Hiroshima

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Comprehensive Guide to Shared Housing in Hiroshima, Japan

Hiroshima is a vibrant city with a mix of historical significance, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and foreigners. Shared housing is a popular and affordable option for students, young professionals, and expatriates looking to live in the city. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand shared housing in Hiroshima, including what it typically includes, costs, how to find and rent shared housing, and cultural or city-specific considerations.

1. What Shared Housing Typically Includes

Shared housing in Hiroshima generally refers to accommodations where tenants share common spaces such as the kitchen, living room, and bathroom, while having their own private bedroom. These arrangements are often found in share houses (ใ‚ทใ‚งใ‚ขใƒใ‚ฆใ‚น) or guesthouses, which are designed to foster a sense of community among residents.

Common Features:

  • Private Bedroom: Usually furnished with a bed, desk, chair, and storage space.
  • Shared Facilities:
    • Kitchen: Fully equipped with appliances like a refrigerator, microwave, stove, and utensils.
    • Living Room: A communal space with seating, a TV, and sometimes books or games.
    • Bathroom: Shared showers and toilets, often separated by gender in larger houses.
    • Laundry Facilities: Washing machines and sometimes dryers are available.
  • Utilities: Electricity, water, and internet are typically included in the rent or charged as a fixed monthly fee.
  • Wi-Fi: High-speed internet is usually provided in most shared housing.
  • Cleaning Services: Some share houses offer periodic cleaning of common areas.

Additional Perks:

  • Community Events: Many share houses organize social events, such as dinners, movie nights, or cultural activities, to encourage interaction among residents.
  • Multilingual Support: Some share houses cater to international residents and provide support in English or other languages.

2. General Costs Involved

Shared housing in Hiroshima is relatively affordable compared to renting a private apartment. Costs can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the share house.

Typical Costs:

  • Monthly Rent: ยฅ30,000โ€“ยฅ60,000 (USD $200โ€“$400) per month for a private room.
  • Utilities: Often included in the rent, but if not, expect to pay an additional ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ10,000 (USD $35โ€“$70) per month.
  • Deposit (ๆ•ท้‡‘): ยฅ20,000โ€“ยฅ50,000 (USD $140โ€“$350), refundable upon move-out if there is no damage.
  • Key Money (็คผ้‡‘): Rarely required for shared housing, unlike traditional apartments.
  • Initial Fees: Some share houses charge a one-time administrative or cleaning fee, typically ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ20,000 (USD $70โ€“$140).

Cost-Saving Tip:

Shared housing is significantly cheaper than renting a private apartment, which often requires additional costs like guarantor fees, key money, and higher deposits.

3. Procedures for Finding and Renting Shared Housing

Finding shared housing in Hiroshima is straightforward, especially with the availability of online platforms and real estate agencies catering to foreigners.

Steps to Find and Rent Shared Housing:

  1. Research Online:

    • Use websites like:
      • Sakura House: Specializes in share houses for foreigners.
      • Oakhouse: Offers share houses across Japan, including Hiroshima.
      • GaijinPot Housing: A platform tailored for expatriates.
      • Roomshare.jp: A Japanese site for shared housing listings.
    • Check local Facebook groups or expat forums for housing leads.

  2. Visit Real Estate Agencies:

    • Some agencies in Hiroshima specialize in share houses and provide English-speaking staff.
    • Examples include Leopalace21 and Hiroshima Share House.

  3. Schedule a Viewing:

    • Contact the landlord or management company to arrange a visit.
    • Virtual tours may also be available for international applicants.

  4. Submit an Application:

    • Provide necessary documents, such as:
      • Passport or residence card (ๅœจ็•™ใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰).
      • Proof of income or student enrollment.
      • Emergency contact information (may require a Japanese guarantor, though this is less common for share houses).

  5. Sign the Contract:

    • Review the terms carefully, including rent, utilities, house rules, and move-out procedures.
    • Contracts are often available in English for foreign-friendly share houses.

  6. Move In:

    • Pay the initial fees (deposit, first monthโ€™s rent, etc.).
    • Familiarize yourself with the house rules and introduce yourself to other residents.

4. Cultural and City-Specific Considerations

Living in shared housing in Hiroshima comes with unique cultural and local aspects to keep in mind.

Cultural Considerations:

  • Respect for Others: Japanese culture places a high value on harmony and consideration for others. Be mindful of noise levels, especially during late hours.
  • Cleanliness: Residents are expected to keep shared spaces clean and tidy. Some houses have cleaning schedules for residents.
  • Recycling: Japan has strict waste separation rules. Learn the local system for separating burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable trash.
  • Shoes Indoors: Always remove your shoes at the entrance and use indoor slippers.

City-Specific Considerations:

  • Location: Hiroshimaโ€™s public transportation system is efficient, so consider proximity to tram (Hiroden) or bus stops when choosing a share house.
  • Community Atmosphere: Hiroshima is known for its friendly and welcoming residents. Share houses often reflect this by fostering a sense of community.
  • Language: While many share houses cater to foreigners, learning basic Japanese phrases can help you communicate with local residents and neighbors.
  • Seasonal Weather: Hiroshima has hot, humid summers and mild winters. Ensure your room has air conditioning and heating.

5. Advantages and Disadvantages of Shared Housing

Advantages:

  • Affordable rent and utilities.
  • Opportunities to meet people and make friends.
  • Flexible lease terms compared to traditional apartments.
  • Fully furnished rooms, reducing the need to buy furniture.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited privacy due to shared spaces.
  • Potential for conflicts with housemates.
  • Rules and restrictions (e.g., no overnight guests, quiet hours).

6. Additional Tips for Shared Housing in Hiroshima

  • Join Local Communities: Participate in events or activities organized by your share house to build connections.
  • Explore the City: Hiroshima offers a mix of historical sites (e.g., Peace Memorial Park, Itsukushima Shrine) and modern attractions. Living in shared housing can provide insider tips from housemates.
  • Be Open-Minded: Shared housing often involves living with people from diverse backgrounds. Embrace the opportunity to learn about different cultures.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to find and settle into shared housing in Hiroshima. Itโ€™s an excellent way to experience the city affordably while building a sense of community.