Interviews with 10 foreign residents in shared houses in Japan.

Today, I had a chance to interview with Tristan, who came from France in last October. I asked him a lot of things that may attract your interests! Please read followings if you are interested in living in Japan!

Why did you decide to live Japan?

“This is the third time to visit Japan. The first reason I got an interest in Japan was manga and movies. I developed the interest and addicted to Japan when I first visit. Everything is very different from European culture and so interesting. I took a Working Holiday Visa and live for 1 year.”

Why did you decide to live in a shared house?

“I can save money and I think it’s more fun to live with others. Actually I have much conversation with my share mates everyday. Also I can feel and experience real Japanese culture in daily life.”

Why did you choose this house?

“My friend introduced me this house. I like the location and room is big enough. Every room is very unique because residents are allowed to color and draw on the walls. I could make friends with lots of people since 60 residents are living in this house.”

What kind of people lives in the house?

“They are musician, artist, cook…. Everyone has different occupation. Also they are from deferent countries. I have share mates who came from Korea and South Africa other than Japan. We made local dishes each other.”

Do you get along with share mates?

“Yes I do. All of my share mates are friendly. We went to Okinawa together on the other day. I really love the ocean there! It was amazing!”

Do you all travel together?

“Absolutely. We have a group on Facebook and people who want to hold a party or event inform there. Those who are available will join it. We also went to Hokkaido, Nagano and Yamanashi together.”

Do you all hold a party frequently?

“Yes. We have so many parties here. We celebrate someone’s birthday every month. Also we had parties on New Years eve, Halloween and Thanks giving day.”

Though celebrating Thanks giving day is not Japanese culture.

“You right. Residents bring a lot of culture because they came from deferent countries.”

What is the most memorable event?

“Well, I really enjoyed a party celebrating 5th year of this house. We removed tables and sofas out from this living room and held a big party. We made one dish per person and had big dinner also.”

Isn’t it hard for you to communicate with share mates?

“Even though there are some mates who can’t speak English, we can communicate with body languages. Also I’ve got to understand some Japanese recently. I can understand Japanese conversation even if it’s not so difficult topic. I thank they teach me very carefully.”

Have you ever found any difficulties in cultural differences?

“Well, I’ve never had. You know, everything is interesting for me. Even foods, I am enjoying Japanese culture. Now I can make “Nabe”, “Soba”, and “Ramen”, Japanese noodles, thanking to share mates who kindly teach me how to cook them.

So, you haven’t had even one trouble?

“No. Small ones were sometimes happened, but we can settle them by discussing.”

He said he is going to be back to France once in this September. But he wants to come back to Japan as soon as possible.
“I want to stay and live forever if I can! I’ll go to a Japanese school next time.”

You will be able to save money and make a lot of friends if you live in a shared house. Also you will get many chances to learn and speak foreign languages. I hope this article will help your wonderful life in Japan.

Check the information of Tristan’s house below!

SHARE DESIGNERS COLLEGE Tamaplaza

A big house, which accommodates 60 people.
A theme of this house is self-produced. The walls in the dining room and corridor are painted fashionably by residents. You can make original and unique room in this house.