Life at SOCIAL APARTMENT

At Social Apartment, residents enjoy a special “Residents App” that helps them stay connected with the management company and fellow residents. It’s a one-stop shop for everything from maintenance updates to communication with neighbors. Recently, a new feature called “Circle” was added, aiming to bring even more ways for residents to interact.  This article introduces “Circle” and shows how residents are already making the most of it!   What’s the “Circle” feature all about?   The “Circle” feature is a fun new way for residents to connect with over 3,000 Social Apartment residents nationwide! You can create or join groups based on your interests, making it easy to find like-minded people to share activities, ideas, and memories with.    It’s a great platform to expand your inner circle, discover new hobbies, and build connections. We chatted with one of the circle founders to learn more about how it’s being used!   We caught up with the creators of the Circle feature to learn more! In just five days after launch, there were already 30 circles! (As of the end of August, 78 circles have been created!) Over 1,500 residents have already joined in on the fun, but what inspired you to create this feature?   Ito (top right photo): At first, we really wanted to make interactions more visible. It’s hard to explain how lively a place is with just words, even if we say, “This place is full of social energy!”  But in reality, so many interactions happen every day, and the Circle feature lets those interactions take shape in a way that makes it easier for new residents to get involved.   When people are thinking about moving into a social apartment, telling them about these fun circles helps them picture the vibe. People say things like, “I love that too! I feel like I’d fit right in!”   Watanabe (bottom center photo): Also, we wanted to make the most of the 3,000 residents. I remember when I lived in a property in Kobe, we tried to organize a baseball tournament and a music event, but we couldn’t get enough people to join. It’s tough to gather people in just one property, and sometimes people with niche interests can’t find others to connect with. But with the entire social apartment network, I’m sure you’ll meet others who share your passions! The thought of there being 3,000 potential new friends? So exciting!   I was amazed when I saw that 50 people joined the “Molkky Club”. Molkky isn’t that well-known of a sport, but seeing how many people came together just because of the social apartment network was truly inspiring!   Ito: But honestly, at first, we weren’t really thinking about connecting residents across different properties. Since launching, we’ve realized there are so many unexpected ways people are using the Circle feature. Originally, we just wanted people with similar hobbies to find each other more easily, but now we’re seeing groups where people share knowledge, like “Study Groups for Certifications” where they help each other out with things they don’t understand, or cheer each other on when things get tough. It’s such a wonderful, supportive community!   I really hope this Circle feature helps people feel like they’re not alone, like there are friends out there waiting to be found. And for those who moved into a social apartment but haven’t yet found a way to connect, I hope this gives them the perfect excuse to take that first step!   To the Catan Circle!   Using the Circle feature right away, the “Catan Circle” group formed. This time, we’re going to dive into the Catan Circle and introduce how the Circle feature is used, how members communicate, and what other types of circles are available!   Timeline Leading Up to the Event Day   We asked Ucchi from Neighbors Saginuma, the founder of the Katan Circle, about the steps and preparations leading up to the event day.  Ucchi: At Neighbors Saginuma, Catan was popular, and residents often played together. They even rented an Airbnb for a Catan retreat. When the Circle feature launched, Ucchi created the Katansaku Circle, and it quickly grew, bringing in participants from other properties for an event!   The process was as follows: ・Announce the event within the group ・Use “Chouseisan” to find a suitable date ・Invite participants to a LINE chat for further coordination   Ucchi also suggested adding scheduling and chat features directly within the app. The “Circle” feature in the Residents App became the perfect way to bring people together! After connecting through the app, they used LINE for smoother communication.  Residents also shared some great feedback, suggesting that built-in tools for scheduling and chatting directly within the app would make things even easier and more fun!   What Happened on Event Day  Residents from six different properties came together at Neighbors Saginuma for the event, including one who traveled all the way from Terminals Ibaraki in Kansai! They even timed their work trip to Tokyo to join the Katan Circle.  Talk about dedication! Their spirit is definitely something to inspire us all!  While waiting for everyone to arrive, there was a fun Q&A session with introductions and chats about life at each property. Conversations like “This is the latest trend at our place!” and “Wow, your lounge looks amazing!” sparked instant connections. To help everyone remember names and properties, introduction cards were prepared in advance, making it even easier to break the ice!  Btw, what is the board game “Catan”?  Catan is a German board game created in 1995. Players take on the role of settlers on the fictional “Catan Island,” competing to develop towns and cities the fastest. By rolling dice, players gather resources, which they use to build settlements and expand their territories. The goal is to transform the barren landscape into thriving areas, with the player who develops their part of the island the most becoming the winner!  At Neighbors Saginuma, one resident got so hooked on Catan that they made it to the national tournament! After winning through the qualifiers, they placed an impressive 3rd, just shy of the world championships in Germany. Reaching 3rd place nationwide is already an amazing achievement!   Time to Play!!  Since some players were new to Catan, the game started off with a relaxed pace, explaining the rules. Experienced players kindly offered tips, like where to place pieces and which numbers are more likely to roll, making it beginner-friendly and fun for everyone!  Even though it was their first time meeting, everyone easily started chatting, and it felt that board games are great for helping people connect!   Nachiko from Neighbors Kamikitazawa loves Catan so much that she even tried to play it solo! She had been wanting to play but hadn’t had the chance lately, so when she saw the “Catan Circle”, she jumped at the opportunity to join.  Ucchi laughed, saying she even sent a direct message to join! Nachiko helped the beginners while still showing her strength in the game. This story highlights how the Circle feature connects people with niche interests, helping them find others with the same passions, no matter how specific.  Chan-nao from Neighbors Higashi-Jujo joined the event after remembering the fun of playing Catan about 8 years ago. She also created her own “Vocaloid Circle”.  She was excited to check out Neighbors Saginuma, impressed by the beautiful lounge. Other participants were thrilled to connect with people from different properties, sharing their joy about making new friends through the “Circle” feature. Many residents, especially remote workers, often move between properties every year or two, so it’s a great way to meet people across different locations!  