What are the characteristics of cities in Kanagawa that people say they don't want to live in?
Kanagawa Prefecture has many attractive cities, but there are also areas that are considered "difficult to live in." The reasons for this are varied, including unsafe conditions, noise, inconvenient transportation, and a lack of convenience for daily life.
Additionally, areas near tourist destinations and downtown areas are always crowded, making them unsuitable for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. There are also areas where the quality of the living environment is not commensurate with the high rent, resulting in many complaints from residents. Furthermore, people tend to avoid areas with a high proportion of foreigners, where they may feel a cultural gap, and areas with a high risk of natural disasters.
In this chapter, we will take a closer look at the characteristics of Kanagawa cities that are considered "unwelcome places to live."
The rent is too high and the living environment is not good.
Kanagawa Prefecture has many popular areas, such as Yokohama and Kamakura, and the average rent is set high by metropolitan standards. However, there are many cases where the quality of the housing and the surrounding living environment do not match the high rent.
For example, areas with problems such as excessive noise, poor sunlight, and many old buildings are often criticized for their poor cost performance.
Furthermore, even in areas considered to be high-end residential areas, some people find it difficult to live there due to factors such as being far from the station or lacking in infrastructure.
When there is a gap between the rent and the actual comfort of living there, it is only natural that people will say, "I never want to live here again."
Concerns about public safety, such as crime rates and noise levels
Public safety is a major factor in determining how easy it is to live in a city. Even within Kanagawa Prefecture, crime rates are high, particularly in parts of Kawasaki and Yokohama, and many residents have expressed concerns.
People tend to avoid areas where it is dangerous to walk alone at night, or where there are many petty crimes such as snatch thefts and burglaries. Noise problems are also serious near entertainment districts and entertainment districts, and many residents are bothered by the noise of drunken customers and motorcycles.
In areas where people feel unsafe, the stress of continuing to live there is high, and people often perceive it as a place they do not want to live in because they feel they cannot live in peace.
I feel uneasy about my daily life in tourist areas and downtown areas.
Areas close to tourist attractions and downtown areas tend to see a large influx of people from outside and are always bustling with people.
For example, Kamakura City and Naka Ward in Yokohama City are famous tourist spots, but they are crowded with tourists on weekends and holidays, causing stress for local residents. Also, while living in a downtown area means you won't be short of restaurants and entertainment facilities, it also comes with negative aspects such as noise late into the night, a lot of litter, and a high chance of trouble with drunk people.
In this way, convenience is exchanged for the loss of "daily tranquility," so the area is sometimes avoided as unsuitable for people seeking a quiet and peaceful lifestyle.
There is a high proportion of foreigners, and there is a cultural gap
Kanagawa Prefecture is close to the Tokyo metropolitan area and is also an area with a large number of foreign residents.
Kawasaki City and parts of Yokohama City are particularly known for their high proportion of foreign residents and international environments, but at the same time, there are still a certain number of people who feel a cultural gap. Differences in lifestyle, language, and culture can sometimes cause neighborhood troubles and friction within the local community. Also, while the number of restaurants and facilities catering to foreigners is increasing, many residents feel that the local scenery and atmosphere has changed.
While it is seen as a positive symbol of diversity, it can also be a factor that makes it seem "unlivable" to those who feel uncomfortable.
Be aware of the inconvenience of access and shopping, as well as the risk of disasters
While some areas in Kanagawa Prefecture have good access to central Tokyo, others lack train stations and require travel by car. In particular, areas with underdeveloped train networks, such as Ayase City and Zama City, have difficulty commuting to work or school, which is a major factor making them difficult to live in.
In addition, areas lacking in infrastructure such as supermarkets and drugstores can make it take a long time to go shopping for everyday items. Furthermore, coastal cities are at high risk of disasters such as tsunamis and storm surges, so it is important to pay attention to hazard maps.
Areas that receive low ratings in terms of both convenience and safety are generally more likely to be ranked as "cities you don't want to live in."
