Why Koganecho is said to be "dangerous"

Koganecho is a convenient area near the center of Yokohama, but it sometimes has the impression of being a "dangerous town." This is deeply connected to the town's past appearance and concerns about public safety. The area around Koganecho Station in particular has a history as an entertainment district, and there was a time when the traffic changes at night and the atmosphere of the whole town seemed bleak.

This information spread through word of mouth, online articles, and even related columns, and the area was sometimes ranked as having poor security. It is true that the image of it being a "dangerous town" still remains, but today Koganecho has undergone great changes, and public safety has improved thanks to redevelopment and community activities. When people actually walk around the area, many realize that "Oh, it's a more normal town than I thought," and they can now feel a different sense of security than before.

In this chapter, we will explain why Koganecho is said to be "dangerous."

Past image of entertainment districts and public safety concerns

Koganecho is a historic area in Yokohama, but it was once known as an entertainment district, and many people expressed concerns about its public safety. In particular, the area near Koganecho Station was lined with brothels and other unusual stores, creating a unique atmosphere for people visiting the area at night. As a result, the image of that time remains strong, and the impression of it being a "bad place" has become widespread.

In fact, incidents and crimes were often reported in the news, and Koganecho was often called one of Yokohama's "dangerous areas." With many dark buildings and narrow alleys, it tended to be avoided by women and female students living alone, and it was also considered a place where men did not feel safe. These memories of the past are still handed down to this day, and are a factor in the continued concerns about safety in Koganecho.

The difference between the reputation of the city spread online and reality

Even today, you can often find posts and articles on the internet saying "Koganecho is dangerous." Posts quoting past reviews of the area as having "bad public safety" are spread on social media and review sites, and related information is sometimes compiled in ranking form.

However, when you actually walk around the town, the impression is very different. Police crackdowns and community activities have progressed, the streetscape has improved, and the area has now transformed into a place where art and cultural activities thrive. The number of cafes and restaurants around Koganecho Station is increasing, and the flow of people is becoming healthier.

Many local residents have said things like, "It's not as bad as I thought," and "I can live here normally," creating a safe environment for both men and women. This shows that you can't accurately judge the current state of Koganecho based on online reputation alone.

The current streetscape of Koganecho and its changes

Koganecho has undergone a major transformation from its reputation as a "dangerous town" in the past, and is now attracting attention as a town that has undergone significant change. Redevelopment has progressed within Yokohama's Naka Ward, and the entire area has seen improvements to public safety and streetscapes.

In particular, the buildings around Koganecho Station have become brighter, and the town's atmosphere is very different from before. The active adoption of art and cultural activities has diversified the demographic of people walking around, and the town has become a place where a wide range of people gather, from young people to those raising children and even the elderly. Today, Koganecho retains vestiges of its past as an entertainment district, but has evolved into a popular area that disseminates new culture, and is increasingly being featured from a different angle in articles and columns such as "town rankings for places to live."

In this chapter, we will introduce in detail how Koganecho has changed.

Towards a town of art and culture | Utilizing the Koganecho Bazaar and the area under the elevated railway

One of the major features of Koganecho is its urban development that utilizes art. The annual Koganecho Bazaar has become one of Yokohama's leading cultural events, bringing together artists from Japan and abroad to exhibit their works. The space under the elevated railway has been transformed from its previous gloomy impression to now be used as a galleries, studios, and even shops for young artists.

It is not only local residents, but also tourists, students, and many people who use it as a base for film productions and theatrical activities. These efforts have brightened the town's atmosphere and helped improve public safety. What was once considered a "dangerous" town has now transformed into a spot where people can casually enjoy culture and art, and it is popular with a wide range of people, both men and women.

The atmosphere of the shops and shopping streets around Koganecho Station

In recent years, the area around Koganecho Station has seen an increase in new restaurants and cafes, bringing vitality back to the area along with the long-standing shopping street. Walking along the Ooka River, you'll find many shops, including izakayas and general stores, making it a popular area visited by both locals and tourists. During the day, many people come to shop and stroll, and with the streets now clearer at night, it's now safer to walk around.

There are also many seasonal local events, and festivals and markets allow residents and visitors to interact, brightening up the atmosphere of the town as a whole. In recent years, an increasing number of restaurants have been featured on gourmet apps and social media, and the unique streetscape and joy of life in Koganecho are being rediscovered. As a town where culture and everyday life coexist, even within Yokohama, its appeal is spreading even further.

