Uninest Japan is holding a Summer Sale across it's student accommodations - HAKUSAN HOUSE & KAMIKITA HOUSE!
We know that moving house is usually expensive,
but with us there are no up-front costs such as deposit, key money, guarantor fee, or building management charge.
All that's required is
20,000 JPY Registration Fee + the initial rent.
That's it.
But with this Sale,
the Registration Fee + first month's rent are free.
No cost!
Which means,
there are no moving costs,
and there is no first month's rent to pay!
You can just get straight to enjoying Tokyo life as part of our international community.
Make the most of this summer!
Eligibility:
・Contracts 6 months (24 weeks) or more
・Move-in before 9/30
・Those aged 18-35 who hold a valid student card
Book here
HAKUSAN HOUSE
①Click the Book here button to access our Enquiry Form
②Be sure to type 'Summer Sale' in the 'Your enquiry' box
③We will then be in touch with the next steps
KAMIKITA HOUSE
①Click the Book here button to access our booking form
②Be sure to type 'Summer Sale' in the 'Anything else you'd like the staff to know' box
③We will then be in touch with the next steps
Today we'd like to get a bit serious.
As we move towards winter and the third wave of COVID-19 appears imminent, we think it's important to discuss how to balance safety measures with daily life. At Uninest, we are asking all of our staff and residents to further deepen their understanding of the virus, and to cooperate with countermeasures. Heading into 2021, we are making big efforts to maintain a safe environment for everyone!
At our properties
- Frequent cleaning and disinfection of common spaces
- Supply and replenishment of disinfectant spray and wipes throughout the building
- Installation of acrylic screens in common spaces
- Installation of thermal camera at building entrance
- Ventilation of common spaces
Our staff
- Body temperature check before shift → if body temperature is higher than usual, the staff member is not permitted to work
- Use of facial masks
- Frequent washing and disinfection of hands
We ask our residents to...
- Wear masks when outside of the bedroom
- Regularly wash and disinfect hands, gargle frequently
- In particular, wash hands after returning home. There are handwashing areas on the 1F
- Track body temperature and physical condition daily, making use of the thermal camera at the entrance and reporting any unwellness to staff while avoiding direct contact with others
- Practice social distancing
Excessive anxiety or fear regarding COVID-19 may at times lead to irrational decision making. At Uninest, we endeavor to provide accurate and up-to-date information from trusted sources, such as the government or medical institutions.
https://stopcovid19.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en
https://extranet.who.int/kobe_centre/en/covid
At Uninest, we are against any form prejudice or discrimination, especially towards those who have contracted the virus, those who have come into close contact with infected individuals or those seeking the help of healthcare professionals.
Inciting excessive anxiety with regards to the virus only increases prejudice and discrimination. This creates stigma around getting tested, and may lead to further and faster spread of the virus.
There are cases where people making best efforts to avoid infection still contract the virus. Uninest staff and residents will not display any prejudice or discriminate in any way against infected individuals or those who have come into close contact with the virus.
Please don't make it any more difficult for people to get tested for COVID-19, or to report having the infection, because of prejudice or discrimination.
For Reference: Three faces of COVID-19 we must be alert to - A guide to breaking the negative spiral-
http://www.jrc.or.jp/english/jrc_news/200416_006156.html
Hey, Uninest here!
Just wanted to check in following last night's announcement that the State of Emergency for Tokyo is officially lifted. It's not like the virus has disappeared and the risk of infection is over quite yet though, so the government is asking residents in Japan to adopt a new lifestyle.
What you want to know is, what does this mean for life at Uninest? Let me explain...
Yes, I heard!
Basically, I need to follow the precautions below for the time being and that's it, right!
We'll continue with our Bed Distancing Policy for now, but hope to end this on June 30. We plan to update residents later in June based on the government policy at the time.
In the meantime, we will continue to follow the procedure below in the event that any resident reports feeling unwell.
