With so many rail lines in Tokyo, it can be hard to tell which stations are truly convenient. Here, we thoroughly cover every station located outside the Yamanote Line loop that can be reached from Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line) within one transfer and 20 minutes . Many of these stations are in more suburban areas where rent tends to be lower, so feel free to use this as a reference when searching for housing.
1. Within 20 minutes to Harajuku Station with no transfers (direct)
None applicable (Harajuku is served only by the JR Yamanote Line, so excluding the Yamanote Line means no direct trains from other lines). However, while it is not connected to Meiji-Jingumae Station, you can walk there from Harajuku in about one to two minutes. Meiji-Jingumae is served by the Chiyoda Line and the Fukutoshin Line.
2. Within 20 minutes to Harajuku Station with one transfer
The main transfer stations from which you can reach Harajuku in 20 minutes or less are Shibuya, Shinjuku, Yoyogi, Ebisu, Meguro, Gotanda, and Takadanobaba . We introduce twelve patterns here and give a full list of stations, share-house examples, and reviews for each.
2-1. Tokyu Toyoko Line → Shibuya (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station To Harajuku Notes Daikanyama 7–8 min Café district on Kyū-Yamate-dōri Nakameguro 9–10 min Cherry blossoms along the Meguro River Yūtenji 13 min Shopping street in front of the station Gakugei-daigaku 16 min Lively covered arcade Tōritsudaigaku 18 min Academic district Jiyūgaoka 20 min Town of boutiques and sweets
Share-house example in Tōritsudaigaku
✔ Women-only designer house
Share House DATA
Property name ： Tōritsudaigaku Iris Conditions ： Women only, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥52,000 Utilities ： ¥14,000 Rooms ： 6 rooms Access ： Tokyu Toyoko Line “Tōritsudaigaku” Sta. 14 min walk
Review of Tōritsudaigaku
Although the area is a calm residential district, daily convenience is excellent. “Precce Tōritsudaigaku” stays open until 11 p.m., which is handy after work, and “Seijo Ishii” nearby is perfect for a little luxury. My favorite café is “Onibus Coffee,” quiet and comfortable even for a woman on her own—ideal for reading on weekends. On the downside, the Toyoko Line is extremely crowded during the morning rush, making city-bound commutes somewhat stressful. Entertainment spots are limited, so for outings I head to Shibuya or Jiyūgaoka. Even so, if you value safety and attractive streets, I highly recommend this area.
2-2. Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line → Shibuya (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station To Harajuku Notes Ikejiri-Ōhashi 12 min Café alleys off Route 246 Sangen-jaya 14 min Old pub alleys and redevelopment Komazawa-daigaku 16 min Jogging at Komazawa Park Sakura-shimmachi 17–18 min Sazae-san Street Yōga 20 min Along Ring Road 8 Futako-tamagawa (express) 20 min Rise complex & Tama River
Share-house example in Sakura-shimmachi
✔ Wa-modern house with garden
Share House DATA
Property name ： BeGood Sakura-shimmachi Conditions ： Mixed gender, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥56,000 – 68,000 Utilities ： ¥14,000 Rooms ： 13 rooms Access ： Den-en-toshi Line “Sakura-shimmachi” Sta. 5 min walk
Review of Sakura-shimmachi
What I appreciated most is the town’s calm atmosphere and the courtesy of its residents. Supermarkets like “Summit” and “Peacock” mean everyday shopping is easy, and independent bakeries and cafés abound, making strolls enjoyable. Seasonal events on Sazae-san Street deepen local attachment. On the downside, the Den-en-toshi Line is extremely crowded in the morning and seats are virtually unattainable. Evenings are fairly quiet, and dining choices are limited, which is slightly inconvenient. Still, it is a very suitable area for those wanting a safe and tranquil life.