The livability of Koganecho in Yokohama and Kanagawa Prefecture

Koganecho is a town located in Naka Ward, Yokohama City, and has a unique presence within Kanagawa Prefecture. With good access to Yokohama Station and the Minato Mirai area, it is a highly convenient area for people commuting to work or school in Tokyo. In the past, there were many concerns about the area's safety, and it was common for people to say that they were uneasy about living alone there.

However, thanks to redevelopment and community activities, the safety of the city has improved, and now more and more people feel that it is "surprisingly safe to live here." The shopping environment for daily life is also in place, with many supermarkets, restaurants, and shopping districts within walking distance, making it an attractive area. There are more housing properties aimed at women, male students, and even those raising children, making it possible to accommodate a wide range of lifestyles.

Here we will introduce the livability of Koganecho from the perspectives of both transportation convenience and living environment.

Access to Yokohama Station and Minato Mirai

Koganecho is located at Koganecho Station on the Keikyu Main Line, and its easy access to Yokohama Station and the Minato Mirai area is a major draw. Yokohama Station is only a few minutes away by train, and Tokyo can be reached in a short time using the Keikyu Line, making it an extremely convenient town for commuting to work or school. Hinodecho Station and Kannai Station are also within walking distance, and JR and subway lines are also available. Furthermore, there are well-developed bus routes, making it easy to get to major areas of Yokohama city, a major advantage.

This convenient transportation has been highly praised in articles and related columns that rank "the most livable towns." The reason why Naka Ward, Yokohama, is chosen as a base for life is likely due to this excellent accessibility.

A safe living environment for single people and women

Koganecho used to have a strong image as an entertainment district, and many people said that it was unsafe for single people and women. However, thanks to police crackdowns and local activities, the area's public safety has improved significantly. There are now more well-lit streets around the station, and more places where you can walk safely at night.

In addition to supermarkets and restaurants, there are also hospitals and parks near the residential area, providing all the facilities necessary for daily life. Female students and working women living alone in particular require both safety and convenience, and Koganecho is seeing an increase in properties that meet these criteria. In addition, child-rearing consultations and local events are held for families, and the area is evolving into a place where a wide range of people, both men and women, can live safely.

With its convenient location in Yokohama's Naka Ward and ease of living, Koganecho is sure to become an area that attracts even more attention in the future.

Comparison of Koganecho and surrounding areas

Koganecho is located in Naka Ward, Yokohama City, and is surrounded by popular areas such as Kannai, Hinodecho, Yokohama Station, and Minato Mirai. Although they are all part of Yokohama, the streetscape, atmosphere, residential environment, and convenience of living vary greatly from area to area.

While Koganecho has a reputation for being "dangerous" in the past, it has characteristics not found in other towns, such as low rent and a unique culture, and is sometimes introduced as an "unexpected hidden gem" in articles ranking livability. Comparing it with the surrounding areas makes the charms and benefits of Koganecho clearer, providing a basis for those who want to live there.

Here we will introduce the differences between the Kannai, Hinodecho, and Yokohama Station areas, and compare the livability with Minato Mirai.

Differences from the Kannai, Hinodecho, and Yokohama Station areas

Kannai is the administrative and business center of Yokohama City, and has a strong office atmosphere. While it is highly convenient, average rents tend to be high.

Hinodecho is located next to Koganecho, and is home to many traditional shopping streets and restaurants, making it a popular neighborhood for many people to live in. The area around Yokohama Station is one of Kanagawa Prefecture's most popular shopping districts, and is very convenient to access, but the high traffic can make it unsuitable for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Koganecho is located between these areas, and while it has convenient transportation, it also has the aspect of a quiet residential area. When people actually go there, they say that it has a more normal atmosphere than they expected, and even those who were worried often find that they can live there with peace of mind. It is also increasingly being chosen by male and female students living alone, and it can be said to be a town with a unique balance.

Livability compared to Minato Mirai

Minato Mirai is Yokohama's most famous tourist destination, a modern and glamorous area lined with tower apartments and large commercial facilities. It is extremely convenient for shopping, watching movies, and leisure activities, but many people are concerned about the cost of living due to high rent and prices, so parents raising children should make a careful decision.