Let's support each other and do our best to enjoy adapting to this new lifestyle!
Sure!
As long as I'm surrounded by friends I'm sure there's a way to make it fun!
Hey!
Bet you're wondering what happens if there's a case of COVID-19 somewhere like one of our residences.
How about I give you the low down on our policy?
Yes please!
I want to know everything!
Details of "Day-to-day Preventative Measures"→
First means first, the main aim is to prevent any infection!
That's why we're asking everyone to take basic measures to cut the risk of anyone being or becoming infected.
I get the idea that prevention is key.
But what about the fact that we are living communally, with people sharing apartments.Surely the risk is pretty high even if I'm being careful...
Actually we decided to implement a bed distancing policy before the State of Emergency was even declared. It was a bit of a pain for our residents though, as we asked them to move rooms.
That's a relief, because this was the major concern!
But what if, even with all these measures, someone feels unwell? I have no idea what I'd do...
Considering the current situation, I'm not surprised you're anxious about feeling unwell.
Let me explain how we handle "Cases of Unwell Residents" in the diagram below!
I know you're wondering - but what if there's a resident who actually contracts COVID-19?
If this happens, we will work directly with the Ministry of Health and require all residents to follow their directions.
We know having all students self-isolate in their rooms is a big ask, but Uninest will be on hand to make it as pain free as possible.
Right!
So what you're basically saying is...
◎Prevention is key! And Uninest is providing masks for everyone!
◎There's currently a one person per room policy, avoiding any risks related to sharing apartments.
◎If you're feeling well, inform the staff ASAP!
◎If a resident does contract COVID-19, all residents will have to isolate in their rooms！
◎All communal spaces will be off limits, and Uninest will provide full support, e.g. food!
◎Basically, whether it's a sick individual or all residents, we'll work directly with the Ministry of Health and follow their directions！
When you’re moving to a new place, the property itself is important. But the surroundings are equally important, don’t you think?
The access to your school, restaurants and nearby shops, as well as a sense of security, are also key.
KAMIKITA HOUSE, which opened in March of 2020, is located nearby both Sakurajosui Station and Kamikitazawa Station on the Keio. So, what’s it like living in this area?
Let’s find out! We’ll start with accessibility.
It takes about 8 minutes on foot from KAMIKITA HOUSE to both stations. But Sakurajosui Station has various express trains stopping, as well as local trains, so it’s probably the more convenient of the two!
It takes just 13 minutes by train to reach Shinjuku, officially the busiest hub in Tokyo. (No need to transfer trains either!)
To Shibuya Station, it takes about 14 minutes by train. (The quickest route involves one transfer at Meidaimae Station onto the Keio Inokashira Line Express train)
You can even get as far as Ikebukuro Station in 30 minutes by transferring just once!
The Keio Line has a direct train that continues through to the Toei Shinjuku Line, conveniently stopping at Ichigaya, Jimbocho, and Ogawamachi.
If you go to Meiji University, Nihon University, or Hosei University, the accessibility is excellent. (Although it depends which major/campus you are!)
If you get off at Iwamotocho Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line, you can even walk to Akihabara!
The trains stopping at Kamikitazawa and Sakurajosui Stations are super convenient, and the shopping street surrounding both stations are fun to bike around too. You can cycle to Kichijoji Station or Meidaimae Station easily as well.
Just be sure to follow the traffic rule while you’re on the road please! Note: you are permitted to cycle on the sidewalk in Japan.
Today we got off at Kamikitazawa Station! There’s a supermarket, convenience stores, and ATMs nearby, so it’s a really convenient route home!
Wandering nearby the station, we also found lots of other cute shops!
The number of bagel shops is Tokyo is rapidly increasing! A little birdie told us that there are some delicious bagels to be found right here Kamikitazawa, so we went in search of 「Kepobagels」, located right next to Kamikitazawa Station North Exit!
