Living In Sendai: University Housing Experience And Advice.pdf

Housing:
- Enrolled at Tohoku University and INSA Lyon double degree program.
- Lived in UH Aobayama dormitory, a non-mixed flat with max. 8 people per unit.
- Shared spaces include entrance, kitchen, and bathroom, cleaned weekly.
- Rent: ¥29,500/month (without charges), ≈¥44,000/month (with charges). Deposit: ¥30,000.
- "Welcoming session" upon arrival, inventory check required.

Living in Sendai:
- Disadvantages: Far from city center, no close supermarket.
- Payment methods: Cash, apps (Paypay, Rakuten), ATMs widely available. Be cautious of withdrawal fees outside regular hours.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for foreigners; includes Gakkensai Insurance, Inbound Futai Gakuso, and National Health Insurance. Registration at Aoba ward upon arrival.

Communication:
- No personal phone required during stay, but useful for non-dorm residents or booking services.
- Internet access available in dormitories, campus, train stations, convenience stores, and some streets.
- Mobile plans more expensive than in France; limited options for long-term stays.

Transportation:
- Expensive compared to France and Tokyo; no student discounts on regular trains.
- Recommended to have a bicycle if living far from campus (e.g., UH Sanjo).
- Electric bicycles or mopeds popular among Aobayama residents due to campus location.
- Access to large cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto by bus or train, with night buses as the best option for those prone to motion sickness.

Groceries:
- Stores open 7/7, later than in France; most food available, but foreign options limited.
- Gyomu Super and Kaldi recommended for international foods.
- Fruits and some vegetables more expensive compared to France.
- Good sources of protein (tofu, natto, soy products), iron (seaweed, leafy veggies), and high-quality rice.