Why is it said that you "shouldn't live" in Hatagaya?
On the internet, you sometimes come across phrases like, "You shouldn't live in Hatagaya." When you encounter information that fuels anxiety through search terms or social media, you naturally wonder what the town is actually like. In this chapter, let's objectively examine the background and how such discourse came about.
Public perception as seen from search terms
If you type "Hatagaya" into the Google search bar, you may see related words such as "Don't live there," "Poor safety," and "Poor access." Looking only at these words, some people might get a negative impression of Hatagaya.
However, much of this is based on personal opinions or limited experiences and does not necessarily accurately represent the reality of the town as a whole. It is possible that misunderstandings about Hatagaya are spreading as rumors and impressions are disseminated on the internet.
Why does that impression arise?
Hatagaya boasts an excellent location, just one train stop from Shinjuku Station, yet the area around the station is relatively quiet and compact. This contrast—"close to the city center but with few commercial facilities" and "too quiet at night"—is sometimes cited as a source of dissatisfaction.
Furthermore, the fact that Hatagaya Station is served by the relatively minor Keio New Line, as well as the traffic volume along Koshu Kaido, might be a drawback for those unfamiliar with the area. However, these points can also be attractive to those who want to live in a quiet environment, so they are not necessarily negatives.
In the next chapter, we will examine the structure of Hatagaya and its relationship to the surrounding areas, and consider what kind of lifestyle is possible there.
Understanding life in Hatagaya through data
To determine how livable Hatagaya is, it's important to look at objective data in addition to impressions and word-of-mouth. In this chapter, we will introduce Hatagaya's lifestyle from multiple perspectives, based on actual figures and maps, covering aspects such as safety, ground stability, transportation convenience, and the state of living infrastructure.
Safety: A relatively quiet area within Shibuya Ward.
Hatagaya is located in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, but it is a quiet residential area within the ward. According to the crime occurrence map published by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, the area around Hatagaya 1-3 chome has fewer crimes compared to the area around Shibuya Station and Maruyama-cho, and the incidence of violent crimes and theft is also lower.
Of course, the area around the station and along Koshu Kaido is busy with people, so it can feel lively at certain times of the day. However, the road from the station is bright, making it a popular area for women living alone. Once you enter the residential area from the station, you'll find a quiet and safe environment.
Ground and disaster risk: Stable at the southern end of the Musashino Plateau.
The ground in Hatagaya is located at the southern edge of the Musashino Plateau. Topographically, it has little undulation and is considered to have a low risk of flooding and liquefaction. Checking the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Construction's ground support map and Shibuya Ward's hazard map, it does not fall into areas prone to flooding or high risk of liquefaction.
While some areas near Koshu Kaido and around train stations have reported road flooding, countermeasures are being implemented, and it is not expected to significantly impact daily life. For those who want to live while minimizing disaster risk, this area offers a safe and secure environment.
Access: Just one station from Shinjuku, offering both convenience and tranquility.
Hatagaya Station is a stop on the Keio New Line (direct service to the Toei Shinjuku Line), and its convenient location, just one stop from Shinjuku Station, makes it popular and convenient for those working in central Tokyo. Although it is not an express train stop, and can get somewhat crowded during rush hour, the travel time itself is very short, making it convenient for commuting to work or school.
Furthermore, the proximity to Sasazuka Station on the Keio Line and Yoyogi-Uehara Station on the Odakyu Line, both within walking distance, offers numerous transportation options, which is another attractive feature. Bus services are also abundant, making access to Shinjuku and Shibuya convenient.
This location offers the perfect balance of proximity to the station and a peaceful atmosphere, satisfying the need for a quiet life despite being close to the station.
With remote work becoming more common, quiet towns like Hatagaya, where people can concentrate on their work, are gaining attention.
Living infrastructure: All the necessary facilities for daily life are readily available.
The area around Hatagaya Station has all the facilities you need for daily life, including supermarkets, drugstores, hospitals, and restaurants. Although there are no commercial facilities directly connected to the station, there are many community-oriented shops, and the ability to shop at a relaxed pace while avoiding crowds is also a popular feature.
