Job Discussion Forums

candy_girl · Joined: 08 Jul 2005 Posts: 14

Just asking for a little help regarding accommodations. Right now I'm working with one of the big four companies and I agreed to their accommodations. For the first few weeks, so far so good, because I don't speak Japanese fluently and especially so because I'm located just outside but work in Tokyo. However the roommate situation is starting to get on my nerves and I want to be located closer to the action in central Tokyo. I'm wondering if there are any reasonably priced and sized apartments available in central Tokyo or is a commute from central Tokyo pretty much all that's availalble? And if so, I'm wondering if the gaijin houses are worth it, I've heard some of them have 10 to a floor and they all share the same kitchen and bathroom. It might be well worth it to live closer to things, however are there other options available?

earthmonkey · Joined: 18 Feb 2005 Posts: 188 Location: Meguro-Ku Tokyo

bornslippy1981 · Joined: 02 Aug 2004 Posts: 271

Check out the Metropolis adverts for apartments and guest houses. Like Earthmonkey said, initial costs can be quite expensive, and might not be worth it if you're only here a year.

I lived in a guest house, and it was okay. During the 10 weeks or so I was there, it was just me and one other person. However, he got on my nerves, especially his lack of flushing the toilet. I also didn't like the rats in the ceiling waking me up most mornings.

Of course, not all guest houses are like this. I looked at one yesterday which was brand new, but you still have to share the kitchen and bathroom. It was in a more residential area, so probably no rat alarm clocks.

Also, if you're in company accommodation, consider your rent is probably deducted for the previous month, and if you move, you might have a deposit and of course the first months' rent. After a few signatures, you've just had 60% of your paycheck gone for rent. In the end it balances out, but the first month or two can be tight.