2-3. Keio Inokashira Line → Shibuya (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station To Harajuku Notes Shinsen 8 min Cafés in Shibuya backstreets Komaba-Todaimae 10 min University of Tokyo Komaba Campus Ikenoue 11 min Hidden cafés in a residential area Shimokitazawa 14 min Vintage shops and live houses Shindaita 15 min Along Ring Road 7 Higashi-Matsubara 17 min Wadabori Park Meidaimae 19 min Transfer to Keio Line
Share-house example in Shimokitazawa
✔ Every room has a vanity with mirror, a TV, and furniture
Share House DATA
Property name ： Felicita Shimokitazawa Conditions ： Women only, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥59,000 – 69,000 Utilities ： ¥15,000 Rooms ： 10 rooms Access ： Odakyu Line / Keio Inokashira Line “Shimokitazawa” Sta. 3 min walk
Review of Shimokitazawa
My first impression was that it is a “town you never get tired of.” Vintage clothing stores, cafés, live houses, and small theatres cluster together; every stroll brings a new discovery. Many independent eateries make it paradise for dining out. Supermarkets like “Oozeki” ensure daily life is convenient too. On weekends, however, the area around the station is very crowded with visitors. Because many shops stay open late, it may not suit those seeking nighttime quiet. Even so, the cultural vibe and constant stimulation make living here genuinely enjoyable.
2-4. JR Chuo Line Rapid / Sobu Local → Shinjuku (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Using the Rapid service, it takes roughly 18 minutes to Nishi-Ogikubo. The Sobu Local also stops at Okubo and Higashi-Nakano.
Station Time required Notes Okubo Approx. 9–10 min Multicultural gourmet town Higashi-Nakano Approx. 11–12 min Cherry-blossom promenade along the Kanda River Nakano Approx. 13–14 min Subculture hub with Nakano Broadway Koenji Approx. 15–16 min Vintage clothing and Awa Odori dance Asagaya Approx. 17 min Town of jazz and literature Ogikubo Approx. 18–19 min Ramen battleground Nishi-Ogikubo Approx. 19–20 min Cafés and second-hand bookstores
Share-house example in Ogikubo (Shimurasakaue)
✔ Pleasant rooftop terrace!
Share House DATA
Property name ： PLOW& CO Conditions ： Mixed gender, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥70,000 – 91,000 Utilities ： ¥18,000 Rooms ： 38 rooms Access ： Chuo Line “Ogikubo” Sta. 4 min walk
Review of Ogikubo
Ogikubo strikes a good balance between convenience and a calm atmosphere. Near the station you will find “Lumine,” “Town Seven,” “Seiyu,” “Don Quijote,” and more—making shopping and dining easy. The old shopping street beyond “Ogikubo Shimensaka” feels pleasantly unpretentious. Two lines—the Chuo Line and the Marunouchi Line—offer smooth commuting to the city center. However, Chuo-Line delays are fairly common, and rainy-day or rush-hour travel can be stressful. Apart from the station area, streets are dark and quiet at night, so you should take care when returning late. Even so, it is a town you could happily settle in for the long term.
2-5. Keio Line → Shinjuku (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Hatsudai Approx. 11 min New National Theatre Hatagaya Approx. 13 min Rokugo Street Shopping Arcade Sasazuka Approx. 14–15 min Along Kōshū Kaido Daita-bashi Approx. 16–17 min Izumi Shopping Street Meidaimae Approx. 17–18 min Transfer to Inokashira Line Shimotakaido Approx. 19 min Branch to Setagaya Line
Share-house example in Sasazuka
✔ Stylish women-only house in a renovated traditional home
Share House DATA
Property name ： Momiji Sasazuka Conditions ： Women only, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥70,000 – 75,000 Utilities ： ¥15,000 Rooms ： 6 rooms Access ： Keio Line “Sasazuka” Sta. 3 min walk
Review of Sasazuka
Sasazuka offers an excellent balance between access to the city center and everyday convenience. Shinjuku is just two stops away on the Keio Line, and supermarkets like “Queens Isetan” and “Life” make shopping easy. The shopping street is lively, and retro spots such as “Sasazuka Bowl” give off a nostalgic vibe. On the downside, the Keio Line’s morning rush can be tough, especially on local trains. The area has relatively few cafés and stylish shops, so weekends can feel a bit quiet. Even so, if you prioritize ease of living, this area is highly recommended.