Furthermore, Shibuya Ward offers excellent childcare support and administrative services, with nurseries, parks, and elementary schools all within walking distance. It's a neighborhood where single people, DINKS (double income, no kids), and families can all live comfortably.
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People who should live in Hatagaya and people who should avoid it
Every town has its pros and cons. Hatagaya is no exception; while some people find it convenient and easy to live in, others find it unsuitable. In this chapter, we've summarized the key points you should know before actually moving to Hatagaya, based on its characteristics, including who it's recommended for and what lifestyles it's not suitable for.
Hatagaya is suitable for people seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Hatagaya is the perfect neighborhood for those who want to live quietly in a peaceful residential area while still prioritizing easy access to the city center. Despite being just one station away from Shinjuku, the area around the station and the surrounding residential neighborhoods are relatively quiet, and it's not noisy even at night. All the necessary amenities are within walking distance, and while it's not particularly flashy, it offers an environment where you can easily achieve a comfortable lifestyle. It's suitable for singles who value convenient commuting, DINKS (double income, no kids) seeking a peaceful area, and families looking for a calm environment for raising children.
Furthermore, the rent is relatively inexpensive compared to other areas in Shibuya Ward, making it an attractive location for those living alone for the first time.
Characteristics of people who might not be suited to Hatagaya
On the other hand, Hatagaya lacks large shopping malls and entertainment facilities, so those seeking a lively atmosphere and an active lifestyle might find it somewhat lacking.
Furthermore, those unfamiliar with the frequency and schedule of the Keio New Line may initially find accessing the line unfamiliar. The compact station layout and platforms may also cause inconvenience during peak hours.
Furthermore, depending on family structure and life stage, those looking for a larger home or a property with parking may find their options limited. However, understanding these points in advance can minimize any discrepancies after moving in.
A comparison of Hatagaya with other areas reveals the reality.
When considering whether Hatagaya is the right place for you, it's important to understand how it differs from the surrounding areas. In this chapter, we'll compare Hatagaya with three other stations along the Keio Line—Sasazuka, Yoyogi-Uehara, and Hatsudai—to clarify the characteristics of each and Hatagaya's position within the community.
Comparison with Sasazuka | Sasazuka is more advantageous if you're looking for shopping and a lively atmosphere.
Sasazuka is an express train stop on the Keio Line and is known as an area with a wide range of commercial facilities. There are plenty of options for shopping and dining out, including "Frente Sasazuka," which is directly connected to the station, and "Jugo-dori Shopping Street," which retains the atmosphere of an old downtown area.
Hatagaya, on the other hand, doesn't have as many commercial facilities as Sasazuka, but it's characterized by a quieter atmosphere with fewer people around. Sasazuka is suitable for people who prefer a lively city, but Hatagaya will feel more comfortable for those who want to live in peace.
Comparison with Yoyogi-Uehara | The balance between luxury and everyday life
Yoyogi-Uehara is a residential area served by the Odakyu Line and the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. It boasts a sophisticated atmosphere with refined restaurants and independently owned shops. Rent is slightly higher than in Hatagaya, and properties tend to be of a higher quality.
In contrast, Hatagaya, while not as upscale as Yoyogi-Uehara, offers a compact environment with everything you need for everyday life. For those who prioritize an unpretentious atmosphere and cost-effectiveness, Hatagaya might be a more appealing choice.
Comparison with Hatsudai | The distance between cultural facilities and residential areas
Hatsudai is home to many cultural facilities, including the New National Theatre and Tokyo Opera City. It also has a business district aspect, with office buildings and high-rise condominiums being prominent in the surrounding area. Residential areas around the station are limited, so those seeking a quiet living environment may have few options.
Hatagaya offers easy access to cultural facilities within walking distance, while maintaining the tranquil atmosphere of a residential area. For those seeking an environment that is "close to the city center yet reasonably quiet," Hatagaya is a well-balanced option.
