Why the South Side of Ayase Station is Booming: How New Openings Transformed the Area in 2026
Until recently, shopping in Ayase meant going to the East or North exits to visit stores like Ito-Yokado or Belx. Many residents felt that while the south side was a quiet, peaceful neighborhood, it lacked convenient spots to grab groceries on the way home from work or school.
That picture has changed dramatically. In November 2025, the discount supermarket "OK Store" opened right in front of the station in the "Sunrise Ayase" building, followed by the popular conveyor-belt sushi chain "Sushiro" on the 3rd floor in June 2026. These two key additions have made the south exit highly convenient. Let's look at how this changes the daily routine for expats and students living in Tokyo.
OK Store is Here: Cut Your Monthly Grocery Bill Without Stress
OK Store is famous for offering groceries and household items at deep discounts. While some locals used to ride their bicycles to farther branches, having one right in front of the station means you can easily stop by on your way home. It makes budgeting simple, especially if you are new to the local currency.
You can find ready-to-eat bento boxes and side dishes starting in the 200 to 300 yen range. Basic ingredients, sauces, and frozen foods are consistently priced lower than standard supermarkets. If you cook at home regularly, buying groceries here can save you thousands of yen each month, freeing up cash for weekend trips or dining out.
Sushiro in Town: Casual Dining That Welcomes Everyone
Finding a casual place to eat where you don't have to worry about complex language interactions is a huge relief when you are tired. The new Sushiro at the station offers a stress-free experience for everyone, including those who are still learning Japanese.
You can order using a touchscreen that supports English, Chinese, and Korean. Having a casual spot where you can grab a quick plate of sushi on a busy Friday night, or enjoy a meal with friends, adds a comfortable layer of convenience to living in Ayase South.
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Ayase North vs. South: Which Side Fits Your Lifestyle?
When searching for a room around Ayase Station, people often ask, "Which side is better, North or South?" Historically, the north exit was the go-to choice for shopping due to the massive Ito-Yokado. However, knowing the local trade-offs can help you find a better home. It is also helpful to check the rental guidelines and compromises of nearby Kita-Ayase, another starting station on the Chiyoda Line, to make a well-rounded decision.
Making the Most of Both Worlds: OK Store and Ito-Yokado
Thanks to the new OK Store, you no longer need to cross over to the north side just for grocery shopping; everything can be finished on the south side. However, if you are looking for clothing, electronics, or specific international items, the large Ito-Yokado on the north side is still very useful. Being able to choose your shopping route based on what you need is a major plus of living in Ayase.
A Peaceful Residential Area Just Steps from the Station
While the lively dining streets on the north side are fun to visit, many people prefer a quiet environment around their own home. In Ayase South, once you pass the bright store signs in front of the station, you are immediately in a calm residential zone. This contrast between convenience and quiet makes the south side ideal for students and professionals looking for a relaxing space after a busy day.
Apartment Hunting in Ayase South: Price Ranges and Guarantor Tips
With the area becoming more convenient, interest in properties in Ayase South is growing. Let's look at the average rent by apartment size.
Ideal Layouts for Students, Professionals, and Couples
A 1LDK apartment (great for couples or singles who want extra space) runs around 100,000 to 110,000 yen. A larger 2LDK apartment typically falls between 130,000 and 150,000 yen. For an area that offers direct Chiyoda Line access to central Tokyo stations like Otemachi, these rates are highly competitive. By choosing Ayase, you can secure a spacious layout while keeping your monthly costs low, allowing you to save money for travel or hobbies in Japan.
Start Your Tokyo Life in Ayase South: Convenient, Affordable, and Welcoming
The quality of your daily life depends heavily on having a good discount supermarket nearby. Ayase South offers exactly that—affordable groceries and convenient dining in a welcoming atmosphere. For anyone planning to move, it is an excellent choice. To prepare for your move, reading a guide on upfront costs for renting in Tokyo and how to save money will help you plan your budget smoothly.
If you are looking for an apartment around Ayase, Sorai Tokyo is here to help. We specialize in assisting international residents, offering support in English and Vietnamese. We can help you find guarantor-free properties and guide you through the tenant screening process without stress. Feel free to message us on LINE to start your search!
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Author: Sorai Tokyo Editorial Team (Supervised by Licensed Real Estate Agents)
A real estate consulting team specializing in assisting foreign nationals find rooms and explaining initial costs in Tokyo. We break down language barriers and differences in customs, offering dedicated support in Japanese, English, and Vietnamese for a safe and secure start to your new life.