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List of websites where you can find a shared house in Japan - How to find a property that welcomes foreigners

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Foreigners and Japanese relaxing in a Japanese share house

Finding a place to live is a very important step when starting a new life in Japan. One option that is gaining attention is the share house. By sharing common space with other tenants outside of your own room, you can interact with a diverse group of people while keeping rent costs low.

For non-Japanese residents in particular, share houses offer an excellent opportunity to overcome the language barrier and experience Japanese culture. In recent years, more and more share houses are welcoming foreign residents, and there are many foreigner-friendly properties that offer language support and exchange events.

However, there are many factors to consider when choosing a share house, and many people are confused by the unfamiliar Japanese housing situation. In this article, we will explain in detail from a foreigner's perspective the basics of looking for a share house in Japan, as well as recommended properties in major cities and tips on how to choose one.

Please take a look at them as a reference for your new life in Japan. We are sure you will find the perfect share house for you.

▼Goandup Picks Click here for recommended articles!

What is a "share house"?

A share house is a residence where several people can live together in a shared space other than their own rooms. In Japan, the number of such houses has been increasing in recent years. Shared spaces and facilities include kitchens, baths (bath/shower) and toilets, living/dining rooms, and lounges. In addition, some share houses have "gardens" that take advantage of the size of the house, "theater rooms," and playrooms equipped with ping-pong tables, game consoles, etc. as shared spaces.

Shared housing has a different appeal from living alone. In addition to the possibility of reducing living costs such as rent and utilities, you will be able to lead a fulfilling life through meeting and interacting with a variety of people. On the other hand, since you will need to communicate with other residents, there is a possibility of trouble arising from differences in language and culture. Before living in a share house, it is important to fully understand its advantages and disadvantages.

Are there any share houses in Japan where foreigners can live?

In recent years, the number of share houses in Japan has been increasing. Among them, there seems to be an increasing number of "foreigner-allowed" share houses that welcome foreigners to move in. By making the share house "open to foreigners," many Japanese who wish to "enjoy international exchange" and "have relationships with foreigners" will move in.

By moving into a "foreigner-allowed" share house in Japan, you will increase your chances of living together with Japanese people who are friendly toward foreigners. If you can overcome language and cultural differences and build a relationship of mutual understanding, your life in a share house will be much more fulfilling.

A service to find a shared house for foreigners in Japan.

Here are some useful websites to help you find a share house that actually allows foreigners to move in. By utilizing these websites, you will be able to find a share house that suits your needs.

OAK HOUSE

Oak House operates share houses for foreigners in major cities throughout Japan, including Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Aichi, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, and Fukuoka. Featuring designs that emphasize a comfortable living environment and community building, Oak House accommodates a variety of needs, including rooms with furniture and appliances and Social Residence®.

We also offer a full range of functions that allow you to search for properties that match your preferences based on commuting time and property features. We also value international exchange and promote interaction among residents through events.

Special offers such as student discount, transfer discount, and plans for short-term stays are also available for first-timers. Be sure to check out the official website, which is full of useful information such as property information and tenant interviews (the #1 website we recommend!). .

Website: ▶︎ 【 Oak House 】

2. share clip

Share Clip is a share house search site. You can search for share houses using a variety of criteria, and by selecting the "foreigners OK" search criteria, you can narrow your search to share houses that welcome foreign residents. The site has many convenient features such as a "clip" function that allows you to save share houses you find that interest you, and a "collective inquiry" function that allows you to inquire about multiple properties at once.

Although the website is not available in multiple languages, the photos, floor plans, and access information of the properties are detailed, making it easy to search for a share house with a concrete image in mind.

Website: ▶︎ Share Clip

BORDERLESS HOUSE

BORDERLESS HOUSE manages and introduces many share houses. Since we started our service as an international exchange share house, you can find many share houses where people of various nationalities and diverse backgrounds gather.

The website is available in English, Korean, and Chinese, making it easy to use even for those who are not comfortable with Japanese. The property pages also include information such as the nationality ratio of tenants, making it easy to get an idea of what kind of environment you will be living in. You can also get a feel for the atmosphere before moving in by participating in the tours and social events that are held from time to time.

