What are the 6 reasons why Hikarigaoka is said to be "dangerous"?
Hikarigaoka, located in Tokyo's Nerima Ward, is a town rich in nature and boasts large commercial facilities, making it seem like a pleasant place to live. However, some people have expressed negative opinions, saying things like "It's dangerous" or "I don't want to live there." The reasons for this range from inconvenient access, the atmosphere typical of a housing complex, concerns about safety, and, for young people, a lack of entertainment options.
Here, we will explain in detail the six main reasons why Hikarigaoka is said to be ``dangerous'' based on real word-of-mouth reviews and statistical data.
Access is inconvenient as it is only accessible via the Toei Oedo Line
Hikarigaoka Station is located at the end of the Toei Oedo Line, and it is often pointed out that it takes a long time to access major areas.
For example, it takes more than 30 minutes to get to Shinjuku, and you need to transfer once to get to Tokyo Station. Since there are many areas in Tokyo where multiple lines are available, many people find the fact that it is only the Toei Oedo Line to be a drawback.
In particular, people who value convenience when commuting to work or school tend to have the impression that "Hikarigaoka is somewhat inconvenient to access," and this is one of the reasons why they feel it is "bad."
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There are many large housing complexes and a unique atmosphere.
Hikarigaoka is known as one of the largest housing complexes in Tokyo, with apartment complexes such as Hikarigaoka Danchi spreading out around the station. Many people find it difficult to adapt to the unique landscape and community atmosphere of this housing complex.
Comments such as "It's like the Showa era" and "It has a closed-off atmosphere" are often seen on social media, and young people and single people in particular tend to avoid them. In addition, there are also opinions that the buildings in densely populated areas are close to each other, which causes privacy concerns and noise issues.
The reason why people think that "having a lot of housing complexes is bad" is because they feel uncomfortable with this unique lifestyle and culture.
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There are not enough restaurants and entertainment facilities
There is a large shopping mall called "Hikarigaoka IMA" around Hikarigaoka Station, but there aren't many restaurants or entertainment facilities. Most of the stores are family restaurants and chain stores, and there are only a limited number of independently owned cafes and trendy gourmet spots.
Additionally, there are few entertainment facilities for young people, such as karaoke, game centers, and movie theaters, so some people say they have to go out of their way to other areas on weekends.
Especially for those seeking excitement and an active lifestyle, Hikarigaoka is easily perceived as an unsatisfying town, which is one of the reasons why it is rated as "dangerous" and "boring."
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Concerns about safety? Some say the streets are dark at night.
Hikarigaoka is an area in Nerima Ward that is rarely considered to be unsafe, but some people who have actually lived there say that the streets are dark and scary at night.
It is true that some people feel uneasy about crime, especially in areas with many large housing complexes and parks and little foot traffic. There are limited streetlights in some areas around Hikarigaoka Park, making visibility poor at night. Although the crime rate itself is low, there are a certain number of people who feel that the area is "unsafe" or "dark and unsettling," including the atmosphere and psychological sense of security, which has led to the image of "Hikarigaoka being dangerous" being spread.
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Some people feel that rent is too expensive
While Hikarigaoka is popular as a redevelopment area, it has been pointed out that the average rent is by no means cheap, even though it is only served by a single line, the Toei Oedo Line.
There are properties in the 80,000-90,000 yen range for a 1K apartment and over 150,000 yen for a 2LDK apartment, and many people feel that these are "slightly expensive" compared to other areas in Nerima. Also, many of the properties are in housing complexes or older apartment buildings, and some are criticized as "not worth the rent."
For young people and single people who value value for money, the rent levels in Hikarigaoka are a source of dissatisfaction, and one of the reasons they feel that it is "not worth it" is "bad."
A little too calm for young people
Hikarigaoka is a popular area for families with children and seniors, thanks to its abundance of nature and parks. However, there are also many complaints from younger generations that it is "too quiet" and "not exciting enough." There are few places to play or have a night out, and most of the commercial facilities are aimed at families.
For people in their 20s and 30s living alone, the entertainment options and lively atmosphere of the area tend to be lacking. Some people say it's "easy to live in, but boring" or "hard to invite friends over," and as a result, it's a city that young people don't choose. This has led to the assessment that "Hikarigaoka is not suitable for young people = it's dangerous."
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Reviews and experiences of people who have actually lived there
The evaluation of Hikarigaoka is not limited to negative comments such as "It's terrible" or "I don't want to live there." People who currently live there or have lived there in the past express a variety of opinions, including complaints about accessibility, mixed opinions about the housing complex, and positive comments about the rich natural environment.
Here, we will focus on the "gaps" in the living environment of Hikarigaoka that emerge from real word-of-mouth reviews, and summarize and introduce the actual situation that can be seen by living there.
Dissatisfaction with access and convenience
The most common complaint among reviews is that it's inconvenient to get to the city center. Hikarigaoka Station is the last stop on the Toei Oedo Line, and many people are frustrated by the long travel times to major areas.
for example,
- "It takes 30 to 40 minutes to get to Shinjuku or Shibuya."
