Traveling or living in Japan can be an incredible experience, but like in any developed country, the cost of living can be a burden, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. It is in this scenario that a practical, affordable, and increasingly popular solution among young Japanese and foreigners comes in: the share house.
This model of shared housing is not only a way to save money — it also offers a rich cultural experience and a quick way to make friends. If you are planning to study, work, or just spend a longer time in the archipelago, getting to know this type of accommodation can completely change your journey.
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What is a Share House?
The term share house comes from English and literally means “shared house.” In the Japanese context, it refers to residences where multiple people live together, sharing common spaces such as kitchen, living room, and bathrooms, but each has their own individual room — sometimes even suites, depending on the property.
It is different from a traditional dormitory or guest house. The concept of a share house revolves around coexistence, the exchange of experiences and community. Many of them are aimed at specific audiences, such as students, workers in certain fields, or foreigners.
Why have share houses become so popular in Japan?
The boom of share houses in Japan began to gain momentum mainly after the economic crisis of 2008, when many young people opted for more affordable and flexible alternatives. Additionally, the lifestyle in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama demands practicality: high rents, small spaces, and bureaucratic contracts have made share houses a smart option.
Another attractive point is that no guarantor is required, there is no demand for long contracts, and generally, the space comes furnished. In other words, you arrive and can already move in — without complications.
Advantages of living in a Share House
If you're still unsure whether this type of housing is worth it, check out some of the most cited advantages by those who have lived in one:
- Reduced costRent, water, electricity, and internet bills are usually included in a fixed monthly amount.
- Mobility and flexibilityMany contracts are monthly and easy to cancel, perfect for those who don't want to commit long-term.
- Multicultural environmentMany share houses welcome foreigners, creating an international environment ideal for practicing languages.
- Complete infrastructureEquipped kitchen, laundry room, high-speed internet, and in many cases, a common room with TV and video games.
Furthermore, sharing everyday life with people from different cultural backgrounds greatly enriches personal and professional experience. You learn everything from different recipes to ways of seeing the world.
How to find a Share House in Japan?
Currently, there are several online platforms specializing in this type of housing. Companies like Oakhouse, Sakura House, and Borderless House are well-known among foreigners and offer in English, which greatly facilitates the process.
If you are interested in researching on your own, the term "シェアハウス" (shea hausu) is used on Japanese websites. A good starting point is:
- OakhouseOne of the largest share house networks in Japan, with themed houses and community events.
- Sakura House: Focused on the foreign audience, with residences in central areas of Tokyo.
- Tokyo Sharehouse: A portal that aggregates options from various companies and includes photos, maps, and contract .
When looking for a share house, consider:
- Location (proximity to train or subway stations)
- House rules (hours, cleaning, visitors)
- Residents' profile (there are houses just for women, mixed, or thematic)
Items typically included in a share house:
- High-speed internet: essential for students and remote workers
- Basic furniture: bed, desk, chair, wardrobe
- Equipped shared areas: refrigerator, stove, microwave, washing machine
These items make adaptation much easier, especially for those arriving in Japan for the first time.
Disadvantages and precautions to take
Of course, not everything is perfect. Sharing a house requires adaptation and respect for others' space. It is important to keep in mind that other people's schedules and habits might not always align with yours. Furthermore, some houses have strict rules regarding silence, cleanliness, and visitors.
Another point is that, despite the informality of the contract, this does not mean the absence of rules — many of them are quite detailed and must be followed closely. After all, good coexistence depends on everyone's collaboration.
If you are more reserved or need total privacy, perhaps this type of housing is not ideal. However, for those who are open to new experiences, learning goes far beyond the Japanese language.
Is it worth living in a Share House?
Without a doubt, the share house is a smart and economical alternative for those seeking practicality, cultural immersion, and networking in Japan. In addition to reducing costs, this form of housing provides experiences that would be difficult to achieve living alone.
Many foreigners report that it was precisely through this experience that they were able to adapt more quickly to the country, make local friends, and even find job opportunities. Living with Japanese people also accelerates language learning — and you can still enjoy authentic curry made by a housemate.
