Proper bathroom ventilation helps prevent mold, mildew, and condensation—and it's especially important in Japanese homes, where humidity levels can be high. Here’s a clear, user-friendly guide to ventilating your bathroom effectively.1. Why Ventilate After Bathing?Warm, moist air from a hot bath or shower easily condenses on cooler surfaces such as walls, ceilings, or ventilation ducts. This...

While most Japanese residences do not have central heating and air conditioning, they do typically come with at least one wall-mounted air conditioner installed in smaller apartments and multiple wall units positioned throughout larger homes.Air conditioners in Japan generally work via a remote control. For those new to Japan or who are looking to access the full range of typical air conditioner functions,...

Japanese housing complexes are equipped with collective mailboxes.Here are some common ways to unlock them.In this video, it opens by aligning the numbers.right 0 twice, left 5...

Step 1: Ensure the light switch (and remote, if applicable) are turned onEvery light in your home will have a wall switch, and in many cases, a remote control as well (mainly for the living, dining, bedrooms).  Check to make sure BOTH the wall switch and the switch on the remote (if applicable) are turned on.  If either is turned off, you will not be able to turn on the light.  If you are unable to turn...

As street parking in Japan is illegal, every vehicle owner needs to secure their own parking space.  Most properties come with their own parking space, with standalone houses often having several.  In the case that your rental property does not include parking, or if you require an additional parking space, you would need to rent a monthly parking space.  Thes contracts generally last for either one or...

Using Clothes Dryers in JapanClothes dryers in Japan are less common than in many Western countries. While most households still prefer air-drying clothes, dryers are becoming more popular in urban areas. Here are some useful tips if you are planning to use one.1. Key Features of Japanese DryersSmaller SizeDryers in Japan are usually compact, designed to fit in small apartments. Capacity is often 3–6 kg,...

In Japan, finding the occasional cockroach or two in your house is often inevitable.  The hot and humid summers here create their ideal environment to thrive.Here are a few methods and suggestions as to prevent cockroach infestation, as well as what to do in the case you were to find any in your home.Tips for preventing cockroach infestation:1. Do not leave trash unattended. Cover any trash cans to...

Using Washing Machines in JapanWashing machines in Japan may look familiar at first glance, but they often work quite differently from those in other countries. Here are some key points to help you use them effectively.1. Key Features of Japanese Washing MachinesTop-Loading StyleMost Japanese washing machines are top-loading, while many Western countries use front-loading machines.Compact SizeMachines are...

As street parking is illegal in Japan, proof of parking is required anytime you purchase or register a vehicle.  Our office can issue you a parking certificate upon request (each copy is 5,000 yen plus tax).  Please note the following:We are only able to assist with parking certificates for properties under our management.  If your property is managed by a different agency you will need to contact that...

Step 1: Ensure the water heater is turned onCheck to make sure the water heater is turned on.  The water temperature, and/or a green light on the “on/off” button should be displayed.  The water heater control panel is generally found near the kitchen (in many cases, there is a second control panel near the bathtub.  If the water heater was turned off, press the “on/off” button and check to see...