Many people may find it confusing to figure out which stations are most convenient in Tokyo due to the sheer number of train lines. Here, we will introduce stations that offer good access to Roppongi and also feature relatively affordable rent.

Roppongi Station is situated roughly in the middle of the Yamanote Line area and is served by two lines. Although it has an image of high rents and congestion, there are actually multiple areas located outside the Yamanote Line (where rents are relatively lower) that still provide routes with few transfers, allowing you to reach Roppongi in around 20 minutes.

In this article, we will showcase stations that meet two conditions: (1) you can get to Roppongi Station within 20 minutes without any transfers (direct access), and (2) you can get there within 20 minutes with only one transfer. Some lines offer express or semi-express services, which can reduce travel time even further, so please keep in mind that this is only a guideline.

If you seek “no transfers,” you mainly have direct access via Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and the Toei Oedo Line to Roppongi Station. (Whether you can avoid the inner Yamanote area depends on each station’s location.) Furthermore, with “one transfer within 20 minutes,” there are even more candidate stations reachable via short connections on nearby lines.

1. Within 20 Minutes to Roppongi Station Without Any Transfers (Direct Access)

1-1. Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line

This line extends from Roppongi Station toward Nakameguro and Ebisu, or toward Higashi-Ginza and Tsukiji. Along the line you’ll find areas like Ebisu and Hiroo—highly fashionable residential districts that appeal to a broad demographic, from young people to families.

Example of a Share House along the Hibiya Line (Kodenmacho)

1-2. Toei Oedo Line

Roppongi Station is roughly in the central part of the Toei Oedo Line, which has a circular section plus radial branches extending toward areas like Shinjuku and Ueno-Okachimachi. Serving central districts such as Azabu-Juban, Aoyama-itchome, and Yoyogi, it’s highly convenient for commuting or going to school, though it can be extremely crowded during rush hour.

Example of a Share House along the Oedo Line (near Nishi-shinjuku-gochome)

Next, let’s explore stations reachable within 20 minutes to Roppongi Station with at most one transfer.

2. Within 20 Minutes to Roppongi Station with One Transfer

When going to Roppongi Station with one transfer, the following patterns are typical:

2-1. Tokyu Toyoko Line → Nakameguro (transfer) → Hibiya Line → Roppongi

Example of a Share House in Jiyugaoka

2-2. Tokyo Metro Tozai Line → Kayabacho (transfer) → Hibiya Line → Roppongi

Example of a Share House in Monzen-nakacho

2-3. JR Keiyo Line → Hatchobori (transfer) → Hibiya Line → Roppongi

Example of a Share House in Shiomi

2-4. Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line → Tsukishima (transfer) → Oedo Line → Roppongi

Example of a Share House in Toyosu

Summary

For areas within 20 minutes to Roppongi Station that also tend to have relatively moderate rent, examples include the Tozai Line corridor such as “Kiba” and “Toyochou,” as well as “Toyosu,” “Tatsumi,” and “Shin-Kiba” along the Yurakucho Line. In Koto Ward, many properties have lower rent depending on the property’s age and room layout, while still offering convenient commutes to central Tokyo. Meanwhile, “Etchujima” and “Shiomi” on the JR Keiyo Line also provide direct access via Hatchobori to the Hibiya Line, offering good transportation and comparatively cheaper rents. These locations typically have supermarkets and commercial facilities, while avoiding the level of crowding found in the inner city, which is a bonus.