Is the area around Hikarigaoka Station dangerous? A thorough explanation of why people say they don't want to live there and what it's actually like to live there.

What are the six reasons why Hikarigaoka is considered "crazy"?

Hikarigaoka, located in Nerima Ward, Tokyo, is a town that seems like a pleasant place to live at first glance, with its abundant nature and large commercial facilities. However, some people have expressed negative opinions such as "it's terrible" or "I wouldn't want to live there." The reasons for this are varied, including inconvenient access, the atmosphere unique to housing complexes, concerns about safety, and a lack of entertainment options for young people.

Here, we'll explain in detail the six main reasons why Hikarigaoka is considered "crazy," based on real customer reviews and statistical data.

Access is inconvenient as it is only accessible via the Toei Oedo Line.

Hikarigaoka Station is located at the end of the Toei Oedo Line, and it is often pointed out that it takes a long time to access major areas.

For example, it takes over 30 minutes to get to Shinjuku, and you need to transfers once to get to Tokyo Station. Since there are many areas in Tokyo where multiple train lines are available, many people find the fact that it's only served by the Toei Oedo Line to be a drawback.

For people who prioritize convenience, especially for commuting to work or school, Hikarigaoka tends to be perceived as having somewhat inconvenient access, and this is one of the factors that makes it seem "a bit of a problem."

Properties in Nerima Ward are listed here.

There are many large housing complexes, giving it a unique atmosphere.

Hikarigaoka is known as one of the largest housing complex areas in Tokyo, with apartment buildings such as "Hikarigaoka Housing Complex" spread around the station. Many people find it difficult to adapt to the unique landscape and community atmosphere of this housing complex.

Comments such as "It feels like the Showa era" and "It has a closed-off atmosphere" are frequently seen on social media, and it tends to be avoided, especially by young people and single people. In addition, in densely populated areas of the housing complex, there are concerns about privacy and noise issues due to the close proximity of buildings.

The perception that "having many housing complexes = something bad" stems from a sense of unease with this unique lifestyle and culture.

Properties in Nerima Ward are listed here.

There are few restaurants and entertainment facilities, which is disappointing.

While there is a large shopping mall called " Hikarigaoka IMA" near Hikarigaoka Station , the number of restaurants and entertainment facilities is not particularly large. Family restaurants and chain stores are the mainstays, and independently owned cafes and trendy gourmet spots are limited.

Furthermore, some people say that they have to go to other areas on their days off because there are few entertainment facilities for young people such as karaoke bars, arcades, and movie theaters.

For people who seek excitement and an active lifestyle, in particular, Hikarigaoka tends to be perceived as an unsatisfying place, which is one reason why it is often rated as "terrible" or "boring."

Properties in Nerima Ward are listed here.

Concerns about safety? Some people say the streets feel dark at night.

While Hikarigaoka is generally considered one of the safer areas in Nerima Ward, some residents have commented that "the streets are dark and scary at night."

In particular, in areas with many large housing complexes and parks, and where pedestrian traffic is sparse, it is true that some people feel unsafe. Around Hikarigaoka Park, there are areas with a limited number of streetlights, and visibility can be poor at night. Although the crime rate itself is low, a certain number of people feel that the area is "unsafe" or "dark and unsettling," including the atmosphere and the sense of psychological security, which contributes to the spread of the image that "Hikarigaoka is dangerous."

Properties in Nerima Ward are listed here.

Some people feel that the rent is too expensive.

While Hikarigaoka is a popular area for redevelopment, it has been pointed out that despite being served only by a single subway line, the Toei Oedo Line, the rent is not particularly cheap.

Some 1K apartments cost between 80,000 and 90,000 yen, and 2LDK apartments cost over 150,000 yen, which many people feel is "somewhat expensive" compared to other areas within Nerima Ward. In addition, many of the properties are in housing complexes or older apartment buildings, which sometimes leads to the perception that the rent is "not worth it."

