Overview
Katsushika is one of Tokyo's most affordable wards, offering an authentic shitamachi (traditional downtown) experience. Famous as the setting of the beloved manga/film "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" (Tora-san), the Shibamata area preserves a nostalgic old-Tokyo atmosphere. The ward has a strong community spirit.
Best For
Budget-conscious residents, those seeking authentic Japanese neighborhood life, and fans of traditional Tokyo culture.
Living Costs
Rent Prices (Monthly)
- Studio / 1R: ¥48,000–¥68,000
- Family (2LDK+): ¥90,000–¥150,000
- 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 Katsushika.
Available Lines
| Destination | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Shinjuku | 35 min (via transfer) |
| Shibuya | 40 min (via transfer) |
| Tokyo Station | 30 min (JR Joban/transfer) |
Expat Life
Community
- Small expat community. Mostly Japanese residential area.
English Services
- Katsushika Ward Office has basic English support. Limited English medical services.
International Shopping
- Very limited. Gyomu Super for basics. Best to shop in central Tokyo.
- Full supermarket guide →
Ward Office
- Address: 5-13-1 Tateishi, Katsushika-ku
- Languages: English, Chinese
- Handle resident registration, health insurance, My Number, and more
- ID documents guide →
Neighborhood Highlights
The best spots and areas in Katsushika.
Shibamata Taishakuten
Historic temple with traditional approach street — preserved Edo-era atmosphere.
Tateishi
One of Tokyo's best old-school drinking streets with retro izakayas and street food.
Mizumoto Park
Tokyo's largest park (by water area) with cherry blossoms, barbecue areas, and fishing ponds.
Katsushika City Planetarium
Modern planetarium in Shiriusu with shows in Japanese (visual content is universal).
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)