Homestay
1. Term
The homestay program is offered on a semester basis. Students are required to leave their host family before the
dates indicated on the academic calender.
Extension of their stay after completion of the semester, by the nature of the program, may not be arranged. Their
personal negotiations with the homestay family jeopardize the trust and good relationship between the homestay
family and Kansai Gaidai. Such negotiation by the student with the homestay family must not take place.
A student who has been creating a serious problem with the host family, who is behaving contrary to homestay
expectations, or who shows no reasonable motivation to adjust the host family's life style may be requested to
terminate participation in the homestay program.
A student who terminate or is requested to terminate his/her registration at Kansai Gaidai in mid-semester MUST
leave the host family not later than the date requested by Kansai Gaidai.
2. Payment
Homestay fees are charged on a semester basis. Students are requested to pay the four months' expense in full
during the orientation period of each semester.
3. Extension of Stay
Homestay arrangements for the second semester will be made only for those students demonstrating a serious
desire and solid academic performance.
Request for extension of stay with the same host family into the second semester should be made through the
Application Form for Extension of Stay. Since the Center will negotiate the extension of the stay, students should
not become involved in personal negotiations with their host families. Also, students who do not wish to extend
their stay with their host families are requested to inform the Center (not the host family) of their intentions.
4. Homestay Expectations
Homestay arrangements for the second semester will be made only for those students demonstrating a serious
desire and solid academic performance.
Request for extension of stay with the same host family into the second semester should be made through the
Application Form for Extension of Stay. Since the Center will negotiate the extension of the stay, students should
not become involved in personal negotiations with their host families. Also, students who do not wish to extend
their stay with their host families are requested to inform the Center (not the host family) of their intentions.
A. The Center for International Education Housing Coordinators assist students in obtaining their host
families. Home assigned are considered an extension of the University. Therefore, the University has
the right to supervise all disciplinary and financial regulations incident to this program.
B.
Please bear in mind that the homestay expense you pay is not sufficient to cover the actual services
provided by your homestay family. As a result, the Homestay Program greatly depends on the host
family's kindness
C.
Your host family may expect to learn English from you. They would very much appreciate it if you
could spare some time for them. In return, they are willing to help you to learn Japanese.
D.
You should ask your family when you want to make a call and you should pay the charges yourself. In
Japan, there is a charge for all calls placed including local calls. Incoming and outgoing telephone
calls must be kept to a minimum. Calls may be made only with the express permission of one of your
host parents.
E.
Japanese families usually lock the front door before 10:00 pm. If you come home late at night,
someone must be kept up waiting to open the door for you. Therefore, you should be home by
10:00pm. Be sure to tell your host family beforehand if you will be late or if you plan not to have
supper with them in order to avoid unnecessary worry on their part.
F.
Students may not have company after 10:00pm. Company must be received only in the living room of
the house. Students, under no circumstances, may have company of the opposite sex in their room.
This is strictly prohibited. Those students who wish to have dinner guests in their homes, must notify
the family well in advance. No parties or reunions may be organized without the permission of the
host family.
G. Homestay participants are not permitted to engage in any type of employment. Should students
decide to seek part-time employment, they will be asked to terminate participation in the homestay
program.
5. Homestay Expense
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
320,000 yen
320,000 yen
Homestay fees are charged on a semester basis. Students are required to pay the expense in full during the
payment period each semester.
Homestay expenses are to be paid to the family according to the following payment schedule:
Month
Amount
Month
Amount
September
69,000 yen
February
67,000 yen
October
69,000 yen
March
67,000 yen
November
69,000 yen
April
67,000 yen
December
61,000 yen
May
67,000 yen
The handling fee of 52,000 円 is used for making phone calls, advertising in newspapers, visiting families, biannual
gifts, etc., in addition to many hours of administrative effort to maintain the homestay program.
Refund:
Since the homestay expense is paid to the family on a monthly basis, the homestay fee would be refunded only on
a monthly basis.
