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Discover Life at Machiya1 House: Insights from a Third-Year Resident’s Perspective on Shared Living, Community, and Anime Culture

Have you ever thought about what it’s like to live in a shared house? Some might feel it’s challenging to live under the same roof with people they’ve just met.

Today, we had a chat with Shoya, a resident of Machiya 1 House, managed by Borderless House. After two years of living there, Shoya now shares his room and has experienced the unique aspects of shared housing. What special insights and charms can someone like Shoya, who has lived alongside numerous housemates, share about this lifestyle? We’ll dive into his memorable experiences, tips for harmonious shared living, and words of encouragement for those considering this option.

Worries like “Will I lose my privacy in a shared house?” or
“What if there are conflicts among housemates?” is common.
If you have these concerns, please read on!

Fortuitous Find: My Serendipitous Choice of Machiya 1 House and the Joy It Brings


───Self-introduction!

I’m Shoya. Born in Japan, I moved to Argentina when I was very young and lived there for 20 years. Currently, I’m living in Machiya 1 House and working as a creator in the gaming industry.

───When did you return to Japan from Argentina?

I returned in September 2019. My childhood dream was to work in the gaming industry, so I wanted to study at a specialized school in Japan to hone my creative skills.

After coming back, I worked in a factory to save up for a PC. Initially, I self-taught game creation through YouTube videos. Coincidentally, I met an old acquaintance at my workplace who, learning about my ambition in gaming, recommended a school where I could learn game effects. I enrolled, graduated, and after a few job transitions, I now work in my current role.

I moved into Machiya 1 House in August 2021. Previously, I was living in Kanagawa Prefecture and decided to move to Borderless House when my lease was up.

───Did you initially consider living in a shared house?

No, I hadn’t thought about it at all at first. But when I needed to find a new place quickly, Borderless House stood out because of its affordable rent, great location, and the simple, smooth process for moving in. That’s what led me to choose it.

───Why did you pick Machiya 1 House specifically?

I actually had my eye on a different house initially, but there were no vacancies at that time. The staff recommended Machiya 1 House, so I went with it. In retrospect, I’m really happy with my choice. The housemates are wonderful, and its proximity to the train station makes commuting a breeze. It’s also a nice bonus that many of us here, myself included, are into anime and manga, which makes for great conversation. And the easy access to Akihabara is definitely a plus (laughs).

More Than Friends: The Unique Role of ‘Housemates

───Who’s currently living in Machiya 1 House?

At the moment, there are six of us – two Japanese residents, including myself, and four from abroad. I started off in a single room but have since moved into a double. My American roommate is studying at a Japanese language school and works part-time as an English teacher.

───Did you have any hesitations about moving into a shared room?

I wasn’t really hesitant, but as someone who stays up late, I was concerned about possibly disturbing my roommate with noise at night. Once we started sharing the room, we made a point of checking in with each other, like asking, “Did you sleep okay?” or “Was I too loud?” This has helped us live together without any issues.

───Were you nervous about living with people from different countries?

No, the fact that they were from different countries wasn’t a source of worry for me. I think relationships are more about individual personalities than differences in nationality or culture. Even among people from the same country, you find a variety of personalities.

───It sounds like creating cross-cultural relationships is a key part of Borderless House. What do housemates represent for you?

They’re more than just ‘friends’ – they’re unique connections I’ve found through living in Borderless House. Living together doesn’t automatically mean becoming close with everyone. Some housemates become friends whom I keep in contact with and go out with even after moving out, but not everyone. That’s just how human relationships work, I think.

Being a part of Borderless House has made me appreciate these ‘once-in-a-lifetime bonds’ that you can only experience in the moment.

Key to Harmony: Regular Check-ins and Stress-Free Communication


───What do you do to ensure a smooth living experience in the house?

I always make it a point to regularly check in with not just my roommate, but all my housemates. If I bump into someone in the living area, I’ll ask things like, “Is there anything you’re unhappy with?” or “Feel free to mention any concerns you have.” It’s simple, but this approach often leads to honest conversations about things like areas needing more cleaning, which I then share with everyone.

As the longest-standing resident now, I’ve learned to be more accommodating and instinctively think about how to make everyone’s life more comfortable. Neglecting even small chores can affect the whole house’s mood. I’m not a natural leader, but I believe it’s important to address little issues before they turn into big problems.

───How do you interact with new housemates?

I try to chat more during their first few days to help them settle in. But soon after, I let them know, “I actually spend quite a bit of time in my room, so don’t be concerned if you don’t see me much” (laughs).

I share about my lifestyle early on to ensure I’m comfortable too. It’s important for all of us to communicate and maintain a lifestyle that’s manageable and not overwhelming.

In Japan, people often use formal politeness, but I find being direct works better with international housemates. It leads to more straightforward and effective communication.

Anime Fans Rejoice: Machiya 1 House Might Be Your Perfect Match!

───What type of person would enjoy living in Machiya 1 House?

We have a lot of people here who are into subcultures like anime and manga. Having shared interests really livens up conversations, and it can make learning languages more enjoyable too. That’s why I particularly recommend our house to fans of anime. I love practicing voice impressions of anime characters, so if you’re into that, we’ll definitely have a great time!

Many of us also value our personal space. Just because it’s a shared house doesn’t mean you need to share every aspect of your life. I appreciate this balance of social interaction and privacy. So, it’s a great fit for those who want a bit of both – community and personal time.

───Thanks for that. Could you share one of your favorite local food spots in Machiya?

There are plenty of affordable chain restaurants around Machiya, and I usually end up at fast food or family-style places (laughs). But I’ll recommend a Chinese restaurant known for its large servings, a gem introduced to me by a former housemate.

Details about Shoya’s Recommended Restaurant ‘Kouei-ken’＞＞

The restaurant offers not just a memorable dining experience but also leaves you satisfyingly full. If you’re ever in Machiya, it’s definitely worth checking out.