Kanagawa Prefecture Top 10 cities you don't want to live in
While Kanagawa Prefecture has many popular tourist and residential areas such as Yokohama and Kamakura, there are also areas where people say they "never want to live again." When people actually live there, they often find themselves troubled by the gap between what they expected and reality, such as high rents, poor living conditions, and inconvenient access.
In this chapter, we will introduce a ranking of cities in Kanagawa Prefecture that are considered "difficult to live in" based on reviews, crime rates, convenience of living, etc. Please take a look as a reference for moving or choosing a property.
No. 1: Kawasaki Ward, Kawasaki City
Kawasaki City's Kawasaki Ward is an area in Kanagawa Prefecture that has a particularly bad reputation for its poor security. There are many crimes, and in some areas it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night.
There are also many industrial areas, and many people are dissatisfied with the air quality and noise levels.Furthermore, there is a high proportion of foreign residents, and while there is an environment of multicultural coexistence, there are also voices expressing concerns about cultural gaps and communication difficulties.
Although the average rent is low, it does not meet the need to live in peace, which is why many people say they "don't want to live here anymore."
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No. 2: Naka Ward, Yokohama City
Yokohama's Naka Ward is home to many tourist attractions, and many residents complain about the crowds and noise from tourists. While areas like Yamashita Park, Chinatown, and Motomachi are attractive, they are not suitable for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Furthermore, while rents are very high, there are many old buildings and narrow roads, which can raise questions about the convenience of living in the area.
The proportion of foreign residents is high, and depending on the area, differences in culture and lifestyle can make it difficult to live there. While it has a strong image as a fashionable, tourist-friendly city, there is a big gap when it comes to living there, which is why it is ranked so highly.
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3rd place: Nishi Ward, Yokohama City
Nishi Ward, Yokohama City, centered around Yokohama Station, is always crowded due to the high concentration of commercial facilities. The crime rate is also high, with incidents reported especially in the downtown area at night. Furthermore, average rents are among the highest in Yokohama City, placing a heavy financial burden on single people and families, which is another drawback.
It is a city that is often avoided by people who seek a quiet life and good public safety in exchange for convenience. Although it has excellent transportation access, there are few places where you can live peacefully, so many people feel that they "do not want to live there."
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No. 4: Atsugi City
Although Atsugi City has a strong image as a suburban residential area, there are cases where the noise issues from Atsugi Air Base are disrupting daily life. Many residents feel stressed, especially in areas where the sounds of aircraft taking off and landing are a particular nuisance.
Additionally, some people say that it takes a long time to commute to the city center, and that the concentration of commercial facilities in the city center makes daily shopping somewhat inconvenient. While average rent is relatively low, there are many issues with the living environment, leading to complaints from young people and families that it is "difficult to live in," resulting in its inclusion in the rankings.
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No. 5: Chuo Ward, Sagamihara City
Sagamihara City's Chuo Ward is a lively city with many students, but it also tends to have the impression of being noisy.
Additionally, areas far from train stations often rely on bus services, which means commuting to work or school takes a long time. Shopping facilities are also unevenly distributed depending on the area, and there are concerns that the convenience of daily life varies greatly depending on where you live. While some areas may appear to be peaceful residential areas at first glance, the noise at night and the inconvenience of transportation can be stressful.
There are many elements that make it unsuitable for people who seek convenience or want to live quietly, and this is cited as a reason why people do not want to live there.
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No. 6: Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama City
Yokohama's Tsurumi Ward is located near an industrial area, and some people have complained about poor air quality and noise pollution. The eastern area is also at high risk of flooding, and the hazard map includes areas requiring caution.
The transportation infrastructure is uneven depending on the area, and there are areas in the western part of the city that do not have train stations, making travel inconvenient. While the area is rich in diversity with a high proportion of foreign residents, some people are concerned about interactions between residents and the security situation.
Although it is located within Yokohama City, there are many stressful aspects to the living environment, and it is listed as one of the cities people do not want to live in.
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7. Yokosuka City
Yokosuka City is attractive for its beautiful cityscape facing the sea, but some people feel uneasy about public safety due to the presence of a U.S. naval base. There are also areas with a high proportion of foreign residents, and many people feel confused by contact with different cultures.