On the other hand, Koganecho has been redeveloped to improve its streetscape, but it still retains the atmosphere of a down-to-earth residential area and neighborhood, allowing you to live a calm life while keeping living costs down. Since it's only a short trip from Koganecho Station to Minato Mirai, it's possible to keep living costs down in Koganecho during the week and go shopping and for entertainment on the weekends. Minato Mirai is for those seeking glamour, while Koganecho is for those seeking a safe lifestyle while keeping costs down; it can be said that the two areas are suited to very different types of people.

Ooka River and the town atmosphere

The Ooka River is an essential part of the townscape of Koganecho. Flowing right next to Koganecho Station, the river is deeply connected to the local lifestyle and the atmosphere of the town. The scenery along the river changes dramatically with the seasons, adding color to life and providing peace of mind to residents and visitors alike. Many people enjoy walking and jogging along the river, and the opportunity to feel nature in the midst of everyday life is another reason for its popularity.

Furthermore, many local activities and events are held around the Ooka River, which has helped to improve the image of Koganecho as a whole. The town, which was once considered "dangerous," is now being transformed through the power of nature and culture into a place people can "like," evolving into a safe and secure place to live.

Here we will introduce the scenery along the Ooka River and the vitality brought about by local activities.

The colorful scenery along the Ooka River in all four seasons

The Ooka River is one of the iconic sights of Koganecho. The rows of cherry blossom trees in spring are particularly famous in Yokohama, and are a popular spot that rivals the park, attracting many visitors. During the cherry blossom festival, not only tourists but also local residents gather within easy reach, and the area is sometimes used as a filming location for movies and dramas.

In the summer, the green of the trees spreads out, a walk along the river creates a cool atmosphere, and the autumn leaves and clear winter air bring a sense of calm to life. These seasonal scenery enrich life and give residents, including female students and men living alone, a sense of "safe everyday life." Being able to feel close to nature is a major factor in making Koganecho a livable area.

Vibrancy brought about by events and local activities

Events and community activities are held around the Ooka River throughout the year, bringing vitality and interaction to the town. A typical example is the Ooka River Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring, where food stalls and illuminations line the streets and tourists and local residents come together to enjoy the festival. In the summer, there are music events and art projects, and sometimes workshops for the parenting generation and community consultation booths are set up.

These efforts have also helped improve public safety, leading to the town being rated as "a town where people can live normally and safely." Another appealing feature is that by participating in events, local people get to know each other and strengthen connections between residents, both men and women. The more activities rooted in daily life become, the brighter the town's atmosphere becomes, and Koganecho continues to change from its past "dangerous" image to "a lively and popular town."

Search for properties and real estate information in Koganecho

Koganecho in Naka Ward, Yokohama City, was once shunned due to its image as an entertainment district, but it is now one of the areas attracting attention in the real estate market. Its major appeal is that it is conveniently located near Yokohama Station and Minato Mirai, yet the market price is relatively low, and it is attracting growing interest from people looking for rental properties or apartments as a "residential area where you can live conveniently while keeping costs down."

The number of listings on real estate company websites and new property listings is also increasing, and there is a lot of useful information for people considering moving. With the development of the cityscape and improvements in public safety, concerns that were previously raised are now becoming a cause for reassurance, making the area suitable for a wide range of lifestyles, from single people to families.

Here, we will explain the average rent and real estate information for Koganecho, comparing it with other areas, and introduce some key points and things to keep in mind when searching for a property.

Comparison of average rent prices with other areas

Koganecho's average rent is relatively low compared to other areas in central Yokohama. For example, compared to apartments around Yokohama Station or Minato Mirai, apartments with the same size are often several tens of thousands of yen cheaper, making it a popular choice for students and working adults living alone.

Compared to the Kannai and Hinodecho areas, Koganecho offers a good balance between convenient access and market prices, and is often praised for being a place where you can find properties with better conditions than you might expect. Real estate company data and columns are increasingly introducing Koganecho as "the place to go if you want to keep costs down in Yokohama City," and it is often featured in ranking articles as a hidden gem.

Of course, depending on the age and location of the building, some properties may be outdated or inconvenient, but there are also many properties that have been renovated and are fully equipped, so you can find useful information depending on how you search.

Important points to note when searching for a rental property or apartment

When looking for a rental property or apartment in Koganecho, it's important to not just focus on low rent, but also to thoroughly check the living environment and safety. Some areas still retain the atmosphere of a nightlife district, so we recommend walking around the area to check it out for yourself when viewing the property.

