Jay's place is closer to JR Otsuka station and you will feel like local during a walk to the station. It is also close to Ikebukuro station but you it will take longer time to reach there -around 10-15 minutes-. Jay's apartment has basic needs that you need and in a very quiet residential area. We had no problem going up to the 5th floor with the stairs and for the luggage, Jay has some kind of pulley cart to bring your luggage to the top floor. Overall, it's worth to stay at Jay's apartment.