Resident Interview: Oliver | Warai Is an Amazing Community in Kobe

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

I want to introduce Warai: an amazing place and an amazing community—one of the best ways to experience life in Japan.

I moved into Warai as soon as I came to Japan and stayed for more than two years. Eventually I had to leave Kobe because my circumstances changed, but if I could have chosen, I would have continued living there with everyone for years.

From day one, the owner Inoji was incredibly kind, generous and fun. We are now good friends, as are the many people I met at Warai.

“Share house” does not fully describe Warai. It felt like a community—a nakama, or group of companions. We helped one another, explored the area, worked in the garden and held monthly events with food, drinks and music.

There were events for health, yoga, exercise, parties, food, music, farming and gardening, English conversation and local markets. That variety is what made Warai so special.

Everyone helped me learn Japanese, and many residents spoke great English, so I always felt at home. My two years here were beautiful. Whether you are looking for a place to live or want to experience the events and scenery of Kobe and Tarumi, I recommend Warai.

Related reading

• More resident interviews and videos