- "Commuting is a hassle because there are so many transfers"
These kinds of comments have been posted on social media and review sites. The lack of JR or other private railways in the area also seems to be perceived as a drawback in terms of convenience. For those who prioritize access to transportation, this is likely to lead to the evaluation that "Hikarigaoka is a town lacking in convenience," which is one of the reasons why it is considered "dangerous" and "difficult to live in."
On the other hand, there are also positive reviews such as "There is a lot of greenery and it is comfortable."
While there are negative comments, there are also many positive comments, such as "Hikarigaoka has a lot of greenery and is a comfortable place to live." The natural environment, including Hikarigaoka Park, is highly popular among families with children and seniors.
for example,
- "It feels so good that a morning walk becomes a daily routine."
- "It's rare to find so much nature in Tokyo."
We have received comments like these. The abundance of greenery not only in the park but throughout the town, and the ability to live while feeling the changing seasons, is a major attraction for people seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Hikarigaoka is particularly rated as a "comfortable and ideal town" for those who want to avoid noisy downtown areas or who lead a lifestyle centered around remote work.
People's impressions of housing complexes and parks vary
When talking about Hikarigaoka, the presence of large housing complexes and vast parks is essential, but impressions of these areas vary greatly from person to person.
While there are negative comments such as "There are too many housing complexes and it feels too residential" and "It has an old and dark impression," there are also positive reviews such as "Even the housing complexes are clean and well-maintained" and "The relationships between people are warm and old-fashioned."
Hikarigaoka Park has also been praised for being "large and perfect for families" and "convenient for barbecues," but there are also comments such as "it's unsettling at night because there aren't many people there" and "it's prone to flooding so care is needed."
In other words, the city's major features, such as housing complexes and parks, are points on which opinions differ depending on lifestyle and values, and this is the background to the polarized word-of-mouth reviews that give rise to statements like "Hikarigaoka is amazing" and "It's easy to live in."
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Check out the realities of Hikarigaoka: safety, rent, shopping, and more
While there are voices saying things like "Hikarigaoka is terrible" and "I don't want to live there," what is the actual living environment like?
Here, we will objectively check factors directly related to daily life, such as the safety of the area around Hikarigaoka Station, average rent, and ease of shopping. Based on data and surrounding facilities, we will look at the real attractions and challenges of Hikarigaoka that you should know before moving in.
The security situation is actually average within Nerima Ward.
Hikarigaoka tends to have an image of being "dark streets at night" and "uneasy because there are many housing complexes," but when you look at the actual number of crimes that occur, it is roughly average for Nerima Ward.
According to public safety statistics published by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the area around Hikarigaoka Station is not significantly different from areas considered safe, and serious crimes such as snatch thefts and robberies tend to be very rare. In particular, neighborhood patrols and patrols are well established around Hikarigaoka Park and the housing complex, providing a certain sense of security for families with children and the elderly.
Whether a neighborhood is safe or not depends on personal perception, but looking at the numbers, Hikarigaoka can be said to be a relatively safe area, contrary to the impression that it is ``dangerous.''
Shopping is easy with Hikarigaoka IMA and other shopping facilities
Hikarigaoka has an excellent shopping environment, and the large shopping mall "Hikarigaoka IMA" directly connected to the station is a prime example. Supermarkets, drug stores, 100 yen shops, fashion stores, restaurants, electronics stores and more are all here, so you can find almost everything you need for daily life.
Additionally, the surrounding area is dotted with large facilities such as "Livin Hikarigaoka" and "Nerima Hikarigaoka Hospital," providing a well-developed infrastructure for daily life. Although there are few shopping streets, the area's main appeal is the efficient shopping available at chain stores. In terms of shopping convenience, Hikarigaoka is one of the most livable areas in Tokyo.
The average rent in Tokyo is medium to slightly higher.
The average rent in Hikarigaoka is slightly higher than in Nerima Ward as a whole.
- Studio/1K: Approximately 80,000 yen
- 1LDK to 2LDK: Approx. 130,000 to 150,000 yen
In particular, properties in Hikarigaoka Housing Complex, UR rental properties, and public corporations are popular, and even if a vacancy does occur, it tends to be filled quickly. Also, because there are newly built condominiums and tower apartments, properties aimed at families tend to be in a higher price range.
On the other hand, it is true that some people feel that it is "overpriced" when considering the balance between convenient transportation access and the age of the building. For those who prioritize cost performance, other areas in Nerima Ward (Heiwadai, Hikawadai, etc.) may also be an option.
For those still worried! 3 recommended stations near Hikarigaoka
While Hikarigaoka has its charms, many people have concerns about the poor accessibility and the atmosphere of the housing complex, which they don't like.
Here we will introduce three carefully selected "livable stations" that are relatively close to Hikarigaoka, convenient for commuting and daily life, and have good public safety. All are located in or around Nerima Ward, making them areas that are easy to compare with Hikarigaoka. Use this as a reference to find the lifestyle that suits you best.