Refund of the handling fee will be made according to the following schedule:
Month of Move Out(Spring Semester)
Amount
September
February
26,000 yen
October
March
21,000 yen
November
April
16,000 yen
December
May
0 yen
Month of Move Out(Fall Semester)
NOTE:
Students on a full-exchange program should be aware that Kansai Gaidai's housing support is limited to either
homestay or dormitory. Those students electing off-campus housing (i.e., apartment, boarding house, etc.) are not
entitled to receive a refund on housing expenses.
6. Living with Japanese Family
The Home:
In general, homelife in Japan is a blend of traditional Japanese and western living --- for example, most Japanese
families who live in the city have at least one room with western style furniture, while the rest of the rooms have
Japanese furniture and tatami mat floors. (Tatami mats have a foundation of hand pressed straw tow inches thick
and are covered with a woven rush mat, bordered by linen strips.) In the Japanese style rooms, one usually sits on
cushions (zabuton) on the floor.
Women sit on their ankles in Japanese fashion or with their legs to the side and behind them. Do not sit
cross-legged or lie back with legs outstretched. This is very rude by Japanese standards.
Japanese rooms are used for many purposes --- for meals a folded table may be set up in the middle of the floor
space, at night mattresses (futon) are taken out of the closet and made up on the floor for beds, etc. Do not be
surprised if your family sleeps together in the same room --- a room you had originally thought was the living room.
Since Japanese rooms are very versatile, even though many of you may have a room of your "own", it may also be
needed for other uses. It is normally not proper to shut your room off during the day and hide the mess. Therefore,
straighten up your room in the morning and put your futon away each morning.
A few points about tatami: The tatami is protected at great length. One of the reasons for this is the fact that tatami
cannot be cleaned or spots removed --- the entire section must be replaced. Therefore, although you will have
taken your outside shoes off at the foyer (before stepping up on the wooden hallway), you also remove your
surippa (slippers) before you walk on the tatami --- only socks or barefeet are allowed. Be very careful with foods,
cigarette ashes, ink, liquids, etc.
Daily Schedule:
Many Japanese operate on a schedule, both inside and outside the home. This schedule sets a pattern to their
lives which is very important to them. Although many of their time routines, patterns and requests may seem
irrelevant, restricting, and unfair to you, it is the Japanese way of ordering their lives and it needs to be respected
as you enter into their life pattern.
The Japanese are not a people who stay out late, and this is especially true for women. Most of the families will
expect you in around 10:00pm (and do not forget that most buses, trains, etc. stop early in the Kyoto area ---
earlier, the further away one goes from the city). They will want to lock the house and retire --- this is true even if
you have your own key. If you are going to be late, let your family know at least 3 hours ahead of time. Some of the
women may have to walk home from the train or bus station. If so, your family will want to know when you are
arriving home after dark so that they ca meet you and escort you home. Do not get upset - it is the Japanese way.
Meals are special times and many of your families have shown great concern for you, your tastes, and your needs.
It is only fair that you respect their needs and show up, on time, for meals as scheduled. They will feel responsible
to see that you eat both breakfast and dinner as often as possible with them since this is what we have requested
as part of the homestay expectations. Meals are eaten together or in groups - children eat together. If you expect to
miss a meal, let your family know as far ahead as possible. This is important for their schedules and shopping
routines. It is very inconsiderate to call a few minutes before dinner and tell them you won't be coming home --- a
great deal of tension will be created by such actions even though you may not be aware of it.
Meals:
For the first week or so, try to eat everything in front of you. Some of it will be strange - but try it, you may like it.
Ocha (tea) comes in handy if you have problems swallowing. Things will be tense the first week and your Japanese
family will be very worried about the food and you. Some cannot afford meat, cereals, etc. and are very afraid that
their food will not be good enough for you. They will be hurt if you refuse - so grin and bear it.
