Tokyo Neighborhoods for Apartment for Language School

Hey! I’m planning on moving to Tokyo on a student visa for a year starting in January. My language school will be short walks from either the Okubo or Shin Okubo stations. Ideally, I’d like a commute by train of 30 minutes or less (max 45 min) so I guess along Yamanote, Chuo, or Fukutoshin lines. I’d like an area with some activity (bars and restaurants) and I also spend a good amount of time at night in Shinjuku on weekends so easy access to that area would be a plus (under 15 min taxi ride if I miss the last train is ideal).

I’m considering Hisgashi Nakano, Koenji, Yoyogi Uehara, Ikebukero West, and Takadanobaba. I’d like to balance cost/value, transit times, and a nice area.

Thoughts on these areas? Suggestions on other areas?

Thank you for your help!