Website: ▶︎ International House Share House with Foreign Residents

4. SHARE PARK

Share Park is a website where you can search for information on share houses in Tokyo and the surrounding areas. For those looking for a share house, you can search for share houses by "special conditions," and one of these conditions is "interaction with foreigners. By selecting this condition, you can narrow your search to information on share houses where you can expect to interact with foreigners, such as those where foreigners live.

By living with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, you will also be able to learn communication skills that transcend language barriers. There are also a variety of other special requirements such as "near station," "women only," and "pets allowed," so please try to find a share house that meets your needs.

Website: ▶︎ Share Park for share houses in Tokyo

5. SHARES

Share's is a website that allows you to search for share houses and guest houses in Tokyo, Yokohama, and other suburbs of the Tokyo metropolitan area as well as all over Japan. You can refine your search by narrowing down the features of the share house, and one of the features you can choose from is "foreigners OK. You can also search by selecting features such as "Western-style rooms," "soundproofing," and "furnished.

In addition, SHARE'S often offers special campaigns such as reduced rent when you apply for an eligible room, making it a recommended site for those who want to move into a share house at a reasonable price.

Website: ▶︎ Share house search site 【 Shares 】

Points to consider when choosing a share house in Japan

Choosing a share house is a very important step for a foreigner starting out in Japan for the first time. In an environment where you will be living with people of different cultures, customs, and languages, you will need to be more careful in your choice than in a typical rental property. Below are some key points to consider when choosing a share house in Japan.

1. location

It is very important to choose a location that is easily accessible for commuting to work, school, shopping, leisure, and other lifestyle activities. It is also a good idea to consider proximity to train stations and access from major transportation routes. When starting out in an unfamiliar place, convenience will reduce stress.

By researching the time required to get to work or school in advance, you can design a comfortable lifestyle rhythm. Also, to make the most of your time off, look into access to nature and tourist spots. Taking a broad view of the surrounding environment of a share house will lead to a highly satisfying property selection.

2. community atmosphere

The relationships between share house residents and the atmosphere of the community can greatly affect the quality of daily life. If possible, we recommend visiting the share house beforehand to interact with current residents and check out the atmosphere of the shared space.

Let's take a tour of the share house to see if open and friendly communication is taking place, if clean and comfortable common spaces are being maintained, and so on, to get an idea of what actual life in a share house is like. If the share house regularly holds events and social gatherings with other residents, you'll find it easy to get involved in the community. However, you may not be able to get to know all the residents immediately. Keep in mind that it is important to protect your privacy while gradually building a relationship with others.

3. rates and services

It is important to check the total cost, including not only the rent, but also the common service fee, initial cost, and other service fees. Also, be sure to check the services provided, such as Wi-Fi and furnished.

Compared to standard rental properties, share houses tend to have lower initial costs such as deposit, key money, and agency fees. In addition, many properties are furnished with furniture and appliances, so you will be able to minimize expenses when starting a new life. In some cases, utilities, water, and internet fees are included in the common service fee, so please compare the total monthly payment.

Services included in share houses vary from property to property. Facilities such as laundry rooms, bicycle storage, and delivery boxes can make your daily life more comfortable. Some properties also offer regular cleaning services, so those who want to reduce the hassle of cleaning by themselves should check this out.

4. language support

Especially for those who are not confident in their Japanese, it is a good idea to check if the staff can speak English or other languages. By choosing an environment where communication is smooth, you can prevent problems before they occur.

Language support is indispensable for smooth operation of various procedures, inquiries, and troubleshooting that will occur in your life after moving in. Especially in situations where detailed explanations are required, such as emergencies or how to use property facilities, it will be helpful to have support in your native language or in a language you are familiar with.

In addition to the explanation of the property, it is also important to know whether important documents such as contracts and occupancy rules are available in English and other languages. If you have limited knowledge of Japanese lease contracts, choose a property where you can receive detailed explanations so that you can sign a contract with full understanding and consent.

5. contract term and rules

If you are considering a short-term stay or if your future plans are not yet set in stone, be sure to carefully check the contract terms, renewal procedures, penalties for early termination, and other contract details. It is also a good idea to take note of the rules and lifestyle of each share house.

While most share houses generally require a contract of one year or longer, there are some that offer short-term contracts, such as monthly or three-month contracts. Be sure to check in advance so that you can make a contract that is reasonable for the length of your planned stay.