Nerima Station | Good transportation access and safe environment
Nerima Station is a major transportation hub with access to the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Toei Oedo Line, and Seibu Yurakucho Line, and offers excellent access to Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shibuya.
Unlike Hikarigaoka, it is accessible via multiple train lines, making it extremely convenient for commuting to work or school. There are also plenty of shopping streets, supermarkets, and restaurants around the station, making it popular with a wide range of people, from single people to families.
In addition, with a police box and police station nearby, there is a sense of security, and many people say they feel less anxious when returning home at night. The area is popular as a "highly-integrated town" that offers a good balance between distance from the city center, convenience for daily life, and public safety.
Shakujii Park Station | A relaxing atmosphere surrounded by nature
Shakujii Park Station is an express stop on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, and is easily accessible, taking just 10 minutes to Ikebukuro. The area is also surrounded by lush greenery, including Shakujii Park, which is also the name of the station, making it the perfect place for those seeking a quiet and peaceful lifestyle.
The neighborhood is well-maintained, safe, and dotted with stylish independent shops such as cafes and bakeries. It is popular with a wide range of people, from families raising children to single people. Rental properties are a little on the expensive side, but it is a highly satisfying choice for those who prioritize the quality of their living environment.
As a town that combines convenience and relaxation, it can be said to be a hidden gem that replaces Hikarigaoka.
Narimasu Station | Low rent and access to the Tobu Tojo Line
Narimasu Station is an express stop on the Tobu Tojo Line, and is easily accessible to Ikebukuro in just 10 minutes. The area also offers relatively low average rent prices within Tokyo. Furthermore, Narimasu Station on the Yurakucho and Fukutoshin lines is within walking distance, offering numerous route options to the city center.
There are supermarkets, drugstores, and chain restaurants around the station, so you won't feel inconvenienced. The area is generally safe, and it offers a more affordable living environment than Hikarigaoka for single people and young families who prioritize cost-effectiveness.
This is an excellent area with a good balance of access, rent, and convenience.
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FAQ
While researching Hikarigaoka, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that appear in online searches and on social media. We will provide easy-to-understand Q&A explanations of points of concern when actually living in the area, such as the housing complex's occupancy requirements, the current state of safety, and the child-rearing environment.
Q. Can anyone enter Hikarigaoka Danchi?
Hikarigaoka Danchi offers a variety of housing options, including UR rentals, metropolitan housing, and condominiums. UR rentals have no income or occupation restrictions, so anyone can apply, but you must meet certain income screening and guarantor requirements.
On the other hand, metropolitan housing is designed for low-income households, so there are annual income restrictions and a lottery system, and for single people, there are conditions such as having lived in Tokyo for a certain period of time. Condominiums are sold through contracts for purchase or lease, just like regular real estate transactions.
In other words, it is not necessarily the case that "anyone can easily move in," and it is important to note that the conditions vary depending on the type of property.
Q. Is Hikarigaoka really unsafe?
Some people say that "Hikarigaoka has bad public safety," but looking at the actual statistical data, it is not particularly high in crime within Nerima ward, and is within the average level. In particular, around Hikarigaoka Park and the housing complex area, there are patrols by local residents and the local government, and it is an area with a high level of crime prevention awareness.
However, it is true that some people find the area dark and scary due to factors such as the densely packed housing complexes and the lack of people in the parks at night. If you are concerned about safety, it is a good idea to check the atmosphere at night and whether or not there are streetlights when choosing a property to feel safe.
Q. Is it suitable for families with children?
Hikarigaoka is a very attractive area for families with children. With Hikarigaoka Park and many spacious green spaces, it provides an environment where children can play freely. The shopping mall "Hikarigaoka IMA" directly connected to the station also has a supermarket and medical facilities, making it convenient for daily life.
There are also many nurseries and elementary schools scattered around the area, and the area is highly rated for its educational environment. On the other hand, while transportation access is somewhat inferior to that of the city center, the area is popular as a "city where you can raise children with peace of mind" when considering the balance between the calm living environment and the cost of living.
summary
While Hikarigaoka has a certain amount of negative reviews, such as "it's dangerous" and "I don't want to live there," it is actually an area that is highly rated for its convenience and living environment. It's true that access is somewhat inconvenient, with only one train line on the Toei Oedo Line, and some people are put off by the large number of large housing complexes. Depending on your lifestyle, there are also some negative aspects, such as the darkness of the streets at night and the lack of entertainment facilities.
On the other hand, with the addition of Hikarigaoka Park and a shopping mall directly connected to the station, it is an attractive area for families with children and those seeking a quieter lifestyle, and statistically speaking, the area is average for public safety within Nerima Ward, so it would be premature to conclude that it is "dangerous" based solely on some perceptions.
If you're worried about Hikarigaoka, you could consider alternative areas near Nerima Station, Shakujiikoen Station, or Narimasu Station, which are easier to live in. Ultimately, it's best to compare the pros and cons of Hikarigaoka and decide based on your lifestyle and the things you want to prioritize.