Natsuki always wanted to try Catan but couldn’t find anyone to play with at her property. After discovering the Circle, she jumped in, and now she’s excited about aiming for the world tournament! Although she hasn’t joined other circles yet, she’s been checking them out through friends and is thinking about joining more. The creation of circles really sparked excitement at her property, and she’s looking forward to exploring more options!  After enjoying a round of Catan, a tour of Neighbors Saginuma began. Residents seemed fascinated as they explored the property, comparing it to their own. They were particularly interested in the differences, and it was clear that they enjoyed discovering the unique features of the place!  Thoughts after using the Circle.   Natsuki shared that it was a great opportunity to visit Saginuma, despite being so close, and she’s now motivated to aim for the Catan World Tournament! She had a great time and would love to meet up again.  Natsuko mentioned that she finally fulfilled her long-time Catan craving and had a blast. She’s even thinking of introducing the game to her property in Kamikitazawa and is excited to play again soon!  With the introduction of the “Circle” feature in Social Apartments, the opportunities for connection have greatly expanded. It has allowed residents to try things they’ve always wanted to do, meet like-minded people they couldn’t find within their property, and explore countless possibilities within the entire community.  The feature has opened up endless potential, and it’s exciting to see how different circles and creative uses will continue to emerge!   (Interview and text by Kido, photography by Uchida)  

Social Apartment is a new living style that combines the best aspects of “share houses” and “living alone”. We often receive requests from people who want to learn more about the atmosphere of the community in these spaces. This time, we focus on the community in the Social Apartment and talk to Nacchan, a resident of Neighbors Esaka. Nacchan lived in multiple share houses and even experienced living in share houses overseas. Having experienced various communities, Nacchan shares with us her insights about life in the Social Apartment community. ▲ Natsumi Ukita, also known as “Nacchan” by the residents. She is loved in the community for her active personality and her ability to get along with everyone.   Q: Thank you for joining us today. Could you introduce yourself briefly? I currently work as an engineer at an IT company. I’m actually half-Japanese, half-Filipino, and I’m multilingual—able to speak Japanese, English, Tagalog, and Korean! I also have a middle name, Gloria (though no one calls me that… Lol). I’ve lived in several share houses, including overseas, and I moved into Neighbors Esaka about a year ago.   Q: You’ve lived in several share houses, and even overseas! How was that experience? Yes, in an overseas share house, I lived with about eight people in a four-bedroom apartment. Since my room was shared with another person, it was hard to find private time, and there were times when I couldn’t truly relax. In Japan, I also lived in a share house with about 50 households.   Q: So, what made you decide to move into a Social Apartment? Well, with remote work becoming more common, I wanted a space where I could have more private time, especially a room with its own bathroom while being able to meet people from different generations, so I decided to move into a Social Apartment.  Before moving into Neighbors Esaka, I visited another Social Apartment, Terminals Takatsuki, several times. I had a great time cooking and playing games with people of different ages, and that made me think, “I’d love to live in a Social Apartment someday” . When I found Neighbors Esaka, which had a good commute to my workplace, a private bathroom in each room, and a lounge where I could do remote work, I made the decision to move in. ▲ The lounge space at Neighbors Esaka   Q: What were you most looking forward to when moving into Neighbors Esaka? I was most excited about connecting with the other residents. With over 80 households, I thought I’d be able to meet people from all walks of life, regardless of nationality or age. After moving in, I was pleasantly surprised by how many people spent time in the lounge, making it a very lively space for interaction. Because the kitchen is shared, it’s not always the same people in the lounge, so it’s easy to meet and connect with a variety of people. Seasonal events like birthday parties and Christmas gatherings are also a lot of fun for meeting new people.   Q: How would you describe the community atmosphere at Neighbors Esaka? It’s very “bright,” with many “sociable people” who are “active.” When I first moved in, people gave me a warm welcome and  invited me out, which made it easy to adjust in the community. So far, I’ve gone on trips to Takeda Castle, and we’ve organized a Yakiniku party with a beer tap from a local liquor store. Casual conversations in the lounge often lead to outings or events being planned without a hitch and I really enjoy that.   Q: Have there been any memorable events in the building? The most memorable event would probably be the BBQ we did together. It started with a casual conversation in the lounge about wanting to have a summer event, and it quickly grew into a full-blown BBQ. Events like these often emerge from casual ideas, and it’s something I really enjoy. Sometimes, people will decide to cook something together, like a hot pot dinner, just because they feel like it. Q: That sounds like a lot of fun! Now, let’s talk a bit about daily life. Neighbors Esaka has a great kitchen—do you often cook? Yes, I cook about three times a week. Before moving in, I was a little worried about whether I’d be able to use the kitchen whenever I wanted, given the large number of residents, but surprisingly, it’s usually available when I need it.  People are considerate during busy times, and if someone is using a space, they’ll ask if it’s okay to use it too, which makes cooperation easy. I also recommend using the kitchen as a way to strike up conversations with people! Lately, I’ve gotten into meal prepping for the week. Q: There are a lot of cooking appliances in the lounge. Do you have a favorite one? I really like the automatic cooker. You just put the ingredients and seasonings in, press a button, and it automatically cooks a delicious meal. It’s something I wouldn’t have bought for myself living alone, so I was really excited to use it when I moved in. If I ever move out of Neighbors Esaka, I might just buy one for myself! Q: Do you use the lounge at Neighbors Esaka often? Yes, I use it often. The main lounge with the kitchen is where I often chat with others or play board games. We also have a working and theater lounge where we watch anime on the projector. There’s also a rooftop terrace where I sometimes go to refresh myself during work. The rooftop also offers a great view of fireworks, which we all enjoyed together!   Q: Thank you for sharing all of this with us! Who would you recommend Neighbors Esaka to? I’d recommend it to people like me—who want their own private space, but also want the opportunity to interact with others and enjoy the amenities. The great thing is that you can avoid the lounge and go straight to your room if you want some privacy, so it’s easy to switch between socializing and having alone time, making it a flexible and comfortable living experience. Q: Finally, any words of encouragement for people considering moving into a Social Apartment? It’s a place where even adults can have a lot of fun if they change their environment! If you want to live a fulfilling life, I definitely recommend moving in!  

