GRAN OSAKA TAKATSUKI
Interview: Suno (Resident of "Gran Osaka Takatsuki")
“Everything Has Been Smooth Sailing Since I Came Here.” A Rich Local Working Holiday Between Osaka and Kyoto
■ A Careful Planner’s Choice for His First Time Living in Japan
It has been about three months since Suno moved to Japan from Seoul, South Korea
. Working at a hotel front desk, he enjoys vibrant and fulfilling days off filled with travel, walks, studying, and music. While he seems to have adjusted effortlessly to life in Japan at first glance, he is actually a careful planner who researches everything thoroughly in advance.
"I think many people choose share houses to save on rent, but I chose one because I wanted to interact with different people. Before coming to Japan, I researched extensively on Korean review sites and online communities, comparing several companies. Among them, Oakhouse stood out with so many positive reviews. Being able to check statistics on the website—like the breakdown of resident nationalities—helped me visualize the atmosphere beforehand, which was a major deciding factor."
A relaxed interview in the cozy, stylish lounge
Initially, Suno was also considering a studio apartment in central Osaka. However, being sensitive to noise, he was drawn to the available top-floor corner room, as well as the fully equipped setup and spacious shared facilities, and decided to move into "Gran Osaka Takatsuki" right away.
An Airy Room with a Balcony
■ "Where’s Takatsuki?" — The Start of a Wonderfully Rich Local Experience
Conveniently located right between Kyoto and Osaka stations, Takatsuki offers a highly accessible location just about 15 minutes by public transport to both major hubs. From department stores and major shopping centers to relaxing green spaces, everything you need for daily life is right here. Host to one of Japan’s largest street music events, the "Takatsuki Jazz Street" every May, it is a hidden gem of a town where new community connections come naturally.
Before moving to Japan, Suno had never heard of the name "Takatsuki."
"I didn’t choose this location because I specifically wanted to live in Takatsuki; I chose it because this share house was so attractive. But living here has proven to be the absolute right decision."
While major tourist hubs like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are filled with travelers, Takatsuki offers a peaceful environment rooted in authentic local Japanese life.
"Central Osaka and Kyoto feel very touristy, but Takatsuki lets you experience Japan as it truly is, without any artificial feel. I really love its calm, genuine local vibe. Since you can easily catch a train to either central Osaka or Kyoto, it’s a great base for traveling all around Kansai. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to experience genuine Japanese daily life up close."
Furthermore, "Ama Site Park," located about a 10-minute walk from the share house, is his absolute favorite spot.
"It’s spacious and beautiful, making it perfect for a walk whether you go during the day or at night. It has a wider variety of open plazas than other famous parks, and I honestly think it’s the best place in Takatsuki."
■ Well-Equipped Shared Spaces, a Warm & Comfortable Community, and a Piano for Relaxation
Opened in April 2026, "Gran Osaka Takatsuki" has been open for about six months and is clean and well-equipped. With a spacious lounge and kitchen on the 1st floor, a fitness gym on the 2nd floor, and a workspace on the 3rd floor, residents can spend their time however they like.
Here, there is a comfortable community with just the right balance, where people can casually exchange greetings and small talk.
"I only cook occasionally, but I enjoy chatting with everyone so much that I make a point of eating in the 1st-floor kitchen, and I often hang out in the lounge even without a specific reason.
Since there are so many friendly people, we became close in no time. I’ve gone to Namba with fellow residents to watch World Cup matches, and just yesterday, we went together to a cafe tucked away in the mountains of Kyoto."
Enjoying bread from the bakery "Tansei"—which he had been curious about on social media—at his usual seat. "I can understand why it's so popular. Ume Mentai (plum & spicy mentaiko) is my absolute favorite."
"Also, a piano was recently installed here, so playing it during my relaxation time after work has become part of my daily routine. I play it whenever I have time."
Rachmaninoff, great choice.
Suno also makes full use of the shared facilities, working up a sweat in the 2nd-floor gym or focusing on studying with friends in the 3rd-floor workspace.
In addition, he actively participates in events hosted by Oakhouse—enjoying a calligraphy event at another house in Kyoto, trips to USJ, and dinner parties—continuously expanding his social circle every day.
Pizza made together at an Italian dinner party / Residents enjoying games together / Calligraphy event / Shaved ice & nagashi somen (flowing noodle) event
■ "Luck Is Part of Skill" — Why Everything Goes So Smoothly
Suno was hired on the spot for a hotel front desk position during his interview upon arriving in Japan. While many people struggle to find a job on a working holiday, he has been enjoying a truly smooth life.
"Since coming here, everything has been really smooth—so much so that it almost makes me anxious (laughs). Everything is going well, and every day is smooth sailing."
Suno says this with a smile, but it is all thanks to his thorough research beforehand and his attitude of honestly facing what he wants to do.
"Both my Japanese listening and speaking skills have improved dramatically since I got here. When I signed the contract, I spoke in English with the staff, but now we speak almost entirely in Japanese. For the rest of my working holiday, I want to carefully consider my future life plans."
His impression of Japan after spending three months here:
"I think Japan’s greatest attraction is, above all, its people. The air is clear and the scenery is beautiful, but most of all, thanks to the people who are always smiling and treat me so kindly even though I'm a foreigner, I enjoy every day."
Finally, he closed with a message for those considering moving in.
"Welcome! Let's travel around together and get along!"
【Editor's Note】
Gran Osaka Takatsuki comes highly recommended by Suno—who never skips thorough research—as "the best share house so far."
With its calm local neighborhood, excellent accessibility, and clean, comfortable shared spaces, it is a property filled with warm energy that naturally brings a positive outlook to its residents' daily lives.
Thank you, Suno, for your cooperation!
May the path ahead be filled with fruitful experiences and wonderful encounters.
Check out the house featured in this story!
Recently viewed properties