Japanese Business Glossary

普請 (fushin) refers to construction or building activities in Japanese. This term is traditionally used to describe the process of constructing buildings, homes, or other structures. It encompasses various aspects of construction work, including planning, designing, and the actual building process.

Fushin can also extend to repairs, renovations, and maintenance of existing structures. Historically, it involved community efforts where people would come together to build or repair communal facilities, such as temples, bridges, or roads.

In modern usage, fushin still retains its connection to construction and can be used to refer to any building project or significant structural work. The term emphasizes the collective effort and organization required to complete such projects.

雑種地 (zasshuchi) means "miscellaneous land" in Japanese. It refers to land that does not fall into any specific category of use, such as residential, agricultural, commercial, or industrial. This type of land might have mixed uses or be used for purposes that do not fit neatly into the standard classifications. Zasshuchi can include areas like vacant lots, unused parcels, or land with multiple minor uses that do not dominate its primary purpose. In real estate and urban planning, identifying and categorizing zasshuchi is important for proper land management, development planning, and zoning regulations.

家賃 (yachin) means "rent" in Japanese. It refers to the payment made by a tenant to a landlord for the use of property, typically on a monthly basis. This term is commonly used in the context of renting residential properties, such as apartments or houses. The amount of yachin is usually determined by the location, size, and condition of the property. Paying yachin on time is a key responsibility of tenants as stipulated in rental agreements. The concept of yachin is an essential part of living arrangements for many people, reflecting the cost of securing a place to live.

間口 (maguchi) means "frontage" or "width" in Japanese. It refers to the width of a property or building facing the street or main entrance. This measurement is an important aspect in real estate and urban planning as it determines the accessibility, visibility, and overall appeal of the property. For example, a property with a wide maguchi might be more desirable for commercial purposes because it can attract more customers and allow for better display of goods. In residential contexts, maguchi can affect the layout and design of a home, including the placement of windows, doors, and driveways. Understanding maguchi helps in evaluating the potential and value of a property.

集合住宅 (shugo jutaku) means "apartment complex" or "multi-family housing" in Japanese. It refers to residential buildings designed to house multiple families or individuals in separate units within the same structure. These complexes often include shared facilities such as elevators, hallways, and sometimes amenities like parking areas, gardens, or recreational spaces. Shugo jutaku is common in urban areas where space is limited, offering a practical solution for accommodating a large number of residents efficiently. The design and management of shugo jutaku focus on optimizing space, providing convenience, and fostering a community environment among the residents.

借地 (shakuchi) refers to "leased land" or "land lease" in English. It is a legal arrangement where a landowner (lessor) grants the right to use a piece of land to another party (lessee) for a specified period in exchange for rent. This type of agreement is common in Japan, where land can be scarce and expensive, making it more feasible for businesses and individuals to lease land rather than purchase it outright.

Under a shakuchi arrangement, the lessee may use the land for various purposes, such as building a home, setting up a business, or agricultural activities. The terms of the lease, including the duration, rent, and usage conditions, are outlined in a contract. Typically, these leases can range from short-term agreements to long-term leases spanning several decades.

One of the key aspects of shakuchi is that while the lessee has the right to use the land, they do not own it. The ownership remains with the lessor, and at the end of the lease term, the lessee may need to vacate the land or negotiate a renewal of the lease. This arrangement allows for flexibility and lower upfront costs compared to purchasing land, but it also means that the lessee must adhere to the terms set by the lessor and may face uncertainty about long-term land use.

shakuchi is an important concept in Japanese real estate and urban planning, offering a practical solution for land use in densely populated and high-value areas.