Discover Tokyo’s 23 Wards: Where You Stay Shapes Your Experience
Tokyo is not just one city — it’s made up of 23 special wards, each with its own character, community, and lifestyle. From the calm and intellectual atmosphere of Bunkyo to the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku or the trendy cafés of Shibuya, every area offers something unique.
For anyone planning a monthly stay in Tokyo, choosing the right ward can completely change your experience. Some areas are ideal for business professionals and long-term residents, while others are better suited for students or short-term visitors who want easy access to Tokyo’s cultural spots.
Each ward differs in geography, commercial activity, and living environment — and understanding these differences helps you find the perfect monthly apartment that fits your lifestyle and budget.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the features of all 23 wards of Tokyo, highlighting what makes each one special and which types of residents and travelers it best suits.
Whether you’re moving to Tokyo for work, study, or a few months of adventure, this overview will help you discover the best areas to live and rent in Tokyo.
Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo — Top 10 Wards Women Wish to Live In
In recent years, many Japanese residents have begun saying,
“Tokyo is no longer a place to live.”
Rent prices across Tokyo’s 23 wards have reached record highs, making it increasingly difficult for even middle-income residents to find affordable housing.
Because of this, surveys that ask “Where would you like to live if money were no object?” offer valuable insight into which areas of Tokyo are truly desirable—not just convenient or cheap.
According to a recent Netorabo Research survey, the following list shows the
Top 10 Tokyo Wards Where Women Would Like to Live if Money Were No Object.
The ranking focuses on Tokyo’s 23 special wards, reflecting preferences based on safety, lifestyle quality, convenience, and overall livability.
This ranking is particularly useful for foreign residents, digital nomads, and long-term visitors
searching for a monthly apartment in Tokyo.
It highlights which areas are most favored by locals — areas that combine safety, comfort, international access, and lifestyle appeal.
For example, Minato, Meguro, and Setagaya wards consistently appear at the top of the list.
These neighborhoods offer stylish streets, green parks, excellent restaurants, and international-friendly communities —
all factors that make them ideal for long-term stays.
If you’re exploring Tokyo monthly apartments or deciding where to stay in Tokyo,
this data can guide you toward wards that are not only convenient but also
emotionally appealing and comfortable for everyday living.
We recommend featuring this ranking as part of your accommodation search story —
emphasizing that staying in one of these wards means choosing areas loved by locals for their atmosphere, accessibility, and quality of life.
Best Tokyo Wards for Foreigners Staying Long-Term: Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, or Bunkyo?
Choosing the right ward in Tokyo matters—your daily commute, nightlife options, and overall lifestyle depend on it. This guide compares three popular areas for foreigners seeking a monthly apartment in Tokyo: Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Bunkyo.
What to consider when choosing a ward
- Transit access (near major stations or subway lines)
- Monthly rent and availability of furnished units
- Local amenities (supermarkets, clinics, international stores)
- Safety and noise level
1. Shinjuku Ward — Central, Vibrant & Well-Connected
Overview: Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s major commercial and transport hubs with endless dining, shopping, and nightlife options. It’s ideal for people who prioritize connectivity and activity.
Pros:
- Major station (JR Shinjuku) with lines to nearly everywhere
- Variety of entertainment, restaurants, convenience stores
- Many serviced apartments and short-term options
Cons: Noisy, crowded, and generally higher rent. Typical furnished 1K monthly rents: ¥130,000–¥180,000.
2. Ikebukuro (Toshima Ward) — Affordable & Convenient
Overview: Ikebukuro is a large commercial district with big shopping centers, cultural spots, and strong transit links. Rents are generally lower than Shinjuku, making it attractive for students and budget-conscious visitors.
Pros:
- Lower average monthly rent (furnished 1K: ¥90,000–¥130,000)
- Large shopping malls, anime/culture scene, easy transit
- Close to several universities and language schools
Cons: Busy near the station; some neighborhoods can feel less polished than central wards.
3. Bunkyo Ward — Quiet, Academic & Residential
Overview: Bunkyo is home to the University of Tokyo and several educational institutions. It offers a calm, residential environment with good access to green spaces and cultural facilities.
Pros:
- Quiet neighborhoods and strong safety reputation
- Good for students and researchers
- Moderate rents for furnished 1K units: ¥100,000–¥140,000
Cons: Less nightlife and fewer tourist attractions compared to Shinjuku or Ikebukuro.
Rent Comparison (Furnished Studio / 1K)
- Shinjuku: ~¥150,000 (average)
- Ikebukuro: ~¥110,000 (average)
- Bunkyo: ~¥120,000 (average)
How to pick the right ward for you
- Prioritize transit needs—if your workplace or school is near Shinjuku, living nearby saves commute time.
- Set a realistic monthly rent budget and search wards that fit it.
- Consider lifestyle—nightlife vs quiet study-friendly area vs affordable shopping.
👉 Related: Best Areas in Tokyo for Monthly Rentals
Need help finding a monthly apartment in these wards?
We curate foreigner-friendly listings in Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Bunkyo. Browse curated listings or contact us for personalized recommendations.
Other Guides for Expats in Tokyo
Once you move in, the key is making your daily life stress-free. This includes setting up utilities, internet, and learning where to shop for essentials.
👉 Related: How to Rent a Monthly Apartment in Tokyo
👉 Next: Navigating Daily Life in Tokyo
Why contact us?
Monthly apartments are usually booked without viewing, and early reservations can save you up to 60%.
With local support, you’ll get better options, better prices, and a smoother start in Tokyo.
Tokyo Monthly Living 
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