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From Special Events to House Parties! Everyday Life in an International Share House

Hello there! In our previous blog post, we gave you an exclusive peek into the daily life at the international share house “Borderless House”! Have you had a chance to read it? (For those who haven’t, you can read it right away by following the link below!)
▶“Cultural Exchange Every Day!?” A Revealing Glimpse into the Daily Life of an International Share House!

This time, in our second blog of the “Everyday Life in Borderless House” blog series, we’re here to show you the latest updates from Borderless House!

“I am interested in interacting with people from other countries, but unsure about living in a share house…?”
“I’ve checked out Borderless House share houses, but how do people actually spend their time there…?”

For those of you with such thoughts!
By reading this blog, you should get a glimpse of the unique daily life that Borderless House offers, unlike other share houses.

Furthermore, in this blog post, we’ll also introduce you to the community of a newly-open share house – “Borderless House Ikebukuro Oyama1“! Not only that, we’ll explore Borderless Houses in Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe, beyond Tokyo!

We hope you’ll read until the end and take it as the first step toward starting life at Borderless House!

Creating a ‘Special Everyday’ through Encounters at Borderless House

Daily Life in the New Share House @ Borderless House Ikebukuro-Oyama 1

From the newly-opened share house “Borderless House Ikebukuro Oyama 1,” we’ve already received updates about their daily life! This share house, which is home to language learners from around the world and Japanese university students, seems to be bustling with activities. Bowling nights and outings to izakayas (Japanese pubs) make up their lively routines!

Farewell Party Filled with Memories @ Borderless House Itabashi-kuyakushomae

A farewell party was held for Simon, a resident of one of the largest share houses at Borderless House, “Borderless House Itabashi-kuyakushomae”!

“Even though I only had a month of life at Borderless House, it was truly enjoyable! Look, I even received messages from everyone!” With great joy, he showed off a gift card filled with heartfelt messages to our staff!

While expressing his desire to return, Simon embarked on his next journey to Hawaii. As a member of the Borderless House community, we’re here to cheer him on!

Bringing Housemates Together: ‘Borderless House Home Party’

Heart-Pounding Welcome Party” @ Borderless House Kobe-Motomachi 1

As residents from various countries gather at Borderless House, farewells are accompanied by numerous encounters. From the only share house in the Kobe area, “Borderless House Kobe-Motomachi 1,” we bring you the scene of a welcome party for new residents♪

The new housemates’ requested menu was a uniquely Japanese combination of “Curry Udon and Takoyaki.” The housemates all joined in, answering the request and creating a warm and cheerful party atmosphere.

Classic Takoyaki Party! @ Borderless House Shinjuku Nakai 1

Currently hosting 14 individuals from 6 different countries, “Borderless House Shinjuku-Nakai 1” hosted a beloved event in its spacious living area—an all-time favorite “Takoyaki Party”!

What’s intriguing about a Takoyaki Party is that it naturally fosters communication among participants. Indeed, at this party, current housemates, former housemates, and friends of housemates gathered around the table, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere.

A One-time Opportunity!? – Special Events PART1

Summer Tradition! Nagashi Somen Event @ Borderless House Asakusabashi 1

When it comes to summer in Japan, it’s all about ‘nagashi somen’ (flowing noodles)! With the idea of ‘Let’s experience Japanese culture together as the Borderless House community,’ residents from multiple share houses enjoyed a nagashi somen event.

Despite the scorching heat, a total of 19 people gathered to deepen their connections through games and the experience of nagashi somen. It provided an opportunity to meet residents from other share houses, resulting in many new friendships being formed.

Gazing at the Spectacular View with Housemates! Climbing Mount Fuji @ Borderless House Osaka-Bentencho

In the cozy atmosphere of Borderless House Osaka Bentencho, featuring 8 residents in a small-scale house, four residents took on the challenge of climbing Mount Fuji! As Japan’s tallest mountain, it was undoubtedly exhausting… Two out of the four-faced altitude sickness, but the remaining two were fortunate to witness the beautiful sunrise.

The stunning view of Mount Fuji is evident in the photos. Climbing Mount Fuji with housemates would surely become an even more memorable and moving experience.

Fostering Stronger Bonds Across Share House Boundaries! – Special Events PART2

A joint bowling event was held by the Borderless Houses in Kyoto!

A joint bowling event was held by the Borderless Houses in Kyoto! Many residents participated, creating a lively atmosphere. During the group play, the sight of housemates naturally exchanging high-fives was prominent, indicating that their relationships had deepened further.

Sports events like bowling are popular among Borderless House residents because they can be enjoyed regardless of nationality. Moving forward, more events will be planned to help residents become even closer.

Enhancing Language Skills While Having Fun! Language Exchange @ Borderless House in Osaka

Meanwhile, in Osaka, a joint Language Exchange event took place! Seven participants practiced speaking Japanese and English, deepening their connections. Some even expressed joy at having engaging conversations beyond language learning.

Borderless House regularly hosts Language Exchange events, providing a relaxed and enjoyable opportunity to enhance English skills. Feel free to join in for a chance to improve your language abilities!

Discover Your Ideal Japanese Experience with BORDERLESS HOUSE

✓ Planning to visit Japan for Japanese language studies or work holidays
✓ Aiming to improve your Japanese language skills
✓ Desiring an authentic Japanese living experience alongside locals
✓ Dreaming of having a second home in Japan

Borderless House aims to alleviate your concerns and fulfill your desires. How about starting the experience of “living while connecting with the world” at Borderless House?

Check out the current vacancies through the links below!

List of Tokyo Share Houses
List of Kansai Share Houses

Furthermore, we regularly post daily life at Borderless House on Instagram! Please consider following us for updates!

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【Important Information about Rent and Contracts】Before Reserving Your Room!

Dear tenants and those who are interested in our share house,

Since 2014, BORDERLESS HOUSE TAIWAN has been at the forefront of the share house movement, pioneering a space where diverse cultures converge. Our aim has always been to provide a platform for language and cultural exchange, fostering a rich multicultural community that thrives on global connections.

