Futako-Tamagawa is a great place to live! It has beautiful nature, modern shopping areas, and good transportation. If you want to rent or buy a home in this area, here are some important things to know.
1. What to Be Careful About When Finding a Home
✅ High Price – Futako-Tamagawa is a popular area, so housing can be expensive. Apartments near the station are more expensive than those further away.
✅ Flood Risk – The area is next to the Tama River, so heavy rain can cause flooding. Check a hazard map before choosing a home.
✅ Busy Trains – The station is on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line and Oimachi Line. Trains can be crowded, especially in the morning.
✅ Rental Rules for Foreigners – Many landlords ask for a Japanese bank account and a guarantor (someone to support your contract). Some real estate agencies help foreigners, so check before applying.
2. Benefits of Living in Futako-Tamagawa
✅ Nature & City Balance – Futako-Tamagawa has parks and a river, but also many shopping malls and restaurants. You can enjoy both relaxing nature and modern life.
✅ Great Shopping & Restaurants – Futako-Tamagawa Rise and Tamagawa Takashimaya Shopping Center have many shops and cafes.
✅ Safe & Family-Friendly – The area is clean and quiet, with good schools and services for families.
✅ Good Access to Tokyo – Only 10 minutes to Shibuya by train! You can also travel easily to Yokohama and other areas.
✅ International-Friendly Services – There are English-speaking doctors and international schools, making it easier for foreigners to live here.
3. Best Time to Look for Housing
✅ January–March (Busy Season) – Many new jobs and school changes happen, so more people look for housing. There are more choices, but competition is high.
✅ September–November (Good Timing) – Not too busy, so you can take your time to find the best place.
✅ June–August (Off-Season) – Fewer people move, so some apartments offer discounts. But there are fewer options available.
4. Special Information for Foreigners
✅ Use an Agency That Supports Foreigners – Some real estate companies speak English and help with rental contracts.
✅ Guarantor Service – Foreign renters often need a guarantee company to sign the lease. Check this before applying for an apartment.
✅ Deposit & Fees – Many apartments ask for Shikikin (deposit) and Reikin (key money). These are extra costs, so make sure to check the total price before renting.
✅ Find Useful Services Nearby – English-speaking doctors, supermarkets, and support services help make living in Japan easier.
Final Advice
Futako-Tamagawa is a wonderful place to live, with great nature, shopping, and safety.
Think about price, flood risk, and train access before choosing a home.
If you are a foreigner, use real estate agencies that can help with your contract.