2-6. Odakyu Line → Shinjuku (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Minami-Shinjuku Approx. 10–11 min Quiet station front Sangubashi Approx. 12 min Close to Yoyogi Park Yoyogi-Hachiman Approx. 13–14 min Growing café culture Yoyogi-Uehara Approx. 14–15 min Connection to Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Higashi-Kitazawa Approx. 15–16 min Ongoing redevelopment Shimokitazawa Approx. 16–17 min Shopping streets & live houses Setagaya-Daita Approx. 18 min Quiet residential area Umegaoka Approx. 19–20 min Ume grove in Hanegi Park
Share-house example in Higashi-Kitazawa
✔ Renovated property
Share House DATA
Property name ： BeGood Shimokitazawa Conditions ： Mixed gender, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥71,000 – 75,000 Utilities ： ¥14,000 Rooms ： 15 rooms Access ： Odakyu Line “Higashi-Kitazawa” Sta. 2 min walk
Review of Higashi-Kitazawa
The area is comfortable because it combines the convenience of being within walking distance of Shimokitazawa and Yoyogi-Uehara with the quiet surroundings of a residential neighborhood. Because it is mostly housing, nights are peaceful, which is reassuring for a woman living alone. Small supermarkets such as “Odakyu OX” and “My Basket” are sprinkled around, so everyday shopping is easy. On the other hand, stylish cafés and restaurants are scarce unless you walk to a neighboring station, which can feel a bit lacking. Also, only local trains stop here, so it can be inconvenient when you are in a hurry. Even so, it is perfect for those seeking a calm environment.
2-7. Toei Oedo Line → Yoyogi / Shinjuku (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
All stations from Yoyogi to Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome are listed (Tochomae is outside the Yamanote loop).
Station Time required Notes Tochomae Approx. 11 min Close to Shinjuku Central Park Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome Approx. 13 min Mix of high-rises and residences
Share-house example in Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome
✔ Cute women-only design
Share House DATA
Property name ： Shinjuku Macaron Conditions ： Women only, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥55,000 – 70,000 Utilities ： ¥15,000 Rooms ： 11 rooms Access ： Oedo Line “Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome” Sta. 4 min walk
Review of Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome
Even though it is in the city center, it is surprisingly quiet and offers a calm lifestyle. Shinjuku Station is within walking distance, yet residential areas among the skyscrapers keep noise down. Convenience stores and a “Maruetsu Petit” supermarket are nearby, so daily shopping is no problem. Shinjuku Central Park and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government observation decks are also within walking distance, offering greenery and great views. However, because only the Oedo Line is available, transfers are often necessary and can be inconvenient. Most restaurants are chains, and stylish cafés are few. Still, the ability to enjoy Shinjuku’s convenience every day is a huge advantage.
2-8. JR Saikyo Line → Shinjuku (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Itabashi Approx. 16–17 min Shopping street with downtown prices Jūjō Approx. 19–20 min Heaven for B-grade gourmet
Share-house example in Jūjō
✔ English-conversation activities
Share House DATA
Property name ： ARDEN Higashi-Jūjō Conditions ： Mixed gender, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥60,000 – 65,000 Utilities ： ¥16,000 Rooms ： 31 rooms Access ： Saikyo Line “Jūjō” Sta. 9 min walk
Review of Jūjō
Jūjō combines the warmth of an old downtown area with great cost performance. “Jūjō Ginza Shopping Street” in front of the station is lively, with plenty of delis and greengrocers—paradise for those who cook. There is also an “O-k Store,” and the low prices help keep living costs down. The area feels safe, and neighborly relations are moderate and comfortable. However, because the Saikyo Line is the only option, while it is convenient for Ikebukuro and Shinjuku, reaching the eastern side of Tokyo takes a bit of detouring. The station area is also under redevelopment, so there have been periods of noise and construction. Even so, it is very livable for those who value daily life.
2-9. Tokyu Meguro Line → Meguro (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Fudomae Approx. 12–13 min Rinshi-no-Mori Park Musashi-Koyama Approx. 15–16 min 800-m-long shopping arcade Nishi-Koyama Approx. 17–18 min Lower rent area Senzoku Approx. 19–20 min Quiet residential district
Share-house example in Fudomae
✔ Private toilet and shower in each room—even though it is a share-house
Share House DATA
Property name ： couverture Meguro Fudomae Conditions ： Mixed gender, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥72,000 – 85,000 Utilities ： ¥17,000 Rooms ： 5 rooms Access ： Tokyu Meguro Line “Fudomae” Sta. 6 min walk
Review of Fudomae
Although close to Meguro, the area has a calm atmosphere, combining livability with superb access to the city center. Meguro and Gotanda are within walking distance, and the Tokyu Meguro Line provides a quick ride to central Tokyo. The “Fudomae Shopping Street” has independent eateries and bakeries, plus an “Oozeki” supermarket—so daily shopping is easy. Nature is nearby, and Rinshi-no-Mori Park is perfect for walks and relaxation. The station is small, however, and the platform can get crowded in the morning. Dining options are not extensive, so I often go to Meguro for meals out. Still, the area is highly recommended if you want a quiet lifestyle.
