Josai Area (Shibuya, Shinjuku, Setagaya, Nakano, Suginami, Nerima) Station & Area Guide Information
🚉 Ebisu Station Guide｜A Stylish, Gourmet-Friendly “Adult Neighborhood” in Central Tokyo
Ebisu Station is one of Tokyo’s most desirable areas, served by the JR Yamanote Line, Saikyō Line (Shōnan–Shinjuku Line), and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. Surrounded by Shibuya, Daikanyama, Hiroo, and Meguro, Ebisu offers a refined atmosphere, excellent convenience, and a rich blend of food, fashion, and culture. It’s a place where commuting is easy, daily life feels elevated, and simply living in the neighborhood becomes part of the enjoyment. 🏛 1. Basic Information & Overview Location: Ebisu Minami 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Lines Served: ・JR Yamanote Line ・JR Saikyō Line (Shōnan–Shinjuku Line) ・Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Opened: 1901 Area Characteristics: ・A refined central residential district surrounded by upscale neighborhoods ・A cultural mix of gourmet dining, fashion, and art ・Constantly ranked among the most desirable places to live in Tokyo 🕰 Historical Highlights ・The name “Ebisu” originates from the former “Ebisu Beer” factory once located here ・The area transitioned from an industrial zone to a residential district after WWII ・The opening of Ebisu Garden Place (1994) played a major role in reshaping the town’s image ・Today, the area is loved for its style, convenience, and sense of luxury 🌟 2. Advantages of Living in Ebisu ✅ ① Exceptional Transportation Convenience ・Direct access…
🚉 Shibuya Station Guide｜A Dynamic Hub Where “Now” Meets the Future
Shibuya Station is one of Japan’s largest and most iconic terminal stations, served by over nine major lines, including JR, Tokyo Metro, and Tokyu. Known worldwide as a center of youth culture, fashion, music, and IT business, Shibuya continues to evolve through massive redevelopment projects, transforming into a next-generation smart city. 🏛 1. Basic Information Location: Shibuya 2-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Available Lines: JR Yamanote Line JR Saikyo Line / Shonan-Shinjuku Line Tokyu Toyoko Line / Den-en-toshi Line Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line / Ginza Line / Fukutoshin Line ※ More than 9 lines connect here Opened: March 1, 1885 Characteristics: One of Japan’s most influential hubs for youth culture, IT, fashion, and entertainment Undergoing rapid redevelopment, including Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Scramble Square, and Shibuya Stream 🕰 2. Historical Highlights Originally called “Shibuya” because the area was located in a valley Rapidly developed as a commercial district under the Tokyu Group from the Showa era Home to world-famous landmarks such as the Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, and Shibuya 109 Since the 2010s, large-scale redevelopment has transformed the area with futuristic urban facilities 🌟 3. Advantages of Living in Shibuya ✅ ① Outstanding Transportation Access Over nine train and subway lines directly connect…
🚉 Harajuku Station Guide｜A Vibrant Neighborhood Where Trends and Nature Coexist
The Harajuku Station area offers access to the JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines. It is one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, packed with fashion, culture, art, and greenery. From Takeshita Street and Omotesando to Cat Street, the district is known as a global trendsetting hub. At the same time, it is surrounded by lush nature, including Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. This unique mix of excitement and relaxation makes Harajuku especially popular among creatives and young residents. 🏛 1. Basic Information Location: Jingumae 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Available Lines: JR Yamanote Line Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and Fukutoshin Line (via Meiji-jingumae〈Harajuku〉Station) Opening Date: October 30, 1906 Area Characteristics A leading center of youth culture, fashion, art, and music Home to major trendsetting spots such as Takeshita Street, Omotesando, and Cat Street Offers a rare blend of urban vibrancy and rich nature from Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park Functions as both a popular tourist destination and a residential area for creatives 🕰 2. Historical Highlights Originally a rural village, the area began to flourish after the construction of Meiji Shrine in 1920 After World War II, the presence of U.S. military housing brought American culture into the…
