Compact and Affordable Apartment in Tobetsu, Hokkaido
This rental apartment, located in the quiet residential area of Midoricho, Tobetsu-cho, Hokkaido, offers a practical and cost-effective living solution. The property is a 1DK layout with a total private area of 26.8 sqm (approximately 8.1 tsubo), comprising an 8-tatami mat Western-style room and a 6-tatami mat dining-kitchen area. It is situated on the first floor of a two-story wooden apartment building constructed in November 1989.
Key financial terms are notably tenant-friendly. The monthly rent is 30,000 yen with no additional management or common area fees. There is no security deposit (敷金) and no key money (礼金). A one-month free rent period is available. Other move-in costs include a one-time indoor cleaning fee of 30,800 yen and an air conditioner cleaning fee of 16,500 yen. Running costs include an annual road heating fee of 16,500 yen and a monthly repair service fee of 1,320 yen. Parking is available for 4,400 yen per month, with space for two cars. The standard lease term is two years, with a renewal fee equivalent to 1.1 months of the old rent. Tenant insurance is required (approximately 18,000 yen for two years), and a rental guarantee company membership is mandatory, with the owner covering the initial fee; subsequent monthly premiums are 1.5% of the rent (minimum 400 yen).
The apartment is well-equipped for comfortable living. Features include a separate bath and toilet, a toilet with a warm-water bidet seat, shower, air conditioning for cooling, and kerosene fan heaters and stoves for heating. The unit comes with flooring, lighting fixtures, some appliances, and furniture. It has a gas stove (propane), propane gas water heating, a washing machine space, storage space, a closet, and free internet usage. The property is also noted as suitable for seniors, allows IT-based important explanations, and is pet-friendly (consultation required for small dogs and cats). Other permissible uses include two-person occupancy, room sharing, and use as an office or SOHO space.
The area of Tobetsu is part of the greater Ishikari region of Hokkaido, known for its natural scenery and quieter pace of life compared to central Sapporo. An interesting local fact is that the town's name, "Tobetsu," is derived from the Ainu word "to-pet," meaning "lake river," reflecting the area's indigenous heritage and connection to its waterways. The closest major tourist attraction is the vibrant and historic city of Sapporo, approximately a 40-minute drive or train ride away, famous for the Sapporo Snow Festival, Sapporo Beer Museum, and Odori Park.
