Interviews with Neighborhood Association Members
Now that you have an idea of what the neighborhood association (Chonaikai) does, let's hear from residents who actually joined the Rokuhara neighborhood association.
Note: These interviews were conducted in 2026.
Ms. K (Higashirokuro-cho)
I joined the neighborhood association five years ago, the year after I moved here. A neighbor (who was likely the block leader at the time) visited me to collect the neighborhood membership dues, and that served as my introduction.
Since joining, I've gained a better understanding of how the community relies on collective teamwork—such as managing local garbage collection sites and distributing flyers. I feel that the long-standing residents deliberately give newcomers roles to play so that the town’s traditions and activities can be smoothly passed down to the next generation.
Currently, I serve as a block leader (kumicho), collecting neighborhood dues and distributing circular notices (kairanban) and the local citizen newspaper. Although I hold the title of vice president of the association, it is mostly in name only. In reality, experienced neighbors who know the area inside and out step in to support me.
Ms. N (Ikedono-cho)
I joined the neighborhood association five years ago.
I joined because I always assumed that living here meant being part of the association, and I wanted to build good relationships with my neighbors.
I am currently serving as a block leader. Taking on this role has increased the number of familiar faces around me, and I feel closer to my neighbors. There are so many kind people here, which has made me love this neighborhood even more.
Ms. M (Showakoji-cho)
I
I
joined the neighborhood association last year when I moved in.
already knew that Rokuhara hosts a wide variety of events, and I believed that joining was standard practice. I wanted to actively participate in local events, so I signed up right away.
The best part of joining is receiving local news about Rokuhara and Higashiyama through the circular notice board. Because an established community already exists, I find it easy to reach out whenever I need help or advice. Being part of the neighborhood association's LINE group also gives me a strong sense of security.
In Showa-Koji Town, alongside standard community events like Jizo-bon, Sports Day, and disaster preparedness drills, we organize our own town-specific events such as Halloween and Christmas parties. While these are mainly geared toward children, adults jump in and enjoy them just as much.
Mr. K (Yamashiro-cho)
I joined the neighborhood association last year after a neighbor introduced me to it.
The biggest benefit of joining has been receiving information about local community events through the circular notices and being able to actively participate in them.
