Neighbors

Japanese apartment life has an unwritten rulebook — and some very written ones in your lease. Breaking these rules can result in warnings from your landlord, complaints from neighbors, or in serious cases, lease termination. Noise Rules Noise is the number one cause of neighbor complaints in Japanese apartments. Quiet Hours Most buildings have quiet hours: 10pm–8am (or similar) Some specify stricter rules: after 9pm in older buildings Common Noise Violations Running and stomping — sound travels dramatically through thin Japanese floors Vacuuming before 9am or after 9pm Playing music without headphones Loud phone calls (heard through walls) Washing machine after 9–10pm — many lease rules specifically mention this TV/game audio at high volume in evenings Floors Ground floor is ideal if you have children or are naturally loud. If you’re on upper floors, buy a 防音マット (soundproof mat) — essential for protecting your deposit and your relationship with downstairs neighbors. ...

In Japan, being a good neighbor is taken seriously. Residential community harmony (近所付き合い, kinjo-tsukiai) matters — especially in apartments where walls are thin and community rules are enforced. This guide covers what you need to know to fit in and avoid problems. The Greeting Visit (引越し挨拶, Hikkoshi Aisatsu) When you move into a new apartment, visiting your immediate neighbors to introduce yourself is standard practice. Who to Visit The apartments directly above, below, and on either side Sometimes the building manager (管理人) When to Go Within the first few days of moving in Avoid early morning or late evening — try mid-morning or late afternoon on a weekend What to Bring A small gift: ...