What are the characteristics of neighborhoods in Kanagawa that people say they "don't want to live in"?
While Kanagawa Prefecture boasts many attractive towns and cities, some areas can be perceived as "difficult to live in." The reasons for this vary, including issues with safety, noise pollution, inconvenient transportation, and a lack of convenience for daily life.
Furthermore, areas near tourist attractions and bustling commercial districts are constantly crowded, making them unsuitable for those seeking a quiet lifestyle. In some areas, the quality of living environment does not match the high rent, leading to numerous complaints from residents. Additionally, areas with a high proportion of foreigners, where cultural differences are likely to be felt, and areas with a high risk of natural disasters tend to be avoided.
This chapter will provide a detailed explanation of the characteristics of the towns in Kanagawa that are considered undesirable 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 rent prices are set higher than those in the Tokyo metropolitan area. However, despite the high rent, there are many cases where the quality of the housing and the surrounding living environment do not match the price.
For example, areas with problems such as excessive noise, poor sunlight, and an abundance of old buildings are often criticized for being poor value for money.
Furthermore, even in areas considered to be upscale residential areas, some people find them inconvenient to live in due to factors such as being far from train stations or lacking adequate infrastructure.
It's only natural that people would say, "I never want to live there again," if there's a gap between the rent and the actual comfort of living there.
There are concerns about public safety, such as crime rates and noise levels.
A major factor influencing livability is "safety and security." In Kanagawa Prefecture, particularly in some areas of Kawasaki City and Yokohama City, the crime rate is high, and many residents have expressed concerns.
Areas where walking alone at night is considered dangerous, or where petty crimes such as snatching and burglaries are frequent, tend to be avoided. In addition, noise problems are serious near entertainment districts and red-light districts, with many residents suffering from the noise of drunk people and motorcycles.
In areas where residents feel unsafe, the stress of continuing to live there is significant, and these areas are often perceived as undesirable places to live because they "cannot live in peace."
I can't settle down in my daily life in tourist areas or busy downtown areas.
Areas close to tourist attractions or shopping districts tend to have a high influx of people from outside the area, resulting in consistently heavy foot traffic.
For example, Kamakura City and Naka Ward in Yokohama City are famous tourist spots, but they get crowded with tourists on weekends and holidays, often causing stress for local residents. Also, while living in a bustling area means you won't have trouble finding restaurants and entertainment facilities, it comes with downsides such as late-night noise, lots of litter, and a higher risk of problems caused by drunk people.
Thus, because convenience comes at the expense of "everyday tranquility," these areas are sometimes avoided by people seeking a quiet and peaceful lifestyle.
There is a high proportion of foreigners and a cultural gap.
Kanagawa Prefecture is close to the Tokyo metropolitan area and has a large number of foreign residents.
In particular, parts of Kawasaki and Yokohama have a high proportion of foreigners, creating a diverse and international environment. However, a certain number of people also experience cultural differences. Differences in lifestyle, language, and culture can lead to neighborhood disputes and friction within local communities. Furthermore, while the number of restaurants and facilities catering to foreigners is increasing, many residents feel that the landscape and atmosphere of their area have changed.
While it can be seen positively as a symbol of diversity, it can also be a factor that makes some people feel uncomfortable and find the area "difficult to live in."
Inconvenience with access and shopping, as well as disaster risks, should also be noted.
Within Kanagawa Prefecture, some areas offer good access to central Tokyo, while others lack train stations, making car travel essential. Areas with underdeveloped rail networks, particularly Ayase City and Zama City, are considered inconvenient for commuting to work or school, a major factor contributing to their perceived difficulty of living there.
Furthermore, in areas lacking essential infrastructure such as supermarkets and drugstores, daily shopping can take a considerable amount of time. In addition, coastal towns face a high risk of disasters such as tsunamis and storm surges, and hazard maps indicate that caution is necessary.
Areas that receive low ratings in terms of both convenience and safety tend to rank highly as "places people don't want to live."
Top 10 Cities in Kanagawa Prefecture Where People Don't Want to Live
While Kanagawa Prefecture boasts many popular areas for tourism and residence, such as Yokohama and Kamakura, there are also regions that people say they would "never want to live in again." In reality, many people who live there are troubled by a gap between their expectations and reality, such as living conditions that don't justify the high rent, poor safety, and inconvenient access.