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Things you should know to avoid making mistakes when choosing a property
If you're interested in living in Hatagaya, the next step is to check out what kinds of properties are available. This chapter explains key points to consider when searching for properties on real estate websites, including area selection, building structure, and ways to manage initial costs.
Checkpoints regarding distance from the station and road conditions
Hatagaya Station faces Koshu Kaido, and properties are scattered along this busy street. Therefore, it's a good idea to check not only the distance from the station, but also the noise and exhaust fumes from the street, as well as the width of the sidewalks.
Properties within a 5-minute walk of the station offer great convenience, but they can also feel a bit noisy. If you prefer a quieter residential area, it's recommended to look for properties slightly further south from the station, or in quieter areas like Hatagaya 3-chome.
The building's structure, age, and sound insulation should also be checked.
While Hatagaya has many older properties, there are also numerous renovated buildings and sturdy reinforced concrete (RC) structures. RC structures offer excellent sound insulation and earthquake resistance, making them especially recommended for those concerned about noise or who prioritize peace of mind.
When searching for a property, it's highly recommended to create a list comparing factors such as the condition of the common areas, the facilities, and the location, as this will make your search much easier.
If you want to keep initial costs down, look for "furnished and fixed-price" options.
For those living alone for the first time, or those who want to minimize the costs of buying furniture and appliances and moving, properties with no security deposit or key money, or those that come furnished with furniture and appliances, are convenient. Some properties even include utilities and internet fees in their plans, making monthly payments easier to understand.
When looking for a place to live in immediately, a fixed-price rental service like Cross House is one option. In the next chapter, we will introduce the features of Cross House and examples of its use in Hatagaya in detail.
Reasons why you can live with peace of mind in Hatagaya if you choose Cross House
Many people might be interested in living in Hatagaya, but feel anxious about living alone for the first time or moving. In such cases, a convenient option is a fixed-rate rental property like "Cross House," which comes furnished with furniture and appliances, helping to reduce financial burden. In this chapter, we will introduce who Cross House is suitable for and how it can be useful for living in Hatagaya.
The appeal lies in the furnished apartments available throughout Tokyo.
Cross House offers a wide selection of furnished rental properties, primarily in Tokyo. They have several properties in the Hatagaya area, all within walking distance of the station, and you can move in with everything you need already provided.
Since the apartments come furnished with appliances such as a washing machine, refrigerator, microwave, and bed, you can significantly reduce the initial costs of moving in. This will be a major advantage for tenants who want to start living there right away.
Fixed-rate rentals that fit a flexible lifestyle
Cross House offers a shared housing service where utilities and internet are included in the rent, making it easier to plan your expenses. It's also convenient for those who only want to live there for a short period or those who need flexibility while job hunting.
Furthermore, there are many properties available with no security deposit or key money required, which is reassuring for those who find it difficult to prepare a large sum of money for initial expenses when moving. For those who are thinking, "I'd like to live in Hatagaya, but I'm a little unsure if it's right for me...", it's a great option to start with a trial period.
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Summary | Hatagaya is not a "town you shouldn't live in."
Up to this point, we have discussed Hatagaya from various perspectives. Although this town often has the impression of being a place you shouldn't live, it actually has many attractions, and it is an area where you can live comfortably if you find a home that suits you.
Hatagaya is an area that offers excellent access to Shinjuku while maintaining the tranquil atmosphere of a residential neighborhood. Crime rates and disaster risks are relatively low, and essential infrastructure is conveniently located.
It may not be suitable for those seeking a lively atmosphere, but for those who want a peaceful life in the city center, it offers a comfortable distance and a sense of security. It's important to calmly assess whether it truly suits your lifestyle rather than judging it solely on rumors or preconceived notions.
If you have concerns about living in Hatagaya, one option is to consider using a service like Cross House, which offers flexible living arrangements with furniture and appliances included. You can start living there easily while keeping initial costs down, and then consider your next options after actually living there.
"Try it out first" and "decide while living there"—these flexible approaches are also part of choosing a place to live. Why not experience Hatagaya for yourself and see what kind of place it is for you?