🚉 Asagaya Station Guide｜A Calm, Comfortable, and Well-Balanced Place to Live
Asagaya Station, located in Tokyo’s Suginami Ward, is a popular residential area served by the JR Chūō Line and Sōbu Line. It offers excellent access to Shinjuku and Tokyo, while maintaining a quiet townscape and warm local community centered around its well-known shopping streets. Compared to neighboring Kōenji or Nakano, Asagaya is calmer and less intense, making it a long-term favorite among singles, families, and those who value a peaceful lifestyle. 🏛 1. Basic Information Location: Asagaya-Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo Lines: JR Chūō Line (Rapid: stops on weekdays only) JR Chūō–Sōbu Line (Local) Opened: July 15, 1922 (Taishō 11) Key features of the Asagaya area A quiet residential environment balanced with lively, friendly shopping streets Often compared with neighboring Kōenji, with higher ratings for calmness and comfort Known for its Keyaki tree-lined Nakasugi-dōri and pleasant townscape, especially appreciated by families 🕰 2. Historical Highlights The area was historically called “Asagaya,” meaning “shallow valley,” during the Edo period After Asagaya Station opened, residential development progressed and shopping streets & cultural spots formed after WWII Alongside Kōenji, Asagaya is recognized as one of Suginami’s long-established traditional neighborhoods 🌟 3. Pros (What Makes Asagaya Great) ✅ ① Calm residential environment with great transportation access…
🚉 Koenji Station Guide｜A Fun, Culture-Rich Neighborhood Full of Character
Koenji Station is served by the JR Chuo Line and Sobu Line, offering excellent access to Shinjuku and central Tokyo. Known as a center of subculture, music, vintage fashion, and live houses, Koenji blends a unique cultural atmosphere with everyday convenience. It’s a beloved area for singles, couples, DINKs, and families—a neighborhood that feels fun simply to live in. 🏛 1. Basic Information & Area Overview Location: Koenji-Minami, Suginami Ward, Tokyo Served by: - JR Chuo Line (Rapid) stops on weekdays only - JR Chuo–Sobu Line (Local) Opened: July 15, 1922 (Taisho 11) Features of Koenji A major hub for subculture, vintage clothing, and live music Home to 17 lively shopping arcades full of local shops and personality Excellent access to central Tokyo while maintaining a warm, down-to-earth vibe 🕰 2. Historical Highlights The area developed around Koenji Temple (an Edo-period temple), which also inspired the station’s name After WWII, artists and students along the Chuo Line helped create Koenji’s free-spirited cultural scene Today it's one of Tokyo’s top subculture districts with live houses, theaters, vintage shops, and independent cafés 🌟 3. Advantages of Living in Koenji ✅ 1) Excellent Access via Chuo & Sobu Lines About 7 minutes to…
🚉 Nakano Station Guide｜A “Growing City” Where Subculture Meets Urban Redevelopment
Nakano Station sits at the intersection of the JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line, and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line. It is widely known as both a “bedroom town near Shinjuku” and a “holy ground of Japanese subculture.” Centered around Nakano Broadway and Sun Mall Shopping Street, the area blends anime, manga, and idol culture with a highly convenient residential environment— making it popular among singles, students, couples, and families alike. 🏛 1. Basic Information & Area Overview ・Location: Nakano 3-chome, Nakano Ward, Tokyo ・Lines: - JR Chuo Line (Rapid & Local) - JR Sobu Line (Local) - Tokyo Metro Tozai Line ・Opened: April 11, 1889 (Meiji 22) Features of the Nakano Station Area ・Excellent access to central Tokyo with three major lines intersecting ・A major hub of subculture centered around Nakano Broadway ・Active redevelopment around the station, combining livability with strong urban functions 🕰 2. Historical Highlights ・The name “Nakano” originates from its location in the central area of Musashino ・The area developed as a residential district from the early Showa era, and after WWII, landmarks such as Nakano Sunplaza and Nakano Broadway were built ・Redevelopment continues today, transforming the area into an urban hub integrating universities, offices, and residential…
