Posts Tagged ‘house’

After a really cool June, we have finally had our first feel of summer here in Tokyo. And while we don’t have a 4th of July weekend like the US, I figured a would give 5 things you can do that will keep you out of the heat, on a small budget, and having fun. The big key is to get out of your own house so you don’t have to run the AC.

1. Go to Karaoke- Most of us love to sing, and if you search around you can even find great deals during the weekend. There is a place near me that costs about 1,000JPY (about $10) for all day on Saturday or sunday) and it comes with a free drink. It would cost that much to run your ac for a couple of hours.

2. Take a train to the Ocean- One of the nice things about living in Japan is you are always close to the ocean. Even if you don’t like to swim, you can get away from the city to relax and enjoy the cooler temperature near the ocean.

3. Activities in the park- Let’s face it, when it gets hot and muggy in Tokyo you are gonna sweat. So why not have some fun and get some exercise out of it.

4. Spend a day visiting art museums and other cultural spots- Most are cheap to enter, they have air conditioning, and is very relaxing. Many also have small cafes where you can have a meal or a cup of tea.

5. Visit the local mountains- Since Japan is made of mostly mountains, there is always one close. You can get to a cooler temperature, get some exercise, and have a great view.

Set a budget to make sure that you don’t overspend and stick to it.

This is something that has been bothering me for some time now. There is constant talk about the large population of elderly Japanese and a shrinking birth rate unable to support the economy. This can already be seen through the country. It is getting easier and easier to find jobs (for people who want them), Schools are having difficulty filling their desks, and not much is being done to accommodate foreigners. So my question is, why are mansions (large apartment buildings) still going up at such an amazing rate? I get at least 2-3 new apartment advertisements in my mailbox everyday.

I don’t yet know the answer, but I am guessing it has to do with Japanese building companies unable to slow down and adapt to the market. America is in a housing slump now….will Japan be follwing shortly? The problem may even be compounded as children began to move back home to take care of their parents or move in after the parents pass away. I still haven’t figured it out. Everyone I ask seems to agree, but thinks it is just as mystrious as me. I guess time will tell.