By Major Regions｜Recommended Share Houses

There are many unique share houses in Japan, from large cities such as Tokyo and Osaka to areas rich in nature such as Hokkaido and Okinawa. Here we will introduce carefully selected share houses recommended for foreigners in each of the major areas.

While taking into account the charm and characteristics of each area, we will also provide some pointers on choosing a share house from a foreigner's perspective. Please check out the share houses in the areas you are interested in, and use them as a reference in your search for the right property.

Recommended share houses in Tokyo

Premier Kichijoji

  • Access15-minute walk from Inokashira Koen Station on the Keio Inokashira Line, 25-minute walk from Kichijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line
  • feature: A large share house with 70 rooms in total. Renovated kitchen and shower room with bathtub available. Each private room has a mini kitchen and is fully furnished and equipped with appliances. Conveniently located near a large supermarket, convenience store, and gym.
  • For more information,click here!

Compartia Shinjuku

  • Access7-minute walk from Akebonobashi Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line, 10-minute walk from Yotsuya-Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line.
  • feature: Conveniently located 4 minutes to Shinjuku Station by train. Located in an upscale residential area, the building is equipped with a large bathroom with Jacuzzi, theater room, and gym space. The building also has an elevator to support comfortable living.
  • For more information,click here!

Fast Room Koenji

  • Access12 minutes walk from Koenji Station on the JR Chuo Line.
  • feature: 10 minutes to Shinjuku by Chuo Line. Located in an attractive area with many good old shopping streets, cafes, gyms, and public bathhouses. Furnished with furniture and appliances, and many foreign tenants.
  • For more information,click here!

Tokyo is a city with diverse attractions, such as downtown atmosphere and areas where you can feel nature, even though it is located in the middle of the city center. Not only will you be able to commute to work or school, but you will also be able to spend quality time in your private life as well. When choosing a share house in Tokyo, it is important to focus on a location that suits your lifestyle.

Please also refer to the following articles
・5 foreigner friendly share houses in Tokyo - you can find a cheap house!
・5 recommended share houses for foreigners in Ikebukuro and rent rates

Recommended share houses in Yokohama

Oak House Yokohama

  • Access20 minutes walk to Yokohama Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line.
  • feature: Walking distance to Yokohama Station, an area of great sightseeing, shopping, and leisure activities. Fully furnished and equipped with appliances, foreign residents are welcome. Dormitory and single rooms available, with a rooftop terrace.
  • For more information,click here!

Social Residence Academia Yokohama Isogo

  • Access20 minutes on foot to Byoubu Ura Station (Keihin Kyuko Honsen Line), 3 minutes by train to Kamiooka Station
  • featureLocated on a hilltop surrounded by nature, with a spectacular view. A large lounge, study room, theater room, music studio, and other shared facilities are available. Luxurious space with artful furniture and interior design, and easy access to Shinagawa and Haneda Airport.
  • For more information,click here!

Yokohama is a port city that combines an urban atmosphere with a peaceful townscape. There are many sightseeing spots such as Minato Mirai and Chinatown, and its rich international flavor is appealing. If you choose a share house in Yokohama, we recommend that you take advantage of the ocean, greenery, and other natural surroundings. Yokohama's strength lies in the fact that it offers both easy access to the city center and a comfortable living environment.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ 5 foreigner-friendly share houses in Yokohama! Rent rates also explained!

Recommended share houses in Sapporo

BUIE Aso

  • Access9 min. walk from Asou Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line, 15 min. walk from JR Shinkotoni Station.
  • feature: A community of housemates with a diverse range of jobs and nationalities. It has a fitness room and workspace, and offers a variety of events such as camping and snowboarding. Spacious kitchen and living room, with private private rooms.
  • For more information,click here!

The Stay Sapporo

  • Access8-minute walk from Susukino Station on the Subway Namboku Line, 10-minute walk from Nishi-11-chome Station on the Subway Tozai Line.
  • featureBackpackers' Home Share House: Backpackers' Home offers a way of living that combines the best of both worlds: a shared house and a guest house. It has a spacious lounge space and offers services such as free luggage storage and bicycle rental.
  • For more information,click here!

Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido, combining magnificent nature and urban functions. In summer, it is a summer resort, and in winter, it is crowded with people enjoying winter sports. When choosing a share house in Sapporo, we recommend choosing a location where you can enjoy the charms of the four seasons. You are sure to find a share house that offers both easy access to the city center and an environment where you can feel close to the great outdoors.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ 5 share houses for foreigners in Sapporo, Hokkaido! Explanation of rent rates and characteristics of the area.

Recommended share houses in Nagoya

Multiple Share 180° Kanayama East

  • Access12-minute walk from Kanayama Station on the Meijo Subway Line, JR and Meitetsu lines; 13-minute walk from Higashibetsuin Station on the Meijo Subway Line
  • featureShare house with 36 large rooms with fitness room and workspace: Netflix and other content and simple, stylish kitchen available. The rent is set at a low initial cost, and security is provided for women as well.
  • For more information,click here!

Simple Share 180° Nakamura Ward Office

  • Access12 min. walk from Nakamura-Kuyakusho Station on the Subway Sakuradori Line, 11 min. walk from Kintetsu Kogane Station.
  • featureThe share house is limited to 7 people and has a simple, natural-colored living room. There are also rooms with Japanese modern specifications with a water closet. Events and club activities are also available.
  • For more information,click here!

Nagoya is one of the largest cities in Japan, yet it has a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Nagoya is dotted with historical buildings such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine, and its unique food culture is also very attractive. When looking for a share house in Nagoya, we recommend choosing a property that combines urban convenience with a good old-fashioned Japanese atmosphere. Easy access to popular tourist spots for foreigners will also be an important selection criterion.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ Recommended 6 foreigner friendly share houses in Nagoya!

Recommended share houses in Osaka

ANTEROOM APARTMENT OSAKA

  • Access5 minutes walk from Ikeda Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line
  • feature: Designer property with direct access to Umeda. A share house renovated from a historical telecommunications building with a total of 48 rooms. There are private rooms with secured privacy and workspace ideal for remote work, and the building has a library of approximately 2,000 books and a wide range of art works.
  • For more information,click here!

Kizunaie share house tabicco Osaka Senrioka

  • Access12-minute walk from Senrioka Station on the JR Kyoto Line, 10-minute walk from Settsu-shi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line.
  • feature: A community share house for 30 men and women based on the concept of travel and international exchange. Equipped with a library working space, providing an environment where you can concentrate on work or reading. A support system is available through the official line, making first time share house living worry-free. Many residents come from both Japan and overseas.
  • For more information,click here!

Osaka is known as the central city of the Kansai region and is famous as a gourmet town. It has many tourist attractions such as Osaka Castle and Dotonbori, and has an energetic atmosphere. If you are looking for a share house in Osaka, we recommend either a convenient property close to the bustling downtown area or a property in a calm environment with lots of greenery. It is crucial to make a choice that suits your lifestyle.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ 5 foreigner-friendly share houses in Osaka!

Recommended share houses in Kyoto

Diaz Kyoto Imadegawa

  • Access12 minutes on foot to Imadegawa Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line.
  • feature: The property is fully renovated and is as clean as new. Only a 12-minute walk from Imadegawa Station, the property is surrounded by supermarkets, gyms, popular ramen restaurants, and more. A variety of room types are offered, including semi-private and compartment. Fully furnished and equipped with a rooftop terrace and garden.
  • For more information,click here!

oak kyoto kawaramachi

  • Access3 minutes on foot to Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line.
  • featureShare house: 53 rooms in total, located in the center of Kyoto. Located in the Gosho-minami area, south of the Kyoto Gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace), the living environment is excellent. You can enjoy international exchange with multinational housemates. Shijo-Kawaramachi and Shijo-Karasuma, where commercial facilities are concentrated, are within walking distance, providing easy access for sightseeing and getting around the city.
  • For more information,click here!

Kyoto is one of Japan's leading tourist cities with numerous historical buildings and natural scenic spots. The city offers beautiful scenery from season to season and the atmosphere of an ancient capital. When choosing a share house in Kyoto, we recommend properties that combine access to sightseeing spots with a good living environment. If the property is a renovated traditional Kyoto machiya, you will be able to experience a lifestyle that is uniquely Kyoto.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ 5 foreigner-friendly share houses in Kyoto!