In addition, there are many hills and many situations where daily transportation is difficult by foot or bicycle, making it unsuitable for elderly people and families with children.Furthermore, as it is located by the sea, the risk of disasters such as tsunamis and high tides cannot be ignored.
It has a strong image as a tourist destination and a military port, and is said to have many issues as a place to live, so there is a certain number of people who do not want to live there.
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No.8: Ebina City
Redevelopment is progressing in Ebina City, making it more convenient, but some people say that the congestion around the station is a daily occurrence and causes stress.
In addition, access to central Tokyo and Yokohama is sometimes rated as "half-baked," and many people find commuting to work or school inconvenient. Furthermore, the crime rate is slightly higher than the prefectural average, so it lacks the impression of being a safe place to live.
In exchange for conveniences such as shopping malls, there are concerns about noise and safety, and the area is often listed as a place people don't want to live in.
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9th place: Zama City
Zama City has few train stations, and many areas rely mainly on bus transportation, making commuter and school convenience an issue. It is adjacent to the Atsugi Air Base, and aircraft noise is also a source of stress for residents. There are also few supermarkets and restaurants within the area, and some residents complain about the inconvenience of everyday shopping and eating out.
Furthermore, while there is a lot of nature, some people are concerned about the lack of infrastructure, such as medical institutions and educational facilities. Because of the limited freedom of living, it is considered unsuitable for young people and those raising children, and is often rated as a "difficult city to live in."
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10. Fujisawa City
Fujisawa City is a popular area close to the sea and blessed with nature, but it is also known as a tourist destination and tends to be crowded with tourists on weekends and holidays. This can make it difficult for local residents to live a peaceful life. Furthermore, there are differences in public safety and transportation access depending on the area, so choosing the wrong place to live can be inconvenient.
Rent prices are also on the rise, making it difficult to choose from a cost-effective perspective. Opinions are divided not only on the scenery and convenience, but also on the actual living conditions, making it one of the areas people don't want to live in.
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Five common characteristics of "cities you don't want to live in" in Kanagawa Prefecture
While Kanagawa Prefecture has many popular residential areas, there are also certain commonalities among the cities that are considered "difficult to live in." Understanding these conditions can help you avoid mistakes when moving or choosing a property.
Here we will take a closer look at five common characteristics of cities that are unpopular with their residents.
① Public safety concerns
A common theme among many of the cities in Kanagawa Prefecture that people say they don't want to live in is "concerns about public safety." In particular, Kawasaki City's Kawasaki Ward and Yokohama City's Naka Ward have relatively high crime rates, and many people feel uneasy about going out at night or walking alone as a woman. In areas where petty crimes such as snatching, burglary, and nuisances are prevalent, people tend to feel stressed about continuing to live there.
Areas with inadequate crime prevention measures or places close to busy areas can be a major source of anxiety for residents, so careful consideration is required when deciding where to move. Good public safety is one of the most important points for living a comfortable life.
②There is a lot of noise and congestion
Cities that people find undesirable to live in often include areas that are plagued by noise and crowds.
For example, in Kamakura City and Nishi Ward in Yokohama City, which are densely packed with tourist spots, the areas are overflowing with tourists and shoppers on weekends, making it difficult for many people to live a peaceful life.In addition, in the entertainment districts in front of stations and around commercial facilities, noise problems are likely to occur due to the influence of restaurants that stay open late into the night and major roads with heavy traffic.
Especially for families and elderly people who seek a quiet living environment, this kind of noise can be a major negative factor and make them not want to live there.
3) The average rent is too high
Another reason people feel they don't want to live there is that the living environment is not up to par with the high rent.
In areas close to urban areas, such as Yokohama's Naka Ward and Nishi Ward, the average rent is extremely high, at over 100,000 yen per month, leaving many people questioning the cost-effectiveness. In some cases, rents are set high even for old properties that are poorly equipped, or properties with noise or safety issues, leading to complaints that "despite paying a lot of money, they cannot live comfortably."