This chapter presents a ranking of neighborhoods in Kanagawa Prefecture that are considered "difficult to live in," based on factors such as word-of-mouth, crime rates, and convenience of living. Please use this as a reference when moving or choosing a property.
1st place: Kawasaki Ward, Kawasaki City
Kawasaki Ward in Kawasaki City has a reputation for being particularly unsafe within Kanagawa Prefecture. Crime rates are high, and in some areas, it's advised to avoid walking alone at night.
Furthermore, the area is home to many factories, and a significant number of residents are dissatisfied with the air quality and noise levels. In addition, while the high proportion of foreign residents creates a multicultural environment, some residents also report experiencing cultural gaps and communication difficulties.
While the rent is relatively low, it doesn't quite meet the needs of those seeking a safe and secure living environment, which is a major factor in why many people say they "wouldn't want to live there again."
Properties in and around Kawasaki City can be found here.
2nd place: Naka Ward, Yokohama City
Yokohama's Naka Ward has many tourist attractions, and residents often complain about the crowds and noise caused by tourists. Areas like Yamashita Park, Chinatown, and Motomachi are attractive, but they are not suitable for those seeking a quiet life. Furthermore, despite the extremely high rents, there are many old buildings and narrow streets, raising questions about the convenience of daily life.
With a high percentage of foreigners, some areas may experience difficulties in daily life due to cultural and lifestyle differences. While it has a strong image as a fashionable, tourist-oriented city, the reality of living there is quite different, which is why it ranks highly in this ranking.
Properties in and around Yokohama City can be found here.
3rd place: Nishi Ward, Yokohama City
Yokohama's Nishi Ward, centered around Yokohama Station, is always crowded due to the high concentration of commercial facilities. Crime rates are also high, with reports of troubles, particularly in the entertainment districts at night. Furthermore, rent prices are among the highest in Yokohama, making it a significant financial burden for singles and families.
For those who prioritize a quiet life and good safety over convenience, this city tends to be avoided. While transportation is excellent, the lack of a peaceful living environment makes it undesirable for many people to live there.
Properties in and around Nishi Ward, Yokohama City can be found here.
4th place: Atsugi City
Although Atsugi City is often perceived as a suburban residential area, noise pollution from the Atsugi Air Base can disrupt daily life in some cases. In particular, many residents in areas affected by the noise of planes taking off and landing experience significant stress.
Additionally, some residents complain that commuting to the city center takes a long time, and that daily shopping is somewhat inconvenient due to the concentration of commercial facilities in the city center. While rent is relatively low, the living environment has many drawbacks, leading to complaints from young people and families that it is "difficult to live in," which is why it is included in the rankings.
Properties in Kanagawa Prefecture are listed here.
5th Place: Sagamihara City, Chuo Ward
Sagamihara City's Chuo Ward is a lively area with many students, but it also tends to have a reputation for being noisy.
Furthermore, areas far from train stations often rely heavily on Bathroom services, resulting in longer commutes to work or school. Shopping facilities are also unevenly distributed, raising concerns about significant differences in convenience depending on where one lives. While seemingly peaceful residential areas, nighttime noise and inconvenient transportation can be stressful for residents.
Many people who prioritize convenience or want to live in peace and quiet find it unsuitable, and this is cited as a reason why they wouldn't want to live there.
Properties in Kanagawa Prefecture are listed here.
6th place: Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama City
Yokohama's Tsurumi Ward has been criticized for poor air quality and noise pollution due to its proximity to industrial areas. Furthermore, the eastern area has a high risk of flooding, and hazard maps indicate areas requiring caution.
Transportation infrastructure is unevenly distributed across areas, with some areas in the west lacking train stations, making travel inconvenient. While the area boasts a high proportion of foreigners and is rich in diversity, some residents feel uneasy about the level of interaction among residents and the overall safety and security situation.
Although located within Yokohama City, it is often cited as one of the neighborhoods people don't want to live in due to the many factors that make the living environment stressful.
Properties in Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama City can be found here.