Wow! There are literally so many varieties!!! They have a range of sweet and savory bagels, and everything in between!
When you think bagel, you often think New York, which is known for a specific type of bagel. We got our hands of one of the NY-style delights!
If you opt for a classic sandwich, you can choose between a plain bagel or a sesame bagel. But today I went for the Pumpernickel bagel - made from rye flour in a style that originates from Germany – and had them make me up a salmon sandwich. It was loaded with smoked salmon and cream cheese, so the more I bit into it, the tastier it got. SO delicious.
But, if you head to Kepobagels, then you also HAVE to try the Japanese-style bagels! Unique to this shop, these Japanese-style bagels are made with Japanese flour and natural yeast derived from malted rice. As a result the bagels are extra chewy!
Just look at these flavors: roasted soybean, black bean, mustard greens...so many options, it’s hard to pick just one! My goal is to try them all someday!! Currently, UNINEST’s staff rate green tea with roasted soybean as the top pick ♡ but I’m sure they’re all amazing!
“The customers at Kamikitazawa are so friendly and sweet. I love working here. We used to be located nearby Kamikitazawa Station South Exit but had to relocate two years ago. When we were weighing up the new location, there were no other contenders - only Kamikitazawa!” - Ms. Yamauchi, owner of Kepobagels.
We hope everyone enjoys living in Kamikitazawa and making the most of these yummy bagels!
Kepobagels Shop Info
Address: 4-16-13 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 9:00~19:00
Closed: Mondays (open Holidays), Tuesdays
Eat-in seats available
Just a 5-minute walk from Kamikitazawa Station South Exit and right on route home to KAMIKITA HOUSE, you’ll find Patisserie Miyahara. Come spring, you’ll realize it also faces onto a row of stunning cherry blossoms!
Even arriving early in the day, there were a number of bikes parked out front, and local patrons relaxing and chatting in the eat-in spots.
Whilst I was there the customers just kept coming, and the custard flan was all but sold out!
The cake display is impressive in itself. Return customers will notice the fruit toppings change depending on the season! Since we visited the shop last in February, there were lots of cakes with strawberries♡
“Well, our most popular ones are the classic strawberry shortcakes, flans, and cream puffs. We have developed a gentler taste so that even children can enjoy them every day!” – pastry chef, Mr. Miyahara.
Mmm. Like Mr. Miyahara said, the sweets aren’t too sweet, and they taste just divine! Baked goods such as cookies, madeleines, and financiers make great gifts for other, as well as special treats for yourself.
“Student life goes so quickly, so whilst you’re here we would love for you to swing by and take some time to enjoy.” -Message to students from Mr. Miyahara.
Whether it’s something to snack on while you’re at the books, or a special treat just because you deserve it ♡ it’s worth checking out Patisserie Miyahara! The guys at UNINEST are especially into the black tea cookies.
Patisserie Miyahara Store Info
Address: 1st floor Ogawa building 3-32-14 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya ward
Hours: 10:00~19:00
Closed: Tuesdays
Eat-in seats available
The area surrounding both Kamikitazawa Station and Sakurajosui Station is very quiet, but at night the streets are well lit, so you feel very safe!
There’s also a police box located near KAMIKITA HOUSE (just 250 meters away), so if you do ever feel uneasy, you know help is close to hand!
The cooperation of the local residents is vital is creating a happy environment in which to live.
Get to know your city and enrich your student days!
On April 6, the Japanese government issued a “declaration of a state of emergency” in response to the intensifying COVID-19 situation in Japan.
Is everyone in our UNINEST community taking the appropriate measures to protect themselves? In order to curtail the spread of COVID-19, we all need to do our bit in keeping up to date with the latest facts and information coming from specialists.
Here we’ll provide some easy-to-digest information, as we reference Tokyo’s official “Tokyo COVID-19 Information” site and “COVID-PAGE (Public Advisory Group of Experts)” (Japanese only).
