“I’m looking for a room where I can play instruments in Hiroshima, but I don’t know where to live…”
If you are doing musical activities in Hiroshima, the answer might simply be: “Naka-ku”. Hiroshima has a face as a “City of Music”, home to a professional orchestra (Hiroshima Symphony) and a historic music university in the city center.
In this article, we explain how to efficiently find soundproof/instrument-allowed properties focusing on Hiroshima’s unique “Music College Area”.
Conclusion: Rentals concentrate in “Naka-ku (Around Music Univ.)”#
The biggest key point when searching in Hiroshima City is the existence of “Elisabeth University of Music”.
Located in Noboricho, Naka-ku, many students and lecturers live around this university. Therefore, real estate agencies concentrate “Instrument Negotiable” properties in this specific area. It is overwhelmingly more efficient to narrow your search to “Around the University” rather than searching blindly on general sites.
Rent Market: ¥60,000+ for 1R/1K#
Since Naka-ku is near the city center (Hatchobori/Kamiya-cho), rent is slightly higher than other wards.
- Soundproof Mansion (1R/1K): ¥65,000 - ¥80,000 (approx. $430 - $530 USD)
- Student Apartment (Instrument Negotiable): ¥50,000s (approx. $330 USD)
Target Areas and Features#
1. Naka-ku (Noboricho / Kanayama-cho Area)#
Within walking distance to Elisabeth Univ. and close to Hiroshima Station via streetcar.
- Features: Highest number of properties. Options range from 24-hour soundproof mansions to “Instrument Negotiable” apartments with playing time limits.
- Note: Some properties are close to the entertainment district (Nagarekawa), so strictly check the nighttime environment during viewing.
2. Minami-ku / Higashi-ku (Hiroshima Station Area)#
Just across the river from Naka-ku.
- Features: Rent tends to be cheaper than Naka-ku. If you can commute by bicycle, you might find good rooms in the ¥50,000 range.
3. Search Tips#
In Hiroshima, the mainstream style is “Instrument Negotiable in Standard Properties (Piano OK)” rather than “Fully Soundproof Rooms”.
- Must Check: Rules are specific (e.g., “Upright Piano OK, Grand Piano NG”, “No Brass Instruments”). Always confirm your instrument type with the agent.
Music Studio Situation in Hiroshima#
If playing at home is difficult, or you want to practice late at night, use external studios. Hiroshima has a strong band culture and good studios.
- Studio Jam (Asaminami-ku, etc.): Popular among local bands. Good gear.
- NORI SOUND (Naka-ku): Has 24-hour studios, perfect for late-night practice.
- Ward Cultural Centers (Kumin Bunka Center): Each ward in Hiroshima City has cultural centers with “Music Rooms” or “Practice Rooms” available at very low rates. Great for students wanting to save money.
Recommended Rent Search Sites & Keywords#
Apart from major national sites, try these local search methods.
- Kanaderoom (Hiroshima Version): Check market prices here first.
- Student Rental Sites (UniLife, Able Student Support, etc.):
- Hidden Gems: Even if labeled “Student Only”, they often introduce similar “Instrument Negotiable” properties owned by the same landlord to non-students. Check special features for “Elisabeth Univ. Area”.
Summary: Move with the Music Students#
The instrument rental market in Hiroshima moves in sync with music students (Enrollment/Graduation). The peak season for new listings is “January to March”. Good rooms fill up immediately after university acceptance results are announced.
If you want to live with music in Hiroshima, target “Naka-ku” and move quickly during the spring season.
Related Articles#
- [Sapporo Case]: Sapporo Soundproof Rental Guide
- [Checklist]: Rental Contract Checkpoints
- [Comparison]: Renting vs Buying a Soundproof Room