7th place: Yokosuka City
Yokosuka City boasts beautiful cityscapes facing the sea, but some people feel uneasy about safety due to the presence of a U.S. Navy base. There are also areas with a high proportion of foreign residents, and many people express confusion about contact with different cultures.
Furthermore, the area is considered unsuitable for the elderly and families with young children due to its many hills and the difficulty of getting around on foot or by bicycle. Additionally, its coastal location means that the risk of natural disasters such as tsunamis and storm surges cannot be ignored.
It has a strong image as a tourist destination and a naval port, and is considered to have many challenges as a place to live, so there is a certain number of people who do not want to live there.
Properties in Kanagawa Prefecture are listed here.
8th place: Ebina City
While Ebina City is undergoing redevelopment and improving convenience, some residents complain that the congestion around the station is a daily occurrence and causes stress.
Furthermore, access to central Tokyo and Yokohama is sometimes considered "mediocre," leading many to feel inconvenienced when commuting to work or school. In addition, the crime rate is slightly higher than the prefectural average, which detracts from the impression that it is a safe place to live.
While it offers conveniences like shopping malls, concerns about noise and safety often lead to it being frequently ranked as a place people don't want to live.
Properties in Kanagawa Prefecture are listed here.
9th place: Zama City
Zama City has few train stations, and many areas rely primarily on Bathroom transportation, making commuting and school access inconvenient. Its proximity to Atsugi Air Base means aircraft noise is a source of stress for residents. Furthermore, the lack of supermarkets and restaurants in the immediate vicinity leads to complaints about the inconvenience of daily shopping and dining out.
Furthermore, while the area boasts abundant nature, some residents feel uneasy about the lack of infrastructure, such as medical facilities and educational institutions. Because of the limited freedom in daily life, it is often considered unsuitable for young people and families with children, and is frequently labeled as an "unpleasant place to live."
Properties in Kanagawa Prefecture are listed here.
10th place: 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. As a result, it can be difficult for local residents to live a peaceful life. Furthermore, there are differences in safety and transportation access depending on the area, so choosing the wrong place to live can lead to inconvenience.
Rent prices are also on the rise, making it less appealing from a cost-performance perspective. Because opinions are divided not only on scenery and convenience, but also on actual livability, it's often listed as one of the less desirable neighborhoods to live in.
Properties in Kanagawa Prefecture are listed here.
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Five common characteristics of neighborhoods in Kanagawa Prefecture that people don't want to live in.
While Kanagawa Prefecture boasts many popular residential areas, there are also certain commonalities among neighborhoods that are considered "difficult to live in." Understanding these factors can help prevent mistakes when moving or choosing a property.
Here, we'll explain in detail five common characteristics of towns that are unpopular with residents.
① Concerns about public safety
A common reason why many neighborhoods in Kanagawa Prefecture are considered undesirable to live in is "concerns about public safety." In particular, Kawasaki Ward in Kawasaki City and Naka Ward in Yokohama City have relatively high crime rates, and many people feel uneasy going out at night or walking alone as a woman. In areas where petty crimes such as snatching, burglary, and nuisance behavior are prevalent, people tend to feel stressed about continuing to live there.
Areas with inadequate security measures or those close to busy commercial districts can be a major source of anxiety for residents, so careful consideration is required when choosing a place to move. Good public safety is arguably one of the most important factors for a comfortable life.
② Lots of noise and crowding
Many of the cities that people consider undesirable to live in include areas plagued by noise and overcrowding.
For example, in areas with a high concentration of tourist attractions, such as Kamakura City and Nishi Ward in Yokohama City, the streets are overflowing with tourists and shoppers on weekends, making it difficult for many to enjoy a peaceful life. Furthermore, in bustling areas around train stations and commercial facilities, noise problems are common due to late-night restaurants and busy main roads.
For families and the elderly, who particularly seek a quiet living environment, this kind of everyday noise becomes a major drawback and a reason why they might not want to live there.
③ The rent is too high.
The high rent and the poor living environment are also reasons why people might not want to live there.
In areas close to the city center, such as Naka Ward and Nishi Ward in Yokohama City, the average monthly rent is extremely high, exceeding 100,000 yen, leading many to question the cost-effectiveness. In some cases, even older properties with inadequate facilities or those with noise and safety issues have high rents, resulting in complaints that "you can't live comfortably even if you pay a lot of money."