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new virus that all generations need to protect themselves against; it doesn’t matter whether you’re in your teens or 20’s, since we know everyone and anyone is vulnerable according to the data. As of now, symptoms in younger people tend to be less serious, but this is not to say it will remain this way.
From “Tokyo COVID-19 Information” site
You can find the latest information concerning Tokyo updated frequently on the “Tokyo COVID-19 Information” site. Check out their detailed data regarding the current situation around testing, the number of confirmed COVID-19 positive patients, and the demographics of these patients (location, age, gender, etc.)
“COVID-PAGE (Public Advisory Group of Experts)” is also a credible Japanese language site managed by authorized persons of the Japanese Government TPP Headquarters.
Before you go thinking that COVID-19 has nothing to do with you, there are some things we want you to consider. Maybe you don’t have symptoms, but you could be a carrier of the virus, unconsciously transmitting the disease to the elderly or children.
Graphic from “COVID-PAGE (Public Advisory Group of Experts)” 「Information that needs sharing now (April 5)」
・Your decision to stay home is saving lives.
・Only head outside for essentials: medical checks, exercise (jogging, walking), food shopping, or key worker commutes.
So, the best thing we can all do is to stay at home. Lots of people are spreading the word to #Stayhome via YouTube, twitter and Instagram.
This is a tough time for everyone, so why not support each other by staying home?（UNINEST blog「5 fun things to do while you’re hauled up at home!」）
In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Japanese government has asked 7 prefectures (Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Osaka, Hyogo, Fukuoka) to take EXTRA stringent measures.
The duration of the declaration is said to be about a month. Below is a summary of key points so you can be at the ready, based on information provided by “COVID-PAGE (Public Advisory Group of Experts)”:
・Avoid crowds, enclosed spaces, and physical contact with others.
・Reduce all direct physical contact by 80%.
・Max. 1 outing per day.
Please physically distance yourself from others as much as possible. If there are too many people in a limited space, the ventilation will be bad. We ask that you avoid any places you know tend to get crowded.
The main point of this declaration is to get you to stay home. Try not to leave the house unless you need to pick up essentials.
・You are saving lives and supporting medical professionals by remaining at home.
・Don’t panic and do the best you can to continue on as usual.
If you are living in a region where the declaration has been issued, please refrain from travel to other regions.
Even though you show no symptoms of COVID-19, you could still be a carrier. If you understand there’s always a risk you may cause of the spread of COVID-19, you get why we’re asking you to refrain from all physical contact, right?
The volume of information regarding COVID-19 is overwhelming. Learn how to pick out the essential points from amidst the chaos.
Graphic from “COVID-PAGE (Public Advisory Group of Experts)” 「To All Generations」
・Share credible and necessary information .
・Keep updating this information and spreading the word.
COVID-19 is a new type of infectious disease, so everyone in the medical field is doing their best to find a cure or preventative method. Please be sure to keep updating yourself with credible information from reliable medical institutions.
Being aware of any changes in your physical condition is also important. If you’re concerned or feeling a bit under the weather, be sure to notify UNINEST staff ASAP, preferably by phone or email.
Graphic from “COVID-PAGE (Public Advisory Group of Experts)”「Information that needs sharing now (April 5)」
Takafumi Horie invited Dr. Sohtaro Mine, a postdoctoral researcher from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in America, to feature on his YouTube channel. In the video, Dr. Mine gives an easy-to-follow lecture about COVID-19.
Please cooperate so we can all stay healthy and protect ourselves from the COVID-19!
【Basic measures】
【Regarding guests and overnight stay】
【Monitor your health condition】
【Common areas in our residences】
【Our Staff】
If there are any updates to the measures being taken for COVID-19, we will notify you via our website, as well as the UNINEST staff reaching out to residents directly.
As a result of the global Covid-19 pandemic, everyone is required to follow preventative measures such as: strict self-hygienic, voluntarily self-isolation, social distancing.
