Life in Japan

Basic Rules for Apartment Living

Yaaay team April 14, 2024
Person’s feet standing in the sunlight in a room 
Many foreign nationals live in apartments in Japan. Apartment living offers you great opportunities for interaction within the community, but there are some general customs you should know. This column explains the basic rules of apartment living.

No outdoor shoes indoors!

In Japan, taking off your shoes before stepping inside a home isn't just about keeping things clean; it's a big part of showing respect and fitting into local customs. Unlike in many other places where it might be okay to walk around in your outdoor shoes indoors, in Japan, it's a big no-no. 
You'll find a special spot near the entrance called the genkan, which is usually a bit lower than the rest of the floor. That's where you take off your shoes before entering the living areas. 

It's like a ritual – you leave the outside world behind when you kick off your shoes and step inside. Plus, it helps keep the place tidy and preserves the traditional tatami flooring you often see in Japanese homes. Once your shoes are off, many Japanese people slip their feet into a pair of indoor slippers, aka "room slippers," to get around. It's all about keeping things cozy and respecting the space you're in, whether it's your own or someone else's.

Respect your Neighbors

Living in Japan, especially in homes with those traditional thin walls, means you need to be mindful of noise to keep the peace with your neighbors. Turning on the washing machine or blasting music at night or early in the morning can easily be a nuisance to your neighbors.

If you receive complaints regarding noise levels, listen to what your neighbors are saying about the noise. Try to get where they're coming from and figure out what's bothering them. Once you've got a handle on the problem, brainstorm some fixes together. Maybe switch up your schedule or get some noise-canceling gear. 
Have a friendly chat with them and see if you can work out a compromise. Sometimes just being open and understanding can go a long way!

Conversely, if you're bothered by noise from your neighbors, approach them tactfully. Keep the conversation respectful, suggesting compromises like adjusting noisy activities or investing in soundproofing. Seeking for the support from the landlord or someone from your office may be a good idea to solve the situation in a rather friendly manner.

Keep your Room Clean

This point applies everywhere in the world, but just in case – make sure to keep your room clean. It's not just about looks – a tidy space is good for your peace of mind. Plus, depending on your rental agreement, you might need to give things like the air conditioner a regular clean, maybe once or twice a year. And if something breaks, don't drag your feet. Get in touch with your landlord ASAP. Trust us, it's better to deal with it early than let it turn into a big headache later on.

Don't worry too much. Enjoy being a good neighbor!

Respecting yourself, others, and the environment is a fundamental concept of the basic rules of living in Japanese apartments. If you emphasize and practice this concept, then it is unlikely you will get into major troubles. 
Apartment-living offers you great opportunities for interaction within the community, enriching your life in Japan. Enjoy being a good neighbor!

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