Drawn to Japanese Culture: First Impressions of a “Clean and Quiet Country”
―― First, what brought you to Japan?
“I’ve always loved anime and J-POP, and I was fascinated by Japanese culture. I’d dreamed of coming someday, and after talking it over with my parents, I decided to study abroad in Japan. That was the starting point.”
―― What were your first impressions when you arrived?
“I was really struck by how clean and well-organized everything was. The roads were spotless, and once you entered the residential areas, it was so quiet and peaceful. There wasn’t that crowded, chaotic feeling—you could tell it would be a very comfortable place to live.”
Out of Battery and Lost! Experiencing the Warmth of Japanese Kindness
Life in a new country always comes with its share of challenges. She recalls how difficult it was to figure out Japan’s complicated train transfers when she first arrived.
“In the beginning, I had no idea how to navigate the train system. I was constantly asking people at stations or on the street, but everyone was always so kind and patient in giving me directions, never once looking annoyed.
One memory that really stands out is when my phone died, and I ended up completely lost. I wandered around for what felt like forever, starting to panic, until I came across a local security guard. He pulled out a large map and carefully explained how to get from where I was to the nearest station. I’ll never forget how relieved I felt in that moment—it truly showed me the warmth and kindness of people in Japan.”
Why Ekoda? Key Points Behind Choosing This Neighborhood
With so many stations to choose from in Tokyo, why did she decide on Ekoda along the Seibu Line?
“The main reason is that my university, Nihon University College of Art, was in Ekoda (laughs). It was just a 2-minute walk from the station to campus, so the convenience was unbeatable.
Once I started living here, I realized it had the perfect balance. On one hand, it has the lively atmosphere of a student town, but just a short walk away you’ll find quiet residential streets. I also love the easy access—just 3 stops (about 6 minutes) to Ikebukuro, and only about 30 minutes to Shibuya. Before I knew it, I had already been here for 5 or 6 years.”
What’s it really like living in a student town like Ekoda?
“Around the station there’s a lively shopping street where you can find everything—from groceries to daily necessities—so you never have to worry about everyday life. Since it’s a student town, there are plenty of affordable and delicious restaurants, cafés, karaoke spots, and bookstores too.
Honestly, you could spend the whole day just around Ekoda Station and never get bored. Even after living here for years, it still feels fresh and enjoyable.”
Do you have any favorite spots in the area?
“I love ramen, so there are two shops I go to often: Menya Kintoki and Kagura. Their tantanmen and tsukemen are absolutely amazing—I’d recommend anyone to try them at least once.
And of course, my alma mater, Nihon University College of Art, is very special to me. It’s filled with memories and will always feel like the place where it all began.”
A Message for Those Planning to Live in Japan
“Ekoda Station, where I live, is known as a student town with a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere. There are several universities nearby, which gives the area a youthful energy, but at the same time you can also feel the warmth of a close-knit local community.
With plenty of affordable and delicious restaurants, cafés, and all the shops you need for daily life, it’s a great place for anyone starting out on their own.
he access to central Tokyo is also excellent, so if you want both the convenience of the city and the comfort of a quieter neighborhood, I can truly recommend Ekoda.”