  One of the most enjoyable aspects of Social Apartment is the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life, with diverse hobbies, jobs, and backgrounds. Many residents discover new hobbies or career paths through the connections they make in the Social Apartment.   This time, we’re speaking with “Obu-chan,” a resident who has been living at “Neighbors Shibuya Kamiyama-cho” in the Okushibu area for four years. Obu-chan, who loves music, was drawn to the Shibuya area, known for its clubs and live houses. After moving in, she began DJing as a hobby in the apartment and now she is playing at clubs   How has living at Social Apartment influenced Obu-chan’s love for music? Let’s hear her story.   <Driven by a Passion for Music, She Began Her Journey in Shibuya Kamiyama-cho> What motivated Obu-chan to move into a Social Apartment?   The first time I found out about Social Apartment was through an Instagram ad. Actually, I had gone to view a property in Kiyosumi Shirakawa, but at that time, I didn’t have the courage to go through with it, so I put it off.   Then, about six months later, I found out that the Shibuya Kamiyama-cho location was opening, and I knew right away that I had to live there. I’ve always loved the Okushibu area, even before I lived here – I’d come on weekends just to enjoy the vibe.   Above all, I love music, and I was frequently in Shibuya for clubs and live houses. I used to go to a lot of live shows. Before the pandemic, I think I was attending a live performance at least once a week on average.   Knowing I could live in a neighborhood I love so much, I realized that if I didn’t act now, I would regret it. So, I decided to move in.   Shibuya’s buzzing nightlife and renowned club culture clearly played a key role in your decision.  Has living here made it easier to immerse yourself in the city’s nightlife?   It’s so much easier now! There are so many clubs within a 10-minute walk, so it’s super fun. Before living here, I had to take the train home, so I only had two options: either leave before the last train or stay out until morning. But now, I can go whenever I want and come back whenever I want.   After work, I can take a quick nap, wake up at 1 AM, hit a club, and be back by 3 AM—it’s part of the perks of living here (laughs).   Do you ever go to clubs with everyone from the Social Apartment? I do, but I also like to casually go on my own sometimes.   Which clubs do you usually go to?   My go-to spots are VENT, WOMB, and OR. I also DJ once a month at BRAND SHIBUYA, the closest club to the apartment.   “The Start of My DJ Journey: The Property’s 1st Anniversary Party” I heard you started DJing after moving into the Social Apartment?   That’s right. It all began with the 1st-anniversary party of the Shibuya Kamiyamacho property. A DJ booth was set up at the bar counter, and one of the residents’ friends performed as a DJ. During the party, they also held a kind of “DJ experience session,” where I got to try out the equipment for the first time.   It turned out that person was running a DJ community called “TOKYO DJ Club.” By coincidence, they had just started recruiting new members, so I joined. After practicing DJing for about six months, I started playing at clubs.   Actually, my first time DJing at a club was for a Social Apartment event. The residents of the Social Apartment organized an event at Shibuya’s CLUB CAMELOT, and I was invited to perform there—that was my DJ debut.   Have you met more people who are into music like you are at the Social Apartment?   Yes, I have. We even go to music festivals together now, like Fuji Rock and Summer Sonic. Sharing a common love for music has brought us closer.   Do your friends from the Social Apartment come to your DJ events?   Yes, they do. When I DJ at BRAND SHIBUYA, not only do the current residents come, but even former residents drop by as well. Sometimes, it feels like the club turns into our apartment lounge (laughs).   Using DJing to Connect with More Music Lovers It seems like DJing has really expanded your connections through music.   Yes, that’s exactly what I was aiming for with DJing.   There are two key reasons I started DJing.  The first was to deepen my own appreciation as a listener. I’ve played instruments before as part of a brass band and a light music club, but I wanted to explore more genres and discover more music.   The second reason was that I hoped to inspire more people to enjoy music. Around 2020, several clubs and live music venues I loved shut down. It was devastating for me—places like SOUND MUSEUM VISION, Contact Tokyo, and hotel koe tokyo.   Clubs often get a bad reputation from those who aren’t familiar with them. However, many clubs are simply places where music lovers come together. I’ve always wished more people who love music would experience these spaces.   People are often surprised when I say I’m a DJ, like, ‘You, really?’ (laughs). But I want to show that you don’t have to be the party animal type to enjoy clubs if you love music. It’s totally okay, and I think my experience reflects that.   In fact, many of the DJs I know are true music fanatics—they’re all about the music. How often do you DJ now?   I play about 2 to 3 times a month. When I DJ at clubs, I naturally meet more people, and the more I go, the more opportunities I get to be invited to events.   I’d like to know what kind of music you enjoy.   I like house music, especially deep house. I also enjoy tribal beats, and playing pop music is fun too, as I grew up listening to J-pop.   How do you typically enjoy music?   I often listen to music to tune into my current mood.   This is one of the reasons I’m grateful for DJing. Now, I can really understand what kind of music I want to listen to. I know exactly the type of vibe, the kind of sound, the tempo, and what I’m in the mood for.   When I choose tracks as a DJ, I’m thinking about all these factors.   The speakers in the lounge have great sound quality, so sometimes I’ll just play my playlist while working.   It seems like everyone looks forward to your music selections.   Some people say that! And on the flip side, I often discover great tracks that my friends play. I’ll Shazam the songs they play and add them to my playlist.   “Being around all kinds of people expands my world.” How do you usually spend your time in the Social Apartment?   After drinking parties, when I feel like I’m not done drinking yet, I’ll have a drink in the living room, or we’ll all watch shows like The Bachelor and yell at the TV together (laughs). We also go on trips, to saunas, or do escape room games together. The atmosphere is so cozy. It’s truly a place where I feel completely relaxed   I’ve also connected more with people living in other properties. People in Social Apartments are all very easygoing, even when meeting for the first time, so it’s easy to jump into large gatherings without feeling awkward. That’s something I really appreciate.   Finally, do you have a message for those considering moving in?   There are so many different kinds of people living here, and I get a lot of inspiration from them. I think it’s a place where your world expands as you start new things, inspired by the people you meet.   When you make friends at school or work, they often end up being similar to you, but here, you can meet people who are different from you, and that’s really appealing.   Everyone here is really easy to talk to, so it’s easy to connect and interact with people. If anyone’s unsure, I’d say don’t worry—just move in and give it a try!”

