Mariko's place was comfortable and we really feel like we are living like a local. The place is just nice to fit two people.
There's a few convenient stores around like Daiso and Family Mart. There's also a 24hr shop selling nice chirashi bowl and seafood (we love the Kimchi Seafood Yukhoe!) And the neighbourhood was peaceful.
It would take about 8 minutes to walk to Hirai Station but we were fine with the distance.