To all of you who have supported and contributed to this incredible international community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. It’s your presence that has made this journey so remarkable.

In our commitment to deliver excellence, we’re making a few adjustments to our management systems and pricing. We believe these changes will further enhance the quality of service we offer to each and every one of you.

Here are the specifics of these adjustments.

Utility Fee

Summer  (May – October): 1,200 NTD
Winter  (November – April): 800 NTD

Inclusions:

●Bills: Water, Electricity, Gas, Management Fee, Wi-Fi, TV Channels

●Life support: Basic cleaning tools, kitchen wares, household appliances, A/C & washing machine cleaning (once a year)

Two types of contracts to suit your needs:

1. 【Flexible Contract】
– You can cancel the contract earlier (with a 30-day notice).

2. 【One-Year Contract】
– Contract termination before the agreed-upon duration is NOT possible.
– If you choose to leave earlier, the remaining rent will need to be settled.

Now, you have two pathways to begin your BORDERLESS HOUSE journey

▶ Starting with the Flexible Contract
(Transitioning to a One-Year Contract later incurs a 1,000 NTD fee. The new contract’s commencement aligns with the original one.)

This option is ideal for:
✓ Short-term stays in Taipei
✓ Language school students
✓ Interns in Taipei
✓ First-timers in a Share House setup
✓ New job entrants in Taipei
✓ The curious ones seeking the Share House experience

 

▶ Starting with the One-Year Contract
(From the second year onward, it transitions to a Flexible Contract with the option to cancel early.)

This option suits those who:
✓ Plan for a long-term stay in Taipei
✓ Are university students
✓ Have previous experience with Share House living
✓ Maintain a stable job in Taipei
✓ Embrace the Share House lifestyle

A life lived in a Share House becomes a tapestry of unforgettable memories. Whatever your plans in Taipei may be, we encourage you to take this chance. 

For any queries, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our tenants and we are eagerly awaiting your arrival, ready to hear and share your stories!

For more insights:

【What is Share House?】 BLOG
【Find your share house】 House Locations
【How’s the share house life?】 INSTAGRAM

 

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Unveiling the Intern Experience: A Journey with Borderless House

Welcome! Today, we want to invite you to delve into the world of Borderless House through the eyes of our talented intern. In this article, we will take you on a captivating journey as she shares her valuable insights and experiences working with us.

At Borderless House, we believe in creating a vibrant and inclusive community that transcends borders. Our mission is to provide individuals from all walks of life with the opportunity to build connections and form lifelong friendships through shared living experiences. As an intern at Borderless House, our featured writer had the chance to immerse herself in this unique environment and contribute to our marketing team.

Join us as we unveil the intern experience and discover the fascinating aspects of working at Borderless House!

The Internship Experience at Borderless House

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to choose an internship at Borderless House?

Hey there! I’m Koko, an intern at Borderless House, specializing in social media marketing. I lived at Borderless House Kikukawa 1 for around 9 months. I’ve had the privilege of studying in Poland and doing an exchange program in the UK during my university years. Currently, I’m intrigued by the relationship between art and society, and I’m heading to the Netherlands in September to study art management for a year. 🙂

The reason I chose to intern at Borderless House is simple—I want more people to know about it! Living at Borderless House is like having a “study abroad within Japan” experience. Everyday life takes on an international flavor, fostering connections across cultures. I’m thrilled to contribute to this wonderful community’s growth through my internship. Stay tuned for updates as I explore the magic of Borderless House and celebrate the power of cultural exchange!

Could you share some details about the projects or tasks you have been involved in during your internship?

I was mainly involved in managing the English version of Borderless House’s official Instagram account, BORDERLESS HOUSE【Official】. My role included showcasing the daily life at Borderless House and sharing the stories and experiences of our residents.
In addition to that, I also had the opportunity to write blog articles like this one and conduct interviews with our tenants!

What has been the most valuable lesson or skill that you have gained during your time at Borderless House?

I believe my ability to understand user needs has improved significantly. Initially, I was in a state of confusion, unsure about which designs, wording, and information would work best. It was quite a rollercoaster ride, to be honest! lol

However, as I received feedback from the marketing team, I started to grasp the art of creating posts that truly resonate with our users.

Furthermore, I believe the greatest joy of being a marketing intern lies in being able to hear the “authentic voices” of our residents. Seeing the excitement in their eyes during interviews and witnessing the daily moments that make our hearts race fills me with immense happiness. It not only brings a sense of fulfillment but also strengthens my dedication to the work I do.

Embracing Diversity and Cultural Exchange: The Intern’s Perspective

How does the work culture at Borderless House differ from other internships or workplaces you have experienced?

In a great way, it was incredibly casual! First, let me share my experience as an intern – it was extremely flexible. There were no strict hours to adhere to or a requirement to physically be in the office. I was able to work comfortably, aligning with my own lifestyle, which allowed me to continue my internship while pursuing my own interests.

Furthermore, among the staff members of Borderless House, I never felt any sense of hierarchy. The atmosphere was one of open communication and neutral exchange of ideas, which truly embodied the concept of a “team.”

On the other hand, it was evident that each individual took their work and career seriously. The atmosphere fostered a sense of “being able to achieve what you want,” which I felt was a characteristic of Borderless House.

Overall, my internship experience was uniquely casual, allowing me the freedom to pursue my passions while working in a supportive and dedicated environment.

How has your experience at Borderless House influenced your perspective on diversity and cultural exchange?

I’ve come to realize that diversity and cultural exchange are not something extraordinary. In fact, they are so inherent in the everyday life at Borderless House that it’s almost synonymous with it.

In Japan, where conversing in Japanese with fellow Japanese often suffices, the terms “diversity” and “cultural exchange” can be seen as high barriers to overcome. However, my involvement with Borderless House has shown me that regularly engaging with different cultures in our daily lives naturally leads to the formation of a mindset that embraces diversity.