Have you ever thought about what it’s like to live in a social environment in Japan but are worried about your own language ability? Or maybe you are just curious about what kind of socialization happens at Social Apartment?   Well, look no further as we have been lucky enough to interview Josh, who lives at World Neighbors Kiyosumi-Shirakawa and started off knowing little Japanese when he first moved in! Not only is he willing to share his journey in improving his Japanese abilities, but he also has been kind enough to bring a few photos along of his adventures so far, giving you an exclusive inside look at life at Social Apartment!   -Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to talk about your experience living at Social Apartment! Would you be willing to please briefly introduce yourself?   Josh: Of course! My name is Josh Komala from San Francisco, California and I am Indonesian-American. I moved from America to Japan around a year ago as I wanted to experience life in a different country. I had previously visited Japan in 2019, and it was a lot of fun, so I thought why not try to live here and experience more than I could from just a vacation. -When you decided to live in Japan, why did you choose to live in a Social Apartment rather than a regular apartment?   Josh: I was definitely debating whether to live in a co-living environment or a regular apartment, but at the end of the day, I didn’t know anyone in Tokyo and thought living in a Social Apartment would allow me to make friends and be part of a community. I also liked the fact that you have your own personal room so that you can socialize when you want but at the same time, have that private space for yourself.   -I definitely think that’s a common decision that many foreigners have to pick between when they first arrive in Japan. So, how much Japanese did you know before you came to Japan?   Josh: Right before coming to Japan, I studied very basic words and greetings so I could get by. Other than that, I couldn’t speak any Japanese and I was a little nervous before moving in. However, on my first night that I moved in, I built up the courage to go to the lounge. When I entered, there were people there hanging out with each other playing board games. Everyone was so kind and warmhearted as they invited me to join them. I was speaking to them mostly in English with bits of the simple Japanese phrases I studied, but no one minded the language barrier as everyone was so friendly. Some of the Japanese residents could speak English, but what motivated me the most to improve my own Japanese-speaking skills was seeing that many of the other foreigners could speak Japanese so well.    -Living in a Japanese speaking environment for sure must exponentially improve one’s Japanese ability. How have you improved your Japanese skills to the point where you were at a conversational level after only 6 months of living in Japan?   Josh: Honestly, the best method for me to improve my speaking and listening skills was to just hang out with everyone and everything else would follow from there. What I mean by that is while you are spending time with everyone, you are constantly listening to Japanese and also speaking it, which allows you to actively practice while being able to enjoy everyone’s company.   Being able to participate in real face-to-face Japanese conversations allowed me to learn everyday Japanese phrases, which often differ from the stiff grammar you would learn from an ordinary textbook. In order to improve my vocabulary, I also have a dictionary app on my phone which quickly allows me to look up a word if I don’t understand it in a group conversation. This way, I am able to study new words without having to constantly stop the flow of the conversation to ask about the meaning. -Thank you for being willing to share some of the photos that you and the other residents have taken together! Could you explain the backstory of this photo with you all in the Yukatas?   Josh: I would love to! It was hard to choose only a few from the many photos I have, but this photo with everyone is very special to me. The reason being is that I was invited to my first fireworks festival in Japan only a month after I moved into my Social Apartment. This was kind of the turning point in terms of me being able to finally start communicating in Japanese with everyone.    During the whole festival, everyone was so willing to explain what was going on and explain their culture. If I didn’t understand what they were saying the first time around, they were so patient enough to try to use simple Japanese, which allowed me to grasp what they wanted to say. From that day on, I really felt a sense of community and belonging among everyone. -How do residents living at Social Apartment communicate with each other and set up events?   Josh: We have a LINE group chat that the residents are in where people communicate with each other and let people know of events. For example, fairly often when someone comes back from a trip, they`ll post a picture of the omiyage (souvenirs) they brought back and let everyone know they are free to take one. People write in this LINE group in both English and Japanese so it’s been a great way for me to improve my Japanese reading.    Also, we have different group chats for people who are interested in different hobbies such as saunas, video games, and going out and drinking. As you can see here, I discovered my love for saunas when I came to Japan and we often like to rent a car and go on day trips to experience different saunas all around.   -This photo looks very colorful! Were you doing yoga on the rooftop all together? Josh: Close! It’s actually pilates!  There used to be a pilates instructor that lived here and this photo is of the time when she held a free class for us on the rooftop of our building. It was during the winter, but the sun was out and it was more tiring than we thought, so we were all dripping in sweat by the end of it!  –Thank you so much for taking time out of your day today to share your Social Apartment experiences so far. Do you have any final words for people who are considering living in a Social Apartment or are hesitant to do so due to their language abilities?   Josh: I would say, just do it! Life is short, and you won’t get the opportunity to live in this type of environment when you get older. Whether you are a foreigner that can’t speak Japanese yet, or if you are Japanese and aren’t confident in your English abilities, living in a place like this will help you unlock so many new experiences. Together with some of the people who live here, I have been able to participate on road trips to many different places in Japan which would have been harder to plan with friends if I was living alone.   Of course, once again, everyone also has their own private room, ensuring a perfect balance between socializing when you want while also prioritizing your personal time when needed. I have not only just improved my Japanese during my stay here but I feel like I’ve personally become a much more confident person that I was when I first moved in. I`ll definitely never forget all the memories that I have experienced so far and am excited for all the new memories to come!

