Okayama Prefecture’s first share house with an international exchange concept opens in the Okayama Station area
March 2026: Okayama Prefecture and Okayama City’s first international exchange share house opens.
The concept is a “department store of life’s opportunities.” This share house, which has welcomed people from 47 countries in Kobe City, Osaka City, and Akashi City, is making its debut in Okayama. We welcome a diverse range of residents, including working professionals, university students, language school students, and those taking a career break.
A warm space inspired by “Sunny Country Okayama”
A stylish detached house, originally used as a residence, has been renovated into a share house. The living room features a dining table for meals and a raised seating area (“ko-agari”) where residents can relax and socialize, offering flexible use depending on the occasion. The design was handled by Yuta Kotani, a licensed architect who received a thesis award (Master’s) from Kinki University Graduate School. The design balances comfort and spaciousness, incorporating warm elements like a solid wood table made from locally sourced timber.
Move in with almost nothing but the clothes on your back, suitable for short-term stays too
The common areas are equipped with a washing machine, dryer, refrigerator, cooking appliances, and cleaning supplies. By bringing your own futon, you can move in with “almost nothing but the clothes on your back.” The minimum stay is 3 months, creating an environment friendly for short-term residents. Private rooms come fully furnished with essentials: air conditioner, bed, mattress, desk, chair, curtains, and storage. Initial costs total approximately ¥100,000, covering administrative fees, prorated first-month rent and common area fees, plus the full rent and common area fees for the following month.
Safe and Secure Management System
The operating company, Machiake, has managed share houses for over 10 years, including before its incorporation. It has received the “Human-Scale Community Development Award (Encouragement Prize)” from Hyogo Prefecture for creating spaces for international exchange. To address diverse concerns, house rules are established, and locks are installed on each private room and the entrance. A system is in place allowing residents to easily contact the responsible staff if any issues arise.
Move-in Procedures Available Online and In-Person. Electronic Contracts, 6 Languages Supported
To meet growing international demand, we offer comprehensive support for residents arriving from abroad. Online viewings and electronic signature services allow the entire move-in process to be completed remotely. We also accept credit card payments and provide support in six languages, including Japanese, English, and Chinese. This approach has enabled residents from 47 countries, primarily from Europe and America, to utilize our services.
Photos
【 Common Space 】
【Rooms】
Rooms
| Room | 広さ |
|---|---|
| 101 | 8.8㎡ |
| 102 | 8.8㎡ |
| 103 | 11.8㎡ |
| 104 | 11.4㎡ |
| 201 | 8.4㎡ |
| 301 | 12.0㎡ |
| 302 | 10.4㎡ |
| 303 | 9.9㎡ |
| 304 | 9.9㎡ |
Address
〒700-0026 4-19-28 Houkan-cho, Kita Ward, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
Access
JR Okayama Station West Exit (Conventional Lines/Shinkansen) 12-minute walk
Stores
Supermarket: Mori no Marche Hokancho Store – 2 min walk
Drugstore: Welcia Okayama Hokancho Store – 1 min walk
7-Eleven – 7 min walk
Hokancho Shopping Street (many stores) – 1 min walk
Requirements
15 years of age or older (Minors must sign a contract in the name of a parent or guardian)
Regardless of gender
Foreigners welcome
Please present your ID (passport/resident card for foreigners) and emergency contact information when you move in. In addition, minors need parental consent form.
Facilities
Common areas: Refrigerator / Microwave oven / Electric kettle / Rice cooker / Vacuum cleaner / Washing machine provided.
Each room: Air conditioner / Bed frame / Desk and chair / Hanger rack provided.
Others
Management
Each share house has one manager to support your daily life. While the management company handles cleaning twice a month, please make it a habit to clean up after yourself each time you use something. Unlike share houses where the management company and owner are separate, this share house allows direct communication with the owner, enabling smooth improvements.
Event
Share house events include welcome parties, farewell parties, fireworks, barbecues, and more, but many also start spontaneously from shared interests among housemates. We recommend keeping an open mind, going with the flow, and trying various things together with your housemates.
Cost
The best thing about share houses is undoubtedly their cost-effectiveness. Beyond rent and common area fees, the only initial cost is a ¥15,000 administrative fee.You can stay affordably even for short periods.
Friend
Family and friends are welcome to stay overnight.When staying overnight, please notify the shared LINE group in advance.Please pay ¥1,000 per night.
Move-in Process
Prospective residents are required to schedule a viewing.This allows you to experience each share house’s unique concept and atmosphere. After a brief conversation, we welcome those who genuinely feel, “I definitely want to live here!” to move in.
１．Contact
２．Visit
３．Deposit payment
４．Determination of move-in date
５．Signing of contract, payment of monthly rent
６．Moving ※The above is the basic flow. We respond flexibly according to your situation.
以上は基本的な流れです。ご入居様に合わせて対応します。お気軽にご相談ください。