George Palace: A Modern 1K Apartment in Yomitan Village, Okinawa
This rental apartment, located in the Hisha area of Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture, offers a compact and well-equipped living space. The 1K layout features a single 8-tatami mat Western-style room and a separate kitchen area, with a total private floor area of approximately 26.4 square meters. Situated on the 4th floor of a 5-story reinforced concrete building constructed in 2001, the unit is a corner room along National Route 58, directly opposite a Toyota dealership. A free parking space is available, though it requires on-site confirmation and is designated for light vehicles only. The apartment is conveniently located just a one-minute walk from the Hisha bus stop.
The property comes with a range of facilities and equipment, as detailed in the agent notes. These include propane gas, a unit bath with bathtub, air conditioning, a getabako (shoe cupboard), BS satellite broadcasting compatibility, internet connectivity, and an indoor space for a washing machine. A notable feature is the large, stylish mirror-fronted sliding door on the closet.
Critical information from the agent's notes has been translated and must be included. A virtual tour is available for reference, showcasing unit 503 (a reversed layout unit). Viewing appointments are accepted by phone only. All photos and videos are for illustrative purposes. The status of the air conditioning unit requires confirmation after the current tenant vacates, with the current condition taking priority. Applications may be refused depending on inquiry volume. It is possible to apply without an in-person viewing. Applicants with complete documentation are prioritized, but if multiple applications are received on the same day, simultaneous screening will occur.
Additional initial costs include a monthly building maintenance fee of ¥1,000 and mandatory fire insurance at ¥7,000 per year. The agency commission is calculated on the monthly rent plus parking fee (plus consumption tax). Key replacement costs range from approximately ¥25,000, varying based on the type and number of keys. If the guarantor resides outside Okinawa Prefecture, a security deposit increase may apply. Mandatory screening and enrollment with a rent guarantee company (Zenhoren Inc.) is required, with an initial fee of 50% of one month's rent (¥14,000) and an annual renewal fee.
The application process involves either visiting the agent's office or downloading documents from CUBE's website. Required documents include a driver's license or other ID (copied front and back). For corporate applications, a company registry (within the last 3 months) is needed, with copies acceptable at the application stage. Contact is through CUBE Goya Branch in Okinawa City. Note that viewings are not available on Wednesdays (phone inquiries only) and the office is closed on Sundays. Pets are not allowed.
The surrounding area of Yomitan Village is rich in history and natural beauty. An interesting fact is that Yomitan is known for its traditional pottery, called Yachimun, a craft with a centuries-old history on the island. The village is also home to the iconic Zakimi Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Gusuku (Ryukyuan castle) site offers panoramic views of the East China Sea and is a significant historical landmark, easily accessible from the apartment location.