What could be better than going out drinking with friends from your own Social Apartment? How about elevating the experience by stepping into a world where the boundaries of friendship expand and getting to drink and mingle with residents at other Social Apartments!  The Hamacho Ikitsuke Sagashi was a bar hopping event organized by the Hamacho Area Management community organization. Participants were able to enjoy drinking and dining at over 30 restaurants at a discount with the purchase of coupon tickets in advance.  We at Social Apartment saw this event as a great opportunity for residents from different properties to come together and create new bonds. Thus, an event was organized by Social Apartment between the residents from WAVES Nihonbashi-Hamacho and their nearby World Neighbors. Picture a crisp Friday November night, filled with the promise of laughter and connection, as the vibrant communities of WAVES Nihonbashi-Hamacho and World Neighbors Kiyosumi-Shirakawa came together to kick off the weekend in style. As we ventured into the night, the initial shyness of meeting new people melted away faster than ice on a hot summer day. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as introductions gave way to the clinking of glasses, and the first sips of drinks accompanied by delectable steaks, signaled the beginning of an unforgettable evening. The WAVES Nihonbashi-Hamacho property was in the nearby vicinity of the event and the Kiyosumi residents were curious to see how the property looked, so aer the first stop, the WAVES Nihonbashi-Hamacho residents generously opened their doors, offering an exclusive glimpse into their living space. There we enjoyed more drinks and got to meet other residents who couldn’t make it out to the event. Next, the camaraderie between neighbors blossomed further as we embarked on a journey to yet another izakaya, where the night took a delicious turn with endless MEGA highballs and towering heaps of karaage. The adventure reached its peak as we wrapped up the night at the World Neighbors Kiyosumi-Shirakawa’s 10th-floor bar lounge, overlooking the city lights. The laughter echoed, and bonds were sealed over shared stories and the clinking of glasses against a backdrop of the cityscape. At Social Apartment, we believe in turning every event that we hold into a memorable experience, and our recent Hamacho Ikitsuke Sagashi Bar Hopping event was nothing short of extraordinary. We hope you can join us for the next Social Apartment event, where every encounter is a chance to forge new memories and connections!   (Reporting, writing, and photography by Takinami)

Social Apartment is a new lifestyle that blends the best aspects of a share-house and a private apartment, being part of a community and the comfort of privacy. The standard policy at Social Apartment is that we require a minimum tenancy period of 6 months or longer to apply, however, especially for our international tenants that can’ commit to a longer stay, we are happy to introduce a flexible-term stay option at selected Social Apartments! Whether due to a sudden business trip or an extended holiday in Japan, or you were curious to experience a Social Apartment but afraid to commit for the long term, this is a unique opportunity to stay with us at Social Apartment! We accept stays from 3 months up to 6-months on our flex-plan, with a fixed monthly rent with no initial costs or fees! Flex-Plan Features ・No initial costs or fees! ・24 Hour access to communal facilities to socialize (lounge) and more! ・Management fee and utilities included in the rent. ・Application procedures are fully online, move in by quickest 7 business days! Please find below our properties eligible for a Flex-Plan stay! Property List WORLD NEIGHBORS KIYOSUMI SHIRAKAWA LAUNDRY x CAFÉ x SOCIAL APARTMENT: Spacious private rooms located in front of a big park! Contract Period: Minimum 3 months~Maximum 6 months (re-contracting unavailable) Room Type: 1K (Private bathroom, toilet and kitchen) Price: 168,000yen/per month Payment: Credit Card or Japanese bank transfer (onetime payment) Facilities: Auto-Lock・Elevator・Communal Lounge and Kitchen・Bar Lounge・Working Lounge・Shared Laundry・Café・Rooftop Terrace・Communal Toilets Room: Air-Conditioner・Internet・Unit Bathroom・Kitchen・Closet・Balcony Furniture: furnished/unfurnished both available ＞ Click here for details on「WORLD NEIGHBORS KIYOSUMI SHIRAKAWA」 — WORLD NEIGHBORS GOKOKUJI SOCIAL APARTMENT×CAFE: Social Apartment’s first on-site cafe! Incredible international community next to Ikebukuro. Contract Period: Minimum 3 months~Maximum 6 months (re-contracting unavailable) Room Type: 1BR (Private Washbasin) Price: 138,200yen/per month Payment: Credit Card or Japanese bank transfer (onetime payment) Facilities: Auto-Lock・Elevator・Communal Lounge and Kitchen・Bar Lounge・Working Lounge・Rooftop Terrace・Multipurpose Studio・Café・Shared Laundry・Shared Showers・Shared Bathroom Room: Washbasin・Air-Conditioner・Internet・Balcony Furniture: furnished/unfurnished both available ＞ Click here for details on「World Neighbors Gokokuji」 — SOCIAL APARTMENT HANAKOGANEI Perfect for students! Affordable rooms and straight access to both Takadanobaba and Shinjuku in only 25 minutes. Contract Period: Minimum 3 months~Maximum 6 months (re-contracting unavailable) Room Type: 1BR Price: 95,200yen/per month Payment: Credit Card or Japanese bank transfer (onetime payment) Facilities: Auto-Lock・Communal Lounge and Kitchen（Internet Available）・Working Lounge・Play Room・Shared Laundry・Shared Showers・Shared Bathroom Room: Air-Conditioner・Internet・Balcony・Closet Furniture: furnished/unfurnished both available ＞ Click here for details on「Social Apartment Hanakoganei」 —

Social Apartment is a new lifestyle that blends the best aspects of a share-house and a private apartment, being part of a community and the comfort of privacy.The standard policy at Social Apartment is that we require a minimum tenancy period of 6 months or longer to apply, however, after receiving word from many hopeful tenants that wish to stay for shorter periods of time, we are happy to introduce a monthly stay option at selected Social Apartments! Whether due to a sudden business trip or an extended holiday in Japan, or you were curious to experience a Social Apartment but afraid to commit for the long term, this is a unique opportunity to stay with us at Social Apartment!Monthly Plan Features・No initial costs or fees!・Fully equipped with furniture and appliances for an easy move in!・24 Hour access to communal facilities to socialize (lounge) and more!・Management fee and utilities included in the rent. ・Application procedures are fully online, move in by quickest 3 business days! Property List【GRAPHY NEZU】Live in a hotel. Immerse yourself in the traditional city of art and culture. Contract Period  Minimum 1 month～（Maximum 31st of March 2022） Room Type  1BR（Shared bathroom and shower）／1R（Private unit bathroom） Price  91,000yen～106,000yen／per month Payment Method  Credit Card (onetime payment) Building Facilities  Auto-Lock・Elevator・Communal Lounge and Kitchen（Internet Available）・Shared Laundry Rooftop Terrace・Shared Bath / Toilet / Basin・Share-Cycle Room Facility  Air-Conditioner・Internet ※1R type rooms come with a private unit bathroom Furniture & Appliances  Desk・Chair・Desk Lamp・Lights・Bed（with bedding）・Curtain・Fridge・TV・Kettle・Hair Dryer Amenities  Towel・Toilet Paper・Toilet Cleaning Equipment・Toilet Detergent・Bath and Shower Amenities (for single use)  ※Amenities will only be provided upon move in, customers will be responsible for replacing their own amenities during their stay. ＞ Click here for details on「GRAPHY NEZU」【World Neighbors Ebisu】8-minutes walk from Ebisu Station, a modern Social Apartment is about to be found (Open March 2020) Contract Period Minimum 1 month～ Maximum 6 months（re-contracting unavailable）Room Type 1R（Private Shower・Toilet・Washbasin）Price 220,000yen／per monthPayment Method Credit Card onetime paymentBuilding Facilities Auto-Lock・Elevator・Communal Lounge and Kitchen（Internet Available）・Shared LaundryRoom Facilities Shower・Toilet (Washlet type)・Intercom with monitor・Air-Conditioner・Closet・InternetFurniture & Appliances Desk・Chair・Closet・Lights・Air-Conditioner・Bed（Semi-double with bedding）・Curtain Fridge・Microwave・Hair DryerAmenities Towel・Toilet Paper・Toilet Cleaning Equipment・Toilet Detergent・Bath Amenities (for single use)※Amenities will only be provided upon move in, customers will be responsible for replacing their own amenities during their stay. ＞Click here for details on「World Neighbors Ebisu」Considering a short-term stay? Please contact us through the details of the property pages listed above.