Recommended share houses in Kobe

The Maison Studio Kobe Sumiyoshi

  • Access3-minute walk from Sumiyoshi Station on the JR Tokaido Line, 4-minute walk from Sumiyoshi Station on the Kobe New Transit Rokko Liner, 15-minute walk from Mikage Station on the Hankyu Kobe Line.
  • featureDance studio of 30 sq.m., ideal for yoga and fitness. Private rooms are equipped with bathrooms and toilets for privacy. There is also a women-only floor. Located in an upscale residential area of Sumiyoshi, it is a safe and quiet environment.
  • For more information,click here!

Kobe Stockers Kitano Share House

  • Access13 min. walk from Sannomiya Sta. on the JR Kobe Line, 10 min. walk from Shin-Kobe Sta. on the Subway Line.
  • featureA medium-sized share house with a total of 15 rooms. The average number of residents is around 20, regardless of gender or nationality. You can choose between private rooms and dormitory rooms for privacy, and there are plenty of events. The house is located on a hill, so you can enjoy the night view of Kobe and fireworks displays.
  • For more information,click here!

Kobe is a city with a cosmopolitan atmosphere as a port town and a sophisticated cityscape. Areas with an exotic atmosphere, such as Ijinkan-gai and Kitano, are popular. If you are looking for a share house in Kobe, we recommend locations that take advantage of the city's natural attractions such as the sea and mountains. If you are looking for a share house in a renovated historical building, you will be able to experience a lifestyle that is unique to Kobe.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ 5 foreigner-friendly share houses in Kobe! Rent rates in Kobe are also explained.

Recommended share houses in Hiroshima

Share House Benefit

  • AccessHiroshima Electric Railway Eba Line Funairi-Saiwaicho Stn. 10 min. walk, Hiroden Bus: 5 min. walk from Kannon Chugakko-mae Stn.
  • featureA family-style share house with an emphasis on community. With 7 diverse room types, the share house offers an earth-friendly lifestyle with Hiroshima's first composting system.
  • For more information,click here!

BackpackersHome Hiroshima

  • Access3 minutes walk from Yokogawa Station, JR West Japan
  • featureThe first floor is a bar space where you can enjoy Hiroshima cuisine, and the second floor is the bedrooms and shared space. The second floor is a bar space where you can enjoy meals prepared by Hiroshima Prefecture, and the second floor is the bedrooms and shared space.
  • For more information,click here!

Hiroshima is known as a city symbolizing peace, with the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park. It is also the gateway to Miyajima, famous for the World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine. When choosing a share house in Hiroshima, we recommend that you focus on access to sightseeing spots such as Peace Memorial Park and a location that offers the charm of nature. If the property utilizes historical buildings, you will be able to experience Hiroshima's culture firsthand.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ I want to find a share house in Hiroshima! 5 share houses suitable for foreigners

Recommended share houses in Fukuoka

lyf Tenjin Fukuoka

  • Access10 minutes walk to Tenjin Station on Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line
  • feature: The building features interior design and graphics by designers based in Singapore and Fukuoka. It has a co-working space and a fully equipped social kitchen, and is within walking distance from the Tenjin area. Provides a coliving space for living, working, and playing, and fosters a new community.
  • For more information,click here!

BackpackersHome Fukuoka (cit

  • Access3-41 Otemon, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 1 minute walk from Ohorikouen Station on the Airport Line, 1 minute walk from Arato 1-chome on Nishitetsu Bus.
  • feature: Offering a lifestyle that combines the best of both worlds: a shared house and a guest house. Located in the heart of Fukuoka City, with Ohori Park right in front of the house, you can enjoy nature and the city at the same time. Fully furnished and fully secured. A café is attached.
  • For more information,click here!

Fukuoka is the central city of the Kyushu region and is also known for its gastronomy. The city combines the energetic atmosphere of downtown areas such as Nakasu and Tenjin with the natural attractions of Ohori Park. When looking for a share house in Fukuoka, the key is to choose a property that strikes a balance between the convenience of the city center and the natural environment. An ocean view property with a spectacular view of Hakata Bay will give you a resort-like atmosphere.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ Convenient, inexpensive and easy to live in! 5 foreigner-friendly share houses in Fukuoka

Recommended share houses in Okinawa

ICHAYUN KANASA HOUSE by Akagara Jargal Residence

  • AccessBus stop: Ryukyu Bus Transportation, 2 min. walk from Shikarihara
  • feature: An old private house share house located in a resort town. The 57-year-old old private house has been fully renovated, and its cleanliness and openness are attractive. It is equipped with a private parking lot, and barbecues can be enjoyed. Located in Chatan-cho in the central part of Okinawa's main island, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as Mihama American Village, beaches, and shopping.
  • For more information,click here!

