Tips for choosing a city for women living alone in Tokyo

When a woman starts living alone in Tokyo, it is important to consider multiple factors such as public safety, convenience, and accessibility in a well-balanced manner. Especially when it is your first time living alone, the deciding factor in choosing a city is whether or not the environment is one where you can live safely. It is important to choose a city that suits your lifestyle, such as a city that is safe day and night, an area with plenty of facilities necessary for daily life, and whether you can find a property with rent within your budget.

In this chapter, we will explain in detail the six points that women should pay attention to when living alone. Please use this as a reference for what you should consider when choosing a property.

Good public safety and peace of mind

For women living alone, the most important condition is a good public safety zone. Areas with a low crime rate and many police stations and security cameras provide a sense of security in daily life. Bunkyo Ward, Setagaya Ward, Suginami Ward, etc. are particularly known for their good public safety, and are reputed to be places where you can go out and return home safely even at night.

In addition, in areas where the local residents have strong ties and lively relationships with their neighbors, you can rest assured that any abnormalities will be noticed early on. When choosing a property, you should also refer to crime data published by the police and crime prevention measures of local governments. The number of street lights and foot traffic are also important points, so researching the surrounding environment is essential to find a city where you can live safely for a long time.

The streets are well lit at night and crowded with people.

Safety on the streets at night is a very important checkpoint for women living alone. Even if an area is bustling during the day, it is easy to feel unsafe in dark, deserted areas at night. The road from the station to your home has many streetlights, and there are convenience stores and restaurants lined up along the streets where people can see them, which also serves as a reassurance in terms of crime prevention.

For working adults who tend to get home late, safety is an important factor when traveling at night. Avoid routes that go through narrow alleys or deserted parks, and choose properties along bright, open roads. When choosing a city, we recommend checking the surrounding environment both during the day and at night.

High convenience for daily life (shopping, dining, medical care)

For women living alone, the comfort of living in a place where the necessary facilities are available nearby is a major factor. Areas near train stations with supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, clinics, and restaurants are convenient for daily shopping and when you suddenly feel unwell.

Towns where you can live within walking distance of one mile living are especially ideal for people who are just starting to live alone. There is no need to carry heavy luggage and travel far, which reduces the stress of daily life.

Areas such as Nakano, Ogikubo, and Kichijoji combine convenience with a relaxing living environment, and are highly regarded as easy-to-live-in areas. High convenience is a major factor for living comfortably for a long time.

Good access to transportation for easy commuting to work or school

Good transport access is also an important factor for making your daily commute to work or school comfortable. For those who travel to the city center frequently, we recommend terminal stations with multiple lines or areas around major stations. The Chuo Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, Odakyu Line, and Tokyo Metro lines offer smooth access to major areas such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Tokyo Station, making travel less stressful.

Also, if the property is located within a 10-minute walk from the station, you can rest assured even on bad weather days or when you get home late. Areas that are close to the station and have good accessibility also save time, making your daily life more comfortable. Transportation convenience is an important factor that determines how fulfilling your daily life is.

The rent is within your budget

When living alone in Tokyo, high rent can be a big burden, so it is important to have a good grasp of the average rent in each area. As a guideline, it is considered ideal to keep rent within one-third of your monthly take-home salary, so finding a property within your means will lead to a stable life.

Nerima, Itabashi, Katsushika, and other wards have relatively low rents and good access to the city center, making them popular with women living alone. Also, the average rent may differ from station to station even along the same train line, so it's important to compare conditions not only by area or line but also by station, and choose a city with good cost performance.

The key to success is to choose a city where you can live safely while keeping rent low.

A town where women feel safe

The atmosphere of a town is a big factor that affects a woman's sense of security when living alone. In fact, areas with a large female population naturally have a calm atmosphere and a high level of public safety and crime prevention awareness. Areas with well-maintained streets and a dotted network of stylish cafes, bakeries, and florists not only make you feel positive about living there, but also have a lot of foot traffic and are safe from a crime prevention perspective.

Areas such as Nakameguro, Jiyugaoka, and Mitaka are popular with women, and have an atmosphere that makes it easy for first-time residents to settle in. When judging how livable an area is, it is important to pay attention not only to rent and accessibility, but also to the actual residents and the unique atmosphere of the town.

Ranking of Tokyo's most livable cities for women [by area]

When women live alone in Tokyo, the things they prioritize vary depending on the characteristics of the city.

For example, "good public safety," "low rent," "convenient commuting," and "good atmosphere of the city" are conditions that many women pay attention to.