For single people and families with children in particular, rent can easily become a burden on their lives, and as a result, they tend to avoid certain neighborhoods as places they don't want to live in.
④ The 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 it an undesirable place to live.
In cities like Ayase and Zama, there are very few train stations within the city limits, making commuting and going to school extremely inconvenient as Bathroom and car travel are the primary means of transportation. Furthermore, in areas where it takes more than 15 minutes to walk to a station, daily travel becomes stressful, and frustration is especially high during bad weather. In addition, in areas with poor access to the city center, the burden of transportation costs and travel time becomes significant, leading to a daily waste of time.
Areas lacking adequate transportation access tend to be viewed as "unpleasant places to live" because they don't fit the modern lifestyle that prioritizes convenience.
⑤ Many areas are at risk of natural disasters.
Kanagawa Prefecture has many areas close to the sea and rivers, and many areas are at risk of disasters such as tsunamis, storm surges, and river flooding. In particular, in parts of Yokosuka City and Tsurumi Ward, residential areas exist in areas designated as dangerous on hazard maps, making disaster preparedness necessary.
Furthermore, some hilly areas are designated as landslide hazard zones, causing anxiety among residents during periods of heavy rainfall. In areas with a high risk of disaster, residents are also concerned about rising insurance premiums and evacuation procedures, making it difficult to live in a safe environment.
For households that prioritize safety, a high risk of natural disasters is a major drawback when choosing a place to live.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
When searching for a place to live in Kanagawa Prefecture, many people have questions such as, "Which neighborhoods are easy to live in?" and "Conversely, which neighborhoods are difficult to live in?" Factors such as safety, noise levels, accessibility, and the comfort of the surrounding environment are particularly important in influencing the decision to move.
Here, we answer frequently asked questions from readers about neighborhoods in Kanagawa Prefecture that people wouldn't want to live in.
Q. Are Kawasaki and Tsurumi really that unsafe?
Kawasaki Ward in Kawasaki City and Tsurumi Ward in Yokohama City are often cited as areas with "unsafe living conditions" within Kanagawa Prefecture. Indeed, crime statistics from the National Police Agency show that the number of burglaries, snatchings, and violent crimes tends to be higher in these areas compared to other regions.
Furthermore, because the area is close to entertainment districts and bustling commercial areas, there are cases where drunk people and noise at night become a problem, leading to many concerns from women living alone and families with children.
However, not all areas are dangerous, and there are significant differences in safety and security depending on the region. It is important to make a careful decision based on the latest crime prevention maps and local reviews.
Q. Is it dangerous to live near a U.S. military base?
In Kanagawa Prefecture, residents living near U.S. military facilities such as Atsugi Base and Yokosuka Base are more often troubled by noise and differences in living environment than by safety concerns.
In areas where the sound of aircraft taking off and landing is particularly loud late at night or early in the morning, there are concerns about the impact on sleep and stress levels. Furthermore, because there are many foreign residents, some may be confused by language and cultural differences.
While serious security issues don't occur frequently, it might not be suitable for those seeking a quiet and peaceful lifestyle. We recommend checking the opinions of local residents and local information before moving in.
Q. How inconvenient is it to live in an area far from the station?
Within Kanagawa Prefecture, there are residential areas that are more than a 15-minute walk from the nearest station, and some municipalities (e.g., Ayase City) do not have a train station at all. In these areas, daily transportation relies on Bathroom or cars, which can make commuting to work or school extremely inconvenient.
Furthermore, poor access to the nearest station can significantly impact daily life during bad weather or transportation disruptions. This is especially true for families with young children and the elderly, as the distance to the station can be a major burden. The convenience of being close to a station is a significant advantage that justifies higher rent.
Q. Would you not recommend living in a tourist area?
Living in a tourist area has both advantages and disadvantages.
For example, areas with many tourist attractions, such as Kamakura City and Naka Ward in Yokohama City, have beautiful streetscapes and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
However, on the other hand, it can get crowded with tourists on weekends and holidays, making daily life less peaceful. Furthermore, stressors specific to tourist areas, such as traffic congestion, increased litter, and late-night noise, are more likely to occur.