Through my experience at Borderless House, I’ve learned that diversity and cultural exchange can be seamlessly integrated into our lives, challenging the notion that they are daunting concepts.

In your opinion, what sets Borderless House apart from other companies in the shared living (share house) industry?

It’s the “Borderless Community”!

Borderless House is already unique as a multicultural sharehouse, but that’s not all!
What sets it apart, even among other multicultural sharehouses, is its ability to create relationships that feel just like “family”.

The strength of Borderless House lies in its “Borderless Community”, where you can build warm connections with friends from around the world, just like a family.

Uncovering the Intern’s Personal Growth

Have you had a specific project or task that challenged you and how it contributed to your personal growth?

Creating Instagram posts about daily life at Borderless House was particularly rewarding.
The task of summarizing events and creating posts that would capture the attention of a wider audience challenged me to think about how to make each post more engaging.
However, it was precisely because of this task that I was able to develop skills in designing and structuring content, as well as the ability to select and prioritize information, all while effectively conveying the joy of living at Borderless House.

How do you plan to leverage the lessons and skills you have acquired at Borderless House in your future, either in life or career?

I believe that I will continue to seek environments that are filled with diversity and naturally foster cultural exchange. Once you’ve experienced the joy of it, there’s no going back, right?
Through my internship and stay at Borderless House, I have truly realized the importance and excitement of regularly engaging with different cultures. Even beyond Borderless House, in my future life and career, I aspire to choose the path of continuously expanding and broadening myself.

Insights and Advice: Words of Wisdom for Future Interns


What advice would you give to future interns seeking to make the most of their experience at Borderless House and develop valuable skills?

It’s all about trial and error!
Nothing can be done perfectly from the start, and I believe it would be boring to only stick to what you can do right away. Borderless House is a safe space where you can make mistakes without worry. Even if things don’t go as planned, there are staff members and fellow residents who will offer advice and support.

I encourage you to propose ideas for projects you’re passionate about, and when given tasks, approach them without fear of failure and be open to receiving feedback. Remember that you are also a part of Borderless House and do your best for the sake of your “Borderless Community” members. Let’s embrace the spirit of trial and error together!

We hope you enjoyed this interview, offering a glimpse into the enriching journey of our intern at Borderless House. Their unique experiences and insights demonstrate the meaningful impact that an internship at Borderless House can have on personal and professional growth.

We extend our gratitude to our intern – KoKo for her contributions and dedication to our mission of fostering a borderless community.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and engaging content from Borderless House!

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Tenant’s Interview ▏Encounters at an International Share House Taught Me About Diverse Career Opportunities

One of the most attractive features of an international exchange share house is the variety of people you can meet!

Many of our residents tell us that their sense of values has changed while living with people from all over the world and from diverse backgrounds. For this interview, we spoke with Shintaro, a third-year university student from Osaka, who actually had such an experience!

Shintaro said that he had few opportunities to interact with others due to Covid-19 and that he felt uneasy, wondering if his perspective was a little narrow. It seems that the encounters with foreign residents and working adults that awaited him at BORDERLESS HOUSE greatly broadened his perspective, especially with regard to his career. He also talked about the warm daily interactions with the residents that only share house living can offer!

“What kind of encounters and how did they change Shintaro’s career plans? ”
If you’re one of our readers who’s been wondering, “Even if it’s an international exchange share house, can I really meet all kinds of people?”. Why don’t we check this interview with our current tenant and get to know what “the BORDERLESS HOUSE life”, filled with global and diverse encounters and exchanges, can look like?

I chose BORDERLESS HOUSE to learn about the unique values and culture of foreign countries!

－First of all, please introduce yourself! How long have you been living in BORDERLESS HOUSE?

My name is Shintaro Matsuura. I am a 3rd-year student at a university in Osaka. I started living in a share house this spring, and it’s been about a year now.

－What made you decide to live in a share house?

I decided to live in a share house because I wanted to interact with people from different backgrounds. In particular, there are many people from overseas living in BORDERLESS HOUSE, and I felt that I could learn about different ways of thinking and cultures from those in Japan, so I decided to stay here!

I realized my career potential through encounters with working tenants!

－Did you have any goals before moving into the share house?

When I moved in, I wanted to broaden my horizons! This is because, due to COVID-19, I didn’t have many opportunities to get involved with other people during my college life. In particular, I had very few encounters with other adults, and I was worried that my perspective might be a bit narrow. But living in a share house and talking to all kinds of people has changed that a lot.

Take job hunting for example. Before living in the share house, my mind was dominated by the idea of “working for a company when I get out in the world” (laughs). But there were also people living in this share house who were freelance workers and other working people who had also changed jobs, and talking with these people made me realize that there are many different ways of working, which really broadened my horizons.

Housemates who were reliable like family and gave me more diverse advice than family.

－What is the best thing about living in BORDERLESS HOUSE?

There are so many things, but the best part is that I can immediately ask for help when I have a problem! Of course, I have my family at home, but in a share house, there are people from different backgrounds and with different ways of thinking, and they give me advice from a different perspective than mine, which I really appreciate.

－What is your favorite memory?

What I find attractive about share houses is that when I come home, my housemates welcome me with a “welcome home” greeting. For example, when things don’t go well at my part-time job, or when I’m feeling down, talking with my housemates naturally calms me down and makes me feel like I can start working hard again tomorrow! I feel that BORDERLESS HOUSE is a very comfortable place for me.

Thanks to my experience at Borderless House, I was able to be more proactive in my job search!

－Do you have any dreams for the future or anything you want to do?

I actually don’t have a set goal for the future right now (laughs), so I’m thinking I’ll do my best to find one from now on! This is also something I thought about after living in a share house, but by actually listening to the stories of various working people, I’ve become fascinated with jobs that I had no interest in before. I am currently in my third year of college, and I am also doing an internship, but I think that I would like to talk to people working at various jobs when I’m actually job hunting!

－What would you like to say to those who are interested in living in a share house?

