“Japan Life with Seibu” is a collaboration between Seibu Railway and GTN, where we ask foreign residents along the Seibu Line to share what they love most about their neighborhoods.
This year’s theme is “Encounters and Connections Along the Seibu Line”.
In this series, we explore the unique connections that foreign residents feel within their communities and uncover the hidden gems they’ve discovered in their daily lives.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes “Higashi-Kurume Station“ on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line so special!
From Cameroon to Japan: Choosing a New Life in Search of Safety
Can you tell us what brought you to Japan and how long you’ve been living here?
I had always heard that Japan was “a wonderful country with great safety and kind people.” When war broke out in my country, I decided to come to Japan as a safe haven. I’ve been living in Japan for a year now. When I first arrived, I was deeply moved by the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of this country.
Who was the first Japanese person you became friends with?
The first person I became close with was a very kind and gentle young man. I met him when I got lost near Waseda Station while trying to find my way to church. When he saw that I was having trouble, he guided me all the way to my destination. He was such a warm person, and his kindness really helped me out during that time.
Do you have any memorable experiences of receiving help while living in Japan?
One time, I fell ill on my way home from work and was having trouble breathing. I got off at Higashi-Kurume Station but didn’t know what to do, so I sat down in front of the station and started crying. A Japanese person came up to me and immediately called an ambulance. I’m really grateful for their help.
How do you build connections with people in Japan?
I make connections through Japanese language classes at the city hall and activities at church. Through these places, I’ve learned so much about daily life, culture, and food, which has made my life in Japan even more enjoyable.
Daily Life in Higashi-Kurume: A Vibrant Community with Beautiful Views of Mt. Fuji
What made you choose to live along the Seibu Line?
I was drawn to how convenient it is for commuting to work, as well as the peaceful atmosphere along the train line. Even in the midst of busy days, I find the calming environment here very appealing.
How do you like living in the Higashi-Kurume area?
I really like it here because it’s lively and offers a high standard of living. Higashi-Kurume Station is always bustling, and the whole neighborhood has a bright, positive atmosphere.
The Higashi-Kurume City Hall is only about a 5-minute walk from the station, which makes it convenient for handling necessary paperwork for life in Japan. There are also convenient shopping malls like AEON Mall, which makes daily life very comfortable.
I was also touched by how warmly the city hall staff welcomes everyone who visits.
Do you have any favorite places in Higashi-Kurume?
The view of Mt. Fuji from the station’s west exit is extraordinary. In the evening, you can sometimes catch the “Diamond Fuji” phenomenon. It’s really soothing to live somewhere with such beautiful scenery!
I also really like the Ito-Yokado Higashi-Kurume store. There’s a McDonald’s inside the building, and since we don’t have McDonald’s in my home country Cameroon, I always look forward to eating there. Also, Ito-Yokado itself is a spot where you can really feel the neighborhood’s energy, so I definitely recommend visiting.
Message to Future International Residents in Japan
Please share what makes Higashi-Kurume special for foreigners considering life in Japan!
Higashi-Kurume is a very livable city that perfectly balances beautiful nature with convenient urban amenities. With its many parks and gardens, clean streets, and wide roads, you can enjoy a comfortable daily life here. The area is also well-equipped with hospitals, libraries, shops, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to start your new life!
“Japan Life with Seibu” will continue to share the best of the local area through the eyes of foreign residents living along the Seibu Line.
