1. Japanese Urban Apartment
An Introduction

2. Question of the Day
Based on the film clip, list and explain two differences you notice between living spaces in Japan and the United States.

3. Living Space: USA vs. Japan
Japanese cities tend to have small living spaces
Why?
Japan is a much smaller country than the USA
Check out this blueprint of a Japanese apartment in the next slide:

5. Small Spaces
The size of Japanese apartments is often calculated based on the number of Tatami Mats that can fit in the apartment
Tatami Mats are traditional flooring mats used in Japanese Homes

6. Other Differences
Wearing Shoes in a person’s home is considered impolite in Japan
Japanese homes will often have a bin for shoe storage in the main entryway

7. Other Differences
To save space the bathroom is often broken down into 2 rooms:
1 room for the toilet
1 room with a sink and shower

8. Futons: Traditional Japanese bedding which folds up during the day to save space
Western Style Futon
Japanese Futons

9. Tour a Japanese Urban Apartment
Watch this 1 minute youtube video and write down 3 differences you notice between an American and Japanese Apartment

10. Examples from other classes

11. Sources http://okinawahai.com/2008/12/shoe-cabinet.html