“Shinjuku Station Exit Guide – How Not to Get Lost”
🗺 Shinjuku Station Exit Guide – How Not to Get LostShinjuku is known as the station where “the most people get lost” in Tokyo.With one of the highest passenger volumes in the world and over 100 exits, the station is famously complex.Even locals who use it every day can get confused. But don’t worry.This guide explains how to walk through Shinjuku Station without stress and shows the best exits for each destination.You can easily follow it with your phone while walking. 🚉 Why Is Shinjuku Station So Confusing? Shinjuku is a massive transportation hub where several train companies and subway lines intersect: ・JR Lines (Yamanote, Chuo, Sobu, Shonan-Shinjuku, etc.)・Odakyu Line・Keio Line・Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line・Toei Shinjuku & Oedo Lines All of these are connected like a maze, often feeling like completely different buildings.Each company has its own gates and signage, which makes navigation tricky. 🎯 First Rule: Remember Only the Directions, Not the Exit Numbers Shinjuku becomes much easier once you know the four main directions: ・East Exit (shopping, Kabukicho, ALTA area)・West Exit (office district, Tokyo Metropolitan Government area)・South Exit (Busta Shinjuku, NEWoMan, Takashimaya)・Central East / Central West Exits (station center area) If you feel lost, focus only on the direction…
🐠 Shibuya Station Exit Guide: How Not to Get Lost
Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts, known for youth culture, fashion, nightlife, and the world-famous Scramble Crossing.But Shibuya Station is also one of the most confusing stations in Japan due to constant construction and a complex layout. This guide helps you navigate Shibuya Station easily, with clear directions for each purpose. 🚉 Why Is Shibuya Station So Confusing? Multiple train lines intersect vertically, making the station feel like a maze. • JR Lines• Tokyu Lines (Toyoko, Den-en-toshi)• Tokyo Metro (Hanzomon, Ginza, Fukutoshin)• Keio Inokashira Line The station also connects directly to major shopping complexes, and many pathways go underground, so it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. 🎯 The Three Main Exits You Should Remember Memorize these three, and everything becomes easier: • Hachiko Exit (Scramble Crossing, Center Street)• Miyamasuzaka Exit (Hikarie area)• South Exit (Shibuya Stream area) Everything else is located around these. 🧭 Best Exits for Each Destination 🐕 Hachiko Exit (Shibuya’s Main Exit) This is the heart of Shibuya. • Shibuya Scramble Crossing• Hachiko Statue• Center Street• Shibuya MODI• TSUTAYA• Tower Records (walking distance) If you are unsure where to go, just choose Hachiko Exit. ✨ Miyamasuzaka Exit / Hikarie Side The stylish, clean,…
🌆 Shibuya City — Where Trend Meets Tradition A truly international district blending global trends with historical depth
Shibuya is famous worldwide for its Scramble Crossing and its concentration of cutting-edge culture, fashion, tech companies, and entertainment. From Harajuku and Omotesando to Ebisu, Daikanyama, Hiroo, and Jingumae, each neighborhood offers its own atmosphere. The district also embraces large green spaces like Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park, creating a beautiful contrast between modern trends and deep-rooted tradition. Recent redevelopment projects such as Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Stream, Shibuya Scramble Square, and MIYASHITA PARK add new layers to a district where old and new coexist in a dynamic, three-dimensional cityscape. 📛 Origin of the Name There are several theories regarding the name “Shibuya.” Some attribute it to the Shibuya River, others to a historical samurai clan called the Shibuya family, and another theory links it to the valley-like lowlands (yachi) of the area. Local museums and archives introduce these multiple coexisting theories. 📜 Formation and Historical Highlights ・1932: Former Shibuya Town, Sendagaya Town, and Yoyohata Town merged to form Shibuya Ward ・1947: Became one of Tokyo’s Special Wards ・Post-war: Grew into Japan’s youth-culture capital ・2000s to present: Major station-area redevelopments continue to transform the district 🦮 Hachiko & Shibuya Scramble Crossing The first Hachiko statue was built in 1934, removed…
