What Is It Like to Live in Asakusa, Tokyo?
Living in Asakusa offers a rare mix of old-town charm and modern convenience in Tokyo. Known for its traditional streets and iconic landmarks like Sensoji Temple, Asakusa also has a residential area where daily life is calm, affordable, and well-connected—especially appealing to foreigners who want an authentic Tokyo experience without the chaos of major commercial hubs.
Traditional Atmosphere with a Local Feel
Asakusa is famous for its historic temples and shrines, narrow shopping streets, and long-established local businesses. Despite being a major tourist spot during the day, many residential pockets are quiet and relaxed, especially in the evenings. You’ll find a strong sense of community, small family-run restaurants, and a pace of life that feels more “Tokyo local” than touristy.
Convenient Access to Central Tokyo
Asakusa’s public transit stations have multiple train lines, making it easy to reach Ueno, Akihabara, Ginza, and Tokyo stations without long commutes. This balance—peaceful living with fast access to central districts—is a key reason many international residents choose Asakusa over busier neighborhoods.
Daily Life Is Comfortable and Affordable
Compared to central Tokyo, living costs in Asakusa tend to be more reasonable. Supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, and casual eateries are everywhere, and everyday expenses feel manageable. This makes Asakusa attractive for students, working professionals, and long-term foreign residents looking for value.
Who Asakusa Is Best For
Asakusa is ideal for foreigners who:
- Want a quieter residential area with strong cultural character
- Prefer lower rent without sacrificing transport access
- Are staying mid-term to long-term in Tokyo
- Enjoy walkable neighborhoods and riverside scenery
Overall, Asakusa offers a comfortable, culturally rich lifestyle that blends tradition with everyday practicality—making it one of Tokyo’s most underrated places to live for international residents.
Types of Apartments in Asakusa
In Asakusa, you’ll find a wide range of apartment types suited to different budgets, stay lengths, and lifestyles. From short-term furnished units to long-term private apartments, Asakusa is especially popular among foreigners because of its flexibility and relative affordability.
Furnished Apartments
Furnished apartments are one of the most common choices for foreign residents in Asakusa. These units typically come with basic furniture, appliances, and sometimes Wi-Fi, allowing tenants to move in immediately without large upfront costs. They are ideal for newcomers to Japan, business travelers, and anyone planning a smooth, stress-free start in Tokyo.
Unfurnished Apartments
Unfurnished apartments are more common for long-term residents. While monthly rent may be slightly lower, tenants usually need to purchase all their furniture and appliances and pay higher initial costs such as deposits and agent fees. This option suits those planning to stay in Tokyo for several years and who want more freedom to customize their living space.
Share Houses and Private Rooms
Asakusa also has many share houses offering private rooms with shared kitchens and common areas. These options are popular with students, working-holiday visa holders, and people looking to keep rent low while meeting others. Compared to dorm-style housing, modern share houses in Asakusa provide private, lockable rooms for added comfort.
Monthly and Short-Term Apartments
Monthly and short-term apartments are widely available in Asakusa due to its popularity among international visitors. These apartments usually include utilities and furniture in a single monthly fee, making them perfect for stays of one to three months. They are ideal for foreigners who don’t yet have a long-term visa or Japanese guarantor.
Overall, Asakusa offers more housing flexibility than many central Tokyo areas, making it easier for foreigners to find an apartment that matches their stay length, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
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Average Rent for an Apartment in Asakusa
Rent prices in Asakusa are generally more affordable than in central Tokyo, while still offering excellent access and livability. This balance makes Asakusa a popular area for foreigners looking for value without sacrificing convenience.
Studio & 1K Apartments
Studio and 1K apartments are the most common options for singles and short-term residents.
Average rent: ¥70,000–¥100,000 per month
Furnished or foreigner-friendly units may be slightly higher, but they often include furniture, appliances, and utilities—reducing overall upfront costs.
1LDK & Larger Apartments
For couples or those needing more space, 1LDK and family-type apartments are also available.
Average rent: ¥110,000–¥160,000 per month
These apartments are suitable for longer stays and offer more storage and separation between living and sleeping areas.
Furnished vs Unfurnished Rent Differences
Furnished apartments in Asakusa typically cost more per month than unfurnished ones. However, unfurnished apartments often require higher initial payments, including deposits, key money, and furniture purchases. For many foreigners, furnished apartments are more cost-effective in the short to mid-term.
Initial Costs to Consider
Traditional Japanese rentals may require several months’ rent upfront. In contrast, many international-oriented apartments in Asakusa offer simplified pricing with fewer initial fees, making budgeting easier—especially for those new to Japan.
Overall, Asakusa offers a wide range of rental options at reasonable price points, making it one of the most practical areas in Tokyo for foreigners searching for an apartment.
Best Areas to Rent an Apartment in Asakusa
Asakusa is made up of several smaller neighborhoods, each offering a slightly different living experience. Choosing the right area can make a big difference depending on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.
Near Asakusa Station
Living near Asakusa Station is ideal for convenience. Multiple train lines provide direct access to Ueno, Ginza, Akihabara, and other major areas. This zone is popular with foreigners because daily life is easy—shops, restaurants, and transport are all within walking distance. Rent tends to be slightly higher, but the location saves time and commuting stress.