While it offers convenience and a pleasant atmosphere, it may not be suitable for those who prioritize tranquility and comfort as a place to live. If you're choosing it as a residential area, it's wise to consider a residential area somewhat away from tourist spots.
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Top 5 Livable Towns and Stations in Kanagawa Prefecture [Comparison Reference]
Kanagawa Prefecture has many "livable towns and stations" that strike a good balance between convenience and living environment.
Here, we introduce five carefully selected towns and stations that have received particularly high ratings from various perspectives, including transportation access, safety, educational environment, and convenience of living.
① Hiyoshi Station| A perfect combination of safety, educational environment, and accessibility.
Hiyoshi Station is a highly convenient terminal station where the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tokyu Meguro Line, and Yokohama Municipal Chikatetsu Green Line intersect. It offers excellent access to central Tokyo and Yokohama, making it a popular location for commuting to work or school.
The area around the station is home to Keio University's Hiyoshi Campus, resulting in a stable safety and a high reputation as an educational district. With plenty of cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets, it's popular with a wide range of residents, from singles to families. The good balance between quiet residential areas and commercial facilities makes it a safe and comfortable place to live.
② Shin Yurigaoka Station| A fulfilling living environment even in the suburbs
Shin Yurigaoka Station is one of the most popular stations along the Odakyu Line, and it is a pleasant area to live in, with a quiet residential area and commercial facilities coexisting. The station building and large shopping mall are well-developed, so you will have no trouble with daily shopping and dining.
Furthermore, the area boasts numerous cultural facilities and parks, making it highly regarded by families with children and senior citizens alike. It offers smooth access to areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya, allowing residents to enjoy the conveniences of urban living even while in the suburbs. Its quiet, well-maintained streets and excellent safety record make it a popular choice for those seeking a long-term residence.
③ Totsuka Station | A transportation hub + a well-balanced town
Totsuka Station is a major transportation hub served by the JR Tokaido Line, Yokosuka Line, Shonan Shinjuku Line, and Blue Line, providing quick access to Yokohama and Tokyo. With shopping facilities centered around "Totsukana," a commercial complex directly connected to the station, the area offers excellent convenience for daily life.
Furthermore, the atmosphere differs between the east and west sides of the station, with a good balance between a quiet residential area and a bustling station area. The area boasts stable public safety, and is well-equipped with educational institutions and medical facilities. It is highly regarded as a town that appeals to a wide range of residents, from singles to families.
④ Tsujido Station | Coexistence of Shonan lifestyle and shopping malls
Tsujido Station is located along the JR Tokaido Line and is part of the nature-rich Shonan area. Its biggest appeal is the presence of large commercial facilities such as "Terrace Mall Shonan" right in front of the station, making shopping and dining out extremely convenient.
Furthermore, its proximity to the sea and the environment that allows for close contact with nature make it popular with families with children and outdoor enthusiasts. While it is located in an area where commuting to Tokyo is possible, it boasts a tranquil neighborhood and a sense of openness. It offers a well-balanced living environment that combines the convenience of city life with a resort-like atmosphere.
⑤ Hodogaya Station | Quiet environment and great value for money
Hodogaya Station is just two stops from Yokohama Station, offering excellent access while maintaining a quiet and peaceful residential atmosphere. It's known as a cost-effective neighborhood with lower rents than surrounding areas. The area around the station boasts ample amenities, including supermarkets, shopping streets, and hospitals, ensuring a convenient daily life.
Furthermore, a lush residential area spreads out on the hilltop, making it a popular environment for raising children. For those who prefer a quieter lifestyle with less noise, this station could be considered a hidden gem.
summary
While Kanagawa Prefecture boasts many attractive towns and cities, there are also distinct areas where I would definitely not want to live anymore.
Factors such as safety concerns, noise, high rent, inconvenient transportation, and disaster risk significantly impact the living environment. Understanding the characteristics of undesirable neighborhoods beforehand will help you avoid regrets when moving or choosing a place to live.
Conversely, there are many areas that are highly regarded as livable cities. It's important to choose based on criteria that suit your lifestyle, such as safety, convenience, and natural environment. Please use the rankings and Q&A in this article to find information that will help you choose the perfect city for you.