If you’re not sure whether or not to move into a share house, I’d personally encourage you to do so! I personally feel that there are many things that I’ve learned through my experience living in a share house. At first, I had never even lived alone, so I was very anxious, but after actually moving to a BORDERLESS HOUSE, I feel that I have changed a lot.

Of course, speaking with people from overseas has helped me improve my English, but more than anything, I feel that it has broadened my horizons. I also feel that my communication skills have really improved through my interactions with various people. If you’re reading this article, I highly recommend shared living, and I hope you’ll consider it!

Living in a share house is a chance to make a big change in yourself!

I’m sure you’ll find that this is a share house with a wide range of residents of all nationalities and ages! Building new relationships that are different from family and friends may be one of the keys to meeting a new you.

The international exchange share house “BORDERLESS HOUSE” is currently accepting residents from both university students and working adults! We have many share houses in the Tokyo and Kansai areas.

From each share house page, you can read testimonials from current and past residents! Please check out the following pages♪

▶Tokyo Share House List
▶Kansai Share House List
▶Testimonials from Former Residents

You can do it right now in Japan. Would you like to experience studying abroad with a super multicultural group of friends from over 50 countries?

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Celebrate Christmas & New Year together! – BORDERLESS HOUSE EVENTS

When it comes to celebrating holidays, there is one group of people we celebrate with more than anyone else: our friends and family. Christmas and New Year are the most important celebrations of the year and it is a time when we all come together, catch up, share stories, and spend time together.

However, if you are living abroad, it can be difficult. But don’t worry! International share house – BORDERLESS HOUSE is like a big family with tenants from many different countries, and we’ve celebrated these holidays together! It was really fun and a great way to meet new friends – and of course, share some great times, memories, and food! So let’s take a look at the recap of Borderless House events for Christmas & New Year!

2023 New Year Party – Tenants from 40 different share houses celebrate New Year together!

Due to COVID-19, we haven’t been able to hold any events that gather everyone together for almost 3 years, so we were extremely excited to see many of our tenants from 40 different share houses coming to this party! Because being able to build a warm and friendly community among the share houses where everyone can be friends, learn new cultures and languages, and share and experience life together is BORDERLESS HOUSE‘s mission and goal!

We played some funny games together; Borderless House also prepared gifts and rewards for our tenants!

Of course, there were a lot of food and drinks, and our staff was a DJ!

Everyone had a great time just chatting and talking to new friends, or catching up with old friends! Some of the tenants even continued the fun and went to an izakaya, nightclub, and pubs for the second parties afterward!

2023 is the beginning of a new chapter. We hope everyone has a joyous 2023, bursting with fulfilling and exciting opportunities!

Christmas Party and More International Events in 2022 held by BORDERLESS HOUSE

We had 2 small gatherings with our tenants in Osaka and Kyoto. Our tenants from 11 different share houses exchanged Christmas presents, and enjoyed the shows performed by our tenants!

Seasonal Events – Visit famous tourist spots and enjoy beautiful autumn leaves in Japan

Japan has many shrines and temples, gorgeous natures, gardens and palaces, and other must-visit spots and attractions. We also hold events that our tenants could visit these places together, to gain wonderful experiences with the people from this multicultural community! Last year, we went to Arashiyama, Nintendo world, Bamboo forest, temples and shrines, and Japanese matsuri together!

We also have picnics and indoor/ outdoor sports events from time to time where our tenants can enjoy good relaxing times and meet people who share the same hobbies! 

If you want to join BORDERLESS HOUSE big community and enjoy all kinds of events with us! Check the links below ☺

▶Share Houses in Tokyo
▶Share Houses in Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto

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Best Kyoto Accommodation for Working Holiday: Making Local Friends in a Kyoto Share House

Curious about life in a multicultural community? In this interview, we sit down with one of our residents at Borderless House to discover why they chose us and what it’s truly like to live in an international share house in Japan.

It’s the perfect way to see what daily life and community are really like at Borderless House share houses in Japan!

Kyoto Working Holiday: Living at Borderless House Kuramaguchi

We spoke with Tarek from Canada, who traveled to Japan on a Working Holiday visa. Tarek spent six months immersing himself in the local culture while living at Borderless House Kyoto-Kuramaguchi.

  •  －How did you find BORDERLESS HOUSE? Also, why did you choose to stay at Borderless House?

I found Borderless House through Reddit. There was a “Moving to japan” subreddit and it gives a lot of information about Japan, and there was a list of “Foreigner friendly housing options” for people that are looking for a short-term stay in japan.

And I chose Borderless House because I saw all the profiles of different people and different nationalities and what they’re doing in japan. It seemed like a very welcoming place with a lot of live interaction with both Japanese and foreigners, where I could get an immediate sense of community in Japan. Since I wouldn’t have had one otherwise if I moved in by myself into my own apartment. And having to form my own social circle talking to strangers.

  • －Did you have any concerns or worries before coming? How did you solve them?

Initially, getting the visa. Since when I was applying, it was during the end of the pandemic. So, I had a concern about having a company sponsor me to come here. And then the second biggest was definitely the accommodation. Knowing how difficult it is to get accommodation as a foreigner in a country where you’re not really established.

Borderless House did really help a lot because I was the most worried about just being alone in a country where you don’t understand anything with the language barriers. Such as the Borderless House staff would gather events to meet new people. My housemates have been very helpful as well. They would make a phone call for you, and go to the ward office with you. So those difficulties were solved due to my own research as well as the support of my housemates and the staff here.

  • －When you applied for the share house and the other process, did you think everything went smoothly?

It was surprisingly fast. I mean I just put in the form and then 10 minutes later. The staff from Borderless House contacted me on skype and he was: do you have time for a call right now we talked and my accommodation was settled. The process went smoothly.

During the Skype call, everything was very easy to understand. Everything was given to you straight up as you were talking about it. Nothing was really unclear about the process and it was kind of easy that you could just pay with your credit card, you don’t have to worry about being in the country to actually get the accommodation, which is kind of a big barrier.