For young people and single individuals who prioritize cost-effectiveness, the rent levels in Hikarigaoka are a source of dissatisfaction and one of the reasons why they feel it's "not worth it = terrible."

It's a little too calm for young people.

Hikarigaoka is a popular neighborhood for families with young children and seniors due to its abundance of nature and parks, but younger generations often complain that it's "too quiet" and "lacks excitement." There are very few places to hang out or nightlife spots, and commercial facilities are mainly geared towards families.

For single people in their 20s and 30s, the entertainment options and the vibrancy of the town tend to be lacking. Opinions include "It's easy to live here, but boring" and "It's hard to invite friends over," resulting in it being a less popular choice for young people. This is what leads to the perception that "Hikarigaoka is not suitable for young people = it's a bad place to live."

Properties in Nerima Ward are listed here.

Reviews and experiences from people who have actually lived there

The evaluations of Hikarigaoka are not limited to negative comments such as "it's terrible" or "I wouldn't want to live there." Opinions from current and former residents include complaints about accessibility, mixed opinions on the housing complex, and positive assessments of the rich natural environment.

Here, we focus on the "gap" in the living environment of Hikarigaoka that emerges from real-life reviews, and we will organize and introduce the realities you only find out by living there.

Complaints about accessibility and convenience

The most common complaint in reviews is the inconvenient access to the city center. Hikarigaoka Station is the last stop on the Toei Oedo Line, and many people are dissatisfied with the long travel time to major areas.

for example,

• "It takes 30 to 40 minutes to get to Shinjuku or Shibuya."
• "The commute is a hassle because there are so many transfers."

These kinds of comments are being posted on social media and review sites. Furthermore, the lack of JR or other private railway lines in the surrounding area is seen as a drawback in terms of convenience. For those who prioritize transportation access, this easily leads to the perception that "Hikarigaoka is a town lacking convenience," and is one of the reasons why it's considered "terrible" and "difficult to live in."

On the other hand, there are also positive reviews such as "It's very green and comfortable."

While there are some negative comments, there are also many positive opinions such as, "Hikarigaoka has lots of greenery and is a pleasant place to live." The rich natural environment, including Hikarigaoka Park, is highly popular among families with children and senior citizens.

for example,

• "It feels so good that my morning walks have become a daily routine."
• "It's rare to find this much nature in Tokyo," etc.

We've received comments like these: The abundance of greenery throughout the town, not just in the parks, and the ability to live while feeling the changing seasons, are major attractions for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. In particular, for people who want to avoid noisy commercial districts or those who lead a lifestyle centered on remote work, Hikarigaoka is actually considered a "comfortable and ideal town."

People have different impressions of housing complexes and parks.

When discussing Hikarigaoka, the presence of large housing complexes and vast parks is indispensable. However, people's impressions of these places vary greatly.

While some people have expressed negative opinions such as "There are too many housing complexes, making it feel too lived-in" and "It has an old and gloomy impression," others have given positive feedback such as "Even though it's a housing complex, it's clean and well-maintained" and "The old-fashioned human relationships are warm."

Regarding Hikarigaoka Park, while it is praised for being "spacious and ideal for families with children" and "convenient for barbecues," there are also criticisms such as "it's unsettling because there are few people there at night" and "it's prone to flooding, so caution is needed."

In other words, major features of the town, such as housing complexes and parks, are points that are evaluated differently depending on lifestyle and values, which is the background behind the polarized opinions that "Hikarigaoka is terrible" or "it's a great place to live."

Checking the reality of Hikarigaoka| Safety, rent, shopping environment, etc.

While some say "Hikarigaoka is terrible" and "I wouldn't want to live there," what is the actual living environment like?

Here, we'll objectively examine factors directly related to daily life around Hikarigaoka Station, such as safety, rent prices, and convenience of shopping. Based on data and surrounding facilities, let's look at the real attractions and challenges of Hikarigaoka that you should know before moving there.

The level of public safety is actually average even within Nerima Ward.

