Hello,
I’m looking for areas that are family friendly (e.g. close to parks, pets friendly, good school options, bigger houses, etc.). Ideally would be under 40minute train commute to Shibuya with as few transfers as possible.
I’d love to learn where/how do I begin searching for an area that would match my requirements.
Thanks!
Edit: thanks for all the responses! Some more context:
– by international school I meant schools whose primary language is English
– my budget would be something around JPY500k/month for a 3LDK detached home
6 comments
I always push Nippori. North of Ueno and quiet. Great place for a family.
In terms of transfers to be Shibuya. It’s average. Well within 40 mins though.
Look into the Futakotamagawa area or just across the river (cheaper rent) in Kawasaki on the Den-en-Toshi or Oimachi lines.
You’re asking for many things that may be difficult to conciliate.
There are quite a few international schools, but they don’t grow on tree either, and they tend to gather around “expat areas”, this is the kind of area you’ll be looking for. So around the Arisugawa park. Roughly the area between Azabu-Juban, Roppongi, Shirogane-Takanawa and Hiroo. If your company does not handle the move, ask for an expat-friendly agency (e.g. Ken) that will be used to this kind of request. There are maybe 10 or so international schools in that area.
This is for “generic” international school with English courses. As for schools following the curriculum of other countries, the American school is far away in Chofu, the German school is in Yokohama, there are a couple Indian ones in Koto ward (either Nishi Kasai or Oshima), the French one is in Kita ward, only the British school is more central near Shibuya.
Even if that’s probably not what you’re asking, the Taiwanese one is near Yotsuya, the Korean one near Ushigome, and there are half a dozen or so North Korean schools if you need your kids to properly respect our dear leader.
Depending on your budget, I would recommend the part of the Chuo line. Particularly the stretch from Tachikawa to Haijima stations. There are direct lines to both Shinjuku and Tokyo stations in 30 minutes. Additionally, it’s far more affordable with all of the amenities that you can get in the 23 wards and with a much more nature. In terms of international schools, you have options in those areas as well.
Pick some start and end points on Google Maps so you can get an idea of what train commutes are like. Check sites like Homes, Suumo, e-heya for places in those areas. Use the filters so you can pinpoint it down to what you’re looking for. It should at least give you a starting point.
The Keio line that goes to Hachioji from Shinjuku also has an international school (The American School) in Chofu, which is probably 30-ish minutes from Shibuya.
As for the other stuff on your list, it’s going to be difficult to find something that doesn’t break the bank. Your budget will largely decide what you can get from your list.
I am guessing you will have to make compromises. The good thing is that Tokyo is so accessible, that you will be within 30 minutes of anything you could want.
When I was house hunting, the realtor assumed I’d find properties near the American School appealing lol. Lots of those families live in/around Mitaka or the Koganei area, but the school should also run bus routes. Living along the Keio or Chuo line wouldn’t be terrible if you’re hoping to send your kids there.