Japan is currently experiencing a significant upward trend in rental costs, with landlords across the nation increasing rents. The cause of this trend and its timing are currently under investigation, with some speculating that a decrease in supply following pandemic-controlled new construction could be a significant factor. This trend is causing displeasure among renters, and may affect Japan's economic stability if left unaddressed.

Renting is long-term in Japan, making the landlord-tenant relationship vital. Rental increases are generally rare but rising trends are causing tension. Issues related to housing are major public concern in Japan due to high population density, especially in large cities. Legal values involved include rental agreement laws which generally favor tenants, who are now faced with unforeseen challenges due to this trend of increasing rents.

In the US or EU, rental increases are more common due to the short-term nature of most rental agreements. However, similar to Japan, disproportionate increases or increases affecting a large sector of the population can lead to public dissatisfaction, increase in housing-related costs, and possible regulatory intervention.