Hikarigaoka tends to have a reputation for being "dark at night" and "unsafe due to the many housing complexes," but when you look at the actual crime rate, it's at roughly the average level within Nerima Ward.

According to public safety statistics released by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the area around Hikarigaoka Station is not significantly different from areas considered to have good public safety, with serious crimes such as snatching and robbery being very rare. In particular, community patrols and neighborhood watch groups are well-established around Hikarigaoka Park and the housing complexes, providing a certain level of security for families with children and the elderly.

While the perception of safety is subjective, judging from the numbers, Hikarigaoka can be considered a relatively safe area, contrary to the impression that it might be "dangerous."

Shopping facilities are abundant, including "Hikarigaoka IMA".

Hikarigaoka boasts an excellent shopping environment, exemplified by the large shopping mall "Hikarigaoka IMA," directly connected to the station. It offers a wide variety of stores, including supermarkets, drugstores, 100-yen shops, fashion boutiques, restaurants, and electronics retailers, so you can find almost everything you need for daily life here.

Furthermore, there are many large facilities in the surrounding area, such as "Livin' Hikarigaoka" and "Nerima Hikarigaoka Hospital," so the living infrastructure is very well-developed. Although there are few shopping streets, the ability to shop efficiently with a focus on chain stores is a major attraction. In terms of shopping convenience, Hikarigaoka is one of the most livable towns in Tokyo.

The average rent is in the mid-range to slightly above average for Tokyo.

The average rent in Hikarigaoka is slightly higher than the average rent in Nerima Ward as a whole.

• Studio apartment (1K): Approximately 80,000 yen
• 1LDK to 2LDK: Approximately 130,000 to 150,000 yen

Properties in particular, such as those in the Hikarigaoka housing complex, UR rental properties, and public housing corporation properties, are very popular and tend to be filled quickly as soon as they become available. Also, because there are newly built condominiums and high-rise apartments, properties aimed at families tend to be in the higher price range.

On the other hand, considering the balance between convenient transportation access and the age of the building, it's true that some people feel it's "overpriced." For those who prioritize cost performance, other areas within Nerima Ward (such as Heiwadai and Hikawadai) might be worth considering.

Still feeling anxious? Here are 3 recommended stations around Hikarigaoka that are easy to live near!

While Hikarigaoka has its charms, many people feel uneasy about it due to issues such as poor accessibility and an unsuitable atmosphere for the housing complex.

Here, we've carefully selected three "livable stations" that are relatively close to Hikarigaoka, convenient for commuting and daily life, and have good safety records. All of them are located in or around Nerima Ward, making them easy to compare with Hikarigaoka. Please use this as a reference to find a lifestyle that suits you.

Nerima Station| Excellent transportation access and safe environment

Nerima Station is a major transportation hub served by the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Toei Oedo Line, and Seibu Yurakucho Line, offering excellent access to Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shibuya.

Unlike Hikarigaoka, it offers access to multiple train lines, making it extremely convenient for commuting to work or school. The area around the station boasts a wide variety of shops, supermarkets, and restaurants, making it popular with a broad range of people, from singles to families.

Furthermore, the proximity of police boxes and police stations provides a sense of security, and many residents say they feel less anxious when returning home at night. It is popular as a "highly-rated town" that strikes a good balance between its proximity to the city center, convenience of living, and safety.

Shakujii Koen Station| A calm atmosphere surrounded by nature

Shakujii Koen Station is an express train stop on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, offering excellent access to Ikebukuro in about 10 minutes. Yet, it boasts a lush natural environment, including Shakujii Koen, which is also the station's name, making it an ideal area for those seeking a quiet and peaceful lifestyle.

The neighborhood is well-maintained, safe, and dotted with stylish independent shops such as cafes and bakeries. It is popular with a wide range of people, from families with children to singles. While rental properties are somewhat expensive, it is a highly satisfying option for those who prioritize the quality of their living environment.

As a town that offers both convenience and relaxation, it could be considered a hidden gem that could replace Hikarigaoka.