If you feel that you need to follow a particular eating pattern, whether it be because you consider yourself a
vegetarian or are simply diet conscious, remember it is as important to let your host mother know what you can eat,
as well as what you cannot eat.
After a pattern of trust has been established (and this takes time for the Japanese) and you have more language
ability, you can begin to express some of your likes and dislikes --- but do not overdo it.
Heating:
Few Japanese homes are centrally heated. While winter in Central and Southern Japan is comparatively mild, a
lingering dampness prevails throughout the seasons. Considerable unpleasantness may be experienced until one
becomes environmental. Most Japanese wear long underwear all the time in the winter to keep warm.
The kotatsu is still used for heating in many ordinary Japanese homes. It is a small table with a padded quilt around
the sides. An electric heating unit under the table provides heat to the feet and legs. In winter, the family often sits
around the kotatsu on the tatami and enjoys watching TV. The traditional kotatsu was usually located in the center
of the floor. One sat on the tatami and extended his legs and feet down onto a platform. Charcoal was used for
heating. Today, the traditional style kotatsu has largely been replaced by the convenient portable electric kotatsu.
Gas, kerosene and electric heating stoves are other popular methods of heating modern Japanese homes. Most
often the bath is heated by gas or propane liquid petroleum, but in the country, many farm houses still use wood.
Many Japanese families use electric blankets for sleeping in winter. While practical and inexpensive, the equipment
used for heating Japanese homes is dangerous unless properly handled. Gas is especially dangerous and must be
turned off at night before going to bed, or when leaving the room. Oil stoves are the cause of fires in countless
Japanese houses each year. Japanese homes are made mostly of wood and are built very close to each other --virtual firetraps! One, must be especially careful when moving around the room so as not to tip the stove over. All
heating units are turned off when one goes to sleep --- DO NOT FORGET!
The Bath:
The Japanese bath is a family affair and as a member of the family one should observe the household rules with an
open mind.
When the bath is prepared, someone will tell you it is your turn to use the bath. In Japan one does not wash inside
the tub, he washes outside. The water in the tub is used for soothing the body after one has rinsed off outside the
tub. Be careful not to spill soapy water in the tub while rinsing your body, as this is considered extremely
ill-mannered and inconsiderate. All members of the family use the same water (so check before you change the
temperature). If in doubt as to how to use the bath, ask someone to explain to avoid any misunderstanding.
Almost all of the homes have an ofuro (Japanese style bath). Most families have a set routine as to when the ofuro
is taken. While most take an ofuro every night, some do not, so find out what your family's schedule is before
plunging ahead. If you find that your turn in the bath is rather late but you want to take one earlier (e.g. to allow
enough time for your hair to dry before bed), ask your host mother and explain why. Some families may have a
shower attachment in the ofuro room. It is used for rinsing off before entering the tub. Do not spend lots of time
soaking under it --- gas costs are high. Japanese take their baths (or showers) usually at night --- sheets stay
cleaner that way. Do not try to change this pattern.
The Toilet:
The following has been adapted from the "Tour Companion" to enlighten you as to the joys of the Japanese "john"
(otearai or benjo)
The changes are that sometimes during your stay in Japan you will find yourself having to use Japanese-style
lavatory. It is not made for sitting down, but do not despair.
The receptacle is usually on a raised floor. The opening is rectangular with a sort of hood over one end.
Stand flat-footed astride the opening with your face towards the hood. Then bend down into a crouching or
squatting position, making sure that your rear is over the opening and not protruding beyond it.
The position may not be comfortable but it is sanitary because no part of your body comes in direct contact with the
fixings. In the case of the male, he urinates by standing on the lower floor an aiming for the opening. Please aim
carefully.
Slippers (normally plastic) are provided for wear in the Otearai. Therefore, leave the other surippa outside slip into
the ones inside and do your thing the surippa outside also let everyone know that the otearai is now in use --important since there are usually no locks.
