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.
Move-in process
Others
Management
The management company cleans the common areas twice a month. However, we ask all residents to clean up after themselves and keep shared spaces tidy after each use.
Event
We organize various events such as welcome parties, farewell parties, fireworks, and BBQs. Many other activities also happen naturally when sharemates discover common interests and hobbies.
We encourage you to keep an open mind, go with the flow, and enjoy trying new things together with your sharemates!
Cost
One of the biggest advantages of living in a share house is the great value for money.
The only initial fee is a ¥15,000 administrative fee, making it possible to enjoy a comfortable stay at an affordable price, even for a relatively short period of time.
Friend
Family members and friends are welcome to stay with you.
If you have a guest staying overnight, please let the shared LINE group know in advance. An additional fee of ¥1,000 per night applies.
House Viewing
We ask all prospective residents to view the house before moving in.
This allows you to get a feel for each house’s concept, atmosphere, and living environment. We will also have a short conversation with you during the viewing.
We welcome residents who feel, “I would love to live here!” after getting to know the house and its atmosphere.