Setagaya-ku, Japan

With a population of over 877,000, Setagaya-ku is the most populous special ward in Tokyo. However, the sprawling residential neighborhoods and lack of north-south rail lines mean navigating the area can be a bureaucratic headache. Life expectancy for women is an impressive 88.9 years, but the density and sheer size of the ward make it feel more like a small city than a Tokyo suburb. Setagaya boasts an impressive array of parks, museums, and cultural facilities, but those seeking a more intimate, walkable community may find the scale and sprawl overwhelming.