BackpackersHome Okinawa (prefecture)

  • AccessNaha Airport 70 min. by bus, 10 min. walk from bus stop Ihei
  • featureShare house and guest house: A good combination of a share house and a guest house lifestyle. Located in the Sunabe area of Chatan Town, a 2-minute walk to Miyagi Beach. The attached cafe space is open from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm and attracts locals and guests from Japan and abroad. The staff was born and raised in Okinawa and has a wealth of local information.
  • For more information,click here!

Okinawa is one of the most popular resort destinations in Japan, an island of beautiful beaches and abundant nature. It has its own unique culture and history, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere is also very appealing. If you choose a share house in Okinawa, the ideal location is one that offers access to famous tourist spots such as the Churaumi Aquarium, but is also within walking distance to the beach and other natural attractions. If you choose a property that has been renovated from a traditional Okinawan house, you will be able to experience a more Okinawan lifestyle.

Please also refer to the following articles
▶︎ 3 share houses in Okinawa where foreigners can live - Recommended for finding inexpensive rentals!

Attractiveness & Merit of Share House

Share houses have many attractions and advantages that differ from living alone. Let's take a closer look at some of the unique advantages of share housing.

Save money on moving in and day-to-day living expenses.

In a shared house, several people share a single dwelling, so the burden can be reduced by sharing the rent. In many cases, initial costs such as deposit and key money may be lower than in a standard rental apartment. In some cases, utilities, water, and internet fees are included in the common expenses, which also helps to save on living costs.

Another attraction of share houses is that many come fully furnished. Since there is no need to start from scratch to furnish a refrigerator, washing machine, bed, etc., which are necessary when starting to live alone, moving costs can be greatly reduced. Especially for tenants from overseas, preparing furniture and appliances can be a huge burden, so the advantages of a share house can be significant.

Financial benefits are an important selection criterion, especially when the length of stay is short or future plans are uncertain. The ability to start living in a share house at a reasonable cost without having to prepare a large sum of money is an attractive feature of a share house.

(2) Meeting many people and expanding friendships

Share houses bring together people from a variety of backgrounds. Living in the same residence will naturally lead to interaction, and will open up opportunities to meet new people. For foreigners in particular, making Japanese friends may seem difficult due to the language barrier, but in a share house you will have the opportunity to interact with people on a daily basis, making it easy to make friends.

Another feature of share houses is that there are many opportunities to connect with people who share the same hobbies and interests. For example, there are an increasing number of themed share houses, such as "international exchange share houses" where residents interested in language and cultural exchange gather, or "creator-oriented share houses" where artists and creators are the main residents. If you meet like-minded people, you're sure to have a stimulating and fulfilling time.

Friendships in a share house are a great way to enrich your life in Japan. By overcoming cultural and language differences and connecting with people who have diverse values, you will broaden your horizons and grow as a person. If you build relationships that allow you to respect each other's culture, you may even gain lifelong friends.

3. often well-equipped

In many cases, share houses have larger common spaces and better facilities than general rental properties. Shared areas such as living/dining rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms are appealingly spacious, which is difficult to secure in properties for single people. Having a space where you can relax and unwind will help you lead a comfortable daily life.

A well-developed common space also encourages residents to interact with each other. A spacious living and dining room will make it easier to plan events, such as enjoying cooking together or holding a movie viewing party. If the property has an outdoor space such as a rooftop terrace or garden, you can spend time as you wish, such as at a barbecue party, reading a book, or doing yoga.

There are also share houses with themed common spaces such as theater rooms, music studios, and study rooms. It's a great point to be able to use facilities that would be difficult for an individual to provide on their own, but in a share house they can be used with ease. The extensive facilities are sure to give you a unique way to enjoy living in a share house.

4. security

Compared to living alone, share houses are said to be safer in terms of security. One of the reasons for this is the high percentage of residents who are at home. Because share houses have a diverse range of residents with different life rhythms, rooms tend to be empty for less time. Having someone at home can be expected to have the effect of preventing intruders from entering the house.