Tokyo is a vast city with countless suburbs of many interests. The city holds eccentric shops and venues you may never hear of upon your years of residence here. You may find the amount of choice in places to go overwhelming, and this can be the same for a place you choose to live. Sometimes a lack of choice is not a deterrent for exploring, but on the contrary, an abundance of it can make it hard to know where to go, and Tokyo city is a good example of that. In this article, I will introduce places in 3 trendy central suburbs in Tokyo, Ebisu, Nakameguro and Daikanyama. All within walking distance of one another, I consider them to be the trifecta of Tokyo suburbs when put together. Within this trifecta of suburbs, we at Social Apartment hold two great properties, World Neighbors Ebisu, and Social Apartment Ebisu. Within a comfortable walking distance to the suggested places, we encourage those who are interested in the area to contact us for more information regarding the properties. So, let us look at some of our recommended spots, the types of places that the tour guide articles do not tell you about! Daikanyama Pizza Slice – Authentic NY pizza Pizza Slice (Daikanyama) (https://goo.gl/maps/W5Z166HpBQa84ZRm8) Pizza is something that we all feel passionate about, and when it comes to standards, deciding on what is a good pizza comes under strict scrutiny. If we are talking about New York-style pizza, Pizza Slice takes the crown as the king of Tokyo. If you want affordable (400 ~ 600yen) and tasty NY-style pizza, Pizza Slice is one place you must visit. The Daikanyama Pizza Slice is the original flagship store, the store itself has a very hip vibe with a modern interior, obviously designed with a New York deli influence in mind. If you’re around the neighborhood and want a quick bite with a friend, Pizza Slice can never do you wrong! Bar Crimjon (https://goo.gl/maps/kZgtiah8jyaupxS18) Looking for a cozy bar with a great selection of music that you can request? For fans of classic, alternative or post-rock, this is the place to visit. Bar Crimjon is a small basement counter bar, the walls are lined with thousands of CDs and records that can be requested for play. The owner is an eccentric and fun old Japanese man with a great love of music, hit it off well and you can easily find yourself chatting about albums and songs for hours. The drinks are tasty and the sound system here is fully immersive, have a few drinks and you will feel the music with all senses. Daikanyama T-Site – An afternoon well spent Daikanyama T-Site (https://www.instagram.com/daikanyama.tsutaya/) If you’re in Daikanyama and you want coffee, or you want to eat, or you want to find a quiet place to work, or you want to buy books, or you want to look at some art… you get the drift. Daikanyama T-Site has all of that and more. The establishment is beautifully designed for a comfortable experience. Whether you visit to dine, work, or shop, time spent here is time well spent. Especially for those who want to pick up some art or books written in English and foreign languages, the Tsutaya store at Daikanyama T-Site offers a respectful selection. Terra Burger and Bowl (https://www.instagram.com/terraburgerandbowl/) Want a fix of the meatiest vegan burgers in town? Terra Burger in Daikanyama offers some of the best vegan burgers in Tokyo at a reasonable price. If you’re not feeling like a burger, they also offer a bowl meal chock full of vegetables, nuts, seeds and beans for the more health-conscious among us. Terra Burger and Bowl is also a gem for those who are looking for gluten-free options, pay a small optional fee and change your bun to a gluten-free option! Gluten-free, vegan and sustainable, what else can you ask for? Nakameguro Some of the local street art in Nakameguro Street Art in Nakameguro Nakameguro is home to a lot of unexpected street art and culture. People may have differing opinions regarding the ethics of street art, but undeniably there are some cool looking murals and graffiti around the area. Nakameguro is known to be a suburb with a hip atmosphere, and good street art compliments Nakameguros atmosphere well. Take a stroll around with a coffee in hand and discover surprising pieces of art around every street corner, who knows, you might just come across a Banksy piece Nakameguro Park – Street Basketball Court Nakameguro Park (https://goo.gl/maps/utnKqAyLsouVoB4A6) A few minutes’ walk from our Social Apartment properties, you can find a very relaxing open grass park right in Nakameguro. A place where local families and friends gather when the sun shines warm, the park offers a spacious grass area where you can find many picnic-goers enjoying a warm day out. The park offers a small botanical garden where you can learn about different flowers and plants, a small pond with fishes and turtles, as well as a small play area for kids to do their thing. A favorite among young adults is the street basketball court. Whether you’re there to shoot some casual hoop or want to play a half-court game with friends, this is one of the very few street basketball courts in Tokyo. Highly recommended if you want to polish up your 3-pointers! Bells- Hotdog looking too tasty Bells Nakameguro (https://www.instagram.com/bells_nakameguro/) Want to have some authentic New York-style hotdogs in Tokyo? Tucked away behind a secluded alley in Nakameguro you will find Bells, a small hotdog store with special home-made sausages. Another fantastic venue that caters to people of different diets, you can customize your order with different toppings, bread, and sausages that are either made of soy or chicken! The interior has hot-pink walls lined with funky art and skateboards, it’s almost impossible not to take a snap of your hotdog for Instagram! Junkadelic – Look at that chimichangas! Junkadelic (https://www.instagram.com/junkadelic_tokyo/) When I want to eat big and eat Mexican, I have one place I go to and it’s Junkadelic! As the name implies, if you want to fill yourself with the good kind of junk, there’s no better place than here. A popular restaurant for all lovers of Mexican cuisine in Tokyo, whether you want to eat alone, with friends, with a date or for a party, this restaurant is fit for any occasion. The portions are big, you are definitely not going home on an empty stomach! I personally recommend the chimichangas and nacho plate to share. The atmosphere at Junkadelic is very casual and fun. You won’t be able to help but get a few drinks, a mojito usually does the trick. Komeisen – Mural at the sento entrance Komeisen (http://kohmeisen.com/nice/english.html) A bathhouse in Japan was once considered somewhat of a social hub, where locals came together to share a chat and cleanse themselves from a hard day’s work. Komeisen keeps that tradition going, being the only public bathhouse in Nakameguro, the establishment is a favorite for many locals who enjoy a hot soak in spacious baths and kicking back with mates at a sauna. The highlight of the bathhouse is the outdoor bath, which interchanges between men’s and women’s depending on the week. Make sure to check their website to see if the outdoor bath is available for your gender group before going! Baja (https://www.instagram.com/bajaburritos/) A 5-minute walk away from Nakameguro station and you’ll find the coziest little Mexican-themed bar in Tokyo. Baja is a small bar that serves affordable drinks and Mexican food. The burritos here are cheap for their portion size (\500~\800), and all drinks are \500, not a bad spot for people who want