Living in Kashiwa

The largest commercial hub in northwestern Chiba Prefecture, with shopping streets developed around the Takashimaya Station Mall. A lot of foot traffic from young people gives it a lively atmosphere. However, Sogo Kashiwa closed in 2016 and its site is still being redeveloped, so it is no longer the old two-department-store setup, and it is a neighborhood for people who want to enjoy this commercial district at cheaper rents than Tokyo.

It is a lively district in northwestern Chiba where three lines meet, including the JR Joban Line (Rapid and local) and the Tobu Noda Line. Shopping streets and department stores are so developed that it is called 'the Shibuya of Chiba', making it popular with young people. As a large lively district, it is somewhat hectic at night and far from the city center. Access to Ueno and Tokyo Station is quick on the Joban Rapid, and with reasonable rents it is a hub popular with both families and single residents.