Dormitory rooms are usually small (usually around 4-6 or 6-10 tatami mats). If the dormitory is new, it probably contains a very small ensuite bathroom with shower. If the dormitory is older, rooms may either by Japanese or Western style with futon or bed. In some cases a small charge is levied for futon or bedding and students may also be required to pay the utility charges.
All dormitories provide a common bath or ofuro room which consists of a large communal 'hot tub' and handheld shower facilities. It is important to have a shower BEFORE entering the ofuro and ensure that all soap and shampoo have been removed before getting in the bath. The bath or ofuro is designed for soaking only and is a wonderful relaxant. Towels are not provided so please bring some with you. While the shower facilities are generally available morning and evening, the water in the ofuro is changed daily and is therefore only available in the evenings.
As a rule, washroom facilities in both the dormitory and the company are western style. Public washrooms however are very often Japanese style (squatting as opposed to sitting). As no toilet paper or hand towels are provided, it is a good idea to carry Kleenex and a handkerchief with you at all times.
The dormitory will have a shokudo or dining room with regular breakfast and dinner hours. Usually, you must indicate your intention to take breakfast and/or dinner a day in advance in order that the appropriate number of meals can be prepared. If you return late to the dormitory on a day when you have requested dinner, it will usually be wrapped and kept for you on a tray. Meals are often not provided on the weekends. Meals are generally Japanese style, with the occasional western style dish such as curry rise or pasta. Japanese style breakfast usually consist of rice, miso soup, raw egg, natto (fermented soy beans), nori (seaweed) and fish. In some dorms, a toaster is provided for students who wish to have just toast and tea or coffee. Sometimes a communal fridge is also available where you can keep cereal and yogurt.
A television is often located in the shokudo, and in some dorms there is a common room with a TV, sofas and chairs. There is usually a pay phone in the lobby and the manager of the dorm can receive incoming calls on your behalf. An intercom or loudspeaker system will be used to page you if you receive a call.
Laundry facilities are provided in the dorm free of charge and there is often a dry cleaning service which is available to you pay as you use. Usually a clean set of bed linen is provided weekly.
Please note that a majority of the dormitory do have an evening curfew. Most do have controlled entrance and you will be given a key or number code in order to unlock the door. You should inform the manager if you are not planning to return to the dorm at night of if you are going on holidays. Please be aware that most dorms do not allow overnight guests. In a few cases where curfews are in effect you should notify the dorm manager if you are planning to be out later than the curfew.