We all have to keep “social distancing” in mind and take it seriously, but what if we use Skype or Instagram, and enjoy some great times together virtually!
You might even catch live streams by some of your favorite celebrities!
You can also share artists’ live streams with your friends on the other side of the screen. Let’s hang out and watch your favorite singers or illustrators being creative in real time, together!
If you want to move your body, we recommend trying a few rounds of Shiritori, but with gestures instead of words.
Shiritori is originally a word chain game popular in Japan, where you use the last letter of the previous word to choose the following word in the chain, and you just keep on going until someone says a word ending the word with the syllable “n” (ん).
This is because no words exist in the Japanese language begin with the syllable “n” (ん) alone. But a word chain game alone won’t help you exercise, so let’s use gestures instead! Guess what words your friends are trying to silently act out through the camera!
Get started by checking out a YouTube video to learn how to play!
Don’t be a couch potato during this challenging time! You’ll feel even more stressed if you’re not keeping healthy! It’s ok if you’re not much of an athlete, stretching is also a nice way to stay fit.
There are so many workout videos on YouTube, it’s unreal! Have a quick search and you’ll be able to find the perfect workout routine.
Advanced workout video, no tools needed!
Beginners workout video. 「HAND CLAP DANCE」- a video that went viral a while ago. There’s no stomping so you won’t have to worry about complaints from those downstairs!
Fitness games on Nintendo Switch or Wii are also super fun!
Convenient meals like frozen foods or microwave dinners are very popular, especially at the moment. But have you tried space food?? Now may be a good time to give it a go!
Space rice balls – Salmon. What does it taste like!?（Available from space goods store 「宇宙の店」）
Recently there are increasingly varied kinds of space food on sale, such as pilaf rice, cakes etc. This also goes for Japanese washoku, with options like takoyaki (octopus balls) and onigiri (rice balls).
Since we’re already stuck inside, why not try these fun pre-made foods?
Unfortunately, since we have to avoid direct physical contact with others, let’s make sure to greet others with a great big smile!
Since the majority of us are wearing masks, the key is to smile with your eyes. Or as Tyra Banks would say, “Smize” (ANTM). Why not practice smizing while you’re at home with us?
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted easily from person to person.
For Reference:From Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare(Japan),HP「From Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Q & A on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)」、Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health「新型コロナウイルス感染症Q&A」より
At Uninest Japan’s HAKUSAN HOUSE and KAMIKITA HOUSE, we are strictly adhering to the advice of Japan’s Ministry of Health, following stringent health and safety guidelines and taking the preventative measures required to keep students and employees safe.
We ask for the support of our residents in taking everyday preventive actions to ensure everyone’s safety!
【Basics of Infection Prevention】
【About guests & staying outside】
【Managing your health】
【Shared spaces】
【Our efforts as staff】
If you are feeling sick, please remain isolated in your room and inform Uninest staff by email or phone as soon as possible. Especially if:
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan),HP「Further Information from Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Q & A on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)」より
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after arriving home and before and after cooking. Make use of the soap and alcohol-based hand sanitizers provided. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Prevent infection by avoiding close contact with people. Keep a 2-meter (6ft) distance from others.
Please refrain from non-essential and non-urgent activities outside. You are safest spending time in your own room.
We plan to offer information on our measures towards COVID-19 through channels such as our HP as new developments arise.
Today we met with Miho, the HR representative of UNINEST! We asked the deets about her job as an HR personl, what she’s looking for in a recruitment interview, and what kind of people she wants for UNINEST.
HR：Miho (joined 2019)
UNINEST：Hello! Miho, you do such a great job of running our HR that it’s hard to believe you’re actually our first internal HR person...!
Had you worked in HR before?
MIHO：No, I’d never worked in HR before. My main role here at UNINEST is currently recruitment, so to interview job candidates.