Laundry:
Each family will have its own laundry (sentaku) schedule. In most cases, females will be expected to wash their
own things, particularly underclothes (do not use the kitchen sink). Most host mothers wash everyday, though you
won't be expected to do your laundry that often. However, you should do it regularly and at least often enough so
as to avoid unsightly piles of dirty clothes. Your host mother will show you how to use the washing machine
(sentakuki) and in most cases let you use her soap. Since the machines are small and drying space is limited, you
will have to fit your washing schedule into that of your host mother. Try not to monopolize the washing machine for
long periods.
Privacy:
Privacy is fairly important to most western students in one way or another --- you like to have some time alone in
your room, sit and read on the "john," take a leisurely bath, or what-have-you. During the first couple of weeks with
a Japanese family, they are going to be very aware of your needs, moods, etc. and also want to spend a lot of time
with you. Any time that you spend alone will probably be interpreted as being unhappy, lonely, upset with them, etc.
So handle with care.
Bedtime is fairly early for most Japanese even though many will want to spend time talking with you. However, you
will be free to read, write letters, etc. in your room long after all the others have retired. However, Japanese houses
are thin-walled --- so keep the noise down (this doesn't mean to a mild roar --- you can practically hear someone
turn over, so sliding doors, walking heavily, etc. can be very disturbing). Also, no smoking is an absolute rule while
lying in a futon. Japanese are justly fearful of fire. If you must smoke in your room, do so sitting up, use a large
ashtray and empty it often.
When your Japanese father "strips" to what you consider his "underwear" --- relax, the white pajama-like clothes
are his "at-home-attire," but are worn underneath his street clothes.
The Japanese consider their homes rather private and do not normally invite people home for entertainment,
dinner, chatting, etc. These activities are held in coffee shops, market areas, street corners, etc. and not in the
home itself. This is the private aspect of the family --- so keep the visitations of friends to a minimum --- if at all.
Keep your meetings with friends at coffee shops, over lunch, etc. until the flow of the family becomes clear to you.
Coming and going is a personal matter. But as a member of a Japanese family you are obliged to tell someone
where you are going and when you expect to return. If you expect to return late, it is appropriate to call the family
and let them know the time you will be returning. Many Japanese families expect their own children of your age to
be home by 10:00 pm.
Helping Around the House:
The idea of being in a homestay situation is to become a real part of the family. You will, of course, be expected to
take care of your own room. In addition, your host mother will probably appreciate it if you help her from time to
time with chores - setting and clearing the table, washing the dishes, cleaning the ofuro, etc. Don't look at these
tasks as things you had hoped to escape by going away to college.
Helping around the house will bring you closer to your host family and deepen your understanding of Japanese life.
If your host mother assigns you certain chores, it is with the idea of making you part of the family - not because she
wants to make you work. Also, be careful that you don't too quickly accept your host mother's "No, I don't need any
help," when you ask what you can do. That is just being polite. Ask a few more times, and if she really doesn't want
your help, you will get the idea.
Polite Forms:
Don't shake hands, kiss, or show affection to the older members of the household. Most Japanese are very
reserved and this is not interpreted in the same friendly manner as abroad. Some exceptions (but be cautious) are
with peers of the same sex and with younger children. When you are introduced to your family, bow and say
HAJIMEMASHITE. Bowing is appropriate when one greets another, saying good-bye (sayonara), entering
another's room, etc. Bowing low is a sign of respect in Japan-a nod of the head really does not suffice. Although
bowing will feel awkward at first --- you'll get used to it!
Another point --- sumimasen, gomen nasai, and onegaishimasu (all forms of please, excuse me, etc.) are a major
part of Japanese etiquette and thought patterns. This means that when one wants to take a bath, use the denwa
(phone), go out, be late, etc., one asks for permission.
If visiting a family, it is always correct to bring a gift, though it need not be expensive. Some cookies or fruit will do.
