Living in Tsukuba Science City

The opening of the Tsukuba Express has improved access from Tsukuba to central Tokyo. It connects Tsukuba Station to Akihabara Station, a major station in central Tokyo, covering 58.3 kilometers in as little as 45 minutes. Access to major expressways in the Tokyo metropolitan area has also improved, making it easy to reach Narita Airport via expressway or bus.

Tsukuba boasts large shopping centers and stylish shops, making it easy to enjoy shopping and dining. Known as the “City of Bread,” it also features numerous bakeries and cafes where you can savor freshly baked bread.

The “Nova Hall” in the city center hosts concerts by internationally renowned musicians invited from abroad. The “Tsukuba Cultural Center Ars,” which combines a municipal library and art museum, and “Tsukuba Capio,” built as a community center, feature well-equipped sports and theater facilities.

Numerous sports facilities are readily available for everyone to use. Comprehensive parks with amenities like pools and tennis courts, along with fitness gyms, support healthy lifestyles. ⁽¹⁾

Housing is also provided for foreign researchers working at research institutions and universities, along with their families. Support covers all aspects of life in Tsukuba, including assistance with school enrollment procedures, advice on daily living such as shopping, Japanese language classes, and cultural exchange events.

New childcare centers and kindergartens are being established, and child-rearing support hubs offering counseling and community spaces are located throughout the city. This provides reassuring facilities, services, and environments for daily life and raising children.

At the Tsukuba Expo Center, you can experience the latest science and technology and discover the fun of science through numerous interactive exhibits. Other attractions include the “Science Museum of Map and Survey” and numerous booths showcasing research from various institutions. Many facilities offer tours by appointment. Additionally, several Jomon and Yayoi period archaeological sites and cultural heritage spots exist. Schools within the city actively pursue advanced educational initiatives like ICT education. Research institute staff sometimes lecture on their work in classrooms, and hands-on science events are held, further enriching the educational environment. ⁽²⁾

At the International Baccalaureate World School, Tsukuba International School, many international students receive education based on international standards.

Tsukuba features large parks throughout the city. Its approximately 48-kilometer-long “Pedestrian Deck” connects parks, residential areas, schools, and cultural/commercial facilities. This environment, surrounded by greenery, is ideal for walking, nature observation, and relaxation.

Mount Tsukuba, located north of Tsukuba City, is accessible by bus in about 30 minutes from Tsukuba Station. Known for its beautiful appearance, it's a popular spot for easy hiking and mountain climbing. At its base, there's also an adventure course featuring a large zip line as its highlight. Furthermore, the Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road cycling course connects Lake Kasumigaura to Mount Tsukuba, hosting diverse ride events.

Tsukuba is gaining attention as a popular area where you can enjoy both urban convenience and the tranquility of rural living. ⁽²⁾⁽³⁾