2018-02-16
Living in Hongo San-chome: How is it like for foreigners?
- Advice
Hongo is a vibrant but relaxed district in Bunkyo Ward, scattered with Japan’s renowned universities, beautiful nature, and tourist destination. Just outside the area is Tokyo Dome in the west, Ueno Park and Zoo in the east, and the Imperial Palace in the south.
In the center of this district is Hongo San-chome, a convenient area that appeals to families and university students.
Read further to learn about why Hongo San-chome is a highly attractive place to live in.
Hongo San-chome: Home to Prestigious Learning Institutions
Located in the lively yet cozy Bunkyo ward, Hongo San-chome is a highly convenient area for raising children and for university students.
Nearby is the large Tokyo Dome, where worldwide famous celebrities and athletes hold events, and prestigious universities such as the University of Tokyo, where the best students in Japan gather.
The area is also cozy and peaceful, filled with nature that rejuvenates your mind and soul. There is the Sanshiro Pond located in the middle of the University of Tokyo, the Nezu Shrine, and numerous parks.
Additionally, Hongo San-chome Station is connected to the Marunouchi Line and the Oedo Line, providing a stress-free commute to central areas of Tokyo.
However, Hongo is already quite close to various main areas of Tokyo. So if you like walking, you probably wouldn’t need a train to get to the destination of your choice.
Hongo San-chome is an ideal place for those who want to experience both a vibrant and comfortable environment.
Access
- From Tokyo Station, take the Marunouchi Line to Hongo San-chome Station (approx. 7 minutes)
- From Shinjuku Station, walk to Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station, and take the Oedo Line to Hongo San-chome Station (approx. 21 minutes)
- From Shibuya Station, take the Ginza Line to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, and transfer to the Marunouchi Line to Hongo San-chome Station (approx. 25 minutes)
Famous Locations
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
Located nearby Tokyo Dome is the massive Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, popular for the cherry blossoms during the spring and the colorful leaves in the fall. While you’re walking in the endless greenery, you will forget you’re in Tokyo.
It also has various areas that replicate landscapes of Japan and China, all worth taking a look at with your own eyes. Entrance costs 300 yen, but the breathtaking experience is worth way more than the price.
After going to an event in Tokyo Dome, definitely go to this garden for a break.
Access
- Address: 1-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
- Directions: 8-minute on foot from Koishikawa Station of the Marunouchi Line or Nanboku Line.
Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the home of the Emperor of Japan. The Palace is situated just minutes away from the main business district of Japan, Marunouchi, therefore making it an easily accessible tourist destination.
The Imperial Palace occupies 1.15 square kilometers including the gardens on the site of the ancient Edo Castle. It also contains an archive and museums.
Access
- Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Directions: 10-15 minutes on foot from Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi Central Exit
Ueno
Ueno is a popular district in Taito Ward, Tokyo, most famous for its Ueno Park. It is also the home to some of the finest cultural places in the metropolis, such as the National Museum of Nature and Science, the Tokyo National Museum, and the National Museum of Western Art.
There are many places of interest in Ueno including temples and shrines. Ueno is part of the ‘low city’ (Shitamachi) district of Tokyo. It has more of the working class to the rich merchants and aristocrats.
Access
- Address: 7-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Why foreigners live in Hongo San-chome
The Healthy Meals
When it comes to eating in the ward, there are many fast food joints and great restaurants to visit, you will love Hongō.
You can visit the Fire House if you love sandwiches and burgers. The eatery is close to the Hongō Sanchome station. It is among the best places you can eat a burger.
There is also the Yakiniku Jumbo for grill-it-yourself meat for people on budget. Furthermore, the nearby Tokyo Dome City also houses numerous restaurants.
For people who prefer cooking at home, there are plenty affordable grocery stores near Hongo San-chome Station that will have the ingredients you’re looking for.
Cluster of Prestigious Schools
Families looking for the perfect place to raise their kids can come to Hongō. There are many schools and universities that will boost your child’s motivation to study.
Japan’s top university, the University of Tokyo, is located in this area. The historical campus hosts plenty of events every year which the public can attend, which will definitely inspire your child to find a passion and study hard towards it.
The Peacefulness
If there is one place you will enjoy peace and calmness in Tokyo, it is Hongo. You are going to appreciate the atmosphere that the schools and nature have brought to this ward.
And as it has a lot of schools, residents often state that Hongo San-chome is quite safe even at the late hours of the night.
Conclusion
If you are looking for one of the finest places to get an apartment in Tokyo, a place that is devoid of rowdiness and hustling, Hongo San-chome is one place to consider. Families and students will love it here because of the numerous opportunities it offers.
The convenience of the area, combined with the vibrant streets and beautiful nature, will make you not want to live anywhere.
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