Your host family will probably be very reserved with you --- they will feel comfortable telling you about things, but
will find it difficult to actually correct you or show their displeasure when you have done something wrong. They will
tend to keep these things inside of themselves and then when things have gone too far --- really blow...Leaving
everyone very unhappy and you with a long process of sumimasens! So, if tension seems to be building --- let
someone at the Center know so that we can act as a mediator --- which is very typically Japanese!
These guidelines are prepared on the conservative side --- we suggest that you follow them closely during the first
couple of weeks. Your family will be tense, anxious to please you --- you will be treated very much like a guest. The
Japanese are very humble people and normally cannot believe that a foreigner would be comfortable in their
house. They will go out of their way to help you and make you comfortable (sometimes to your discomfort and
embarrassment). They will be easily hurt during this time if they cannot accomplish this to perfection. You on the
other hand will also be excited, tense, and frustrated by lack of language skills. Later on, the rules may be relaxed
or if you make a mistake or forget --- things will be forgiven easily. Have fun --- the families are really great.
Source: Callision College Japan Program
Revised by Dr. George O. Hlawatsch
Useful Japanese Expressions:
Greetings:
Good morning.
Ohayoo gozaimasu
Good afternoon.
Konnichiwa
Good evening.
Konbanwa
Good bye.
Sayonara
Good night.
Oyasuminasai
When you leave home for school or somewhere, say:
Ittekimasu
When you come home, say:
Tadaima
How are you?
Ogenki desuka
Thank you very much.
Arigatoo gozaimasu
You are welcome
Doo itashimashite
No, thank you.
Iie, kekkoo desu
I'm sorry.
Sumimasen or Gomen nasai
May I...?:
May I come in?
Haittemo ii desu ka
May I ea
Tabetemo ii desu ka
It is all right to do it later? it?
Ato demo ii desu ka
May I come with my friends?
Tomodachi to isshodemo ii desuka
May I go with you?
Issho ni ittemo ii desu ka
Please:
Please tell me.
Oshiete kudasai
Please wait.
Matte kudasai
Please wait a minute.
Chotto matte kudasai
Please speak slowly.
Yukkuri hanashite kudasai
Please sat that again.
Moo ichido itte kudasai
I'm coming home late:
I am coming home late tonight.
Kyoowa osoku narimasu
As I am coming home late tonight, wa
Kyoowa osoku narunode Yuushoku wa
I will not need supper.
irimasen
I am coming home around 10 o'clock.
Kyoowa juuji goro kaerimasu
Useful Japanese Expressions:
What-Where-When-Who-Which:
What is it?
Kore wa nan desu ka
What would you like?
Nani ga ii desu ka
What time is it?
Nanji desu ka
Where is the bank?
Ginkoo wa doko desu ka
Where is the post office.
Yuubinkyoku wa doko desu ka
Where is the station?
Eki wa doko desu ka
When is convenient with you?
Itsu ga ii desu ka
When Shall I go?
Itsu ikimashoo ka
Who are you?
Donata desu ka
Which do you prefer?
Dore ga ii desu ka
Transportation:
What exit is this?
Nanideguchi desu ka
This is the East exit.
Higashi-guchi desu
Where can I buy the ticket for (Bullet train?)
Shinkansen no kippu wa dokode kaemasu ka
Will you help me in planning a trip?
Ryokoo no soodan o shitai desu
Will you reserve a hotel for me?
Hoteru o yoyaku shite kudasai
How much will it cost?
Ikura kakarimasu ka
I left something on the train.
Densha ni wasuremono o shimashita
Restaurant:
I will have...
...o kudasai
Clean this up.
Katazukete kudasai
Please bring another one.
Moo hitotsu kudasai
The bill, please.
Okanjoo o shitekudasai
What is the English name?
Eigo no namae wa nandesu ka
I can eat with chop sticks.
Hashi de taberare masu
This is fine with me.
Daijoobu desu
I cannot eat pork.
Butaniku wa taberare masen
This is delicious.
Oishii desu
When you finish eating, say:
Gochisoo sama deshita
When you start eating, say:
Itadaki masu