In particular, for single people and families with children, the burden of rent can easily become a factor that puts pressure on their lives, and as a result, they end up avoiding the area as a place they don't want to continue living in.
④The station is far away and transportation access is poor
The distance to the train station and the lack of convenient transportation are also major factors that make the area seem inconvenient to live in.
In cities like Ayase and Zama, there are almost no train stations within the city, meaning people have to travel by bus or car, making commuting to work or school extremely inconvenient. Furthermore, in areas where it takes more than a 15-minute walk to the station, everyday travel can be stressful, and this can be especially frustrating in bad weather. Furthermore, in areas with poor access to the city center, transportation costs and travel time can become a significant burden, making lost time a daily occurrence.
Areas with poor transportation access tend to be rated as "difficult to live in" because they do not suit modern lifestyles that demand convenience.
⑤There are many areas at risk of disasters
Kanagawa Prefecture has many areas close to the sea and rivers, and many areas are at risk of disasters such as tsunamis, high tides, and river flooding. In particular, in parts of Yokosuka City and Tsurumi Ward, residential areas are located in areas marked as dangerous on hazard maps, so disaster preparation is essential.
Furthermore, some hilly areas are designated as landslide warning zones, and some residents feel uneasy during periods of heavy rainfall. Areas with a high risk of disasters are not an environment in which people can live safely, as they are also plagued by rising insurance premiums and concerns about evacuation systems.
For households that prioritize safety, a high risk of disasters is a major negative point when choosing a place to live.
Frequently Asked Questions Q&A
When searching for a home in Kanagawa Prefecture, many people have questions like, "Which city is the easiest to live in?" and "Which city is the hardest to live in?" In particular, factors such as safety, noise, accessibility, and the comfort of the surrounding environment are all factors that greatly influence the decision to move.
Here we answer frequently asked questions from readers about cities in Kanagawa Prefecture that people would not want to live in.
Q. Are Kawasaki and Tsurumi really unsafe?
Kawasaki Ward in Kawasaki City and Tsurumi Ward in Yokohama City are often considered to be areas with poor public safety within Kanagawa Prefecture. Indeed, crime statistics from the National Police Agency show that the incidence of burglaries, snatch thefts, and violent crimes tends to be higher than in other areas.
In addition, the area is close to busy shopping and entertainment districts, and there are cases where drunk customers and noise pollution can be a problem at night, which has led to concerns from many women living alone and families with children.
However, not all areas are dangerous, and the security situation varies greatly depending on the area. It is important to make a careful decision by referring to the latest crime prevention maps and local reviews.
Q. Is it dangerous to live near a U.S. military base?
In Kanagawa Prefecture, if you live in an area near a U.S. military facility such as Atsugi Air Base or Yokosuka Air Base, you are more likely to be bothered by noise and differences in living environment than by public safety.
In particular, in areas where the sounds of aircraft taking off and landing can be heard late at night or early in the morning, there are concerns about the impact on sleep and stress.In addition, with many foreign residents, people may be confused by language and cultural differences.
Although there are not many serious security issues, it may not be suitable for people looking for a quiet and peaceful life. We recommend checking the opinions of neighboring residents and local information before moving in.
Q. How inconvenient are areas far from stations?
Kanagawa Prefecture has residential areas that are more than a 15-minute walk from the station, and some municipalities (e.g., Ayase City) that do not even have a train station. In these areas, daily transportation depends on buses and cars, which can make commuting to work or school extremely inconvenient.
Furthermore, poor access to the nearest station can make life difficult on bad weather days or when there are traffic issues. This distance can be a significant burden, especially for families with children and the elderly, so care is needed. The convenience of being close to a station is one of the major advantages that makes a property worth the higher rent.
Q. Is it not advisable to live in a tourist area?
Living in a tourist area has its pros and cons.
