Nippori Station is a major hub served by five lines: JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Joban Rapid Line, Keisei Main Line (including Skyliner), and the Nippori–Toneri Liner.
It offers outstanding access to central Tokyo, Narita Airport, northern Tokyo, and suburban areas.
With its warm shitamachi atmosphere and modern convenience, it has become a popular residential area that is both “easy to live in and fun to explore.”

🏛 1. Basic Information & History

Location: Nishi-Nippori 2-chome, Arakawa City, Tokyo

Lines Served:
・JR Yamanote Line
・JR Keihin-Tohoku Line
・JR Joban Rapid Line
・Keisei Main Line (Skyliner stops here)
・Nippori–Toneri Liner

Opened: April 1, 1905 (Meiji 38)

Historical Highlights:
・Originally opened in the Meiji era as a freight-focused station before growing with the surrounding residential area.
・In the early Showa era, it became known as a textile wholesaler district—today, Nippori Fabric Town remains a nationally famous spot.
・It also serves as a gateway to the “Yanesen area” (Yanaka–Nezu–Sendagi), beloved by writers, artists, and cultural figures since before WWII.

🌟 2. Advantages (Merits)
✅ ① Exceptional Transportation Convenience

・Access to five lines, covering central Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, and northern Tokyo.
・The Keisei Skyliner stops at Nippori, reaching Narita Airport in as fast as 36 minutes—ideal for travelers and businesspeople.
・Direct access via the Yamanote Line to Ueno, Tokyo, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and other major hubs.

✅ ② Shitamachi Atmosphere + Rich Cultural Appeal

・The charming “Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street,” known for its retro vibe, is within walking distance.
・Nearby temples, shrines, and the historic Yanaka Cemetery give the area a deep cultural character.
・Loved by literary and artistic figures, the area hosts many cafés, small galleries, and creative shops.

✅ ③ Convenient for Everyday Living

・Around the station are drugstores, convenience stores, and supermarkets (Maruman Store, Gyomu Super, etc.).
・Nippori Fabric Town offers rows of specialty shops selling textiles and crafting supplies—perfect for DIY enthusiasts and fashion creators.

⚠️ 3. Disadvantages (Demerits)
❌ ① Crowded and Busy Around the Station

・With multiple lines intersecting, the station becomes extremely crowded during rush hours.
・Heavy taxi and vehicle traffic at the station front can make sidewalks feel narrow.

❌ ② Many Hills and Slopes

・The Yanaka and Sendagi areas have noticeable elevation differences.
・Cyclists and families with strollers may find some routes challenging.

❌ ③ Some Streets Can Be Dark at Night

・A bit away from the station, residential streets can be narrow with fewer streetlights.
・Those living alone—especially women—should take care when choosing nighttime routes.

🧺 4. Daily Livability Summary

Transportation: Five lines provide smooth access to central Tokyo, airports, and suburban areas.
Shopping: Supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, plus Nippori Fabric Town for both daily goods and specialty items.
Dining: Many traditional eateries, wagashi shops, cafés, and old-style restaurants—great for those who enjoy eating out.
Medical: Several clinics nearby; general hospitals are accessible in Ueno and Tabata areas.
Education: Local schools and preschools make it suitable for families as well.
Culture & Nature: Yanaka Ginza, Yanaka Cemetery, and nearby Ueno Park create an environment rich in history, art, and greenery.

🏠 5. Real Estate Overview (as of 2024)

💴 Average Monthly Rent

Studio〜1K: ￥88,000–￥110,000

1LDK〜2DK: ￥120,000–￥150,000

2LDK〜: ￥160,000–￥220,000

※ Considering it is on the Yamanote Line, the prices are relatively affordable and offer good cost performance.

🏘 Housing Characteristics

・Many apartments around the station cater to single residents—popular with workers and students.
・A bit farther from the station, low-rise apartments and detached houses create options suitable for families.
・Older wooden apartments, renovated units, and newer condos coexist, offering a wide range of choices.
・The Yanaka area is especially popular, with its rental market rising in recent years.

🎯 6. Who Nippori Station Is Ideal For

・People who frequently use both the Yamanote Line and Keisei Line, especially for Narita Airport access
・Those who enjoy retro shitamachi charm and strolling historic streets
・Singles or couples seeking affordable rent without sacrificing central-city access
・People who enjoy living in an international, culturally diverse area
・Handcraft, fashion, art, or creative enthusiasts who love fabric shops and galleries

📌 7. Summary

Nippori Station is:

・A major transportation hub with strong access to Tokyo and Narita Airport
・A district full of charm—blending shitamachi warmth, history, culture, and creativity
・An area that is both walkable and enjoyable, offering great convenience and a relaxed atmosphere

For people who want central Tokyo access while enjoying calm streets, nostalgic charm, and reasonable rent,
Nippori is an excellent choice and a truly “fun-to-live, fun-to-walk” neighborhood.