“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 Tokorozawa Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line so special!
We’ll explore the charms and convenience of living in Tokorozawa from the perspective of a foreign resident.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll introduce more enjoyable places around town!
>>> Click here for Part 2
Comfortable and Convenient! Enjoying a Secure Life in Tokorozawa
Could you tell us about your background growing up in Japan as a Brazilian?
I moved to Japan when I was just three months old. My nationality is Brazilian, but having grown up here, I’ve now spent more than 20 years in Japan. I currently live in Tokorozawa.
Why did you choose Tokorozawa Station on the Seibu Railway?
I was drawn to the area’s pleasant atmosphere and excellent transportation access. For me, Tokorozawa strikes the perfect balance—not overly urban, not too rural, and just the right amount of people. Plus, there are great facilities nearby, like Emi Terrace Tokorozawa and Grand Emio Tokorozawa, where I can find everything from fashion to household goods and even a movie theater. It’s convenient because I don’t have to go all the way into Tokyo.
Another advantage is that my family home in Hana-Koganei is only about 15 minutes away by direct train, making it easy for me to visit my family whenever I want.
Now that you’ve actually lived here, what are your impressions?
The area around Tokorozawa Station has everything you need for daily life, making shopping very convenient! Served by both the Seibu Railway’s Ikebukuro Line and Shinjuku Line, transportation access is also excellent.
Plus, there are many shops, such as izakaya, that stay open late. Even though there are always people around and it stays lively into the night, I’ve never felt unsafe. It’s definitely a safe place to live.
Have you had any experiences that made you especially glad you chose Tokorozawa?
Yes, actually! One time I lost my wallet near the station early in the morning, and it was quickly returned to the police box with everything still inside. It really made me realize how kind and trustworthy the people here are, reinforcing my feeling that Tokorozawa is a genuinely safe place to live.
In your day-to-day travels or outings, what do you find especially convenient about the Seibu Line?
I often take the Shinjuku Line from Tokorozawa Station to visit my family at Hana-Koganei Station or to see my friends near Seibu-Yagisawa Station. Both places are easy to reach directly, and trains run frequently, which makes traveling very convenient.
I also appreciate how accessible tourist spots are—like Hon-Kawagoe Station, which leads to the historic town of Koedo Kawagoe, or Seibuen-Yuenchi Station, home to Seibuen Amusement Park. Being able to easily visit these places by train from Tokorozawa gives me plenty of options for day trips. That’s one of the great advantages of living along the Seibu Line.
＼ Relax and Refresh at “Toko-Terrace,” Right Inside Tokorozawa Station! ／
Inside Tokorozawa Station, you’ll find “Toko-Terrace,” a free-to-use relaxation space. Just head up the stairs, and you’ll enter a spacious, comfortable area filled with chairs and benches—perfect for a quick break or a relaxing pause. Plus, with train schedule displays conveniently placed nearby, you won’t have to worry about missing your next train!
Tokorozawa: A Town Filled with Warmth and Friendly People
What impression have you gotten from interacting with people in Tokorozawa?
My first impression was that it’s a town with many older residents, but everyone is incredibly kind. When drinking at an izakaya, it’s common for strangers to strike up friendly conversations, and before you know it, you’re having a great time together. There’s a friendly atmosphere here, and people respect your personal space just right—not too distant, but not intrusive either.
Have you had any memorable encounters in Tokorozawa?
Once, I was sitting on a bench in front of the station when someone from Jamaica struck up a conversation with me. Later, we happened to meet again by chance at a convenience store. ou often see foreign residents around Tokorozawa, and people here are open and approachable. I also became friends with a Korean woman I met at the gym.
Additionally, at a ramen shop I frequently visit, I’ve become familiar not just with the shop owner but with the regular customers too. We often have easy-going conversations, and I genuinely enjoy that kind of welcoming atmosphere. Moments like these make me feel connected to the community in Tokorozawa.
What are some of your favorite places in Tokorozawa?
I highly recommend the izakaya “Hyakumi”, located on Prope Street. It’s always lively—even on weekdays—and you can enjoy fresh seafood there.
Another favorite of mine is a ramen shop called “Maboroshiken”, established in 1987. It’s so famous that locals say, “If you’re in Tokorozawa, you have to visit here!” The shop maintains an old-school “Showa-era” feel, both outside and inside, which makes it especially appealing to foreign visitors. The owner, a man in his seventies, is extremely friendly. After going there several times, he remembered me and began striking up conversations. The shop stays open until 4:00 a.m., and every time I visit, it feels great to receive such a warm welcome.
To Current and Future International Residents in Japan
Do you have any messages or advice for foreigners who are thinking about moving to Japan?
Living along the Seibu Line is very convenient, offering easy access to Tokyo and popular sightseeing spots. Tokorozawa, in particular, has recently seen significant development around the station area, with many large shopping centers and excellent residential facilities, making it a highly recommended area.
If you’re moving to Japan, it can be reassuring to live close to someone you know. Even if you don’t have any connections yet, services like GTN provide comprehensive support tailored specifically for international residents, including finding housing or jobs. This kind of assistance can really help you settle in comfortably. Also, since Japan’s work culture often differs greatly from your home country, it’s a good idea to gather information in advance.
＼ Make Life in Tokorozawa Even More Enjoyable! ／
Tokorozawa isn’t just easy to live in—it offers plenty of great places and experiences to enrich your daily life!
In Part 2, we’ll introduce fun activities and unique ways to enjoy your time near Tokorozawa Station,
including shopping, food, and leisure spots.
>>> Click here for Part 2!
“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.
We’ll explore the charms and convenience of living in Tokorozawa from the perspective of a foreign resident.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll introduce more enjoyable places around town!
>>> Click here for Part 2
