Question 1

Why do I have to be interviewed to rent a house?

Accepted Answer

Because the houses are old and easily harmed by careless living. The interview is a quiet conversation about how you'd live with tatami, wood, and a small garden. It's how the house decides, not just us.

Question 2

What is a tsubo garden?

Accepted Answer

A tsubo is a tiny interior courtyard garden, often only a few square meters, that brings light and air into a machiya. Most of our houses have one. The house rules explain how to water and not over-tend it.

Question 3

How long are the leases?

Accepted Answer

One year minimum, renewable, and most tenants stay several years. These houses reward people who settle in. We're not built for short stays or holiday lets.

Question 4

Can I make changes to the house?

Accepted Answer

Small, reversible ones, and only after you tell us. The shōji, tatami, and original cedar are ours to maintain. Hanging a scroll is fine; drilling the engawa is not.

Question 5

Is everything in Japanese, or can I apply in English?

Accepted Answer

Either. The listings and house rules are written plainly in both, and we can hold the interview in English. The carpenter's rules lose nothing in translation.

Question 6

What's included in the monthly rent?

Accepted Answer

The house, its garden, and our maintenance of the original fabric — re-papering shōji, tatami care, structural upkeep. Utilities and your own contents insurance are separate, listed per house.

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