What parents look for in a family home in Japan

A recent survey by NEXER Inc. in collaboration with Nagaden House was a nice insight into how strongly parenting shapes housing choices in Japan, with more than 60% of respondents saying they prioritized child-rearing when choosing a home.

Image created via Canva

Based on responses from 411 parents nationwide, the findings highlighted some everyday concerns that I think would be familiar to many families. Safety and practicality ranked highly, with many respondents valuing layouts that allow them to watch their children while cooking or doing housework. Access to good school districts and spaces where children can grow and play freely were also major considerations.

When asked what features would have made life easier, the most common answer was abundant storage and smart layouts, which was selected by 32.6% of respondents. Parents pointed out how quickly toys, clothes, and baby gear pile up (very relatable!), which makes organization a constant challenge. Others wished for indoor laundry drying spaces or a more efficient household flow to help manage busy routines.

Housing needs also change as children grow, with nearly 30% saying they had considered altering their home's layout to give children more privacy, especially as they reached adolescence. I can relate to this too, as my daughter is getting close to her teen years now. 

For many families, little personal touches matter too. Part of the appeal of my own current home, for instance, was its tatami flooring when my kids were younger, since the soft surface makes for a safe and comfortable space for play and everyday family life.