When people search for apartments in Tokyo, they often start with famous names such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza. Though these areas have their positive points, a different logic may be useful to apply for those considering long-term stays in Tokyo. Tokyo residents really choose where to live using the 10-minute rule. The rule states that daily life flows best when key parts of it are all within ten minutes of your living space.
The first requirement is being 10 minutes away from a train station. In Tokyo, comfortable access to train stations ensures easy travel. Short walks mean smoother commutes and less effort to get around the city.
Next is ten minutes to groceries. Supermarkets, convenience stores, and local produce shops are part of everyday life. Neighborhoods with many options nearby allow for flexibility and convenience in daily life. Having this nearby means missing ingredients, easy food options, and general shopping all become easier to manage.
The third piece is 10 minutes to a recreational space. That could be a small park, a riverside path, a temple courtyard, or even just a quiet street. Tokyo is packed, but it’s also full of escapes. Living near one changes how the city feels day to day, particularly for long-term residents.
Neighborhoods that satisfy the 10-Minute Rule aren’t always the most famous. Areas such as Setagaya are overshadowed by Shibuya and other famous areas, yet they consistently attract people who plan to stay.
When choosing an apartment in Tokyo, thinking in minutes rather than just focusing on names leads to better outcomes. The city becomes easier, calmer, and more personal. Once daily life flows smoothly, the location will feel right. Tokyo Furnished is an apartment rental service that is especially recommended for foreigners coming to Japan. There are a variety of accommodation options to choose from, all with simple rental processes and English support. All available apartments can be found on the Tokyo Furnished website.