Setagaya City Area Guide
Setagaya City is located in the southwestern part of Tokyo’s 23 wards, covering an area of approximately 58.05 km², making it the second-largest ward by size. With a population of around 944,000, it is the most populous among the 23 wards and is a highly sought-after residential area. Trendy neighborhoods like Sangenjaya and Shimokitazawa are known for their stylish shops, cafes, and cultural spots, while upscale areas like Seijo and Futako-Tamagawa are renowned for luxury living. The city also offers abundant natural spaces such as the Tama River and Kinuta Park, providing a balance of urban convenience and greenery. Setagaya City is particularly popular among families and foreign residents due to its safe, peaceful living environment. It hosts several international schools and offers a wide range of English-friendly services and facilities. Additionally, residents can enjoy numerous community events, including local festivals and farmers’ markets, that offer opportunities to experience Japanese culture and connect with the community.
Setagaya City Key Data
- Area
- 58.05 km²
- Population
- 944,354
- Population Density
- 16,268 people / km²
- Foreign Residents
- 26,774
Major Stations and Access to Key Areas in Tokyo
Major Train Stations in Setagaya City
- Shimokitazawa Station (Keio Inokashira Line, Odakyu Odawara Line)
- Sangenjaya Station (Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, Tokyu Setagaya Line)
- Futako-Tamagawa Station (Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, Tokyu Oimachi Line)
- Seijogakuen-mae Station (Odakyu Odawara Line)
Average Travel Time from Major Stations to Key Tokyo Areas
| Departure Station | Shinjuku | Tokyo | Shibuya | Ikebukuro | Ueno | Shinagawa | Akihabara |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shimokitazawa Station | About 7 min | About 20 min | About 5 min | About 15 min | About 30 min | About 25 min | About 20 min |
| Sangenjaya Station | About 15 min | About 25 min | About 10 min | About 30 min | About 35 min | About 20 min | About 30 min |
| Futako-Tamagawa Station | About 20 min | About 30 min | About 15 min | About 35 min | About 40 min | About 25 min | About 35 min |
| Seijogakuen-mae Station | About 15 min | About 35 min | About 20 min | About 40 min | About 45 min | About 30 min | About 40 min |
Living Convenience for Foreign Residents
International Schools
- The British School in Tokyo (Showa Campus): Located in Yoga, Setagaya, offering a British-style education.
- St. Mary’s International School: A Catholic boys' school located nearby in Minato City, providing education for international families.
Medical Facilities with Foreign Language Support
- Tokyo Medical Center: Located in Meguro City, offering medical services with English support.
- National Center for Child Health and Development: A leading pediatric medical institution also accommodating foreign patients.
Popular Supermarkets and Restaurants Among Foreign Residents
- Seijo Ishii: A premium supermarket chain with multiple locations in Setagaya, known for a wide selection of imported goods.
- Costco Tama-Sakai Warehouse: A large membership-based warehouse store offering a wide variety of imported foods and daily necessities.
Public Support Services for Foreign Residents
- Setagaya City Hall: Provides lifestyle information and consultation services for foreign residents.
- Sangenjaya Tourist Information Center "SANCHA3 (Sancha Cube)": Offers not only tourist information but also practical living guidance.
Popular Neighborhoods in Setagaya City
- Sangenjaya: A lively area filled with shopping centers and dining spots, popular among young people. Excellent access to central Tokyo.
- Shimokitazawa: Known for its unique shops, live music venues, and a strong cultural vibe, attracting both locals and foreigners.
- Futako-Tamagawa: An upscale residential area featuring large shopping malls and riverside parks, ideal for families and affluent residents.
- Seijo: A prestigious residential neighborhood with a reputation for tranquility and greenery, home to many celebrities.
- Yoga: A convenient area along the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line with supermarkets and restaurants around the station, and easy access to Kinuta Park, making it popular among families.
Housing Market in Setagaya
Setagaya City offers an ideal residential environment with abundant greenery and spacious homes. It is well-known for its safety, quality educational institutions, and family-friendly atmosphere. Over the past three to five years, property prices in Setagaya have remained stable. Luxury residential areas like Seijo and Futako-Tamagawa have maintained high asset values. In the rental market, there is a strong supply of family-sized properties and newer buildings, characterized by high-quality housing standards. Around Komazawa University and Shimokitazawa, there is also a wide range of studios and 1LDK units catering to singles. Compared to central Tokyo, rents in Setagaya are relatively moderate, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a good balance between living environment and cost.
Average Rent by Floor Plan
| Layout | STUDIO | 1Bedroom | 2Bedrooms | 3Bedrooms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Rent (JPY/month) | ¥100,000–140,000 | ¥180,000–250,000 | ¥250,000–400,000 | ¥400,000–600,000 |
Average Prices for Pre-Owned Homes
| Property Type | Apartment (70m²) | Single-Family Home (100m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price | ¥63,130,000 | ¥95,180,000 |