Surprisingly Little Known!? 3 Recommended Downtown Areas in Tokyo to Live In

After moving to Tokyo, it’s not uncommon for foreigners to feel disappointed with the area they chose to live in.

“Even though it's in Tokyo, it was too far from the city center and had poor transportation access."
“There were few supermarkets and convenience stores near the station, making it more inconvenient than I expected.”

Many people end up regretting their choice because it doesn’t match the environment they envisioned. Since you’re coming all the way to Tokyo, you don’t want to have any regrets, right?
So, this time, we’ll introduce some areas that are not well-known to foreigners but are reputed to be very convenient to live in.



Komagome

(JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Namboku Line "Komagome Station")





This area is blessed with excellent transportation access, with both the JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro Namboku Line serving it. Despite this, the area around the station is not noisy and has a relaxed atmosphere. A short walk from the station brings you to the famous garden “Rikugien.” This beautiful garden is a spot where residents of Komagome can unwind and feel at peace. The tranquil impression of the Komagome area is largely influenced by this spot. Incidentally, the area around Rikugien is also known as a high-class residential area.
It's an area that is both easy to live in and moderately sophisticated, embodying the essence of "Tokyo."




> Komagome Station Rental Market <

Studio¥86,100
1K¥97,600
1DK¥119,200
1LDK¥158,400

You can find cheaper accommodation with a share house.




Recommended Spots for Foreigners: Rikugien Garden
Description: This Japanese garden, created during the Edo period, offers beautiful scenery and seasonal flowers. It is particularly famous for its autumn foliage and spring cherry blossoms.
Address: Hon-Komagome 6-chome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo

Kyu-Furukawa Gardens
Description: A park that blends a Western-style mansion with a Japanese garden. It also features a beautiful rose garden. The building is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Address: Nishigahara 1-27-39, Kita-ku, Tokyo

Koma Great Kannon (Kogen-ji Temple)
Description: A historic temple loved by the locals, where visitors can enjoy a quiet atmosphere. Various festivals and events are held throughout the year.
Address: 2-38-22 Mukougaoka, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo



Tabata

(JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line "Tabata Station")





Tabata Station is known as a relatively minor station on the Yamanote Line. Even people born in Tokyo might say they've never been there. However, the station now has buildings with supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and video rental stores. You won’t have trouble finding places to shop or eat.
The transportation access is also quite good. You can reach Ikebukuro and Shinjuku areas, as well as Akabane and Omiya areas without needing to transfer, which reduces stress. However, be prepared for the morning rush hour commute. If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to leave a little earlier. The atmosphere of the town is that of a traditional Tokyo shitamachi (downtown). Enjoy the nostalgic streets and make the most of your life here.




> Tabata Station Rental Market <

Studio¥86,100
1K¥87,100
1DK¥109,700
1LDK¥150,100

You can find cheaper accommodation with a share house.




Recommended Spots for Foreigners: Fushimi Inari Shrine
Description: A small shrine within walking distance from Tabata Station, known for its quiet environment and popularity among locals.
Address: 2-7-2 Tabata, Kita-ku, Tokyo

Tabata Bunshimura Museum
Description: A museum that commemorates Tabata as the residence of many writers and artists. It offers cultural exhibits.
Address: Tabata 6-1-2, Kita-ku, Tokyo

Kita City Hall
Description: A multi-purpose facility located a short distance from Tabata. It features an observation floor with views of Tokyo, along with a theater and event hall.
Address: Oji 1-11-1, Kita-ku, Tokyo



Minami-Senju

(JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Metropolitan Intercity Railway "Minami-Senju Station")





For foreigners coming to Tokyo, Minami-Senju is an area they are likely unfamiliar with. It offers great access with the JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and the well-known Tsukuba Express of the Metropolitan Intercity Railway.
Previously, it had a somewhat desolate impression, but now redevelopment is progressing, and the station building is well-equipped. The commercial facilities around the station are also well-developed. Although it retains its downtown impression, it is an extremely livable area. This area is likely to gain more attention in the future, so moving here now is a great idea!




> Minami-Senju Station Rental Market <

Studio¥88,100
1K¥94,100
1DK¥114,800
1LDK¥167,800

You can find cheaper accommodation with a share house.




Recommended Spots for Foreigners: Arakawa Nature Park
Description: It is a nature-rich park where various flowers bloom in different seasons, and the pond is inhabited by fish and frogs.
Address: 8-25-3, Arakawa, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo

Senso-ji Temple
Description: Located in the Asakusa area, accessible from Minami-Senju. It is Tokyo's oldest temple and a popular tourist spot.
Address: Asakusa 2-3-1, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Hashiba no Watashi
Description: The site of an old ferry crossing with historical significance, offering a glimpse into the history of Minami-Senju.
Address: Hashiba 2-chome, Taito-ku, Tokyo