Here we will introduce carefully selected areas recommended for each purpose. We will introduce cities that are popular among women and where you can live safely and comfortably from five perspectives: "Safety first," "Value for money," "Access first," "Atmosphere first," and "Nature first." Please take a look at the detailed descriptions for each area.

[Safety-conscious] Bunkyo Ward, Setagaya Ward, Shinagawa Ward, etc.

For women who prioritize safety, Bunkyo, Setagaya, and Shinagawa wards are particularly recommended.

Bunkyo Ward has the lowest crime rate among Tokyo's 23 wards, and is a calm area with plenty of schools and medical facilities, making it a safe place to live. Setagaya Ward is also popular as a residential area, with lush parks and well-maintained roads, making it appealing for those who want to go out at night without worrying. Shinagawa Ward is undergoing redevelopment, and while the convenience of the areas around the stations is improving, the residential areas are quiet and comfortable, and many residents are highly crime-conscious.

Both areas are safe for women living alone.

[Cost-effectiveness focused] Nerima Ward, Katsushika Ward, Itabashi Ward, etc.

For those who want to live a comfortable life while keeping living expenses down, cost-effective areas such as Nerima, Katsushika, and Itabashi are popular.

Nerima ward is rich in nature and has many parks, making it popular with families and providing a safe and secure living environment. Katsushika ward retains the atmosphere of a traditional downtown area, with many shopping streets and restaurants, making it an easy place to live. Itabashi ward has good transportation access, is convenient for commuting to the city center, and has reasonable average rent.

Both areas offer a good balance between rent and convenience, making them recommended for first-time residents living alone.

[Accessibility is important] Nakano Ward, Suginami Ward, Chuo Ward, etc.

For women who value ease of commuting to work or school, Nakano, Suginami, and Chuo wards are ideal.

Nakano ward is highly convenient, only 5 minutes by train from Shinjuku, and has many commercial facilities around the station, making it convenient for daily life. Suginami ward has popular stations such as Koenji and Asagaya, and is located along the Chuo Line, so it has excellent access to the city center, but is also dotted with quiet residential areas. Chuo ward is close to Tokyo Station and Ginza, so it has the great advantage of shortening commuting time for those who work in the city center.

Easy access reduces daily stress and allows you to live a life with more free time.

[Fashionable & Atmosphere-oriented] Nakameguro, Jiyugaoka, Yoyogi-Uehara

Nakameguro, Jiyugaoka and Yoyogi-Uehara are particularly popular areas for those who value atmosphere and a stylish lifestyle.

Nakameguro is an area that stimulates the senses, with cherry blossoms along the Meguro River, popular cafes, and plenty of restaurants. Jiyugaoka is a comfortable area for women, with a wide selection of general stores, sweets shops, and beauty salons. Yoyogi-Uehara is a quiet residential area, but it is dotted with stylish boutiques and restaurants, making it a place where you can live a relaxed adult life.

Both cities are recommended for women who value beauty and comfort.

[Prioritizing nature and living environment] Mitaka, Shakujii Park, Tachikawa, etc.

For women who wish to live a peaceful life surrounded by nature, areas such as Mitaka, Shakujii Park, and Tachikawa are suitable.

Mitaka is home to Inokashira Park and the Ghibli Museum, and has a relaxing atmosphere where culture and nature coexist in harmony. Shakujii Park is surrounded by ponds and greenery, so you can enjoy nature on a daily basis while taking a walk or jogging. Tachikawa has a wide range of large shopping facilities around the station, and is also blessed with nature such as the Tama River and Showa Memorial Park, so you can enjoy a good balance between urban functions and the natural environment.

This area is perfect for those looking for both tranquility and convenience.

Tips for choosing a property where women can live with peace of mind

For women living alone in Tokyo, choosing a property is as important as choosing a livable town. By choosing a home that takes into consideration security, convenience, and ease of living, you can spend your days comfortably and safely. For example, whether the room is on the second floor or higher, whether there is an auto-lock, whether security cameras are installed, and how well-equipped the interior facilities are are all important factors in choosing a property.

Here are five specific points that women should check to ensure they can live with peace of mind.

Choose a room on the second floor or higher

For women living alone, it is recommended that they choose a room on the second floor or higher rather than the first floor, from a crime prevention perspective. The first floor has a higher risk of intrusion, and many people are concerned about theft of laundry and the lack of privacy, so caution is required. Properties on the second floor or higher make it easier to avoid prying eyes from outside, and it is easier to open windows for ventilation and feel safe at night.

In particular, buildings with auto-locking doors will increase crime prevention even further. Even if your building is close to a station or in a convenient location, be sure to choose a floor that prioritizes crime prevention.

