To Share Room

In Japan, it's not common to share rooms. They usually live by theirselves or with their families. Now I live in an apartment with my roommate. At first, I couldn't imagine to share rooms with other people, but now I'm getting used to it. If you can meet nice roommates, I think it's a very rational and natural way to live. I don't know why it's not popular in Japan, but I prefer to share rooms and to live with NICE other people..

There are some reasons why I prefer it;

1. I never feel lonely ; Sometimes I want to be alone, but It's very easy in my apartment.
2. I can be independent ; Roommates are friends but not family, so we can have a good relationship as adults.
3. I can save my money ; It's supposed be cheaper than living by myself.
4. I can learn other cultures ; If you live with people who come from other countries, you can know different cultures.

And there are some reason why it's unpopular in Japan; (I only guess it)

1. Japanese are very sensitive to other people.
2. And they think they have to serve other people.
3. Construction of Japanese apartment is unsuitable for sharing rooms. (I think it's a chicken-and-egg problem)

I think Japanese have a very polite national character, because they are influenced by 武家 (Samurai) culture very much. I think it (礼儀) is a beautiful and important thing. But to be polite or patient is stressful and unnatural, sometimes. So Japanese would like to avoid gathering other people sometimes. I think that's why Japanese don't prefer to live other people. OK, It's JUST my opinion!!

Anyway, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Now I enjoy life in Montreal with Canadian style. I'm gaining great experience here!! :-)

It's a nice room, isn't it?