🏙 Shinjuku City — From the “City That Never Sleeps” to a Global Metropolis A symbol of diversity, dynamism, and constant evolution
🌏 Overview Shinjuku City is located in the central-western part of Tokyo’s 23 wards and serves as the seat of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. It is a global district where administration, business, culture, entertainment, and residential neighborhoods coexist. By day, it functions as one of Japan’s major office hubs. By night, it transforms into a vibrant nightlife and gourmet destination. Surrounding areas offer tranquil residential zones and abundant greenery, making Shinjuku a multi-layered and highly desirable place to live. From a real estate perspective, it stands out for its strong transportation network, brand power, and continuous redevelopment. 📛 Origin of the Name “Shinjuku” dates back to the Edo period when a new post town, Naito-Shinjuku, was established along the Koshu Highway. Since it was a newly created post station (“new shuku”), the area was named “Shinjuku.” With the introduction of railways, the town rapidly developed into a major commercial and transportation hub, setting the foundation for today’s bustling district. 📚 Historical Timeline ⏳ Edo Period: Naito-Shinjuku post town established along the Koshu Highway ⏳ Meiji Period: Shinjuku Station opens in 1885, becoming a key rail junction ⏳ Postwar Era: Redevelopment brings cinemas, department stores, and nightlife ⏳ 1991: Tokyo Metropolitan…
🌸 Nakano City – Where Subculture, Cherry Blossoms, and Urban Convenience Meet
🗺 Overview Nakano City sits just west of Shinjuku, only one stop away on the JR Chuo Line. Its biggest charm is the balance between convenience and everyday comfort: a lively redeveloped station area packed with offices, universities, and shops, and peaceful low-rise residential neighborhoods just a short walk away. From single professionals to families, Nakano offers flexible housing choices with a wide range of rental and condominium options. Quiet residential areas such as Saginomiya, Shirasagi, Yayoicho, and Minamidai coexist with vibrant zones around Nakano and Higashi-Nakano, where dining and shopping options are abundant. The north side of the station features "Nakano Shiki-no-Machi" and Nakano Central Park, a green and walkable district where offices, university campuses, and parks blend seamlessly. 📜 Origin of the Name The name “Nakano” is believed to refer to the “middle of the plains” of the Musashino Plateau. Its earliest known appearance in historical documents dates back to 1362 as “Nakano-go.” Ancient place names such as Ekoda and Numabukuro remain today, reflecting a long local history. 🏙 Formation of Nakano City Nakano City was founded in 1932 when the former Nakano Town and former Nogata Town merged. After World War II, residential development accelerated with population…
🌿🏙 Setagaya City — A neighborhood where urban convenience meets everyday comfort
🌿 What is Setagaya City? Setagaya sits just west of Shibuya and Shinjuku and is one of Tokyo’s largest residential districts. Low-rise leafy neighborhoods stretch across the area, balanced by lively hubs such as Sangenjaya, Futako-Tamagawa, and Shimokitazawa. Quiet streets and great convenience live side by side — a key reason for its enduring popularity. Multiple private railway lines run through Setagaya, offering quick door-to-door access to major Tokyo stations. With childcare facilities, schools, parks, and shopping areas all within walking distance, the district is highly favored by families, DINKS, expats, and remote workers. 📛 Origin of the Name The name “Setagaya” is believed to come from an old place-name describing valley terrain in the area. “Seta” is related to the word “Seta/Sedo” (a term describing a narrow strait or passage), and over time the pronunciation and writing evolved into today’s “Setagaya.” The name reflects the geography and long-lived history of the region. 🏯 Historical Highlights 🏞 Setagaya Castle A flatland castle once held by the Kira clan during the Muromachi–Sengoku periods. Today it survives as Setagaya Castle Ruins Park, where visitors can still see remnants such as earthen embankments. A touch of medieval history right inside a quiet residential…