Since 1992, Oakhouse has provided housing to both the foreign and Japanese community in Tokyo. Within the strict rental industry of Tokyo, they have manage to provide deposit/key money and guarantor free accommodations to all.
Through their friendly and bilingual staff Oakhouse aims to fulfill everyone of their guest’s needs. Whether you are currently in Japan or planning on visiting in the future, Oakhouse is one of the best places to start your housing search in Tokyo.
What are some of the advantages of living in a guesthouse?
The biggest difference is the easy check-in without the hassle of paying shikikin (deposit money), reikin (key money), and finding a guarantor. Another big advantage is the ability to immediately move-in. Guesthouses also tend to include all the comforts of home: air conditioner, television, refrigerator, Internet access, furniture and so much more (Oakhouse guesthouses also include a common area with kitchen staff and computer for all to use).
You can expect to meet loads of people, both Japanese and non-Japanese, from diverse backgrounds from all over the world. Guesthouses are an excellent chance to meet people from around the world and see your cultural and language awareness level skyrocket!
What are some of the costs involved besides rent?
Cleaning and electricity – that’s it (fixed price so use freely).
My first impression of a guesthouse is being very chaotic. Is that really the case?
Although I can’t speak for other guesthouses, Oakhouse provides professional cleaners. However, be aware… their responsibilities end at your door. Please remember that it is your responsibility to keep your room tidy.
Why do most people choose a guesthouse over living alone?
People pick guesthouses for two simple reasons: instant friendships and affordability. People enjoy living in guesthouses because of the dual-ability of speaking English with other foreigners and a chance to speak Japanese with the locals. You can literaly travel the world in a guesthouse!
Do you have any tips on getting the “best room” in the house?
The most important thing is deciding what matters most to you. Whether it’s the location, monthly rent, or the size of the room, you need to prioritize which is more important. Once decided, contact a guesthouse directly to see what is available. Oakhouse has bilingual staff on hand in our Ikebukuro office (phone also OK!) who can help you find your ideal room.
- Name: Robin Stacey
- Position: Software programmer by career, but at the moment I’m on holiday! I’ll be studying japanese a little during the holiday but might also travel.
- Nationality: Australian
The location! I have friends who hang out in 下北沢, so it’s really convenient that the Sakura House guesthouse is so close. In addition it’s in a really nice neighbourhood, and really close to transportation. The guesthouse itself is really nice too; my room is ample (and even has a private balcony). The shared kitchen and lounge are much larger than what I might find in a 1LDK, and I’m not paying as much!
I am looking to improve my Japanese before the JLPT. What is the ratio of Japanese to foreigners in your guesthouses?
20% to 30% of Oakhouse residents are foreigners. There are many who actively practice their Japanese, and are able to improve their language ability by practicing communication skills with other Japanese residents.
I’ve heard that many guesthouses have fun events all year-round. If any, can you tell us about Oakhouse events?
We host parties for newly opened guesthouses, Halloween, and many other events throughout the year. Furthermore, residents from each guesthouse also hold private parties of their own.
Just curious, what was the longest someone ever lived in one of your guesthouses?
We still have a tenet with us who moved in right after we opened 8 years ago. Most of our residents, however, tend to stay with us for an average 3 to 6 months.
Any last advice?
Oakhouse aims to help both foreigners and Japanese looking to start their new life in Tokyo by making the search for friendly and affordable housing easy!
With over 70 guesthouses (October 2007) in Tokyo and Kanagawa, we make the move to different locations hassle free. Also, become an Oakhouse Club member and get a monthly discount on your rent – other Oakhouse Club discounts available!
If you are looking for rooms in Tokyo, start your search by contacting our Guesthouse Information Center. We will help you find the room of your dream!
