Gokokuji Station is served by the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and is located in Bunkyo City, one of Tokyo's most desirable residential districts.
Named after the historic Gokokuji Temple, the area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, excellent public safety, renowned educational institutions, and abundant greenery. Despite its tranquil environment, the station offers convenient access to central Tokyo, making it popular with families, professionals, and students alike.
🏛 1. Basic Information & History
Location:
Otsuka 2-chome, Bunkyo City, Tokyo
Rail Line:
Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line (Y-11)
Opened:
October 30, 1974
Main Exits:
Gokokuji Temple
Otowa Avenue
Kodansha Headquarters
🕰 Historical Highlights
The station takes its name from Gokokuji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple founded in 1681.
The surrounding area developed as a center for publishing and education after World War II.
Home to Kodansha, one of Japan's largest publishing companies, the neighborhood has long been recognized as a cultural and educational hub.
🌟 2. Advantages
✅ ① Peaceful and Elegant Residential Environment
The neighborhood is one of Tokyo's safest and quietest residential areas.
Historic temples, tree-lined streets, and nearby parks create a relaxing atmosphere.
Ideal for those seeking a calm lifestyle away from the city's busy commercial districts.
✅ ② Excellent Educational and Cultural Environment
Bunkyo City is famous for its outstanding educational institutions.
Prestigious schools, libraries, and academic facilities are located nearby.
The area's intellectual atmosphere attracts many families who value education.
✅ ③ Convenient Access to Central Tokyo
Direct access via the Yurakucho Line to Ikebukuro, Iidabashi, Nagatacho, and Yurakucho.
Easy connections to several other Tokyo Metro lines.
Only about 5 minutes to Ikebukuro, making daily commuting highly convenient.
⚠️ 3. Disadvantages
❌ ① Limited Shopping Options
There are no large shopping malls directly around the station.
Everyday necessities are easy to purchase, but major shopping trips often require visiting Ikebukuro.
❌ ② Fewer Restaurants
The area mainly features small local restaurants and traditional cafés.
Dining options are more limited compared with major entertainment districts.
❌ ③ Relatively High Rent
Due to its excellent reputation and desirable location, rental prices are higher than in many neighboring areas.
Newly built apartments and condominiums command premium rents.
🧺 4. Quality of Life
Transportation:
Direct access to Ikebukuro, Iidabashi, Yurakucho, and Nagatacho.
Shopping:
Convenient supermarkets and convenience stores, but few large retail facilities.
Dining:
Quiet neighborhood restaurants and cafés.
Healthcare:
Well served by clinics and major hospitals.
Education:
One of Tokyo's top districts for education and child-rearing.
Safety:
Excellent public safety with a peaceful atmosphere.
Nature:
Beautiful green spaces including Gokokuji Temple grounds and Edogawa Park.
🏠 5. Real Estate Market (2025)
💴 Average Monthly Rent
Studio / 1K:
￥80,000–￥100,000
1LDK–2DK:
￥130,000–￥160,000
2LDK–3LDK:
￥180,000–￥240,000
Rental prices are slightly above average due to the area's outstanding safety, educational environment, and strong residential appeal.
🏘 Housing Characteristics
Many low-rise apartment buildings and high-quality condominiums.
Quiet residential streets even close to the station.
Popular with families seeking long-term residences.
Plenty of apartments suitable for students and university staff.
🎯 6. Who Should Live in Gokokuji?
✅ Families looking for a safe and peaceful neighborhood
✅ Professionals seeking a quiet home with convenient city access
✅ Students and academics who value an educational environment
✅ Couples and DINKs looking for a refined residential community
✅ Anyone who appreciates history, culture, and green surroundings
📊 7. Overall Rating
CategoryRatingComments
Transportation★★★★☆Excellent access to central Tokyo
Shopping★★★☆☆Good for daily needs, limited large retail
Restaurants★★★☆☆Cozy local restaurants and cafés
Family Friendliness★★★★★Outstanding educational environment
Safety★★★★★One of Tokyo's safest residential neighborhoods
Nature & Scenery★★★★★Historic temples and abundant greenery
Property Value★★★★☆Stable demand and strong long-term value
📌 8. Summary
Gokokuji Station offers an exceptional balance of history, education, safety, and residential comfort in the heart of Tokyo's prestigious Bunkyo City.
Although the area lacks large shopping centers and vibrant nightlife, it provides an outstanding living environment with excellent public safety, beautiful green spaces, and convenient transportation. These qualities make Gokokuji an excellent choice for families, professionals, students, and anyone seeking a peaceful yet well-connected place to live.