A tid bit about laundry

If you didn't already know, most people in Japan dry their clothes outside. Houses are often designed around having the laundry balcony face so it receives the most sunlight throughout the year.  When I first came to Japan, this was the biggest hassle. If I dried outside, because of placement, my clothes would get covered in black grime from the mechanic next door. Then when I met my husband I discovered you can actually buy a dryer in Japan. As a single father of two little girls, he couldn't have survived without it. If you live here temporarily, it might not be the best idea to add yet another big thing you will need to get rid of when you leave. But for those staying long enough, and really want the convenience,dryers do exist.