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Things to consider when choosing an apartment.

There are many things to consider when chosing a place to live in Japan. Some of these things are obvious, but a few of them may surprise you. Here are some of the things to look out for.

Distance from Station

The distance your home is from the train station can greatly affect the price. If you don't mind walking, the difference between an apartment 5 minutes walk from the station, and 10 minutes, can be as much as a few hundred dollars a month.

Separate Bathroom?

If your toilet is seperate from your shower/bath, the room may become more expensive. Cheaper homes have a shower and toilet in the same room, and the entire room is floored with a water-proof plastic.

An advantage to having the toilet and shower together that when it comes time to clean... you can just spray the whole area and wash everything at once.

A disadvantage is that if you get the area by the toilet wet while taking a shower, it can stay wet for many hours... and be annoying if you need to use the potty later in the day.

Special Express? Express?

A major consideration is whether or not the express train, or special express will stop at your station. If it does, the apartment will be more expensive. If not, it will be cheaper, but it can be annoying getting into town if you always have to catch the local, and then switch to the express when you want to get into town quickly.

Window Direction

The direction your window faces can affect price as well. I'm not sure... but I believe that a south facing window is considered to be a good thing. It has to do with how much 'hi atari', direct sunshine you will get during the day.

Balcony?

I'm not sure how much this affects price, but it is definately important. If you apartment does not have a balcony, you have to dry your clothes by hanging them indoors. Full dryers are very uncommon in Japan. During the winter, it can take a long time to dry your clothes indoors if you do not have a balcony so you can hang them outside.

Carpet? Flooring?

Carpet or flooring? Carpet is warmer on the feet in the winter, while a wood floor will be easier to clean. Whatever. I don't think this affects price much.

Combini

Is there a AmPm, a Family Mart, or some other convience store around your station or in the area of your house?

Oya-san

Does the 'oya-san' (landlord) live in the same building? If so, they can help you out when you are in trouble. However, it also means that you will have to be more careful not to disturb the landlord with your loud parties...

That is about all I can think of for now. If anyone has anything to add, let me know!

-Harvey

- Created 11/2002