Overview
Arakawa is one of Tokyo's smallest and most charming wards, known for the Toden Arakawa Line — Tokyo's last remaining street tram. The ward preserves a traditional shitamachi atmosphere with small workshops, local shopping streets, and a strong community feel. Nippori's Textile Town is famous for fabric shopping.
Best For
Those seeking affordable, authentic Tokyo living with good transit access and community warmth.
Living Costs
Rent Prices (Monthly)
- Studio / 1R: ¥55,000–¥75,000
- Family (2LDK+): ¥110,000–¥180,000
- Prices are for average locations; station-front apartments cost 10-20% more
- Key money and deposit typically 1-2 months each
Monthly Budget Estimate
- Utilities: ¥8,000–¥15,000 (electricity, gas, water)
- Internet: ¥4,000–¥5,000
- Groceries: ¥30,000–¥50,000
- Transport: ¥5,000–¥15,000 (commuter pass varies)
Transit Access
Train lines and travel times from Arakawa.
Available Lines
| Destination | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Shinjuku | 20 min (via Nippori) |
| Shibuya | 25 min (via Nippori) |
| Tokyo Station | 12 min (JR Yamanote from Nippori) |
Expat Life
Community
- Small but welcoming community. Growing diversity in Mikawashima and Nippori areas.
English Services
- Arakawa Ward Office has basic English support. Limited English medical facilities.
International Shopping
- Ethnic food shops near Mikawashima (Korean/Chinese). Nippori has fabric shops popular with international visitors.
- Full supermarket guide →
Ward Office
- Address: 2-2-3 Arakawa, Arakawa-ku
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean
- Handle resident registration, health insurance, My Number, and more
- ID documents guide →
Neighborhood Highlights
The best spots and areas in Arakawa.
Toden Arakawa Line
Ride Tokyo's last streetcar through residential neighborhoods — a nostalgic experience.
Nippori Textile Town
Over 80 fabric shops selling everything from silk to cotton at wholesale prices.
Joyful Minowa
Charming covered shopping street with affordable shops and local restaurants.
Arakawa Nature Park
Family-friendly park with a small zoo, petting area, and seasonal flower gardens.
Practical Info
Garbage & Recycling
- Each ward has its own garbage collection schedule
- Sort into: burnable, non-burnable, recyclable, and oversized items
- Collection days vary by neighborhood within the ward
- Complete garbage sorting guide →
Safety & Preparedness
- Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world
- Register for ward disaster alerts (available in English)
- Know your nearest evacuation center (listed at ward office)
- Keep an emergency kit ready (see home centers guide)