Auto-lock/monitored intercom

Essential security features include an auto-lock and a monitored intercom. Auto-locks act as the first line of defense to prevent unauthorized entry, and are a great source of security, especially in urban areas.

In addition, having an intercom with a monitor that allows you to see the face of the visitor will help you deal with suspicious people and prevent delivery troubles. In recent years, some properties have introduced smartphone-linked equipment, which is popular among women because it allows you to respond even when you are out.

Facilities include an indoor washing machine space and a separate sink

When choosing a rental property for living alone, the comfort of the facilities is also important. Especially for women, whether or not there is a place to put a washing machine and a separate sink in the room are major criteria for deciding. Since an outdoor washing machine place can be a concern from the perspective of security and hygiene, it is preferable to install it indoors.

In addition, having a separate sink makes it easier to get ready in the morning and take care of your skin, improving your quality of life. These points greatly affect the comfort of the property, so be sure to check them carefully when viewing the property.

Resident manager and security cameras installed

Properties with a resident manager provide a sense of security that daily safety is increased and that unexpected situations can be dealt with quickly. In addition, security cameras installed at the entrance and common areas act as a crime deterrent and reduce anxiety when returning home or at night.

Properties with a well-established management system tend to have good quality residents and maintain an environment with fewer problems. Apartments with a high level of crime prevention awareness are a very reassuring point for women living alone.

Separate bathroom and ample storage space

In order to live a comfortable life, it is important to consider whether the bathroom and toilet are separate and whether there is storage space. Unit baths can be inconvenient when cleaning and using them, and can be a source of stress, especially for women. Separate bathrooms make it easier to keep them clean and allow you to take a relaxing bath.

Also, if there is ample storage space such as closets and shoeboxes, it will be easier to keep the room tidy. Be sure to check the facilities that will affect the comfort of your living space.

Top 10 Livable Areas in Tokyo Recommended for Women

For women considering living alone in Tokyo, choosing a city that offers a good balance of safety, convenience, and atmosphere is extremely important.

Here we have picked 10 cities that are recommended for women to live in, from the perspectives of "safety," "convenience and ease of living," and "having all the elements that are popular with women." Each area has its own characteristics and charms, so you can choose a city that suits your commute, shopping, and hobbies.

Mitaka (Good balance of safety, nature, and value for money)

Mitaka is a residential area with good public safety and a rich natural environment, and is very popular among women living alone. It is a city with relaxing spots such as Inokashira Park and the Ghibli Museum, where you can feel at ease in your daily life.

It's about 15 minutes to Shinjuku on the JR Chuo Line, and you can easily access the neighboring Kichijoji, so it's very convenient for public transport. The rent is lower than in Kichijoji, so it's also cost-effective. There are supermarkets, drugstores, cafes, etc. around the station, making it convenient for daily life. It's the perfect town for those who want to live safely and comfortably in a calm atmosphere.

Kichijoji (convenience and cultural atmosphere)

Kichijoji is a popular town that represents Tokyo and combines convenience with culture. Around the station, there are large commercial facilities such as Parco and Atre, as well as plenty of cafes and select shops, so you can enjoy shopping and eating out. You can also spend some peaceful time walking or reading in the natural surroundings of Inokashira Park.

The area is safe and has many rental properties for women only or with auto-locks, so you can live with peace of mind. Two lines, the JR Chuo Line and the Keio Inokashira Line, are available, and access to Shinjuku and Shibuya is smooth. This is the perfect area for women who want a fashionable and cultured lifestyle.

Ogikubo (easy access and calm streets)

Ogikubo is a town with good transport access via the JR Chuo Line and the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, making it an attractive location for commuting to work or school. In front of the station, there is Lumine, a supermarket, and restaurants, so you will have no trouble with daily shopping or eating out.

A little distance from the station, there is a quiet residential area, where you can live a relaxed life away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The average rent is also slightly lower than Kichijoji and Nakano, so you can enjoy a convenient lifestyle while keeping costs down. The area is also safe, making it a popular place for women to live alone without worry.

Kyodo (a residential area popular with women)

Kyodo is located along the Odakyu Line and is a lively town with many students and young workers. There are shopping streets, restaurants, and supermarkets around the station, making it a very convenient place to live. A little way from the station is a quiet residential area, making it a safe environment for women to live in.

It has good access to Shibuya and Shinjuku, making it convenient for commuting to work or school. It is a well-balanced area that combines urban convenience with the tranquility of a residential area, making it an ideal place for those living alone for the first time.