I’m also working on building out the internal process for new starters, performance reviews, workplace regulations etc.
UNINEST：You’re so considerate of others, we really appreciate it, Miho!!
MIHO：Haha, thank you. Oh, also introducing new HR management systems and overseeing the operation of these is a part of my job.
UNINEST：So, you came to this role with no experience in HR, and there were no precedents to follow. What was that like?
MIHO：It’s that sense of creating something from scratch. I actually started working here as a Community Ambassador at the front desk, before moving over to HR.
〜Miho’s career change〜
June 2019: Joined the company
- Supporting students as a Community Ambassador.
July 2019: Started working in HR
- Balancing work as an HR person alongside that of a Community Ambassador.
October 2019: Shifted completely to HR!
- Mainly interviewing candidates while managing current employees.
UNINEST：I’m amazed at how quickly you were able to change your career...
MIHO：Well, I had a meeting with the managers early on after joining the company, and they asked, “Is there anything else you want to do at UNINEST?” So, I said HR, because I’ve always been interested in it.
At that time, the company was proceeding with plans for the opening a second residence and we needed new employees, so they let me try! Foreign affiliated firms are really quick at making decisions.
My workplace is generally the 1F Lounge at one of our residences. Everyone works here while listening to music!
There’s a comfortable atmosphere and in surrounded by stylish furniture.
UNINEST：So only a year or so since opening our flagship HAKUSAN HOUSE, we are already opening our second student accommodation, KAMIKITA HOUSE.
You must be putting a great deal of effort into recruitment. How many applications have you gotten so far?
MIHO：Er... Since summer of 2019, we’ve had about 800 applications over six months.
UNINEST：WOW. That’s a lot!!! So, of all those applicants, what type of person makes an impression on you?
MIHO：Well our company is based in the hospitality industry, so someone who is energetic, cheerful and has a great smile.
As a Community Ambassador here, you sometimes have to work alone at the front desk, so someone who monitors their surroundings effectively, and can prioritize things well is key. So basically, a person who is independent, proactive and flexible.
〜How to make a good impression on the UNINEST interviewer - 2020 edition -〜
１. An amiable person with a wonderful smile!
２. An energetic, high-spirited person!
３. An entertainer with a great sense of humor!
MIHO：Does this make sense? It sounds challenging. lol I try to imagine whether the candidate would fit well with our team or not during the interview too.
UNINEST：But if there’s over 800 applicants, isn’t it difficult to make a decision?
MIHO：Mmmmm... Not really? I can actually tell once away when I meet them.
UNINEST：So, first you look over their resume and CV, and then decide whether you want to meet them for an initial interview?
MIHO：Yes. I have a one-on-one interview with them first. But... usually 90% of them fail this stage.
UNINEST：Whaaaaaaaaaat!? That’s scary... And, for a so-called “Japanese company” candidate would normally head to an interview with a nice suit on, no? What’s it like here?
MIHO：Our interviewees have the freedom to wear whatever they like! I mean, a suit is okay... but it might seem out of place... I’m looking more at their personality, not attire.
UNINEST：How do candidates pass the first interview?
MIHO：I really do think that first impressions are important. Interviews are only about an hour long, but if during that hour you can’t be your best self, then it’ll be super hard to pass.
Candidates I take through to the second interview are the ones I genuinely think are just great. I would love it if everyone could show me their true best self at interview.
UNINEST：Well, interviews ARE a form of communication.
MIHO：Yes, exactly. Though, I’ve had candidates who were able to show me their genuine selves at the first interview, but then got super nervous at the second interview because it’s with three people.
It’s such a shame!!! I’d still want people to be able to present themselves well, even in those high pressure situations.
UNINEST：By the way, here at the residence I hear lots of languages spoken. How skillful do you need to be in terms of languages?
MIHO：You don’t need to be super skilled, as long as you’re not reluctant to communicate in English. Nationality doesn’t matter either. Anyone and everyone is welcome!
