Welcome to
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Housing in Japan

Meiji Gakuin University

Students studying at Meiji Gakuin University will stay in either university dormitory rooms or in private share-house accommodations. 

Totsuka Share-house

Participants staying in the off-campus share house will experience what it's like to live like a local, while still having the benefit of shared common spaces that foster community. You'll live in double or single-occupancy rooms with a bed, desk, and closet space for each person. Shower rooms and toilets are single-occupancy but shared among residents on each floor, and downstairs a large kitchen is a great place to come together with your other program participants to share meals and conversation. 

Looking for a way to meet more local people? The share-house has both international and Japanese residents from different backgrounds and age groups. Also downstairs is an onsen (traditional Japanese bath and steam room), movie viewing room, quiet study area, laundry facilities, and a main desk with security. E-bikes are available locally to help get around the neighborhood.

These share-house accommodations are approximately a 25-45 minute commute to the Yokohama Campus. Most students choose to walk to the closest train station, go one stop to Totsuka station, and take the bus up the hill to Meiji Gakuin.

Meiji Gakuin International Student House (MISH)

For a traditional Japanese dormitory experience, MISH residence is a popular option. Rooms at MISH are all single occupancy, include a small ensuite bathroom, desk, and storage area for luggage. If you are staying at MISH you will have the opportunity to participate in the partial meal plan offered, but students with dietary restrictions should note that there are no public kitchen facilities for self-catered meals, and the small kitchen staff cannot accommodate dietary restrictions at this time. 

Downstairs there are separate male and female laundry machines, a traditional onsen bath, study room, and the security desk where the dormitory manager is available during business hours.

Past students have reported that the dormitory rules at MISH tend to be a little more strict than at their home universities. There are no outside guests allowed into the building, residents are asked not to congregate in common areas, and in addition to quiet hours for study, there is also a curfew. However, this makes for a serene and very academically focused environment, which is an important staple of Japanese student life.

Toyo University

Students studying at Toyo University will stay in the recently built AI-House HUB 4 student dormitory located in Akabane. AI-House is a Toyo University run student residence comprised of single rooms on single-gender floors, grouped into "pods" of 7 students each with their own RA. Bathrooms and showers are shared by floormates, and the open-concept design of AI House offers many hangout spaces in the center of each floor with resident rooms and quiet study rooms lining the perimeter. There is a partial meal plan at AI-House for all residents served on the ground floor, and  and each floor also has its own shared kitchen area with dedicated cubbie and refrigerator space for each resident. There is a music room with soundproofed walls and instruments for rent for those late night jam sessions. RA's can show you the best spots to get some late night snacks in Akabane.

While not on the main Hakusan Campus, AI-House is only about a 20 minute train ride away. 

J.F. Oberlin University

Students studying at J.F. Oberlin University will stay in an off-campus hotel that has the feel of efficiency apartments. Room sizes are modest, but do include an en-suite bathroom, microwave and hot plate, and a private space to relax and focus on work. Experience what it’s like to live in a cozy, space-conscious room that often feature fold-away furniture. The hotel is in a quieter neighborhood but within walking distance to Tokyo’s highly efficient public transportation system. Commute time to classes will be 25-30 minutes by train. Depending on the timing of your program, you may stay in a different location than the one pictured, but the experience and amenities will be comparable.

Maintaining a Harmonious Living Environment

When sharing living spaces, it is important to act responsibly and considerately toward your fellow residents. This includes being mindful of noise levels, turning off lights and windows when not in use, and adhering to specific rules outlined in your housing contract.

The goal is to create a safe, comfortable, and healthy living environment for all residents. Rules may vary depending on the program, but these guidelines are in place to ensure that everyone can enjoy their time in the residence hall.

• Communicate effectively with your roommates and neighbors. Establish ground rules for noise levels and other activities, and work together to create a peaceful and comfortable living space.
• Show respect to the other occupants in your apartment or residence. Clean up after yourself and ensure your living space is always tidy and organized.
• Be polite to your neighbors, greet them in the hallways, and avoid disturbing them late at night.
• Maintain the safety of yourself, your roommates, and your belongings. Be cautious about inviting guests and overnight stays.
• Take responsibility for your own cooking and cleaning. Wash your dishes daily and keep the bathroom clean. Avoid leaving your personal items in common areas.
• Keep in mind that you are financially responsible for the condition of the apartment. Additional cleaning may incur charges. Damages to the apartment will be your responsibility to cover.