2-10. Tokyu Ikegami Line → Gotanda (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Ōsaki-Hirokōji Approx. 13–14 min Walking distance to Togoshi-Ginza Togoshi-Ginza Approx. 15–16 min Japan’s longest shopping street Ebaranakanobu Approx. 17–18 min Hidden residential gem Hatanodai Approx. 18–19 min Transfer to Tokyu Ōimachi Line
Share-house example in Togoshi-Ginza
✔ Newly built women-only share-house
Share House DATA
Property name ： Togoshi Sō-an Conditions ： Women only, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥63,000 – 72,000 Utilities ： ¥12,000 Rooms ： 14 rooms Access ： Tokyu Ikegami Line “Togoshi-Ginza” Sta. 3 min walk
Review of Togoshi-Ginza
The best thing is definitely the “Togoshi-Ginza Shopping Street.” At 1.3 km, the longest in Japan, it is lined with inexpensive and delicious delis, independent cafés, and bakeries, so whether you cook or eat out, you will never be stuck. Two lines—the Tokyu Ikegami Line and the Toei Asakusa Line—give easy access to Gotanda and Shinagawa. The area feels safe, and walking at night is comfortable. The downside is that the street gets very crowded with visitors on weekends, and residential roads are narrow, so you have to watch for cars and bikes. Even so, for those seeking a neighborhood feel plus convenience, this area is highly recommended.
2-11. Tokyo Metro Tozai Line → Takadanobaba (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Ochiai Approx. 18–19 min Quiet residential area
Share-house example in Ochiai
✔ Extensive common areas: theater room, fitness room, music room, and more
Share House DATA
Property name ： Social Base Higashi-Nakano Conditions ： Mixed gender, foreign residents OK Rent ： ¥75,000 – 79,000 Utilities ： ¥19,000 Rooms ： 102 rooms Access ： Tozai Line “Ochiai” Sta. 8 min walk
Review of Ochiai
The area strikes a good balance between a quiet residential environment and the convenience of multiple lines. The Oedo Line’s “Nakait Sta.,” the Tozai Line’s “Ochiai Sta.,” and JR’s “Higashi-Nakano Sta.” are all within walking distance, so you can choose your line depending on your destination. Supermarkets like “Kitchen Court” and “My Basket” make daily shopping smooth. However, fashionable cafés and restaurants are few, which might disappoint people who like eating out. Nights are very quiet, and the area feels safe, so it suits those who prefer a calm life. It may not be flashy, but it grows on you.
2-12. Seibu Shinjuku Line → Takadanobaba (transfer) → Yamanote Line → Harajuku
Station Time required Notes Shimo-Ochiai Approx. 15–16 min Cherry blossoms along the Kanda River Nakai Approx. 17–18 min Connection to Oedo Line
Review of Shimo-Ochiai
This quiet, green neighborhood feels surprisingly tranquil for being in central Tokyo. “Otomeyama Park” and the Kanda River promenade are nearby, and walking or jogging there has become part of my daily routine. The Seibu Shinjuku Line provides easy access to Takadanobaba and Shinjuku, which is convenient for commuting. Supermarkets such as “Maruetsu Petit” and “O-k Takadanobaba” are within walking distance, so shopping is no problem. However, there are few restaurants, so I often go to Takadanobaba or Nakai when I eat out. Although it lacks glamour, it is perfect for those who want a peaceful, unhurried life.
Summary
The 20-minute radius from Harajuku extends not only west and southwest through the Shibuya and Shinjuku hubs but also north via the Saikyo Line.Koenji to Nishi-Ogikubo, Togoshi-Ginza, or Itabashi to Jūjō . If culture is your priority, consider Shimokitazawa, Sangen-jaya, or Jiyūgaoka . If you prefer riverside living, Futako-Tamagawa or Tamagawa are great choices.