UNINEST：You have been hiring lots of non-Japanese people too! What level does their Japanese proficiency need to be?
MIHO：At least N2. But even if they’re not certified in terms of Japanese proficiency, it’s okay as long as they can have an effective conversation.
We are contemplating how we should develop our recruiting website. Maybe changing to a bilingual site.
UNINEST：I heard you’ve recently showed interest in people that are a part of the 「JET （The Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme）」Program?
MIHO：Yes, recently I went to the JET Career Fair and there were so many great candidates... I was totally enthralled by everyone’s smiles and great vibe.
They all had very interesting backgrounds and were strong-willed, independent individuals. I can tell they’re working really hard in Japan and I admired them for that.
UNINEST：Well, I can’t wait to see what kind of people will come to our interviews in future!
MIHO：Mmhm, it’s really exciting when the puzzle pieces match!
〜Hints for passing a UNINEST interview〜
・Come in an attire that represents who you are and don’t forget to show your best smile!
・Be ready to promote your true self in any situation!
・It’s okay to be nervous. Just don’t let that get to you!
MIHO：If you’re nervous, just tell me honestly! I’ll try my best to break the ice! Lol
I’m actually interested to see how she does that.
UNINEST： Maybe you’re better off just following Miho’s lead at the interview. Haha!
UNINEST：Not a lot of time has passed since UNINEST established itself in Japan. So, I guess that’s one of the reasons why career changes can happen here so fast.
MIHO：Most people here start off as a Community Ambassador. From there, we have people who have gone into Marketing, as well as Sales, specifically targeting the Chinese market.
A photo with one of our front staff. Such great smiles!
UNINEST：How does the company support those who want to challenge themselves in a completely new role?
MIHO：Nurturing this culture is something we really want to put more effort into!
Just like GLOBIS’ MBA, we want to take a didactic approach that offer assistance and lectures-esque resources for employees. We working on creating a “Uninest University” that brings on board professors and teachers that run seminars or workshops for staff.
We want to support those who want to learn about HR, Marketing, Business Management etc.
UNINEST：It’s nice that the company doesn’t force everyone to train in specific content by default.
MIHO：UNINEST’s management style is to make the best of everyone’s strengths. We’re not trying to “fix” their weak points. I want to hire you if you have the willingness to keep learning.
Once we were able to make more time to train newcomers and to develop a robust learning system, I will be able to hire so many different types of people. But unfortunately, that’s not the case quite yet.
UNINEST：Oooh... That sounds frustrating.
MIHO：UNINEST will continue growing, so we want people who can keep up with that. Hence, we prefer those who are flexible in their approach.
UNINEST：Ah, so someone who can stay calm in any situation.
MIHO：If you love rules, and want everything does according to manuals, then this environment might be stressful.
But if you can enjoy change then I think we are the perfect fit. We cultivate an environment where everyone respects each other and can head in the same direction as a company.
UNINEST：Miho, you are in the midst of challenging yourself as an HR representative. Do you find yourself doing lots of additional work outside of work hours?
MIHO：No way. When I’m off, I’m off.
UNINEST：Haha. What if you need to relieve stress during work hours?
MIHO：When it’s nice out, I go to the rooftop to eat lunch or take a nap!
This is the rooftop at HAKUSAN HOUSE. It gets a lot of sun, and the grass feels so nice!!!
UNINEST：You’re enjoying this place just as much as the students are! Haha. From your perspective, what are the students living here like?
MIHO：They’re so energetic! They give me a lot of motivation to work hard. Seriously, they are so important to me. Oh hey, welcome home!!
Interacting with a student that just got back home.
UNINEST：You can probably understand what all these students are going through since you yourself traveled around the world.
MIHO：When I went abroad, a lot of people helped me out. I have various second homes abroad too, because so many people treated me like family.
