Congratulations! You got approved to move into your new Japanese Apartment. Other than organizing and decorating, getting off on the right foot with the neighbors should be a top priority!
Here are a few quick golden tidbits to help you create domestic harmony.
- Use Japanese with your neighbors
Your new neighbors may be concerned that the language barrier may make communication impossible. Additionally, not engaging in pleasantries due to said language barrier could potentially be interpreted as Unfriendly. So no matter your Japanese level, a little konichiwa or ohaiyo gozaimasu goes a long way.
- Offer a gift to set the tone.
It is a token of goodwill if you introduce yourself by bearing gifts for your new neighbors. For those of you who live in an apartment complex with lots of other residents, it might be a good move to pass out gifts to 3 or 4 neighbors on either side of you. Gifts can be a snack or a mini towel.
- Noise
It’s quiet… too quiet. You might have noticed that Japanese tenants are very respectful of their neighbor’s peace and quiet. If you follow suit, you will avoid any potential noise complaints.
That is it for today! Just a few nuggets of Japnese etiquette.
As always, we’d love for you to come say hi to us at our International Real Estate branch in Kusunoki. We help foreigners find apartments in Hiroshima and Okayama. Reach out to our staff who can speak English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Spanish if looking for a place at ryowainternational@ryowahouse.co.jp