Also, as a mechanism unique to share houses, a high percentage of auto locks and intercoms with cameras are also a reassuring factor. Safety is enhanced by the ingenuity in keeping non-residents out of the building, and by having equipment that allows you to see the faces of visitors. Those who feel uneasy about living alone may be able to live in a share house with peace of mind.

If you can build a relationship of trust with your residents, you will also be able to help each other. It should be reassuring to know that you can rely on your fellow residents living in the same space in the event of illness or injury, for example. Considering what to do in the event of an emergency, it can be said that share housing offers a great sense of security.

Disadvantages of shared housing

While share houses have many attractions, there are also disadvantages that arise from differences in lifestyles. When considering living in a share house, you should be aware of the following disadvantages.

Potential problems with the residents you live with.

In a share house, you will live with people from various backgrounds and values. Differences in culture and lifestyle can sometimes cause problems. For example, there are cases where residents have conflicting opinions over rules such as cleaning and garbage disposal.

Miscommunications arising from lack of communication among tenants can also cause problems. Stress can also be caused by differences in perception of each person's manners, such as in the use of common areas or noise problems. If relationships deteriorate, it may lead to people feeling uncomfortable and becoming confined to their rooms, or even considering moving out.

To prevent problems before they occur, it is important to check the rules of the property before moving in and carefully consider whether or not it will suit your needs. After moving in, you are expected to actively communicate with each other and make an effort to understand each other's culture and values.

2. possible incompatibility with the rhythm of life

Differences in lifestyle rhythms are one of the challenges unique to share houses. Whether you are a morning person or a night person, a student or a working adult with a full-time job, the different lifestyles of the residents may cause some stressful situations.

For example, problems caused by differences in the rhythm of daily life are not uncommon, such as lack of sleep due to early morning or late night noises, or not being able to use the kitchen or washrooms as much as one would like because they are crowded. In particular, foreigners whose lifestyles differ greatly between Japan and their home countries may experience problems in an unfamiliar environment.

To address these issues, it is effective to discuss and set rules for all residents. It is important to respect each other's daily rhythms, for example, by establishing sleeping and waking times and dividing the use of common areas into different time zones.

May be difficult to ensure privacy

Because shared housing is communal living, privacy tends to be more restricted than living alone. In common areas such as the living/dining room, kitchen, and bathroom, there will be many opportunities to see other residents. Some may find it difficult to secure time to themselves.

In addition, if the property is not soundproofed well, the sound of life in the adjoining room can be a source of stress. Many people find it difficult to relax in an environment where they are forced to be aware of the presence of others, such as the sound of TVs, speakers, talking voices, and footsteps.

In order to maintain privacy in a share house, it is important to make your room comfortable. It is also important for residents to discuss the rules for using the common areas with each other and be respectful of each other's privacy. Those who wish to spend time alone should carefully check the facilities and atmosphere of the property before moving in.

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summary

In this article, we have explained in detail the appeal of Japanese share houses from a foreigner's point of view and the key points on how to choose a share house.

  • There are many share houses in Japan that are open to foreign residents, and an increasing number of them offer language support and social events that are friendly to foreigners.
  • We recommend Oak House, Share Clip, Borderless House, Share Park, and Shares as websites to help you find a share house.
  • When choosing a share house in Japan, location, community atmosphere, fees and services, language support, contract length and rules are key factors.
  • There are many recommended share houses for foreigners in major cities such as Tokyo, Yokohama, Sapporo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and Okinawa.
  • The main advantages of shared housing include rent savings, more opportunities for social interaction, better facilities, and security. On the other hand, there are also disadvantages such as the possibility of trouble and limited privacy.

Share house life in Japan is full of new encounters and discoveries. The experience of overcoming cultural and customary differences and connecting with people with diverse values will surely enrich your life. However, it is important to choose your share house carefully.

In order to find a property that will allow you to achieve the lifestyle you desire, consider various aspects such as the location, facilities, and atmosphere of the tenants. Be sure to check the details of the contract and costs in advance as well.

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    Goandup Picks for Expats > Lifestyle Support > Housing Search and Real Estate Information > List of websites where you can find a shared house in Japan - How to find a property that welcomes foreigners