For a lot of people where you need a Japanese address or to be in the country to actually rent something. And it was much easier online. You got everything in like 30 minutes and then you just signed up if you feel comfortable with the property.

Living with 13 people – It might seem daunting at first, but there’s lots of room for new experiences.

  • －How did you like your stay at BORDERLESS HOUSE KYOTO-KURAMAGUCHI?

At first, I was kind of worried to be living with 13 other people. I’m kind of a solitary person for the most part, but I grew to like it pretty quickly.

I noticed that every night, there was something going on there. It was either just someone to drink with or a small party or an event. It might seem daunting at first, but there’s lots of room for new experiences. And you really want to put yourself in the position as if you were in your normal day-to-day life.

Because if I live alone after I go home, I would just watch TV, play video games, go to sleep, and then it’ll be the next day, whereas you don’t like that option of comfort, which is a bit of a downside, but it also forces you out of your comfort zone and gets you to do more things.

  • －What do you like the most about living in a share house/ living with others?

It’s definitely the parties. Such as welcome parties, bye-bye parties. It is just the sense of community at the end of the night.

They’re always different conversations going on. You’re talking to different people, meeting new people. There’s no single one that stands out but just the memory of the “Sense of community”, when we would all come together and just be like one, big international family.

To be honest, the reality of share house life was even better than I had ever imagined

  • －Do you have your own private time even living in a share house?

Yeah, sure, in my private time, what I usually like to do is go to the river close to the share house. So I’ll just put on my headphones, take a walk and then grab a coffee at a nice cafe nearby in the neighborhood.

I enjoy walking over to the river, using my camera, or just sitting there for a couple of hours, just watching the river.

  • －Have you ever lived in this kind of environment before? Is everything the same as you imagined?

No, the only other people I would ever live with were my parents. This is my first time living with this amount of people and like, strangers,

It was much closer than I imagined because I pictured myself to be a bit more standoffish. But it was nicer because you always hear horror stories about living with others, but I feel like I got very lucky with my housemates. They are very considerate and always very kind to each other. So it’s much better than I expected.

Master Japanese Naturally: It’s Like Having Seven Free Tutors at Home!

  • －How good is your Japanese? How do you communicate with your housemates?

Not very good. (Laugh) Most of my housemates speak a basic level of English. And the worst-case scenario is just emoting in sign language, you mix English and Japanese. It’s all about really trying and just trying to get the message across. It’s a lot of sign language and guesswork, but you get the message across to people.

  • －How did living with Japanese people help you learn Japanese?

I did two weeks at a language school, but I did not like actually doing the process of like going every week, just because I felt like that was a bit too much commitment. But the immersion and like seeing how the words are used in more of a colloquial context, like a day-to-day context.

I wouldn’t be able to speak Japanese in a very proper way, but I learn a lot, like the day-to-day conversation, slang, and useful phrases. There are daily expressions for you to do and do every day. So just by talking you pick up on them and what they’re saying in the context and then you internalize it that way. And then if you’re seeing it wrong, you get corrected right away.

So it’s like having seven free Japanese tutors just moving around.

Beyond One House: Building an Extended Global Family in Japan

  • －We know that you also make a lot of friends from different share houses of BORDERLESS HOUSE!

Yeah, Borderless House is a bit interconnected, for example, every once in a while, some tenants would come down from Tokyo Borderless House. Also, there are events like the sports days or Momiji.

You have your own community, but you also have a little bit of an extended community.

Events pop up to have the opportunity to meet other people, from outside your house. And interact with them as like, you have your new family here and then you have your extended family inverse of Japan.

－Could you give some advice for those who are planning to move to Japan from overseas ?

Learn Japanese first! And, just keep your mind open and don’t shut things off because you think that they’re not going to be for you or that scary. Just take the chance, because not making a decision is in itself a decision.

So, go for it to your best and just keep trying.

 ＼Explore Tarek’s Home in Kyoto!／

Tarek lived at BORDERLESS HOUSE Kyoto-Kuramaguchi. This house is famous for its spacious, open-concept common areas and its unique mission: blending global connections with local community life.

Located in a charming neighborhood where historic streets meet trendy local spots, it offers the perfect balance of authentic Kyoto living and international exchange. With easy access to Kyoto Station and the vibrant Shijo area via the Karasuma Line, it’s a top choice for students and working holiday travelers!

Explore More Stories & Tips 

Looking for more insights on living, working, and thriving in Japan? Dive into our curated collections of resident stories and expert guides:

▶️[Resident Interviews] – My Borderless House Story: Why I Couldn’t Have Met Japanese Friends Without It

▶️[Life in Japan Guide] – Change the Way You Live Abroad: BORDERLESS HOUSE & Sustainable Living in Japan

▶️[Community & Events] – Global Friendships, Kyoto Style! Party in Uji Share House Brought Everyone Together

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Make friends in a foreign language: Making mistakes is the key to getting comfortable!

Hello! My name is Reimi and I currently live in Japan. Like many of you, I fell in love with Japan a long time ago, and so living here is like making a dream come true. But of course, there are all sorts of obstacles to overcome when it comes to living in a foreign country or learning a new language. Given the chance to write about it, I wanted to write about the difficulties and rewards of learning Japanese. Saying you want to learn a foreign language is definitely easier said than done; you’re not alone in struggling, but it can be so worth it! 

YOUR REASON

What brings you to Japan?

The answer to this question might be different for each person, of course. Some people move to Japan for work, some come for school. Some have always wanted to visit, interested in the things that make Japan unique, like scenery, art, or food. Some want to learn Japanese or make friends in Japan. Some even come to Japan and end up never leaving! There are even programs that allow one to travel extensively and stay in foreign countries for an extended period of time with accommodation provided, such as work holidays or internship programs.

No matter what one’s reasons are, however, the fact remains that moving to a foreign country gives one a chance to learn about a new culture and learn a new language. They say that travel can teach you about yourself, expanding your horizons and challenging yourself in unfamiliar situations, so imagine how much more you’ll learn when you live somewhere entirely new.

