Living Like Royalty

Posted on 03/07/2023 Last updated on 01/11/2024

Want to live in a palace, then Japan is the place for you!

I’m sure everyone has dreamt what it would be like to feel like a royalty and
experience living in a palace. Even if it only for an overnight stay.
Japan is known for its beautiful heritage sites that provide people with an
insight into its wonderful culture.

There are so many palaces ranging from
Odawara Castle (where you can learn about ninjas and samurai and their
history), Kinkakuji temple also known as Golden Pavilion (it’s a three-floor
structure that overlooks a large beautiful pond with the top floor covered in
gold leaf coating) and the Imperial Palace (which is home of the Emperor of
Japan that also contains a museum section for viewing) just to name a few.

These castles have very beautiful architectural designs but they are not
only known for that, the heritage and story behind each is unique and
fascinating.If you’re someone who likes experiencing different cultures and
has an appreciation for traditional things then visiting the palaces here is a
great way to start.

Where you could actually be staying!

So…. I wasn’t wrong when I mentioned you’d have the opportunity to stay in a
palace! This is actually called a Leopalace.

For foreigners it’s not easy to rent apartments or houses in Japan. They are
very strict especially when looking to rent a house from a Japanese. These
leopalace apartments are owned by an agency that specializes in renting to
foreigners. You don’t have to speak Japanese as they also assist in
English.

Photo by UMAROCK

The apartment comes semi-furnished usually with a washing machine,
fridge, TV, cooking stove and internet access. The rent is usually expensive
and utility services connection such as water, electricity and gas are usually
done with the particular companies on your own.

A hefty deposit is needed as you would think the place your renting is the
actual palace where the Emperor stays. The deposit is about two months
rent depending on the location, in the event of any damages caused. Key
money is usually paid to the owner to thank them for renting you the
apartment, this is customary (not always required with Leopalace renting).
Lastly, a guarantor is required when renting an apartment in Japan (this
has to be a Japanese, but luckily there are agencies you can pay to take on
this role).

As stated earlier if you like experiencing new cultures don’t let this be a
deterrence because the pros far outweigh the cons. One such pro would be
avoiding the hassle of purchasing furniture and trying to get them sold or
dispose of when leaving. There is also customer care service available in
English to assist with any apartment issues such as repairs.

The Japanese Way

Sometimes it’s good to enjoy the simple things in life. Big is not always better!
Great satisfaction can sometimes be attained from something small and
simple. The apartment is small but it comes with all the things you need.
You’re just required to get a futon/mattress to sleep on and of course your
clothes and toiletries. Having a large space would only made you want to
buy items to fill the space which you don’t necessarily need. Sometimes
this results in clutter and having to clean a lot.

Photo by ojisan200

When I first arrived in Japan, I was quite surprised when I saw the size and
was a bit worried as I wasn’t accustomed to living in such a small space.
The first impression people have when viewing a space small is that it
restricts them. If you’re here for cultural exchange by yourself then it won’t
be a problem.

Fortunately, there are other housing options available with larger space so
no need to worry! I only mentioned this one in particular because it’s the
simplest and easiest housing available especially for a new person just
entering the country. It would also give you a better sense of the kind of
space you so desire when looking to move into something bigger.

Looking to relocate in Japan to a Leopalace or other kind of apartment? Borderlink can support you in your relocation when you join as an Assistant Language Teacher! Apply today for more information!

Photo Credits:

Top photo: ERINGI51 on PhotoAC

Additional photos by UMAROCK , ojisan200