This interview offers an intimate look into the life of Aisa Okuyama, a university student in Kyoto, Japan. Through her reflections on family, tradition and daily routines, readers gain insight into the cultural values, generational ties and evolving identity of contemporary Japan.
All responses have been translated from Japanese.
Aisa Okuyama (おくやま あいさ)
I’m currently living in a university dormitory in Kyoto. Compared to dorms in America, the rules here are stricter. The male and female floors are separated, and even friends aren’t allowed into each other’s rooms. But because of that, everyone is considerate of one another, and it’s actually very comfortable.
I’m originally from Fukui Prefecture, and my house is registered as a traditional Fukui-style home. It’s mainly built from thick wood and is about 100 years old (though we’ve done some renovations).
