Maximizing Your Space When Moving to Tokyo: Tips for Expats
1. Use Multi-Functional Furniture
When space is tight, every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose. Look for options that maximize utility while keeping your home stylish and organized:
⦁ Sofas with Storage: These are perfect for stashing away seasonal clothing, extra bedding, or even books. They keep your space tidy while serving as a comfortable seating option.
Sofa with storage Space , Tokyo Space saving tips.
⦁ Folding Tables and Chairs: These are ideal for hosting occasional guests without wasting space daily. Simply fold and store them when not in use.
Space Saving Furniture in Tokyo , Folding Desk
⦁ Murphy Beds: These wall-mounted beds fold up during the day, freeing up valuable floor space for work or play.
2. Vertical Storage Solutions
Tokyo apartments often feature high ceilings, so make the most of the vertical space to keep your floors clear:
⦁ Wall-Mounted Shelves: Use these to store books, plants, or décor, freeing up floor space while adding personality to your home.
Space saving tips for Tokyo Apartments
⦁ Over-Door Racks: These are a smart way to add storage in kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms without taking up extra room.
⦁ Stackable Storage Bins: Ideal for closets or tight corners, these help keep items organized and easily accessible.
⦁ Standing Shelf Unit : if you are against drilling a hole on your wall and easy to disassemble when moving out.
Tokyo Storage Tips , go higher on the wall.
3. Compact Appliances
Switching to smaller appliances can free up valuable space while maintaining functionality:
“Switching to compact appliances like washer-dryers or mini-fridges is essential for expats maximizing storage in Tokyo apartments.”
⦁ Two-in-One Washer-Dryers: These appliances save time and square footage, which is particularly useful in smaller Tokyo apartments.
2 in 1 washers.
Washer Dryer.
⦁ Mini Fridges and Microwaves: These compact options are perfect for single professionals or couples, taking up minimal kitchen space.
Perfect Size for a small apartment in Tokyo.
⦁ Slim Electric Heaters or Fans: Smaller appliances for temperature control are ideal for managing comfort without overcrowding.
4. Declutter Before the Move
At TokyoMove, we always advise clients to downsize before the big move to Tokyo. Smaller living spaces require you to be intentional about what you bring:
⦁ The One-Year Rule: Ask yourself, “Have I used this in the past year?” If not, it’s likely time to let it go.
Trust Us , it happens , when we moved our repeated customer once , they still had the unopened boxes from 2 yrs ago from the move we did.
⦁ Donate or Sell: Items you no longer need can find a new home through donation or online platforms like Mercari or Yahoo Auctions in Japan. Keep in Mind that thrift shops also accepts used clothing. You may even get a money for them.
Making Space for Tokyo’s small apartment.
Tip, did you know that you can take your gentle use clothes to the local thrift shops? They may purchase from you.
⦁ Hire Professional Help: If you’re overwhelmed by decluttering, consider TokyoMove’s decluttering services to streamline the process.
5. Customizing Storage for Tokyo’s Layouts
Every Tokyo apartment has its own quirks, from sliding doors to lofted spaces. Take advantage of these features with customized solutions:
⦁ Under-Stairs Storage: If your apartment has a loft, the space beneath the stairs can be used for drawers or shelving.
⦁ Sliding Door Closets: Use slim, stackable bins to maximize storage in these shallow spaces.
⦁ Loft Spaces: Often used for sleeping, these can also double as storage areas for off-season items like winter coats or holiday decorations.
6. Proper Disposal of Unwanted Items
Moving into a smaller space often means parting with items that no longer fit or serve a purpose. In Tokyo, waste disposal can be tricky due to strict regulations. Here’s how to handle it:
⦁ Sorting Waste: Tokyo requires waste to be separated into categories such as burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable. Check your ward's guidelines for specific rules.
How to dispose in Tokyo
⦁ Large Item Disposal (Sodai Gomi): For furniture or large electronics, you’ll need to arrange for a pickup with your local city office. This involves purchasing a disposal sticker (sodai gomi ticket) and scheduling a collection date. TokyoMove also provides disposal services in Tokyo.
Disposal Tickets sold by Convenience stores, post offices.
Disposal by the City’s code is the cheapest but it needs to be planned ahead of time and sometime not convenient if you are in a rush to leave the apartment , call us for a rush service.
