Resident Interview: Polina | I Love Maiko and Life at Warai

Hello! I’m Polina, a resident of Kobe Share House Warai.

I would like to share what life at Warai was like for me. I am from Russia and worked in Tarumi as an English teacher. Grand Blue is close to Maiko Station, so commuting by bus was easy. The large supermarket connected to the station also made everyday shopping very convenient.

Maiko Park and the Maiko Marine Promenade, with their sea views, became my favorite places. I also enjoyed shopping and dining at Mitsui Outlet Park Marine Pia Kobe, and relaxing at Taihei-no-yu, a large public bath with a stone sauna.

Who lived in the share house?

There were people preparing to join overseas volunteer programs, as well as residents from Thailand, Taiwan, and many other backgrounds. We had a wonderful time together and I even gave private Russian lessons to a few people.

Memories of shared life

In spring we enjoyed cherry-blossom gatherings and shared meals. In summer, residents and the landlord had barbecues and went octopus fishing by the nearby sea. At night, we watched fireworks and sea fireflies; swimming in the sea at night was especially memorable.

I also wanted to keep a ferret. After Inoji asked the other housemates and everyone agreed, I welcomed Zucchini. When Zucchini needed surgery, Inoji kindly drove us to and from the hospital. He also checked in on me with care during a difficult time for Russian people.

My room, Grand Blue 204, was spacious with plenty of storage. Its large balcony had an ocean view, and on sunny days I would sit outside with tea or a book.

I loved the neighborhood, the people, and the room. After two happy years at Warai Grand Blue, I moved to the Kanto area to live with my partner. I highly recommend life at Warai—if I return to Kobe, I would love to live in Grand Blue 204 again.

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