expression
a neighbor is better than a distant relative
Proverb emphasizing that nearby acquaintances can be more helpful in daily life than relatives who live far away.
遠くの親類より近くの他人というから、隣の人と仲良くしておいたほうがいい。
They say a neighbor is better than a distant relative, so you should get along with the people next door.
A traditional Japanese proverb; the exact origin is uncertain.