EXPECTATION VERSUS REALITY

Myself, I’ll have been living in Japan for almost five years total. For most of that time, I came as a student, so making friends was definitely something I was looking forward to. Plus, at the time I moved, I had just barely graduated high school and I had never lived apart from my family, so there were always concerns that I would be isolated without a network as I had back home. I would be fending for myself for the first time – and in a foreign country where I barely spoke the language no less! From the start, I was too excited to think of anything but finally being in Japan for the long term, but my family held a lot of apprehensions about a young woman living alone in a foreign country.

But honestly speaking, if I had to choose one thing, the scariest thing about having moved to Japan is speaking Japanese. There are still times I worry that my language ability is not enough when I am nervous about being able to convey to the other person the things I am thinking. Or that I’m going to misunderstand or be disrespectful.

For a younger me, this was actually really terrifying. I would think to myself: How can I become friends with someone when we don’t speak the same language? Why would they like me when I can’t tell them about myself? When I can’t understand them? When I’m constantly making mistakes?

But as I’ve gotten more comfortable living in Japan, the more I realize that that way of thinking is entirely wrong. As scary as it is, and especially how difficult it is, I think one of the most important things I’ve learned is that making mistakes is the key to getting good.

No one does anything perfectly from the start. No one can automatically play piano without hitting a few wrong notes or ride a bike without falling a few times. Learning a language is no different. Language learning shouldn’t be treated as a one-time test where you are either fluent or you’re not. Learning how to speak a new language and getting comfortable with it will take time. You need to ‘break in’ so to speak.

The easiest way to do this is to simply use it, mistakes and all. Every mistake I have made while learning Japanese makes it easier as well to remember the correction, which in turn gives me the feeling that I’m really improving, even if it’s little by little. And sometimes too, the mistakes I make are the very reason I make friends. Sometimes it’s someone catching an error and generously correcting me, or sometimes it’s a little slip of the tongue that makes us laugh, humor transcending language in a way that needs no translation.

We learn from our mistakes.

When I first moved to Japan, of course, I heard a lot more Japanese than I had in America. I had gotten used to the convenience store routine (‘do you need a bag?’ ‘would you like this warmed up?’ ‘do you have a point card?’), and I could tell which ingredients I needed at the grocery store. But compared to when I first came to Japan, my speaking ability had barely improved at all.

The issue was this: I was not actually speaking Japanese!

AN IMPORTANT WAKE UP CALL

All of my friends spoke English. I didn’t have a tv and didn’t even try to read books in Japanese. There were events at school that I did not join, thinking I didn’t speak enough Japanese to be of any help or have any fun. In other words, I was a foreigner living in Japan, without really living in Japan. In other words, I had found myself in the “foreigner bubble” where I was not using Japanese in my life.

Naturally, it’s easier to express yourself the way you want to express yourself when you are using your mother tongue. And no surprise, it can be easier to “click” with another person when you don’t have to first surpass the hurdle of understanding what the other person is saying.

But I think that being able to speak fluently is completely different from being able to communicate, and your language ability will have nothing to do with it!

Every time you speak you are improving your language skills, polishing things like pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. Just like riding a bike, practice makes perfect!

CREATING THE RIGHT OPPORTUNITIES

So maybe the next question is, how do I start to speak more Japanese? Of course, maybe it’s a little strange to start striking up a conversation with the cashier at the register. But there are many ways to find people in social settings and the more you open yourself up to meeting new people, the more friends you’ll find you’ve made!

Here are a few suggestions:

● You can join clubs and sports meetups to find people with similar hobbies. Sharing similar interests means you already share that common ground!

● Striking up a conversation with someone in a bar or restaurant is another great way to practice and sometimes these spontaneous conversations are extremely good practice because the topics can be diverse. There’s no pressure or goal, it’s just a few folks having a good time over food and drinks!

● If you’re in Japan for school or work, you might be in a great spot to meet people! There are always student activities, like group circles or hangouts. And you can also take advantage of working with the same people every day to strike up conversations in passing or use Japanese in more formal settings. Who knows, maybe you’ll become friends naturally?

● There are also language exchange apps like Hellotalk and HiNative. I’ve met lots of people through these apps, and the best part is that these are people who share the same desire as me: to get better at speaking their chosen language.

● Sharehouses! No surprise, sharehouses are great for learning languages! They’re a little like the best of all worlds; they bring together people with similar goals: making friends and learning more about other cultures. Borderless House in particular hosts lots of great events that give tenants a chance to kick back and have fun with one another, so you can really take advantage of the Borderless House’s support network and Borderless Mates network. Another great aspect of sharehouses is that you’re forced to really communicate with each other to live together happily and peacefully. You’ll learn more about other people’s values, unique perspectives, backgrounds, and what inspires them. And better yet, because you live together, it’s only natural that you can become closer a little at a time, day by day.

What do you think?

IN CONCLUSION

Truly, it wasn’t until I made a concerted effort to step out of my comfort zone that I felt my language ability starting to improve. And as my language ability began to improve, Japanese also started to become more and more fun and making friends became easier. Even now, I still make plenty of mistakes, but that’s not a bad thing at all. It’s important to remind yourself that everyone starts somewhere, even you, with your native language, and look at you now!

Perhaps you haven’t yet had the chance to visit, but you’d like to experience Japan for yourself! If you’ve found this page, maybe that day is sooner rather than later. Good luck!

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✨Rent Prepay Discount✨

Hello everyone!

Thank you for your continuous support and love for BORDERLESS HOUSE! We hope that each tenant can find a sense of home here and create wonderful memories with friends from all over the world.

In appreciation of our long-term supporting tenants, we have specially introduced exclusive discounts for those on long-term leases, making your life at BORDERLESS HOUSE even more exciting. Join us in creating more unforgettable memories and enjoy this unique international exchange experience together!