Kuramae Area
Kuramae is just south of central Asakusa and has become popular in recent years for its trendy cafés and quiet streets. It offers a more residential feel while still being close to the action. Apartments here often appeal to professionals and long-term residents who want a calmer environment without moving far from central Tokyo.
Tawaramachi and Surrounding Streets
The Tawaramachi area sits between Asakusa and Ueno and offers a good balance of affordability and accessibility. Apartments here are often slightly cheaper than those directly around Asakusa Station, while still providing easy access to transport and daily necessities. This area is especially attractive for budget-conscious foreigners.
Near the Sumida River
Apartments near the Sumida River offer open views, riverside walking paths, and a quieter atmosphere. These areas are great for people who value outdoor space and a relaxed pace of life. While some buildings are older, rent prices are often reasonable compared to more central districts.
Overall, Asakusa offers multiple living options within a compact area, making it easy to find an apartment that fits your lifestyle and your budget.
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Apartment in Asakusa vs Other Popular Tokyo Areas
When choosing an apartment in Tokyo, many international residents and visitors compare Asakusa with other well-known areas. Each neighborhood has its own strengths, but Asakusa stands out for its balance of affordability, unique atmosphere, and accessibility.
Asakusa vs Ueno
Ueno is known for its large parks, museums, and major train connections. While Ueno offers excellent transport access, it can feel busy and crowded throughout the day. Asakusa, by contrast, is slightly quieter and more residential, with lower average rent prices. For foreigners who want easy commuting without constant crowds, Asakusa often feels more comfortable.
Asakusa vs Akihabara
Akihabara is a hub for electronics, anime culture, and nightlife. Apartments there are convenient but tend to be smaller and more expensive due to limited residential stock. Asakusa offers more living space at a lower cost and a calmer daily environment, making it better suited for long-term stays rather than short visits.
Asakusa vs Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s busiest commercial centers, with endless entertainment, shopping, and dining options. While exciting, it comes with higher rent, more noise, and heavier foot traffic. Asakusa provides a slower pace of life and more affordable apartments while still offering direct train access to central Tokyo.
Overall, compared to other popular Tokyo areas, Asakusa is ideal for foreigners who value a comfortable residential atmosphere, reasonable rent, and convenient transportation without the intensity of Tokyo’s most crowded districts.
Can Foreigners Rent an Apartment in Asakusa?
Yes—foreigners can rent an apartment in Asakusa, and in many cases, it is easier than in other parts of Tokyo. Because Asakusa has long been popular with international residents, many landlords and housing providers are more familiar with foreign tenants and flexible rental arrangements.
Common Challenges for Foreign Renters
Despite improvements, some foreigners may still face challenges when renting in Japan. These can include language barriers, strict screening processes, and requirements for a Japanese guarantor. In traditional rentals, landlords may also hesitate if the tenant does not have long-term residency or Japanese work history.
Required Documents and Contracts
To rent an apartment in Asakusa, foreigners typically need:
- A valid passport and residence card
- A visa that allows medium- or long-term stay
- Proof of income or employment (if available)
Some apartments, especially those designed for foreign residents, simplify contracts and may not require a guarantor or long-term commitment.
English-Friendly Rental Options
Asakusa has many English-friendly housing options, including furnished and monthly apartments. These rentals are often managed by companies experienced in working with foreigners and offer contracts in English, transparent pricing, and flexible move-in terms. This makes the rental process far less stressful for newcomers to Japan.
Overall, Asakusa is one of the most foreigner-accessible areas in Tokyo, making it a practical and welcoming choice for international residents looking to rent an apartment.
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Why XROSS HOUSE Is a Popular Choice in Asakusa
For foreigners looking to rent in Asakusa, XROSS HOUSE is widely chosen for its simplicity, flexibility, and foreigner-friendly system. Many international residents struggle with Japan’s traditional rental process, but XROSS HOUSE is designed to remove those barriers from the start.
All XROSS HOUSE properties are fully furnished and move-in ready, meaning residents do not need to buy furniture or appliances after arrival. This is especially convenient for people coming to Japan for the first time or staying for a limited period. Utilities and basic living essentials are already prepared, allowing a smooth and stress-free move-in.
XROSS HOUSE also stands out for its low initial costs. There is no key money, no large security deposit, and no requirement for a Japanese guarantor. This significantly reduces upfront expenses and makes budgeting much easier for foreign residents.
Another reason XROSS HOUSE is popular in Asakusa is its flexible contract structure. Short-term and mid-term stays are possible, making it suitable for students, working holiday visa holders, freelancers, and professionals on temporary assignments. This flexibility is difficult to find in the traditional rental market.
Overall, XROSS HOUSE offers a practical housing solution in Asakusa for foreigners who want a furnished, affordable, and hassle-free apartment with clear terms and reliable support—making it an ideal choice for living in Tokyo.
Summary
Asakusa is a well-balanced area for those looking to rent an apartment in Tokyo, offering a traditional atmosphere, quiet residential streets, and convenient access to central districts. Compared to more crowded neighborhoods, rent in Asakusa is generally more affordable while daily life remains comfortable and practical.
The area provides various apartment options, including furnished and foreigner-friendly rentals, making it easier for international residents to find housing that fits their stay and budget. For those who want a smooth rental process with low upfront costs, XROSS HOUSE is a popular option in Asakusa.
Overall, Asakusa is an excellent choice for foreigners seeking a flexible, affordable, and stress-free apartment experience in Tokyo.