For example, areas with many tourist spots, such as Kamakura City and Naka Ward in Yokohama City, have beautiful cityscapes and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
However, on the other hand, the area is crowded with tourists on weekends and holidays, making daily life unsettled.In addition, stress factors specific to tourist destinations, such as traffic jams, increased garbage, and late-night noise, are more likely to occur.
Although it offers convenience and a nice atmosphere, it may not be suitable for people who value quietness and comfort as a place to live. If you are choosing it as a residential area, it is wise to consider a residential area a little away from tourist spots.
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5 Livable Towns and Stations in Kanagawa Prefecture (Comparison Reference)
Kanagawa Prefecture is home to many "livable towns and stations" that offer a good balance between convenience and living environment.
Here we introduce five towns and stations that have been carefully selected from various perspectives, including transportation access, public safety, educational environment, and convenience for daily life.
① Hiyoshi Station | The perfect combination of safety, educational environment, and accessibility
Hiyoshi Station is a highly convenient terminal station where the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Meguro Line, and Yokohama Municipal Subway Green Line intersect. It has excellent access to central Tokyo and Yokohama, making it a popular location for commuting to work or school.
With Keio University's Hiyoshi Campus located near the station, the area is safe and highly regarded as an educational district. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets, making it popular with a wide range of people, from singles to families. Another attractive feature is the well-balanced quiet residential area and commercial facilities, creating a safe and secure living environment.
② Shin-Yurigaoka Station | A great living environment even in the suburbs
Shin-Yurigaoka Station is one of the most popular stations along the Odakyu Line, and is a pleasant area to live in where quiet residential areas coexist with commercial facilities. There is a station building and a large shopping mall, so you will have no trouble finding the perfect place for everyday shopping and eating and drinking.
There are also many cultural facilities and parks, making it highly rated by families with children and seniors. Access to Shinjuku and Shibuya is also smooth, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of city life while still being in the suburbs. With its quiet, well-organized streets and good public safety, it is chosen by many as an area where people can live for a long time.
3. Totsuka Station | A transportation hub and a well-balanced city
Totsuka Station is a major transportation hub on the JR Tokaido Line, Yokosuka Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, and Blue Line, allowing quick access to Yokohama and Tokyo. The area is also very convenient for daily life, with a great shopping environment, centered around the Totsukana shopping complex directly connected to the station.
The atmosphere is different on the east and west sides of the station, with a tranquil residential area and a lively area in front of the station coexisting in a good balance. The area is also safe and has a good number of educational institutions and medical facilities. It is highly rated as a city that is popular with a wide range of people, from single people to families.
④ Tsujido Station | Coexistence of Shonan life and shopping malls
Tsujido Station is located on the JR Tokaido Line and is in the nature-rich Shonan area. Its greatest appeal is that large commercial facilities such as Terrace Mall Shonan are located in front of the station, making it extremely convenient for shopping and eating out.
The area is also close to the sea and offers an environment where you can get in touch with nature, making it popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts. While it's within easy commuting distance of Tokyo, the area's charm lies in its calm streets and open, spacious living environment. It offers a well-balanced living environment that combines the convenience of the city with a resort feel.
⑤Hodogaya Station | Great value for money in a calm environment
Hodogaya Station is just two stops from Yokohama Station, making it an attractive residential area with a quiet and calm atmosphere. Average rents are lower than in the surrounding areas, making it known as a cost-effective area. There are plenty of amenities around the station, including supermarkets, shopping streets, and hospitals, making daily life a breeze.
In addition, a lush residential area spreads out on the hill, making it a popular place to raise children. For those who want a quieter, less noisy life, this station is a hidden gem.
summary
Kanagawa Prefecture has many attractive cities, but there are also clear areas where people feel they no longer want to live.
Factors such as public safety concerns, noise, high rent, poor transportation access, and disaster risk have a significant impact on the living environment. By understanding the characteristics of a city you don't want to live in in advance, you can move and choose a home without regrets.
Conversely, there are many areas that are rated as easy to live in, so it's important to choose based on criteria that suit your lifestyle, such as safety, convenience, and natural environment. Use the rankings and Q&A in this article as a reference to find information that will help you choose the perfect city for you.
