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Station Area vs. Residential Neighborhood: Which Is the Ideal Place to Live in Suginami?
2025.06.26
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When looking for a new home, choosing the right area to live in is a major decision. In this article, we’ll explore the differences in livability between properties located close to stations and those situated in quieter residential neighborhoods within Suginami Ward.
Start Your Home Search by Defining Rent Budget and Non-Negotiable Conditions
The first step in finding a new place is setting your rent budget and identifying your non-negotiable conditions. These might include features such as “separate bath and toilet,” “a balcony,” or “a unit on the second floor or higher.” While it’s ideal to find a property that meets all your criteria within budget, having too many preferences can make it harder to stay within your price range. That’s why it’s important to clearly define the minimum essential features you can’t compromise on.
Features of Station-Proximate and Residential Neighborhood Properties
Every property listing includes a “minutes from the nearest station” indicator. Being close to a station is clearly convenient for commuting or attending school, as there are usually more train and bus options available. However, station proximity isn’t always the superior choice—there are also many advantages to living in a quieter residential area a little farther from the station. Let’s compare the merits and drawbacks of both.
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Advantages of Properties Near Stations
The biggest benefit of living near a station is excellent transportation access. You don’t need to worry as much about the time it takes to reach the station, allowing you to take your time getting ready in the morning or enjoy more sleep. If the station is just a few minutes from your home, you may not even need to own a bicycle.
In addition, shopping convenience is a major perk. Supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants are typically concentrated around stations. Even if you buy a lot of groceries and end up with heavy bags, it’s easy to get home quickly. If you forget something, you can run back out without much hassle.
Disadvantages of Properties Near Stations
Areas around stations are bustling with people due to their convenience. Major roads often run nearby, and if your apartment faces one, you may be disturbed by noise. If there are many bars or izakayas in the area, you might also need to be cautious about nighttime safety.
Another downside is higher rent. Station-adjacent properties tend to be more expensive due to their convenience.
Advantages of Properties in Residential Neighborhoods
The biggest appeal of residential areas is their quiet, peaceful atmosphere. In urban areas like Suginami Ward, even properties labeled as “residential” may not be that far from the station.
For example, areas around Shimotakaido or Nishi-Ogikubo Station have residential zones with detached homes just a short walk away. There are plenty of properties within a 10- to 15-minute walk from the station. While such areas may have less foot traffic—which could raise safety concerns—many are equipped with sufficient street lighting. It's a good idea to check this during a property viewing.
Another major advantage is lower rent compared to station-close properties.
Disadvantages of Properties in Residential Neighborhoods
Whether you prefer the quietness and calm of a residential neighborhood or the vibrant convenience of a station area, ultimately comes down to your priorities and lifestyle.
When searching for a home, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each area type and carefully compare your options.
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