#Japan #Tokyo #Resident Satisfaction #Setagaya

An In-Depth Look at Setagaya's Livability Satisfaction Survey

Setagaya, a popular residential area in Tokyo, is often lauded for its livability among the 23 districts of the metropolis. Recently, a satisfaction survey conducted by MEMOCO and Sumunara explored various facets of life in Setagaya, gathering feedback from 116 residents to understand their perspectives on transportation, safety, and accessibility among other factors.

Overview of the Survey

The research focused on residents' satisfaction with their neighborhood, utilizing an online survey between January 29, 2025, and April 25, 2025. The participants included 116 individuals, with a higher number of females (70) than males (46).

Participants' Demographics

According to the survey, the age breakdown of respondents is as follows:

• - 20s: 22%
• - 30s: 37%
• - 40s: 20%
• - 50s: 14%
• - 60s and above: 7%

When it comes to gender distribution, approximately 40% were men while 60% were women, reflecting a diverse view of living experiences in the area.

Transportation Satisfaction

Transit Accessibility: A Major Highlight

One of the strongest points raised by respondents was satisfaction with transportation. About 34% of participants indicated they were very satisfied with transit options available in Setagaya. Many praised quick access to major stations like Shinjuku and Shibuya, facilitated by multiple train lines such as the Odakyu, Keio, and Tokyu Den-en-toshi lines.

Residents commented, "It's just 30 minutes by train to Shinjuku," and "It’s convenient with both trains and buses available." However, some noted that intra-district movement could be inconvenient since only buses are available for north-south transit. Thus, there is room for improvement in this area.

Convenience of Daily Living

Shopping Accessibility: No Complaints

The survey also asked about shopping convenience, where a majority expressed contentment. Approximately 44% stated they were very satisfied with the ease of shopping in the area.

Comments from residents highlighted the abundance of supermarkets and drugstores, emphasizing the lack of inconveniences in daily life. Statements like, "There are several supermarkets and bento shops near the station," showcased the community's appreciation for convenient access to necessities. Additionally, some mentioned that the variety of shopping options with different price ranges added to the convenience of living in Setagaya.

Cost of Living

Price Level: Mixed Reactions

Satisfaction regarding property prices in Setagaya presented a dichotomy. While 53% were somewhat satisfied, a concerning 33% indicated they were somewhat unsatisfied. Many residents feel that the cost of living is higher compared to other regions.

Younger respondents, particularly families, raised concerns about high expenses related to living essentials, commenting on the high prices for food and daily goods. However, some still appreciated having both premium and budget-friendly stores available, recognizing the value of choice in shopping.

Commercial and Recreational Facilities

Disparate Views on Amenities

Satisfaction levels regarding commercial and entertainment facilities revealed a trend of mixed experiences based on geographic location within the district. For instance, residents living near popular hubs like Futako-Tamagawa or Shimokitazawa enjoyed proximity to malls and social scenes. Conversely, others expressed frustration about the scarcity of commercial options in their neighborhoods and the necessity to travel to enjoy varied recreational activities.

Safety and Security

High Confidence in Community Safety

Regarding safety, a considerable 46% of residents were very satisfied, indicating they felt secure living in Setagaya. Many residents noted that crime rates were low, fostering a sense of safety during night walks. Additionally, with Setagaya being reported as having the second-lowest crime rate among the 23 wards of Tokyo, it is a significant component of the area's appeal.

Natural Disaster Preparedness

Resilience Against Natural Threats

Assessments of safety against natural disasters showed a predominant trend of satisfaction as well, with 59% somewhat satisfied with measures in place. Residents commonly noted the absence of nearby rivers or landslide-prone hills. However, apprehensions emerged regarding densely packed residential neighborhoods potentially exacerbating risks during disasters. While many recognized the quality of safety protocols, doubts about their effectiveness remained largely untested.

Overall Satisfaction and Conclusion

A Community in Demand

Overall livability received glowing reviews, with 45% reporting very satisfied sentiments about their living experience in Setagaya. Residents echoed sentiments of affection for the community, with many mentioning its balance of nature and urban accessibility as prime factors contributing to their high satisfaction.

In summary, this survey sheds light on the aspects where Setagaya excels, such as transportation and living ease, while also highlighting areas for improvement like the cost of living and the uneven distribution of amenities. As Setagaya continues to evolve, its blend of urban and residential qualities positions it as a standout neighborhood in Tokyo, promising a bright future ahead for its inhabitants.