In Japan, short-term apartments for young unmarried women

Through a new “Trial Stay” program of apartment living, PanaHome gives young unmarried women a way to try their hand at independence without making a long-term financial commitment.

Whereas most Japanese women have traditionally gone from their parents’ homes directly into married life, PanaHome’s Lacine Inokashira apartment complex now offers an alternative. Through a new “Trial Stay” program of apartment living, the company gives young unmarried women a way to try their hand at independence without making a long-term financial commitment. Designed and built by PanaHome, the all-electric Lacine Inokashira apartments in Tokyo are fully furnished and equipped with a variety of eco-friendly technologies, even including a suite of electric bicycles on hand for use by residents. Perhaps an even bigger part of the experience, however, is the complex’s Salon, which serves as a communal living space in which residents can socialize and enjoy educational events, including lessons in cooking and makeup application, according to a Japan Trends report. Ten units with multiple floor plans are available through the Trial Stay program for up to four weeks at a time. Pricing begins at JPY 28,000 for a two-week stay. Targeting single women aged 20 to 35, Lacine Inokashira began leasing this summer. A concept to bring to other parts of the world? Spotted by: Japan Trends via Judy McRae