Useful Tips for Living Alone in Japan
Doing things alone, also known as Ohitorisama, is a lifestyle that is not unfamiliar to the Japanese, especially the younger generation.
They prefer doing everything on their own, such as dining alone, watching movies alone, living alone, and even getting married alone. This lifestyle is gaining popularity among both Japanese locals and foreigners working in Japan. Many believe that it promotes comfort and independence, freeing them from dependency on others.
However, living alone, especially for women, poses certain risks. While independent living is not necessarily negative, it's important to keep some tips in mind to protect yourself.
- Choose Your Accommodation Wisely:
Your home is where you'll spend a significant amount of time and seek refuge after long hours of work. When renting a place, consider bringing trusted individuals, especially close friends, to inspect the room thoroughly. Check for any damages such as lock issues, plumbing, convenient location, reasonable pricing, and importantly, look for hidden cameras. A tip is to turn off all lights and use a flash to check for any blinking devices if you decide to rent the room.
image: biehomestay
Pay attention to the quality of locks and heating systems. Opt for high-quality locks with anti-theft features to prevent incidents like theft. Heating systems are crucial, especially during the cold winters in Japan, so scrutinize them.
Choose a location near populated areas for safety and convenience in shopping for necessities. Being close to a community can also assist when needed.
- Maintain Communication with Family and Friends:
While living alone offers freedom, it is important to still stay in touch with family and friends for support during challenging times. People around you can be more accessible for help and assistance. Cultivate quality relationships to have peace of mind while living alone.
- Establish a Realistic Budget Plan:
Image: arrontheautonerd
Living alone means taking care of various expenses independently, from housing to utilities and food. This often requires a well-thought-out budget plan, considering your income. A budget will help you allocate funds for emergencies, ensuring financial stability throughout the month.
- Equip Yourself with Necessary Skills and Tools:
Living alone means taking on responsibilities for basic problem-solving. Prepare essential tools for minor repairs and learn basic maintenance skills if you prefer to handle issues independently. The experience of fixing something simple by yourself can boost your confidence.
Image: Bosshammerco
These are some basic tips that GoEMON wants to share if you are considering living alone in Japan. If you have any additional tips, feel free to comment and contribute to improving future articles!