Jiyugaoka (Many stylish cafes and shops)

Jiyugaoka is a town with a sophisticated atmosphere and rows of fashionable shops, and is especially popular among women. There are plenty of cafes, general stores, and beauty salons around the station, making it a great place to have fun on your days off. The Tokyu Toyoko Line and Oimachi Line are both accessible, and access to Shibuya and Yokohama is good. The area is safe, and the whole town has a relaxed atmosphere.

It is the perfect place for those looking for convenient living and a cityscape with a high level of aesthetic sense, and is a recommended town for women who value their lifestyle.

Edogawabashi (quiet environment and good security)

Edogawabashi is located in Bunkyo Ward, and is a residential area that is quiet and calm despite being close to the city center. It is far from the hustle and bustle of downtown, has good public safety, and is suitable for women living alone. There are supermarkets, libraries, cafes, and other facilities necessary for daily life in the surrounding area, making daily life comfortable.

The Yurakucho Line provides smooth access to major areas such as Ikebukuro and Iidabashi. This is the perfect home for those looking for a quiet environment near the city center.

Nerima (rent, safety, ease of shopping)

Nerima ward is popular as a place where rent is relatively cheap and easy to live in, even within Tokyo. There are large supermarkets, drugstores, and restaurants around the station, so you will not have any trouble shopping. The area is also known for its stable public safety and high crime prevention awareness.

The area is conveniently located on three lines: the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, the Fukutoshin Line, and the Yurakucho Line, making it easy to access Ikebukuro and Shibuya. This is a well-balanced area that is recommended for women who want to live comfortably while keeping costs down.

Nakano (multiple lines & access to downtown)

Nakano is served by two lines, the JR Chuo Line and the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, and is only five minutes from Shinjuku, making it an attractive area for its easy access to the city center. In front of the station, there is the large shopping mall Nakano Broadway, as well as many restaurants, making it a very lively area.

On the other hand, if you walk a little further, you will find a quiet residential area where you can live a peaceful life. The area is relatively safe and has many properties for women. It is an ideal town for those who want convenience in both transportation and lifestyle.

Hatanodai (calm living environment and easy access)

Hatanodai is a residential area with access to two lines, the Tokyu Oimachi Line and the Ikegami Line, and is popular with women looking for a calm lifestyle. There are traditional shopping streets, cafes, and supermarkets around the station, making it convenient for daily life. The area is also safe, and the streets are well-lit at night, so even women living alone can live there with peace of mind.

It has good access to Gotanda and Jiyugaoka, so you won't have any trouble commuting to the city center. It's not flashy, but it's a peaceful and comfortable town where you can spend your daily life.

Shakujii Park (Combining nature and livability)

Shakujii Park in Nerima Ward is an area rich in nature and has a relaxing residential environment. There are supermarkets and restaurants around the station, so you won't have any trouble with shopping for your daily needs. The nearby Shakujii Park is a relaxing spot where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, and refresh yourself in nature.

It is also easily accessible, taking the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Ikebukuro in about 15 minutes. This area combines a quiet lifestyle surrounded by nature with the convenience of being in the city center, making it a recommended place for women looking for a comfortable lifestyle.

Consider a shared house | Achieving both cost and security

For women considering living alone in Tokyo, the option of a shared house is very attractive. The biggest feature is that it combines safety and convenience while keeping rent and initial costs low. There are an increasing number of women-only properties and properties with full security, so you can live safely while protecting your privacy.

In addition, the furniture and appliances are included, making moving easier, and interacting with other residents reduces feelings of loneliness. It is also attracting attention as a convenient and safe way to start living alone, even for those who are new to living alone.

Here we will tell you about the appeal of shared houses.

There are plenty of properties exclusively for women

Many share houses for women are "women-only properties" that limit occupancy to women only, providing a safe and secure environment in terms of both security and mental well-being. All shared spaces such as bathrooms, washrooms, and kitchens are shared among women, so you can relax without worrying about the eyes of the opposite sex.

In addition, these properties are characterized by their interiors and facilities that pursue "ease of living for women," with attention paid to every detail, such as ample storage space, bright interiors, and high design quality. Some properties also have female staff on-site, and they are highly rated for their ability to respond to problems and ease of consultation.

For those who are anxious about moving to Tokyo or living alone for the first time, a safe and secure environment for women only can be a great support. For those who want to live freely, safely, and in the way they want, these properties are highly recommended.

Furniture and appliances included to reduce initial costs

One of the great attractions of a share house is that it comes equipped with all the necessary furniture and appliances for daily life. Basic amenities such as a refrigerator, microwave, washing machine, bed, and table are all provided, so you don't need to buy new things when you move in, which can significantly reduce expenses.

