Area guides
Living in Nerima & Ekoda, Tokyo: A Guide for Foreign Residents
If you've been priced out of central Tokyo but don't want to compromise on quality of life, Nerima-ku and the Ekoda neighbourhood deserve serious consideration. Located in northwest Tokyo, this part of the city has a relaxed, residential character that draws long-term residents, young families, and an increasing number of foreign renters.
Where Is Nerima-ku?
Nerima-ku is one of Tokyo's 23 special wards, located in the northwestern part of the city. It borders Toshima-ku (Ikebukuro) to the south and Saitama Prefecture to the north.
Key transport from Ekoda area:
- Ekoda Station (Seibu Ikebukuro Line): Direct to Ikebukuro in 7 minutes
- Nerima Station (Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho/Fukutoshin Line): Direct to Shinjuku-sanchome in 15 min, Shibuya in 25 min
- Seibu Nerima Station (Seibu Ikebukuro Line): Quick access to western Tokyo
The Ekoda Neighbourhood
Ekoda is a small, charming neighbourhood that has developed a cult following among Tokyo insiders. Centred on the small Seibu Ikebukuro Line station, Ekoda has a genuine village-like quality — local shotengai shopping streets, independent cafés, neighbourhood izakayas, and a strong sense of community.
The area is particularly popular with:
- Young couples and families drawn by the relaxed pace and affordable family apartments
- Foreign residents who want a real neighbourhood experience rather than a tourist-facing environment
- Anyone who commutes to Ikebukuro (7 minutes) and wants to live somewhere that feels completely different
One interesting draw for international residents: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo (the Harry Potter experience) opened near Nerima in 2023 and is just a short train ride from Ekoda and Nerima stations.
The Nerima Neighbourhood
Nerima proper is Nerima-ku's central hub, with a busier station environment and a wider range of shops, restaurants, and amenities. It offers faster Metro connections to central Tokyo compared to Ekoda, while still maintaining the ward's characteristic residential calm.
Cost of Living & Rent in Nerima-ku
Nerima is one of the most affordable wards in Tokyo's western residential belt. Rent here is noticeably lower than in neighbouring Toshima-ku (Ikebukuro).
Typical monthly rent:
- 1K / 1R studio: ¥55,000–¥85,000
- 1LDK: ¥90,000–¥140,000
- 2LDK / 2–3 bedroom: ¥130,000–¥200,000
- Share house: From ¥50,000/month (room only)
Nerima offers some of the best value for multi-bedroom properties in accessible Tokyo — making it especially appealing for families or groups of friends sharing.
Parks & Green Spaces
Nerima-ku has a well-earned reputation as Tokyo's greenest ward. Over 18% of the ward is covered by parks, gardens, and farmland — remarkable for a ward within Tokyo's 23.
Notable green spaces include:
- Shakujii Park — large park with two ponds, forest walks, and seasonal events
- Nerima Daikon Hara — preserved farmland celebrating Nerima's agricultural heritage
- Hikarigaoka Park — a sprawling park with sports facilities and cherry blossoms
Daily Life in Nerima-ku
Groceries: Well-served by life, Seiyu, Ito-Yokado, and local market areas around the main stations.
Dining: Ekoda has a surprisingly strong independent dining scene — look for long-standing ramen shops, craft beer bars, and neighbourhood Italian joints. Nerima station area has broader options including major chain restaurants.
Family Life: Nerima is considered one of Tokyo's best family wards — good public schools, clean streets, plenty of park space, and a community atmosphere rarely found in more central areas.
Who Is Nerima-ku Best For?
Nerima and Ekoda are an excellent match for:
- Young couples and families seeking affordable space and green surroundings
- Foreign residents wanting an authentic, local Tokyo neighbourhood experience
- Commuters to Ikebukuro or Shinjuku who want to save significantly on rent
- Share house residents who want a house-with-garden experience at city prices
Find Your Home in Nerima-ku
Shin Housing offers a curated selection of furnished properties in the Nerima-Ekoda area, including the popular Nana House series — fully furnished shared houses and private apartments just minutes from Ekoda Station, offering genuine neighbourhood living with all the conveniences included.