Narimasu Station| Rent is lower as you can use the Tobu Tojo Line

Narimasu Station is an express train stop on the Tobu Tojo Line, offering excellent access to Ikebukuro in as little as 10 minutes, and is located in an area of ​​Tokyo where rent prices are relatively low. Furthermore, the Chikatetsu Yurakucho Line and Fukutoshin Line's "Chikatetsu Narimasu Station" is within walking distance, providing many route options to the city center, which is another attractive feature.

The area around the station has supermarkets, drugstores, and chain restaurants, so you'll rarely feel inconvenienced in your daily life. The area is also generally safe, making it a more attractive living environment than Hikarigaoka for single people and young families who prioritize cost-effectiveness.

This is a desirable area with a good balance of access, rent, and convenience.

FAQ

While researching Hikarigaoka, I compiled a list of frequently asked questions found through internet searches and social media. This guide clearly explains key points of interest for those considering living there, such as the housing complex's entry requirements, safety and security, and the child-rearing environment, in a Q&A format.

Q. Is Hikarigaoka housing complex open to everyone?

Hikarigaoka housing complex offers several types of housing, including UR rental apartments, Tokyo Metropolitan Government housing, and condominiums. UR rental apartments have no income or occupation restrictions and anyone can apply, but certain income requirements and conditions such as having a guarantor must be met.

On the other hand, Tokyo Metropolitan Government housing is intended for "low-income households," so there are income restrictions and a lottery system, and for single people, there are conditions such as having resided in Tokyo for a certain period of time. As for condominiums, the contract is the same as for regular real estate transactions, either for purchase or for rental.

In other words, it's important to note that it's not necessarily the case that "anyone can easily move in," and the conditions vary depending on the type of property.

Q. Is the crime rate in Hikarigaoka really that high?

While some people say that Hikarigaoka has a high crime rate, actual statistical data shows that it's not particularly high in crime compared to other areas in Nerima Ward, and the crime rate is at an average level. In particular, the area around Hikarigaoka Park and the housing complex area has a high level of crime prevention awareness, with patrol activities conducted by local residents and the local government.

However, it's true that some people find the area "dark and scary" due to factors such as densely packed housing complexes and parks that are sparsely populated at night. If safety is a priority for you, it's a good idea to check the atmosphere at night and the presence or absence of streetlights when choosing a property.

Q. Is it suitable for families with young children?

Hikarigaoka is a very attractive area for families with children. With Hikarigaoka Park and many spacious green areas, it offers a great environment for children to play freely. The Hikarigaoka IMA shopping mall, directly connected to the station, has supermarkets and medical facilities, making daily life very convenient.

Furthermore, there are several daycare centers and elementary schools scattered throughout the area, and the educational environment is well-regarded. On the other hand, transportation access is somewhat less convenient compared to the city center, but considering the balance between the calm living environment and the cost of living, it is particularly popular as a "town where you can raise children with peace of mind."

summary

While Hikarigaoka has a certain number of negative reviews, such as being "dangerous" or "not a place to live," it is actually an area that is highly regarded for its convenience and living environment. Certainly, access is somewhat inconvenient as it is only served by one Toei Oedo Line), and some people are put off by the abundance of large housing complexes. Furthermore, the darkness of the streets at night and the lack of entertainment facilities may be perceived negatively depending on one's lifestyle.

However, on the other hand, it boasts an environment that balances nature and convenience, with places like Hikarigaoka Park and a shopping mall directly connected to the station, making it a very attractive town for families with children and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Statistically, the crime rate is average within Nerima Ward, so it's premature to dismiss it as "dangerous" based solely on some preconceived notions.

If you have concerns about living in Hikarigaoka, you could consider alternative areas that are more livable, such as nearby Nerima Station, Shakujii Koen Station, or Narimasu Station. Ultimately, you should weigh the pros and cons of Hikarigaoka and make your decision based on your lifestyle and what you prioritize.