If you are planning to study or conduct research at Kyoto University, one of the first things you may need to decide is where to live.
Finding accommodation in a new country can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the local area, transportation system, rental procedures, or the different types of housing available in Japan.Kyoto University is located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, and there are many residential neighborhoods around the Yoshida Campus. Some are lively and convenient, while others offer a quieter atmosphere.
This guide explains what international students should consider when looking for accommodation near Kyoto University.
1. Where Is Kyoto University?
Kyoto University has several campuses, including Yoshida, Uji, and Katsura.
For many international students and researchers, the Yoshida Campus is the main campus to consider when looking for accommodation in the surrounding area. The Yoshida Campus is located in Yoshida-honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto.
The area around Yoshida Campus is well known as a student-oriented part of Kyoto.
There are restaurants, cafés, supermarkets, convenience stores, bicycle routes, and public transportation options in the surrounding neighborhoods.For students, living nearby can make everyday life easier and reduce commuting time.
However, “near Kyoto University” does not necessarily mean living immediately next to the campus.
Several neighborhoods within cycling or public transportation distance can also be convenient.
2. Popular Areas to Live Near Kyoto University
When looking for Kyoto University accommodation, it is useful to compare different neighborhoods rather than focusing only on the distance from the university.
◆Hyakumanben:Hyakumanben is one of the most convenient areas for Kyoto University students.
It is close to the Yoshida Campus and has many restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and other services.
Because of its proximity to the university, the area has a strong student atmosphere.
If your priority is convenience and being close to campus, Hyakumanben can be an attractive choice.
◆Demachiyanagi:Demachiyanagi is another popular area for students.
It provides access to trains and buses and is convenient for travelling to other parts of Kyoto.
There are also shops, restaurants, and supermarkets nearby.
Demachiyanagi may be suitable for students who want both convenient transportation and access to the university area.
◆Mototanaka:Mototanaka is located north of Demachiyanagi.
The area has a residential atmosphere and is popular with students because of its access to Kyoto University and nearby services.
It can be a good option for people who want a balance between convenience and a quieter residential environment.
◆Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji:Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji are located northeast of Kyoto University.
Compared with some of the busier areas closer to central Kyoto, these neighborhoods have a more residential and relaxed atmosphere.
They may be particularly suitable for students who want to live near Kyoto University while having a quiet place to return to after classes or research.
For international students, this can be an appealing combination: close to the university, but away from the busiest tourist areas of Kyoto.
3. How Far Should You Live From Kyoto University?
When searching for accommodation near Kyoto University, it is easy to focus only on the distance shown on a map.
However, your actual daily journey is more important.
Consider:
◆How long does it take to reach your department?
◆Can you cycle to campus?
◆Is there a convenient bus route?
◆Are supermarkets nearby?
◆Can you easily get home in the evening?
◆Is the neighborhood suitable for studying and relaxing?
Kyoto is a bicycle-friendly city, and many students use bicycles for their daily transportation.
Depending on your department and where you live, cycling can be a convenient way to travel between your home and Kyoto University.
4. Kyoto University Accommodation: What Are Your Options?
International students have several accommodation options in Kyoto.
These include:
◆Kyoto University International Houses
◆Private apartments
◆Share houses
◆Furnished apartments
◆Short-term accommodation
Kyoto University operates International Houses for international students and researchers. However, the university notes that accommodation is limited, and eligibility and tenancy periods apply.
For this reason, many international students also look for accommodation outside the university’s own housing system.
Kyoto University’s International Service Office provides information about different types of accommodation and explains how international students can search for housing in Japan.
5. Private Apartment or Share House?
One of the biggest decisions for an international student is whether to rent a private apartment or live in a share house.
◆A private apartment
A private apartment offers greater privacy.
You normally have your own kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
However, renting an apartment in Japan can involve several initial costs and procedures. Depending on the property, there may be a security deposit, key money, agent fees, guarantor-related costs, insurance, and other expenses.
Kyoto University’s International Support Center provides information about these common rental costs and procedures for foreign nationals.
◆Share House
A share house usually provides a private bedroom with shared facilities such as a kitchen, living room, laundry area, or bathroom.
One advantage for international students is the opportunity to meet other residents.
If you have just arrived in Japan, living with people from different countries can also make it easier to build a social network.
However, every share house is different.
Some are large and highly social, while others are smaller and quieter.
Therefore, it is important to choose a house that matches your personality and lifestyle.
6. What Should International Students Check Before Choosing a Share House?
Before choosing a share house near Kyoto University, check more than just the monthly rent.
◆Furnished or Unfurnished?
