When you arrive in Japan as an international student, one of your first major tasks is finding a comfortable and affordable place to live. With so many options across Tokyo and Yokohama, the search can be overwhelming. Your choice of accommodation will significantly influence your experience, so it’s crucial to choose wisely.
This guide will help you identify the best areas to live based on proximity to your Japanese language school, affordability, transport options, and local atmosphere. We’ll break down the rental ranges, pros and cons of each area, and give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
1. IUC (Inter University Center) in Yokohama
Closest Station: Minatomirai, Shin-Takashima
Train Line: Minatomirai Line
Best Areas to Live for Students
Yokohama City Center (Naka-ku): This area offers easy access to both your school and the many international amenities that cater to students. The vibrant city center boasts shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a great place for international students.
Sakuragicho: With its proximity to the waterfront and a variety of modern apartments, Sakuragicho offers a balance of both lively and peaceful living. It’s particularly attractive if you like being close to nature and the water while still enjoying easy access to Minatomirai.
Shin-Yokohama: For those on a tighter budget, Shin-Yokohama offers a more affordable living option with excellent train connections to Minatomirai. It's a little further from the center, but rent is typically lower.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Excellent transportation options, especially along the Minatomirai Line.
Plenty of international student-friendly facilities and amenities.
Scenic views and modern living options.
Cons:
Rent in central areas like Yokohama City Center and Sakuragicho can be high compared to other parts of Japan.
The more tourist-heavy areas may feel a little crowded at times.
Tips for Students:
If you’re planning to stay long-term, it may be worth considering shared accommodation to help reduce costs while still living in an attractive area.
Be sure to check the distance to the train station to make sure it aligns with your daily commute.
Recommended House: A Series Premium Cude Yokohama DEUX 403
2. Shinjuku Japanese Language Institute (SNG)
Closest Station: Takadanobaba, Nishi-Waseda, Gakushuinshita
Train Line: Yamanote Line, Fukutoshin Line, Toden-Arakawa Line
Best Areas to Live for Students
Takadanobaba: Right near the school, Takadanobaba is bustling with student life, offering affordable rent and plenty of convenience. This area is great if you want to stay close to school and enjoy an energetic, student-friendly atmosphere.
Ikebukuro: A lively area with a huge variety of shopping and dining options. It’s easy to commute from Ikebukuro to Takadanobaba, and rent is often more affordable than in central Shinjuku.
Kichijoji: Though slightly further from school, Kichijoji is a sought-after neighborhood with a balance of trendy cafés, parks, and quieter residential streets. It’s perfect for students who want more space and a less hectic environment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Very close to the school, making commuting extremely easy.
A variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Affordable living options in areas like Takadanobaba and Ikebukuro.
Cons:
Takadanobaba can be noisy, especially during the school year.
Kichijoji, while peaceful, can be on the pricier side for students.
Tips for Students:
If you value convenience and want to minimize commute time, Takadanobaba is a perfect choice, though be mindful of potential noise.
Shared housing can also help reduce costs, especially if you're living in more expensive neighborhoods like Kichijoji.
Recommended House: A Series Y's Le Lion Shinjuku Nakai 801
3. KAI Japanese Language School
Closest Station: Shin-Okubo
Train Line: Yamanote Line
Best Areas to Live for Students
Shin-Okubo: A popular destination for international students, this neighborhood is full of restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences, and is right near the school. It’s also a very affordable area to live in compared to other parts of Tokyo.
Nakano: Just a few stops away from Shin-Okubo on the JR Chuo Line, Nakano offers quieter residential areas with affordable rent and easy access to central Tokyo.
Koenji: Known for its vibrant arts scene and more affordable living options, Koenji offers a more laid-back atmosphere while still being well connected to the Yamanote Line for a quick commute.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Close to school with plenty of affordable housing options.
Diverse, multicultural environment.
Great access to central Tokyo and popular destinations.
Cons:
Can get quite crowded, especially around Shin-Okubo.
Some areas may feel touristy and noisy at times.
Tips for Students:
Shared housing is a great option in Shin-Okubo to save on costs while enjoying the proximity to school.
If you enjoy a quieter, more artistic vibe, consider Koenji, though it requires a bit longer commute to school.
Recommended House: A Series Harmony Residence Shinjuku THE NORTH 208
4. GenkiJACS Tokyo School
Closest Station: Shinjuku Station, Shinjuku San Chome
Train Line: JR Line, Fukutoshin Line
Best Areas to Live for Students
Shinjuku: One of Tokyo’s most iconic districts, Shinjuku offers both the energy of the city and plenty of student-friendly apartments. It’s a great choice if you want to live close to entertainment and transportation hubs.
Nishi-Shinjuku: A quieter part of Shinjuku, offering more affordable rent while still being within walking distance of all the major attractions.
Suginami: A short train ride from Shinjuku, Suginami offers more affordable rent with a peaceful residential feel, making it ideal for students who prefer a quieter environment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Convenient for both school and entertainment.
Great transportation links, with Shinjuku Station being one of the busiest and most connected stations in Tokyo.
Cons:
Rent can be high in the Shinjuku area.
Can be noisy and crowded, especially on weekends.
Tips for Students:
Consider renting a place a little farther from Shinjuku for a quieter environment but still close to transportation options.
For more affordable living, explore Suginami and Nishi-Shinjuku.
Recommended House: A Series Harmony Residence Kagurazaka Hills second 207
5. Tokyo Central Japanese Language School (TCJ)
Closest Station: Shinanomachi, Yotsuya Sanchome
Train Line: Chuo-Sobu Line, Marunouchi Line
Best Areas to Live for Students
Yotsuya: Quiet and residential, Yotsuya is a fantastic place for students who want easy access to Tokyo without the noise of the city center. It’s close to your school and offers more affordable rent.
Kagurazaka: Known for its charming, historic streets, Kagurazaka is an ideal neighborhood for students who appreciate a quieter yet still centrally located area.
Mejiro: Located near Ikebukuro, Mejiro offers a calm atmosphere with more affordable living, all within reach of major Tokyo hotspots.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Peaceful, residential areas perfect for studying.
Good access to public transport, making commuting to school easy.
Cons:
Rent can be higher compared to suburban areas.
Some areas may feel a little too quiet for those seeking vibrant city life.
Tips for Students:
Be mindful of the size of the apartment. Some units may be smaller, especially in more central locations.
If you enjoy a quieter living experience with access to central Tokyo, these areas are perfect for you.
Recommended House: A Series Coop Yotuya 203
To Make It More Easier: To make your search for the perfect home in Japan easier, simply reach out to us via email at sales@firststep-jp.com with the following details:
Budget:
Preferred House Type: (e.g., 1K, 1DK, 1LDK, 2LDK, etc.) / Desired Size
Preferred Location / Train Line & Station:
Do you have a pet?:
Visa Type:
Conclusion
Finding the perfect place to live as an international student in Tokyo or Yokohama doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding your budget, commuting preferences, and the atmosphere you want, you can make a smart choice. Prices in Tokyo and Yokohama have risen recently, but there are still plenty of options available for students who plan ahead.
Keep in mind that shared housing or staying a little further out from the central areas can save you money while still keeping you close to your school and all that the city has to offer. Happy house hunting, and enjoy your time studying in Japan! - Mashrif
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