Tokyo Apartment Guide: Overview and Rental Prices in Jiyugaoka
Looking for the perfect place to live in Tokyo? If you're torn between wanting a peaceful residential area while staying connected to city life, or hoping to experience Japanese culture without sacrificing modern conveniences, Jiyugaoka might be your ideal destination.
Just a 9-minute train ride from Shibuya, Jiyugaoka offers a surprisingly tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets are lined with Parisian-style cafes and boutiques, alongside some of Japan's finest patisseries. While the station area bustles with activity, step into the back streets and you'll find yourself in peaceful residential neighborhoods.
In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about Jiyugaoka, from transportation access to livability and average rental prices.
Discovering Jiyugaoka
Located in the southwestern part of Meguro Ward, Jiyugaoka is one of Tokyo's most sophisticated neighborhoods. Served by both the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line, it's just 10 minutes from Shibuya and within 30 minutes of Shinjuku and Roppongi, yet maintains a peaceful atmosphere away from the urban bustle.
The name "Jiyugaoka" comes from Jiyugaoka Gakuen, a school established in 1929. The area has historically been home to artists and intellectuals, and this cultural legacy continues to influence its character today.
What makes Jiyugaoka truly special is its European-inspired landscape. Tree-lined streets host stylish boutiques, cafes, and specialty shops, earning it the nickname "Tokyo's Little Europe." The La Vita area is particularly noteworthy, featuring Venetian-style architecture complete with canals and gondolas, creating an authentic Italian atmosphere. The streets are always alive with people enjoying the artistic ambiance and window shopping.
The neighborhood strikes a perfect balance between commercial and residential areas. With four shopping malls at its core, it offers everything from daily necessities to luxury dining. Jiyugaoka is also famous as a "Sweets Town," featuring shops run by world-champion pastry chefs alongside traditional Japanese confectioneries and modern patisseries. Every May, the "Jiyugaoka Sweets Festa" transforms the entire area into a dessert lover's paradise, drawing crowds with limited-edition treats and special events.
As a residential area, Jiyugaoka consistently ranks among Tokyo's most desirable neighborhoods. Well-lit streets ensure safety at night, and abundant greenery makes it particularly popular among women. The area also attracts international families due to its convenient access to the German School in Yokohama and various international schools in Tokyo.
This harmonious blend of urban convenience and residential tranquility, European charm and Japanese tradition makes Jiyugaoka an ideal choice for international residents seeking a comfortable lifestyle while experiencing the best of Japan.
Transportation Access
Jiyugaoka boasts excellent accessibility to both central Tokyo and Yokohama. Multiple transportation options make it easy to reach both the city center and Kanagawa Prefecture.
Train Access
Jiyugaoka Station is served by two lines: the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line. The Tokyu Toyoko Line connects Shibuya and Yokohama stations, providing convenient access to both central Tokyo and Yokohama. Express trains reach Shibuya in about 9 minutes and Yokohama in about 18 minutes.
The Tokyu Oimachi Line connects Oimachi and Mizonokuchi stations, offering easy access to the Shinagawa and Kawasaki areas. Express and limited express services help reduce travel times to major stations.
Additionally, the new Tokyu Shin-Yokohama Line, opened in March 2023, now provides direct access to Shin-Yokohama Station. This has significantly improved access to the Shinkansen bullet train network, making business trips and travel more convenient.
Note: Services to Shin-Yokohama Station may be direct or require a transfer, depending on the time of day.
Bus Services
The area around Jiyugaoka Station is well-served by buses reaching locations not easily accessible by train. Tokyu Bus services connect to areas such as Setagaya's Fukazawa district, Komazawa University Station, and Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line.
The area also features the eco-friendly "Thanks Nature Bus," which runs on recycled cooking oil fuel. This free service operates three routes around Jiyugaoka Station at 30-35 minute intervals, providing convenient transportation for both residents and visitors.
Living Convenience
- Stylish shopping streets
- Convenient commercial facilities near the station
- Multiple supermarkets in the station area
- Abundant green spaces
- Popular temples and shrines
- Seasonal events
- Upscale residential areas
Average Apartment Rental Prices in Jiyugaoka
Compared to central Tokyo areas like Shibuya, rental prices in Jiyugaoka are relatively reasonable while maintaining a high quality of life. However, as it's a popular area with some upscale residential districts, certain properties can command premium rents.
Please note that actual rental prices may vary depending on factors such as the building's age, distance from the station, and available amenities. These figures should be used as a general guide only. For specific apartment layouts and rental prices in Jiyugaoka, we recommend consulting with real estate agencies to view actual properties.
Nov 5, 2024