If you are staying in Kyoto for only a semester or a year, a furnished room can be convenient.
You may not want to buy furniture, bedding, or large appliances that you will need to sell or dispose of later.
◆Internet
Reliable internet is important for students and researchers.
Check whether internet service is included in the rent and whether it is available in your private room.
◆Contract Period
International students often have different study and research schedules.
Check:
・Minimum stay
・Contract period
・Renewal conditions
・Cancellation policy
・Move-out notice period
These conditions can vary significantly between properties.
◆Total Monthly Cost
Do not compare accommodation based only on the advertised rent.
Check what is included in the monthly payment.
For example:
・Electricity
・Gas
・Water
・Internet
・Common-area maintenance
・Cleaning
・Other management fees
Understanding the total cost makes it easier to compare different housing options.
7. What Kind of Share House Atmosphere Do You Want?
This is an important question that is sometimes overlooked.
Some international share houses are large and very social.
There may be frequent parties, events, and opportunities to meet many people.
Other share houses are smaller and quieter.
Neither is necessarily better.
It depends on your lifestyle.
If you want to meet many people and enjoy a lively atmosphere, a large share house may suit you.
If you want to study, conduct research, and relax at home while still having opportunities for international exchange, a smaller share house may be a better choice.
The important thing is to find a balance between privacy and international exchange that suits you.
8. Why Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji May Be a Good Choice
For students who prefer a quieter environment, Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji are areas worth considering.
These neighborhoods provide access to the Kyoto University area while maintaining a more residential atmosphere.
Living in this part of Kyoto can also give international students an opportunity to experience everyday life away from the busiest tourist areas.
You can enjoy the convenience of being near the university while having a calmer environment when you return home.
For some students, this balance can be more important than living right next to a busy station.
9. An International Share House Near Kyoto University
For students looking for an international share house near Kyoto University, there are several properties to consider.
One of them is Flat Bolero Jodoji, located in the Jodoji area. Kyoto University’s North Campus is approximately a 7-minute walk from Flat Bolero Jodoji, making it a convenient choice for students and researchers affiliated with Kyoto University. Other areas of the university can be easily reached by bicycle.
Flat Bolero Jodoji is a furnished international share house for residents who want to experience cultural exchange while maintaining a comfortable living environment.
The house is relatively small, allowing residents to get to know each other naturally.
Another feature is that there is no regular cleaning duty for residents, which can be convenient for students who are busy with classes, research, and daily life.
The house is directly managed by the owner, and English communication is available.
Importantly, Flat Bolero Jodoji is also listed by the Kyoto University International Service Office as one of the shared-house accommodation options for international students and researchers. The university’s listing notes that overseas room searches and applications are accepted, English-speaking staff are available, furniture and household appliances are provided, and free internet is available.
[Learn more about Flat Bolero Jodoji →]
10. Questions to Ask Before Renting
Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the following:
・How long can I stay?
・What is the minimum contract period?
・How much will I pay each month in total?
・What is included in the rent?
・Is the room furnished?
・Is internet included?
・How are shared areas maintained?
・Is there a cleaning duty?
・What are the house rules?
・Can I have guests?
・How much notice is required before moving out?
・Who should I contact if I have a problem?
For international students renting in Japan for the first time, carefully checking the contract is particularly important.
11. Which Area Is Best for You?
There is no single best place to live near Kyoto University.
Your ideal location depends on your department, budget, lifestyle, and preferred way of commuting.
If you want to be very close to campus and enjoy a lively student atmosphere, Hyakumanben may be attractive.
If transportation is important, Demachiyanagi can be a convenient option.
If you prefer a more residential environment, Mototanaka, Kita-Shirakawa, or Jodoji may be worth considering.
And if you are looking for an international living environment, a share house near Kyoto University can provide opportunities to meet people from different countries while enjoying your own private room.
12. Take Time to Find the Right Home
Choosing accommodation is an important part of your experience in Kyoto.
The closest room to Kyoto University is not necessarily the best room for you.
Think about how you want to spend your everyday life.
Do you want a lively international community?
Do you prefer a quiet place for studying?
Do you want to meet people from different countries?
Do you want a furnished room?
Do you want to avoid complicated initial arrangements?
Once you know what matters most to you, it becomes much easier to find the right accommodation
About Flat Bolero Jodoji
Flat Bolero Jodoji is a small international share house in Kyoto, located near Kyoto University and Kyoto University of the Arts.
It offers furnished private rooms, shared living spaces, an international environment, direct owner management, and English communication.
For international students looking for a quiet international share house near Kyoto University, Flat Bolero Jodoji may be worth considering.
[Learn more about Flat Bolero Jodoji →]
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