Why it can be difficult for foreigners to rent an apartment in Japan

This week Simon and Martina talk about why it can be hard for foreigners to rent apartments in Japan. Their discussion is based off an article that talks about one girl's experience trying to rent an apartment and getting turned down for being a foreigner. EYK think the article's most interesting point (that doesn't go into enough depth) is that Japanese culture puts great value on social harmony. Anyone who doesn't follow the rules, like separating rubbish, and keeping noise to a minimum, is seen as disrupting the community. The duo discuss why that is the crux of it; if you play an instrument, or have a pet, or have kids then your rent selection is more limited. They don't think it has anything to do with race discrimination, it's about wanting people who are going to integrate into the community. What are your thoughts?