to spend a night out on a budget. The layout of the bar is very cozy, with a maximum capacity of around 7~10 people, this is one of those little bars that you just can’t hate! If you live around the Nakameguro area, Baja easily satisfies quick dinner plans with their easy and affordable take-out burritos. Baja is also somewhat of a meet-up spot for Nakameguro locals, whether you’re there to enjoy a meal to meet some kindred spirits, Baja does not upset. Ebisu Falafel Brothers – The Falafel rice bowl set is a great wholesome meal Falafel Brothers Ebisu (https://www.instagram.com/falafelbrotherstokyo/) This is for all the vegans, vegetarians, or people that want to take a break away from meat! Falafel Brothers is a fantastic vegan restaurant with locations in Ebisu, Roppongi and Shibuya. They specialize in falafels, a traditional middle eastern food made from ground chickpeas and generally had together with pita bread, this tasty vegan meal packs a bunch of protein and flavors! The restaurant also serves an array of vegan foods, from vegan burgers to vegan pizza, a great venue that caters to all diets! A lively establishment at night, you will find a very multicultural crowd enjoying a fun and lively outing during evening hours. Ebisu Banh Mi Bakery (https://goo.gl/maps/tuwKH6CJZDRQnX2F9) This is for all the Banh Mi lovers. Want to know the best place to get your fix of delicious Vietnamese sandwiches? This is the be all end all for Banh Mi in Tokyo, nothing comes close to Ebisu Banh Mi Bakery. The crisp outer layer of the flavorful bread, the chewy texture, tasteful ingredients of choice and the affordability makes this place a go-to takeout meal for those who know. Located just a 2-minute walk from Ebisu Station, treat yourself to some good Banh Mi next time you’re around town, your tastebuds deserve it! Jollys – Liquor Store ☆ Sound Studio Jollys Liquor Store☆Sound Studio (https://www.instagram.com/jollys_liquorstore_soundstudio/) If you are a lover of craft beer and enjoy trying out different brands and brews, Jollys is a liquor store in Ebisu with a reputable selection. The great thing is that the liquor store is also a standing bar, meaning you can enjoy liquor store priced drinks straight from the fridge, while enjoying a bar environment right in store. With many import beers from across the globe, for a quick catch up with mates and tasty affordable beers, a night out at Jollys can never go wrong. The store atmosphere is lively, themed around beach and surfing culture, the warm and colorful decorations compliment a good time drinking good beer. Jollys also offers a basement space that can be rented out as a sound studio, great for local bands to have practice sessions. Located relatively close by to Ebisu Station on a main road Jollys is hard to miss unless you miss going back! Analog Cafe – Tasty-looking lunch meals! Analog Café (https://www.instagram.com/analog_ebisu/) Say you’re in Ebisu, you’re meeting a friend or a date for a casual lunch and you still have no idea where to go. The solution? Analog Café, a hidden-gem located 2-minutes’ walk from the station. This retro-themed café has a very cozy and comfortable atmosphere, but the atmosphere is bettered only by the amazing lunch-time food menu. Affordable, stylish, nutritional and filling, the lunch-time menu changes weekly and caters to a good plate of spaghetti, pasta, curry or a rice plate with fish or meat. Whether you want a quiet meal for yourself, or you want a relaxed catch-up with an old friend, Analog Café comfortably accompanies you with the slow flow of time.

Having both the comforts of a private apartment and the socialization of a share house is what distinguishes Social Apartment from other housing options in Japan. Although it is a common standard to schedule a property viewing before deciding on an apartment, at Social Apartment we understand that different circumstances may prevent you from physically attending a viewing. 「I want to move on the day I arrive in Japan!」 「I live abroad so I can’t attend a viewing」 「My work schedule is too busy and I can’t reserve a time for a viewing…」 To help with hopeful applicants in similar situations, our team at Social Apartment is happy to introduce 【LIVE! by Social Apartment】, a service for online property viewings. 【Introducing – LIVE! by Social Apartment】 【LIVE! by Social Apartment】gives anyone anywhere with an internet connection a chance to extensive view one of our properties. Our experienced sales agents will help you through with a detailed video viewing of one of our Social Apartments, giving you insight on the facilities, private rooms, community, and lifestyle. Reserving an Online Viewing Reserving an online viewing is incredibly easy! （1）Choose a property that interests you through our official Social Apartment website, and let us know through the Question/Preview Request for an 「Online Viewing」. （2）Fill out the simple questionnaire along with the contact form, once that’s done we will schedule you in for a viewing date and time to your convenience. （3）We will send you an email containing a link to an online viewing service, as well as a property pamphlet including detailed information regarding the price, property, rules and lifestyle. Please make sure to read the pamphlet and access the online viewing link the scheduled date and time. （4）Our sales agent will be awaiting you in the online viewing room on the day! This is the perfect chance for those who are unable to physically view a property, but still wish to see the inside of a Social Apartment and hear detailed explanations regarding the property by one of our sales agents. Eligible properties can be chosen from the list of Social Apartments below. (※Unlisted properties will be added in the near future)

Figure 1: Daily ordeal at Nakamise-Dori Asakusa is a town of rich culture and history unparalleled by other suburbs. Formerly known as the downtown hub of nightlife and entertainment during the Edo period, Asakusa now is known for its many tourist attractions and cultural festivities. Unlike most developed suburbs in Tokyo, Asakusa has retained its cultural heritage through its conservation of historic architecture from the Edo period. This makes Asakusa a town of curiosity for many tourists, but don’t count out Asakusa as just a tourist destination. In a town with a deeply rooted heritage, is where one of the sleekest Social Apartments calls Asakusa home. Only a 12-minute walk from Asakusa station, Entwine Asakusa is one of our latest Social Apartments to undergo a full property renovation in March 2020. With a modern design that contrasts to the more dated image of Asakusa, we gave our property a polished and youthful look. ENTWINE ASAKUSA Figure 2: Quick get-together at the lounge Entwine Asakusa is abundant in facilities. We have installed 3 spacious system kitchens and 1 large island kitchen for a content cooking experience. The lounge is designed for optimal opportunities to entwine and unwind, a space that encourages both socialization and relaxation with its many seating options. At the very top of the property you will find a fashionably fenced rooftop terrace, the prime place to kick back with some afternoon drinks. The terrace offers views of another city landmark, Tokyo Skytree. Figure 3: Rooftop terrace for prime views of East Asakusa. The property holds 50 rooms all fully furnished, with a single bed, desk, chair, and refrigerator. A place that can be called home comfortably without the hassle of preparing furnishings upon move-in, this is the