⦁ Electronics Recycling: Japan’s Home Appliance Recycling Law requires certain items (like TVs, air conditioners, and refrigerators) to be recycled through certified programs. Retailers may offer pickup services when you buy a replacement.
⦁ Donation or Resale: Many items, including furniture and appliances, can be donated to second-hand stores or sold online. Platforms like Jimoty are great for connecting with locals in need of used items. Also Check out craigslist , gaijinpot, Facebook marketplace/
Moving into a smaller space often means parting with items that no longer fit or serve a purpose. In Tokyo, waste disposal can be tricky due to strict regulations. Here’s how to handle it:
7. Storage Options for Expats
Sometimes, downsizing isn’t enough. If you have belongings you can’t part with but don’t have room for in your apartment, storage solutions can help:
⦁ Monthly Rental Storage Units: Tokyo offers compact storage units in various sizes, perfect for seasonal items or sentimental belongings.
⦁ Shared Storage Services: Companies like Trunk provide shared storage spaces where you pay for the exact amount of storage you need.
⦁ TokyoMove’s Storage Solutions: We offer secure and affordable storage options for expats. Whether you need short-term storage during your move or a long-term solution, we’ve got you covered.
When you need Storage solution in Tokyo let us know.
8. Leverage TokyoMove’s Moving Services
Moving to a new country is overwhelming enough without the added stress of figuring out logistics that is why TokyoMove was established “Moving services for expats in Tokyo”.
Furniture Assembly: Struggling with instructions in Japanese? Let our team handle furniture assembly for you.
Assembling Furniture services in Tokyo.
Optimizing Space: Our experienced movers have worked in countless Tokyo apartments and can recommend the best ways to arrange your furniture for maximum functionality.
Eco-Friendly Disposal: Efficient waste disposal in Tokyo will be done with our expertise in this domain.We also assist with responsibly disposing of unwanted items, ensuring compliance with Tokyo’s regulations.
Disposal is a daunting task in Tokyo , We can help.
9. Maximizing Small Spaces with Design
Once you’ve moved in, it’s time to make your space feel like home:
⦁ Incorporate Japanese Design Elements: Use shoji screens or tatami mats to create a minimalist, calming atmosphere.
Shoji Screens for Creating Private section of the house.
⦁ Mirrors for Illusion: Placing mirrors strategically can make a room feel larger and brighter.
Mirrors will create sense of space for small Tokyo Apartments.
⦁ Greenery: Add small potted plants or vertical garden walls to bring life and freshness to your space without taking up too much room.
Plants for the house.
Conclusion: Turn Your Tokyo Apartment into a Functional Home
Living in Tokyo presents unique challenges, but with the right approach to maximize storage in Tokyo apartments, you can make the most of your space. By decluttering, leveraging multi-functional furniture, and using vertical storage, you’ll find that even the smallest apartment can feel like home.
Ready to move? At TokyoMove, we’re more than just a moving company. From packing and transporting to disposal and storage, we’re here to make your move seamless. Contact us today and start your Tokyo journey with ease! Let our experts simplify your move. Learn more about TokyoMove’s relocation services.
"Looking for professional moving services tailored to expats? Get in touch with TokyoMove today and start your Tokyo journey hassle-free
Check Our Other Blog posts for helpful tips.
Learn more about Decluttering Guide: https://tokyomove.com/decluttering-guide
Learn more about Storage Solutions for Expats: https://tokyomove.com/storage-solutions
Learn more about Moving Services: https://tokyomove.com/moving-services
Check out Tokyo Ward Waste Guidelines: https://www.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/
Check out IKEA Japan: https://www.ikea.com/jp/en/
Check out Jimoty for Donations: https://jmty.jp/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What items should I declutter before moving to Tokyo?
Focus on minimizing large, bulky furniture. Consider donating items you haven’t used in over a year.
How do I dispose of large furniture in Tokyo?
You’ll need to arrange a sodai gomi pickup through your local ward office and purchase a disposal sticker.
What’s the best way to organize a small Tokyo apartment?
Use vertical storage, multi-functional furniture, and compact appliances.
Does TokyoMove offer storage options?
Yes! We provide secure, flexible storage solutions for short- and long-term needs.
