Sobudai-mae Station is a residential area located in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, along the Odakyu Odawara Line.
With its calm atmosphere, abundant greenery, and reasonable housing costs, the area attracts a wide range of residents, including singles, couples, and families.
While it is not a flashy neighborhood, Sobudai-mae is highly regarded as a well-balanced town focused on livability and value.
🏛 1. Basic Information & History
Location: Sobudai, Zama City, Kanagawa
Rail Line: Odakyu Odawara Line
Opened: 1938
Access: About 45 minutes to Shinjuku
🕰 Historical Highlights
The station name comes from the former Sobudai military base (now the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Zama Camp)
Developed early as a residential area before World War II
Limited large-scale redevelopment, preserving a quiet and stable townscape
🌟 2. Pros of Living in Sobudai-mae
✅ ① Convenient Access to Central Tokyo
Approximately 45 minutes to Shinjuku via the Odakyu Line
Easy access to Machida and Ebina areas
Suitable for commuting and daily travel
✅ ② Calm and Peaceful Residential Environment
Mainly residential neighborhoods with low noise levels
Detached houses increase as you move away from the station
Well suited for remote work and families with children
✅ ③ Well-Developed Daily Living Infrastructure
Supermarkets such as Sotetsu Rosen and Food One nearby
Convenience stores, drugstores, and clinics available
Daily life needs are well covered
✅ ④ Abundant Nature and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Green spaces such as Serizawa Park and Sobudai Central Park
Ideal for walking, jogging, and children’s outdoor activities
A lifestyle close to nature
⚠️ 3. Cons to Consider
❌ ① Limited Large Commercial Facilities
No major shopping malls near the station
Residents often shop in Odakyu-Sagamihara or Machida
❌ ② Train Crowding During Rush Hours
Morning and evening trains can be crowded
Time adjustment may be necessary for commuters
❌ ③ Some Hilly Residential Areas
Areas near the station are mostly flat
Certain residential zones further away have slopes
🧺 4. Overall Livability Evaluation
Transportation: About 45 minutes to Shinjuku; easy access to Machida and Ebina
Shopping: Supermarkets and convenience stores are well equipped
Dining: Mainly local restaurants and family dining spots
Medical Care: Hospitals and clinics such as Sobudai Hospital available
Education: Public elementary and junior high schools, daycare facilities
Safety: Quiet residential area with good security
Nature: Many parks and green walkways
🏠 5. Real Estate Overview (2025)
💴 Average Monthly Rent
Studio / 1K: ￥55,000 – ￥75,000
1LDK: ￥80,000 – ￥105,000
2LDK or larger: ￥110,000 – ￥160,000
🏡 Property Purchase Prices
Used condominiums: ￥28,000,000 – ￥55,000,000
Newly built detached houses: ￥45,000,000 – ￥70,000,000
Sobudai-mae is known as a high cost-performance area along the Odakyu Line.
🏘 6. Housing Characteristics
Condominiums near the station; detached houses further away
Many homes offer spacious layouts
Parking-equipped properties are common, suitable for car owners
A neighborhood often chosen for long-term residence
🎯 7. Who Is Sobudai-mae Station Recommended For?
Those seeking a quiet and relaxed residential area
Residents who want reasonable housing costs with city access
Families looking for a green, child-friendly environment
People searching for larger homes with good value for money
📌 8. Summary
Sobudai-mae Station offers a strong balance of
peaceful surroundings, abundant greenery, and affordable real estate prices.
While it lacks large commercial complexes,
it provides a stable and comfortable environment for everyday living.
For those looking for a safe, quiet place to live long-term rather than a busy urban hub,
Sobudai-mae is a highly recommended area to consider.