ideal property for people who wish to move in on the fly. From Asakusa Station, you hold access to the Ginza-line, Asakusa-line, and the Tobu Skytree Line; lines that conveniently take you to some of the most popular inner-city suburbs in Tokyo. With close access to convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants, and bars all no more than 6-minutes in walking distance from the property, Entwine Asakusa is the perfect place to start your new Tokyo experience. RECOMMENDED PLACES Figure 4: Skating alongside Sumida River during spring. Sumida River (Riverside) A 4-minute walk from the property, you will come across a grand river that flows through the east of Asakusa. Sumida River runs through Tokyo branching from the Arakawa River, ultimately leading to the Tokyo Bay. The riverside is popular as a walking destination with great views of the river and Tokyo Skytree. A ferry can be caught along the river from Asakusa, leading south until it reaches the famous artificial island of Odaiba. During the day, you will find many local joggers and dog walkers enjoying a scenic outing along the riverside. What is not known however, is that the riverside is a popular meetup spot in the evening for locals to gather. You will find groups of all sorts, from fishermen, local skateboarders, eccentric musicians to groups of lively salarymen. During the summer and spring, the riverside is cool and warm, the perfect spot for friends to kick it over a few conbini drinks. Figure 5: Chikaokun, the mascot character that greets you at the entrance of the underground district. Asakusa Underground District (Chikagai) My favorite spot in Asakusa, the oldest underground shopping district is the right amount of culture and grit, giving flavour to a town already overflowing with it. Walking down the entrance of the underground district, you are greeted by a wave of humidity that envelops you. Traversing the underground you will find it all, from possibly the cheapest standing soba shop in Tokyo (300yen), a 700yen barber, shady looking fortune tellers, traditional Taiwanese massage parlors, to lively bars and izakaya’s echoing with the laughter of locals. The underground is lively between the times of 7pm to 10pm. A fun place just to stroll through, immerse yourself in the energy of a place stuck in time in the underbelly of Asakusa. Sento (Public Baths) For many of you, a public bath may be the thought of a nightmare. Exposing yourself in the nude surrounded by sweaty strangers? Depending on how you explain it, it might not sound appealing. People who frequent public baths know though, that it can be a refreshing and humbling experience that can be shared with others. At a public bath, your class, status, background, and the clothes people wear are all stripped away. It is a place for cleansing, relaxation, meditation, and revitalization. Asakusa is luckily a town that has many public baths to offer and choose from. A 5-minute walk from the property you can find Tsuruno-Yu, a traditionally styled public bath that offers necessities such as shampoo, body-soap, and generously enough, free access to the sauna. If you wish to have an inner-city hot spring experience, Yudonburi Sakae-Yu is a 10-minute walk away. The sento uses natural hot spring water ground up from the earth, and with many different baths to choose from (massage bath, micro-bubble bath, electric bath), the highlight of this establishment is the rōtenburo, a beautiful open-air hot spring with an added special essence in the water. Figure 6: A late night photo of Sumida River and the Honjo-Azumabashi bridge. Sensoji Temple at Night Sensoji is a world-renowned landmark, the oldest temple in Tokyo and its most significant. A famous tourist spot, it is often one of the first sightseeing destinations for those exploring Tokyo. Located in the heart of Asakusa, the temple can be found tucked behind the end of Nakamise-Dori, a street famous for its long line of souvenir shops, all full of the pleasant aroma of traditional Japanese sweets. This central area that leads up to and surrounds the temple, is often packed with tourists, navigating through the area can feel like a pilgrimage. Come after dusk though, and you will find this area near empty. Sensoji at night can be just as grand if not more beautiful, with the many lights that illuminate the temple, you are offered a more serene experience of the area without all the noise and foot-traffic caused by tourists. Figure 7: Hoppy Street, a great place to start drinking from early afternoon. Bars and Izakaya (Nightlife) Hoping for a charming night out? Asakusa is a great suburb to spend the night away, with countless bars and izakaya to choose from, every establishment offers a unique experience alongside some great drinks and food. Hoppy Street is easily the most popular place to drink, however, it is not exactly where the locals in Asakusa spend their nights. Below are some of my personal recommendations for a good night out. ・Tokyo Knowledge A cozy bar located on the main road of Kaminarimon-dori, Tokyo Knowledge is a favorite among locals and international tourists lucky enough to stumble across the place. The bartenders here can all speak English and are very welcoming, you will find most foreigners who live around the area visiting the place as well. The bar offers a very laid-back atmosphere with affordable drinks. From the old-school hip-hop being played on their speakers to the classic movies they play on mute through a projector, the chilled atmosphere makes Tokyo Knowledge a go-to spot to grab a beer or two, or three. ・CafeRest’CuznHomeground Might be one of the weirdest named bars, this is another fantastic place for a fun night out. With English friendly bartenders, they offer a great selection of drinks and food, with many vegan options as well. Sofas are lined along the wall and the inside of the bar is designed like a hippy log cabin, after a few drinks you may wonder if you’re still in Asakusa or a cabin in the mountains. The best part about the bar is that it`s dog friendly, and the owner generally leaves their dogs at the bar. You`ll often find a dog chilling on the sofa, and the people here are more than cool in allowing you to pet them. Sports events are generally shown here, why not watch tonight’s game at CafeRest’CuznHomeground? ・Pure’s Sound Market A DJ bar located in the west side of Asakusa, the venue is a small basement bar where underground music lovers congregate. Try testing your musical catalog here, as the live DJ performances will have you scratching your head as they scratch their disks. The DJ events can range in any genre, so check the schedule as they might be playing something you totally do not expect. Local artists and DJ’s also sell their artwork, records, and mixtapes here, it is worth checking out just to dig some vinyl records. The venue is easy to miss and can be quite intimidating for a first-timer. Go with a friend, just be ready to dance to some absurd shoegaze or trip-hop. ・Baan Shisha Asakusa Asakusa has many shisha bars, however most can be a tourist hot-spot and quite gimmicky. Baan Shisha is a great local shisha bar, with fairly priced drinks and hookah. Sofa seats and a cozy environment make it the ideal place to catch up with a friend. It is in close proximity to many izakayas and bars, a great venue to start or end the night off. The staff are quirky and fun, the venue is cozy and chill, the shisha is tasty and cheap, what more could you ask for? Figure 8: A real groovy disco night at Pure’s Sound Market