Hello everyone, have just had my whv confirmed and will be moving to tokyo in October. I have friends and family already in Japan to help me with most of my accommodation but I want to spend the first month in Tokyo.
I have found some places that work, one in Shinjuku and one in sumida.
Could people let me know where they think a 22 year old would rather live for a month?? Shinjuku is exciting but I’m wondering if for living it feels a bit like when you get a place in Piccadilly in London (quite touristy not very authentic city life), I’m wondering if sumida is similar?
10 comments
Impossible to say without knowing exactly where in Shinjuku or Sumida you’re thinking of… For example, if you’re living in an apartment near Kabukicho? It’ll be hell on earth with noise. If you’re near, say, Hatsudai or Higashi Shinjuku? Those backstreets are as peaceful as anywhere in Sumida.
But generally speaking, personally I find the bustle of Shinjuku more ‘authentic’ than Sumida but it’s your call. Otherwise why move to Tokyo?
I have lived in Shinjuku a number of times including the mentioned and would go back in the flash. It’s far more convenient to everything
Sumida is definitely more touristy than Shinjuku
Why not split the difference with somewhere else still urban but less crowded and chaotic? Taito has nice pockets. Yoyogi is great. The Odakyu line between Shinjuku and Shimokitazawa has great pockets, too. Koenji is good for younger people if you’re into “punk” stuff. Shimokitazawa is a bit overpriced these days, but I’d still rather live there than Shinjuku.
Shinjuku is one of the single most convenient places you can live in Tokyo as far as rail transportation goes. Keep that in mind. This is assuming you’re living somewhere in the ward with easy access to Shinjuku Station.
Would definitely choose Shinjuku. Better transport links, and you are located at the centre of the action, making going out and having fun much easier.
If you like night life, clubs, etc., then Shinjuku is the place to be. If you like a more traditional environment, then Sumida.
Personally, I lived in Sumida and it was OK but boring as heck. It is cheaper though so you can save money.
As for Shinjuku, it is more expensive but great for shopping, clubbing, meeting girls/guys etc.
Shinjuku.
Of the 5 places I lived in Tokyo, Azabu Jyuban was my favorite. Check it out.
If I was 22 it’d be Shinjuku in a heartbeat. Especially for a month, it’s not like you’re retiring there or buying a property. Go for the maximum hustle and bustle get out there and enjoy yourself. You feel like your really dunking your head into full on Tokyo.
Sumida is nice though, it’s quieter and I always enjoyed walking along the river.