“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 “Honkawagoe Station“ on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line so special!
Deciding to Live in Japan & First Impressions
What brought you to Japan, and what were your first impressions of living here?
I came to Japan to improve my Japanese language skills. I’ve been living here for about nine months now, and my first impression was, “Everyone seems so busy.” Whether in the city or at the station, I felt a constant sense of urgency in the air.
Who was the first Japanese person you became friends with?
I met my first Japanese friend in my university’s self-study space. They were incredibly graceful and kind, and we quickly became close.
Do you have any memorable experiences of receiving help while living in Japan?
A real estate agent was especially kind and welcoming, taking the time to explain everything in Japanese in a gentle and friendly manner. Before that, my experiences with real estate agencies had been quite cold and unwelcoming, so for the first time, I felt at ease while searching for an apartment.
How do you build connections with people in Japan?
Building connections in Japan can feel a bit challenging, but I believe that shared hobbies or simply having the chance to start a conversation can be great ways to make friends. If there’s an opportunity to connect with someone, I try to take it.
Why Choose Honkawagoe Station? The Appeal of Being Close to Koedo Kawagoe
Why did you choose Honkawagoe Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line?
One of the biggest reasons was its proximity to Koedo Kawagoe—a lively area with a rich historical atmosphere.
Another great point is that Honkawagoe Station is the first stop on the Seibu Shinjuku Line, which means there’s often a good chance to get a seat on the train. It’s also conveniently located within walking distance of Kawagoeshi Station and Kawagoe Station, providing access to multiple train lines for easy travel. Plus, the area around the station has many shops that stay open late, making everyday life very convenient.
Honkawagoe is also close to Tokorozawa, so it’s a great area to live without needing to go all the way into central Tokyo!
Yes, I actually go to Tokorozawa quite often. I even bought a guitar there once! The area around Tokorozawa Station has a great selection of stores, so it’s easy to find everything you need. One of the things I love about the Seibu Line is that there are so many convenient and interesting stations along the way.
Is there a memorable experience you’ve had since moving to the Honkawagoe area?
One time, I went to Matsuya in Honkawagoe and saw an elderly man sleeping inside the restaurant. The staff ended up calling the police, and when the officers arrived, they tried to wake him up—but it took about 20 minutes! I found the whole scene quite amusing, as it was something I had never witnessed before since moving to Japan. It really left a lasting impression on me.
Do you have a favorite spot in the Honkawagoe area?
My favorite place is a pancake shop called Cafe Matilda. I went there with some friends, and it was such a stylish and charming café with delicious pancakes. If you’re a pancake lover, I definitely recommend it!
Message to Future International Residents in Japan
Do you have any advice for foreigners planning to move to Japan?
The most important thing is to research thoroughly before moving. If possible, I highly recommend visiting Japan as a tourist first to experience the culture and daily life firsthand.
Recently, with the weaker yen, some things that are affordable and easy to find overseas—like food and medicine—can be harder to get in Japan. Understanding these differences in advance can help make the transition smoother and less stressful.
“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.
