Looking for local’s advice on where to move near Shibuya station.

Hey all,

I’m moving to Japan in a few months and feel like I have most things under control. I don’t need suggestions with visas or finding employment or moving my stuff or anything like that.

But I would like to get local insights on where I should live and what the vibes are in areas around Shibuya Station. I understand I won’t really be able to figure out my pace of life and what I really enjoy until I get there, but I feel if I ask around and gather many different perspectives I can be better prepared. I’d like to live in the same place for several years.

I have some friends in the city and they’ve been a great help so far, but they are all Japanese men that are starting families now and I think our priorities/preferences are not super aligned (they are remarkably OK with long commutes), hence I’m looking for more perspectives.

Here are some things I’m looking for, although I suspect they can’t all be fulfilled.

* Within walking distance of Shibuya Station, under 30 minutes, ideally closer. Basically, I want to avoid commuting on the train on a daily basis. I like walking/running and I know the crowded train commutes are one thing that foreigners often complain about.
* Under 250,000 yen/month rent. Ideally under 200,000 yen/month.
* I don’t need that much space. I think 1DK or over is fine. Maybe 40 m^2 or more. I don’t like accumulating lots of possessions and I like to spend time outdoors / in the city. A couch, an eating/working desk, and a double bed will probably be the biggest pieces of furniture I’ll get (I think I’ll skip a TV).
* Not super loud. I think this might depend on the building too. But I can have problems sleeping, as in waking up too soon. Loud noises can definitely do that along with light. I can control light with blackout shades and other means, but sound is sort of something you’re stuck with once you move in somewhere.
* At the same time, I’d prefer to not be too suburban. Right now where I am, I’m within a 5 minute walk of dozens of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. I think it’s exciting and fun, but it definitely doesn’t have to be this urban.
* I’d like some quick access to running-safe trails/roads and parks.

Just looking over maps, I think these preferences line up with the area around Yoyogi Park or between Yoyogi Park and Shibuya Station? Maybe there are other directions I should consider as well?

Also, if anyone know the area well, maybe you could describe the culture/vibes of each area around the station? Looking at Google Maps, I see there are places like Shoto, Kamiyamacho, Tomigaya, Udagawacho, “Shibuya”, Uguisudanicho, Hachiyamacho, etc., but I don’t really know what any of them are like.

Last question: are there any other subreddits you recommend reposting this question to?