I would really like to make UNINEST such a place for overseas students coming to Japan and in order to do that I need to find the best people!
UNINEST：I can’t wait to meet more interesting people here! Thank you so much for this interview!!!
If you’re interested in working with us, pleaseclick here.
Interview articles
The multicultural life to studying abroad in the UK
If you’re a movie lover, then our cinema rooms are a perfect fit!
Located on the first floor of each of our residences, you can enjoy movies with your friends on the big screen (for free)!
Just imagine: you’re munching on popcorn while nestling down into our bean cushions and gushing over your favorite movie. Doesn’t that sound awesome?
One of our long-term residents, Wakana, commented that the phrase she’s heard most since living with us is...
「Movie tonight!」
Apparently, it’s secret code among our movie-loving residents, employed to rally everyone to gather at the cinema room once it’s dark out.
Movies aren’t just for entertainment, they’re also a fantastic way to study languages! So let’s make the most of these rooms and study in a more creative way!
Speaking of movie lovers, our staff also love movies! Let’s hear their top movie recommendations.
Definitely recommend the first one. It’s so popular that “Everyone in the English-speaking world knows that movie” – Damian. Without even realizing it, we find ourselves quoting from the film in daily conversation! It’s about a girl who was home-schooled in Africa up until the point she returns to the U.S and has to enroll at a public high school. As if by accident, she randomly joins a girl gang called “The Plastics”. She starts out as a sweet young woman, but slowly changes into a mean girl! Some parts really depicted my high school years in America! （Female, front staff 20’s）
The setting for this movie is John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. It’s a drama about a man who gets stuck at the airport and so decides to live there permanently. I’ve always liked airports and airplanes to begin with, so I love the movie. It’s just interesting how so many different stories can branch off from one setting, the airport. I think I’ve seen it at least three times already. (Male, Project manager 20’s)
Set in the 70’s, it’s a documentary about a mother and a daughter who live together in East Hampton, New York, both named Edith Beale. They reside in a house surrounded by overgrown plants and semi wild animals, and their character is just super unique! The way the directors (who are brothers) depiction their oddly intimate relationship one screen is fascinating. Be sure to check out their unique approach to 70’s fashion, too!(Female, General Manager 30’s)
A biography of legend Freddy Mercury, hailing from England’s most famous rock band, QUEEN. Just watch it. The story’s great. The MUSIC is awesome. It stirred so many emotions. Of course, it’s best to watch it one big screen, but if you’re going to watch it at home, I want you to at least use the right sound system. (Female, Front staff 20’s)
This is an astonishing digital work created by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. His outlook on the world and the characters he creates made this movie a masterpiece! At first glance it appears to be a horror movie, but it’s just a plain and simple realization of one innocent girl’s inner mind! (Male, Marketing 30’s)
I first saw this movie when I was a uni student. When I traveled to Canada, a friend recommended it to me, so we watched it together. The title includes the word “fight”, but it’s not just about fighting; it tells a profound story.I don’t think anyone can understand the movie fully just by watching it once. (Male, Front staff 20’s)
A bunch of university students who are members of a Sci-Fi club randomly come across a time machine during their summer vacation. They go back and forth between yesterday and today, but their reasoning is soooooo dumb… It’s just hilarious! On first glance you’d think it’s a brainless comedy, but it actually has a bit of mystery too. The more you watch it, the better it gets. (Female, Marketing 30’s)
Of course, it’s fun just watching movies on your own, but it’s even better if you can share your thoughts on them with your friends!
You might discover another side to your friend too...?
This said, if you’re the stoic type who likes only to watch movies solo, you are still welcome to use our theater rooms!
There no limitations! Both HAKUSAN HOUSE and KAMIKITA HOUSE have these rooms, so whichever accommodation you choose,
you’ll be able to enjoy watching movies in ways you wouldn’t at a regular theater!
Life style articles
What’s the culture around food like in an international dorm?