In addition, in many cases, the deposit, key money, and brokerage fees required for general rental properties are not required, and in some cases the initial costs can be kept to around 50,000 to 100,000 yen. It is perfect for those who want to start a new life immediately after moving to Tokyo or changing jobs, or those considering it as a temporary residence for a short period of time.

Furthermore, since you don't have to worry about choosing and setting up furniture, the stress of moving is reduced and you can immediately start living comfortably. For those who value the balance between cost and convenience, a shared house with furniture and appliances is a very realistic option.

Security and management system for a safe and secure life

For women living alone, having solid crime prevention measures is a very important point. In recent years, the number of shared houses with strengthened security features has increased, and auto-locking entrances and the installation of surveillance cameras in common areas are now becoming standard equipment.

Many management companies conduct identity checks and interviews with potential tenants, creating an environment that makes it easy for trustworthy residents to gather together. In addition, caretakers and house managers make regular rounds and clean the common areas and inspect the facilities, so you can rest assured about hygiene and how to deal with any problems that may arise. Proper trash disposal and equipment replenishment in common areas also helps prevent problems between tenants.

There is a system in place where you can easily consult with someone if you have any problems, so even if it is your first time living in a share house, you can live comfortably and with little anxiety.

The fun of interacting with other residents is also an attraction

One of the attractions of a share house is that you can naturally interact with other residents and feel a sense of connection with them. You will often meet people in shared spaces such as the kitchen and living room on a daily basis, and you will often become friends through casual conversation. Regularly held house events and dinner parties can also help create connections that transcend age and nationality.

Especially for those who tend to feel lonely when living alone for the first time, the sense of security that comes from knowing someone is nearby is a great support. In addition, in properties with an international atmosphere, you can also have intercultural exchanges with foreign residents, which is a chance to broaden your language skills and horizons. Of course, privacy is well protected in the individual rooms, and it is also important to be able to build relationships at a comfortable distance.

For those who want to have the right amount of connections with others while also valuing their own time, a shared house is an ideal place to live.

Recommended share house companies in Tokyo

When looking for a share house in Tokyo, it is important to pay attention to the reliability of the management company, the quality of the property, and the support system. Particularly popular are major management companies such as "Cross House," "Oak House," and "SHARE HOUSE 180°." We will briefly introduce the features of each management company.

Cross House operates approximately 879 properties mainly in Tokyo, and offers properties with low initial costs and comfortable living environments with furniture and appliances. Many of the properties are conveniently located for commuting to work or school, making them ideal for those who want to start living in Tokyo at a reasonable price.

Oakhouse places great emphasis on international exchange, and is characterized by having many foreign residents. English-speaking staff are also on staff, making it a recommended place for those who want to enjoy a global atmosphere.

SHARE HOUSE 180° offers many themed properties and is popular for its relaxed atmosphere where you can live with peace of mind. They also put effort into holding local exchange events and building communities, so you can have an experience that goes beyond just living.

All management companies have a system in place for regular cleaning and troubleshooting, so even first-time sharehouse residents can start living here with peace of mind. If you're worried about living alone for the first time, a sharehouse is another option. Each sharehouse management company has many properties listed that match your campaigns and requirements, so take this opportunity to search for them.

Summary | Choose a city that suits your lifestyle

Living alone in Tokyo can make a big difference in how comfortable your daily life is depending on the area you live in. For women in particular, there are many important points to consider, such as the safety of the area, average rent, distance from the station, how well lit the streets are at night, and whether there are people around. In addition to whether the area fits within your budget, it is also important to consider the "sense of livability" such as the convenience of commuting to work or school, the amount of nature, the atmosphere of the town, and the demographics of the surrounding residents.

In addition, whether or not there are cafes, supermarkets, hospitals, parks and other facilities necessary for daily life within walking distance, the warmth of the local community and the vitality of the shopping district are also major factors in choosing a city. Recently, there are a variety of living options to choose from, such as shared houses that come with furniture and appliances and reduce initial costs, and properties that are women-only and have security in mind.

In addition, it is important to choose flexibly, taking into account future changes in your lifestyle, plans to move, whether or not you will be working from home, etc. Living alone gives you a lot of freedom, so choosing a town where you can achieve both "security" and "comfort" for yourself will make your days more fulfilling.

First, clarify what you value most, gather information, and find the city that best suits you by actually looking around. There is sure to be a place in Tokyo where you can live comfortably and in your own style. The first step to success is to choose carefully and patiently.

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