[gfell]

I would only find an apartment after you find a job. Unless you plan to stay in Japan long term, then it's best to find a spare room in an existing apartment rather than renting your very own apartment. If you rent your own apartment, then you would need to pay a few months bond, deposit and buy all your furniture include gas stove top.

Gaijin houses are your best bet initially until you get your feel for things. You can expect to pay around 50,000~60,000 yen for your room with futon and common facilities which you share such as net access, kitchen and so on. Usually gaijing houses offer a 1 month refundable deposit too.

If you hold a bachelor's degree, then you should be fine with getting a job. Many schools will sponsor you for a work visa even though you may be on a tourist visa.

Good luck with things!