R = Room
K = Kitchen
D = Dining
L = Living
Once you understand this system, apartment listings become much easier to read.
Common Apartment Types in Japan
〜1R (One Room)〜
A 1R apartment is one room in an open space.Your bed, desk, and kitchen are all in the same room.
Usually the cheapest option
Very common for students and short-term stays
Best for: solo residents or small budgets
〜1K (One Room + Kitchen)〜
A 1K apartment has one bedroom plus a separate kitchen area.
Cooking smells stay out of your bedroom
Slightly more expensive than 1R
Best for: solo workers who cook at home
〜1DK (One Room + Dining Kitchen)〜
A 1DK includes a kitchen large enough for a dining area.
More space than 1K
Good balance between size and price
Best for: people who want a little extra space without a high rent
〜1LDK (One Room + Living / Dining / Kitchen)〜
A 1LDK has a separate bedroom plus a combined living, dining, and kitchen area.
Much more comfortable
Higher rent, but better long-term living
Best for: couples, remote workers, long-term residents
What Does「帖-Jō」(Tatami Size) Mean?
In Japan, room sizes are often measured in tatami mats which are 「帖-Jō」, for example:
6帖 (roku-jō) = 6 tatami mat sized area
Even if the room has wooden flooring, tatami mats are still used as the standard measurement.
Challenges Foreigners Face When Renting in Japan
Understanding layouts is only one part of renting in Japan. Many foreigners also struggle with:
Language barriers
Japanese guarantor requirements
Complicated contracts
Limited listings available to non-Japanese residents
This is why choosing a foreigner-friendly housing service makes a big difference.
How to Find An Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner
If you’re new to Japan or don’t speak Japanese confidently, I recommend using GTN.
They provide:
Apartment support specifically for foreign residents
No Japanese guarantor required
Multilingual assistance
Services available nationwide
For assistance, use the link below:🔗
Final Thoughts
Japanese apartment listings follow a clear system once you know how to read them.By understanding layouts such as 1R, 1K, and 1LDK, you can quickly narrow down options that match your needs and avoid wasting time on unsuitable properties.
Think carefully about your budget, length of stay, and living situation before choosing a layout.Making the right decision at this stage will save you time, money, and frustration later.
If this article was useful, feel free to share it with others planning to live in Japan.
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■ About the Author
Andrew Smith
Originally from Louisiana, USA, Smith is an English educator and content creator based in Ehime, Japan. With a background in media production and experience as an NBA digital reporter, he moved to Japan in 2020 driven by his passion for Japanese culture. After four years teaching English across all age groups, he joined Globarx in 2025, where he now leads business English initiatives（Globarx English） and social media outreach for North America.
