Sumida City Area Guide
Sumida City is located in the eastern part of Tokyo’s 23 wards, bordered by Chuo and Taito Cities across the Sumida River. It is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Tokyo Skytree, and features a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern development. Traditional areas such as Asakusa and Ryogoku still retain the cultural legacy of the Edo period, offering attractions like sumo stables and the Edo-Tokyo Museum.
In recent years, redevelopment has brought new commercial facilities and high-rise condominiums to the area, particularly around Oshiage and Kinshicho, which have become increasingly popular residential hubs due to excellent transportation access. Sumida City offers the warm atmosphere of a traditional neighborhood alongside the comforts of modern urban life, making it a desirable location for singles, families, and foreign residents alike.
Sumida City Key Data
- Area
- 13.77 km²
- Population
- 283,718
- Population Density
- 20,604 people / km²
- Foreign Residents
- 15,663
Major Stations and Access to Key Areas in Tokyo
Major Train Stations in Sumida City
- Kinshicho Station (JR Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
- Oshiage Station (Tokyo Skytree) (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Keisei Oshiage Line, Tobu Skytree Line)
- Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line, Toei Oedo Line)
- Hikifune Station (Tobu Skytree Line, Tobu Kameido Line)
- Kikukawa Station (Toei Shinjuku Line)
Average Travel Time from Major Stations to Key Tokyo Area
Living Convenience for Foreign Residents
International Schools
- K. International School Tokyo (Oshiage): An IB-accredited institution offering continuous education from kindergarten to high school.
Medical Facilities with Foreign Language Support
- Sumidagawa Clinic (Kinshicho): Offers English-language support and services for foreign patients.
Popular Supermarkets and Restaurants Among Foreign Residents
- Life Supermarket Kinshicho: A well-stocked grocery store popular with foreigners for its selection of imported foods.
- Tokyo Solamachi (Oshiage): A shopping mall next to the Tokyo Skytree featuring a variety of Japanese, Western, and ethnic restaurants.
Public Support Services for Foreign Residents
- Sumida City International Exchange Support Center: Offers information on daily living and Japanese language support for international residents.
Popular Neighborhoods in Sumida City
- Kinshicho: A convenient area with large commercial facilities and excellent access.
- Oshiage: Home to Tokyo Skytree, ideal for both sightseeing and residential living.
- Ryogoku: A historic neighborhood known for its deep-rooted sumo culture.
- Honjo-Azumabashi: A calm, residential area with a charming traditional atmosphere.
Housing Market in Sumida
Sumida City combines the traditional charm of a downtown Tokyo neighborhood with modern urban infrastructure from ongoing redevelopment. Popular residential areas such as Oshiage and Kinshicho offer convenient access and a wide range of housing, appealing to singles, couples, and families.
From 2021 to 2024, the average price of pre-owned condominiums (70m² equivalent) rose from approximately ¥51,500,000 to ¥56,430,000, showing a steady upward trend of around 3% annually. Despite redevelopment, Sumida remains relatively affordable, making it attractive to younger generations and family buyers.
The rental market is also stable, with strong demand for 1R–1LDK units around Kinshicho and Oshiage from single professionals and couples. Family-oriented 2LDK–3LDK apartments are consistently available in more residential neighborhoods such as Hikifune and Honjo-Azumabashi.
Average Rent by Floor Plan
Average Prices for Pre-Owned Homes