When consulting with a real estate company, it's a good idea to check the terms of guarantors and initial costs, as well as the reservation status at the time of signing the contract. Real estate websites are also frequently updated with new listings and information, so it's helpful to check them frequently. Older properties can be inconvenient in terms of facilities, but checking whether they've been renovated can help ensure comfort.

Koganecho is an area where it is relatively easy to find affordable and convenient housing, but by carefully selecting a company and comparing contract terms, and by making use of useful data, you will be more likely to find a home where you can live comfortably for a long time.

What kind of person is suitable to live in Koganecho?

Koganecho has a unique history within Yokohama, and its streets and atmosphere have a unique character that you won't find in an ordinary residential area. There was a time when it was known as an entertainment district and had a reputation for being "unsafe," but now it has been revitalized with a focus on art and culture, and has transformed into a popular area.

Walking around Koganecho Station, you can feel the unique energy of the area, where residents and visitors mingle. Of course, whether you think it's "easy to live in" or "anxious" varies from person to person. When I actually went there, I felt that there were both safe and still developing areas. When deciding whether to live there, it's important to see the relevant living environment with your own eyes.

Here we will introduce the characteristics of people who are suited to Koganecho and those who are not.

Young people and those who want to enjoy art and culture

Koganecho is a town geared towards the younger generation who are interested in art and culture. Cultural events such as the Koganecho Bazaar are popular every year and are supported not only by local residents but also by tourists and students. There are also many galleries, studios, and unique restaurants under the elevated railway, allowing you to enjoy art and interaction in your daily life.

Its proximity to Yokohama Station and Minato Mirai makes it convenient for commuting to work or school, while also allowing you to enjoy walking around town and shopping on the weekends. It's also a great place for female students and men living alone, and it's a town where you can live a cultured life while keeping costs down. For reference, if you look at real estate information, you'll often find it cheaper to live here than in other areas for the same conditions, making it a good choice for people who want to keep their living costs down.

Not suitable for those seeking a quiet environment

On the other hand, Koganecho may not be suitable for those looking for a completely quiet residential area. At night, some areas can become very busy, creating a unique atmosphere.

Although public safety has improved, some people may feel uneasy compared to ordinary residential areas where families with children can feel safe. For those who want to live a calm life while raising small children, other areas in Yokohama may be more suitable. However, for those who value culture and convenience, it's not all bad; it can even be said to be a place where you can enjoy a unique lifestyle.

It's important to carefully consider whether Koganecho is a good fit for you in relation to your lifestyle and priorities.

Summary | Is Koganecho really a dangerous town?

Koganecho, a town in Yokohama's Naka Ward, has long had the image of being a "dangerous town." Due to its history as an entertainment district and concerns about public safety, it has often been seen as "dangerous."

However, with ongoing redevelopment and community activities, the town's impression is changing dramatically. Shopping streets and events have increased the flow of people, and areas where it's safe to walk around are expanding. While people have different perceptions of livability, improvements to accessibility and the living environment have made the town more suitable for women and young people living alone.

In this article, we have summarized the attractions and points to be aware of in Koganecho, and provided useful information to help you decide whether or not to actually live there.

Summary of the town's attractions and points to note

The appeal of Koganecho is its convenience, being able to get to Yokohama Station and Minato Mirai in a short time, and the fact that average rent is set lower than in other areas. Furthermore, the art spaces that utilize the Koganecho Bazaar and the area under the elevated railway are attracting attention as an effort to enhance cultural value.

On the other hand, the image of the area as a former entertainment district has not completely disappeared, and it is true that some areas at night still have an uneasy atmosphere. Therefore, when choosing a property, it is important to actually walk around the area and determine what you prioritize, rather than just considering the market price and conditions. Because Koganecho has both good and bad points, you need to calmly decide whether it suits your lifestyle before moving in.

Get to know Koganecho today and determine how livable it is

Today's Koganecho is no longer just a "dangerous" town, as it once was. Public safety continues to improve, and new restaurants and shopping streets are bustling around the station. It's also becoming a safe environment for women, students, and working adults living alone, making it a prime candidate for living in Yokohama while keeping living costs down.

However, there are still some aspects that may not be suitable for those seeking complete tranquility. This is why it's important to go and see for yourself, rather than being swayed solely by online reputations. Many people find that Koganecho is "more normal and livable than they expected," and depending on how you live, you can enjoy its charm to the fullest. Get to know Koganecho properly, understand both the safety and the things to be aware of, and then decide whether it's right for you.

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