Plan Details

Prepay your rent and utilities to enjoy the following exclusive discounts:

1. Half-Year Prepayment Plan:
• Receive a half-month rent reduction.
2. One-Year Prepayment Plan:
• Receive a one-month rent reduction.
• Utilities will be a fixed monthly charge of NT$800.

Important Notes:

1. Not affected by any adjustments in rent or utilities, and cannot be combined with other promotions.
2. In the event of early termination due to personal reasons, prepaid rent and utilities are non-refundable.
3. If there is a violation of the contract or circumstances deemed unsuitable for residing at BORDERLESS HOUSE, we reserve the right to terminate the contract immediately. We will refund the remaining rent for the period, but the tenant must reimburse the discounted amount during the promotional period.

Application Process

Form Submission ▶ Contact Staff ▶ Email Confirmation ▶ Contract Signing at the office and Payment (within 7 days)

*Please proactively reach out to us after submitting the form. Thank you!

Q&A

1. After applying, when is the earliest I can enjoy the rent discount?
The effective date for the prepayment discount is the 1st of each month, and the application process takes 3-5 business days (excluding the signing procedure). Please make sure to apply in advance to avoid delays.
2. Is it possible to request the relocation of the house or room in the future?
Yes, it is possible. The discount will be recalculated based on the duration of residence in the two rooms.
3. Can I apply for the prepayment discount with a one-year contract?
Yes, you can. The contract type and prepayment discount do not conflict.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Thank you:)

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The Ultimate Introduction to BORDERLESS HOUSE

Hope this guide helps you to learn more about BORDERLESS HOUSE!
※Click the PowerPoint to see the details!

What is an international share house – Borderless House? 

★Concept of an international share House★

BORDERLESS HOUSE is a place that gathers young people from all over the world and makes them live under the same roof to share diverse experiences.

Our tenants are from more than 150 countries, our community is like a small version of a global village! We create a multicultural environment that people from different countries and backgrounds can have a mutual understanding. 

★Vision of Borderless House★

We hope to create an open-minded multi-cultural society that is free of discrimination. We welcome everyone who shares the same vision with us and have sympathy for our concept join us and make this world a better place!!

★Residents of Borderless House★

At Borderless House, there are half Japanese and half non-Japanese at each house, so you will have chances to practice your Japanese and learn new languages every day. In this multilingual living environment, you have many chances to brush up on your language skills!

We have an age limit – from 18~35 years old in order to build a closely tied community in more or less the same age group.

Check the interview with our tenants to see if Borderless House would be the best option for you and what does life look like at Borderless House!

What services does Borderless House provide? 

★Staff members of Borderless House★

We aim to provide great experiences that our tenants can not acquire if they live alone and focus on the quality of the community rather than just offering accommodation to our residents, we have house management teams who will support you when you have any issues in our share house.

Each staff member has made their own life-long memories through living abroad or in a sharehouse. From general inquiries about living in a sharehouse to specific questions regarding a specific house’s community and atmosphere. We assist you with any problems before and after you move in, and we are always happy to give you advice regarding any other worries you may have.

Click here to meet our staff!

★Special Programs that you can only find at Borderless House★

✦Language Exchange

Language Exchange is an online communication service that allows you to brush up your language skills while having fun chatting with other Borderless Mates.

We have 1 on 1 Language Exchange that you can choose from multiple languages! This is for those who want to utilize the time to speak with their partners. We also have a Group Language Exchange for 3~5 people, which is for those who want to listen to and acknowledge the feelings, opinions, and ideas of others.

✦Club activities 

Club activities is a program for people who share common interests and themes. You can enjoy offline activities, online activities that you can participate in anywhere, and regular offline events hosted by Borderless House.

✦Borderless Travel

You can stay for free at the Borderless House(Japan, Korea, Taiwan) overseas where you are traveling! The period of stay is from 1 week to 1 month.
Moving in is free of cost, and you will be able to stay at the house after your scheduled move-out for cheap as well.

✦Borderless Mates Library

This large library-like platform is full of knowledgeable and passionate Borderless Mates. You can search for Borderless Mates with a wide variety of charms and characters to interact with and learn from them. Because Borderless Mates not only have diverse nationalities and language abilities but also have a range of international experience in specialized careers and hobbies. Undoubtedly there are Borderless Mates around the world who have the same interests or areas of
specialization. We help you to connect with Borderless House Mates around the world!

✦Career Support 

Housing & Career Support Program is a perfect program for those who have a dream of working and living in Japan! We cooperate with a company that provides professional career support for foreigners living in Japan, such as counseling and advisory services, tips for job-hunting, Japanese business manner, resume writing and interview coaching, and essential Japanese language. We hope to help you to land a dream job in Japan!

How to make a reservation with Borderless House? 

The processes of making a reservation with us are extremely easy!

No guarantor needed! We will get you the best house suggestions right after you send us an inquiry form. In order to make sure the house you choose is the most suitable for you and to solve all of your concerns and doubts before you book the room, we will arrange a SKYPE call with you to give you all the information you need and answer your questions!

We also have some frequent answer questions, feel free to check our FAQ page!

Why Borderless House is the best choice for you if you want to experience Japan deeply? 

Make Japanese friends at once!

You will always have Japanese housemates who are interested and excited to make international friends. No Japanese language experience is required!
From the first day you arrive in Japan, you’ll be able to make Japanese friends from the comfort of your own home.

Explore Japanese culture authentically!

From exploring hidden local restaurants, attending firework festivals, to cooking traditional Japanese foods… there are many authentic experiences that you can only experience when living along with Japanese friends.
You will undoubtedly make unforgettable memories and gain a deeper love for Japan.

Residents looking for daily interaction!

Most of our tenants choose to stay at our share house because they want to participate in cultural and international exchange.
From cooking dinner together to visiting popular local areas with your housemates, every day will be full of international exchange moments!

Still, have questions for us? Feel free to message us or contact us here!

 ▶Check Share houses in Tokyo
 ▶Check Share houses in Osaka/Kyoto/Kobe