culture

Naga-ya (Long Houses) - Shared Housing

Structure: Communal buildings housing 10-20 cats

Features:

  • Small private rooms (6’x8’) with paper walls
  • Futon-style bedding, small storage
  • Shared kitchen with communal meals
  • Shared bath house (sentō style)
  • Common garden and social areas
  • Bulletin boards for community notices

Social Dynamics:

  • Support network for newcomers
  • Shared chores and responsibilities
  • Regular community meetings
  • Friendships form naturally
  • Mentorship from longer-term residents

Aesthetics: Clean, simple, warm. Not luxurious but never grim. Paper lanterns, wooden floors, plants in common areas.