A Guide to Living in Azabu, Japan
An upscale residential area due to the many embassies in the vicinity, the area is home to many diplomats. And within walking distance to Nishimachi International School and the American School in Japan’s Early Learning Center, it has become quite an international neighborhood in Tokyo. And despite the modernizing of most parts of Tokyo, Azabu has managed to retain its old-school, down-to-earth vibe, with its narrow, cobblestone streets, and numerous shops now reaching over a century old.
Highlights
- A prestigious and established neighborhood.
- A quiet neighborhood despite being a few minutes’ walk from the boisterous Roppongi.
- An expat friendly area mixed in with traditional Japanese ambiance.
- It has retained some of the highest land prices in Japan over the years.
Location
Just down the street from Roppongi, Azabu is also between Tokyo Tower, Shiba Park, Roppongi-itchome, and Shirokane.
Accessibility
Azabujuban is served by several rail service providers, the Tokyo Metro and the Toei Subway. Together, they will take you to many places in Tokyo.
From the Tokyo Metro, you can access the:
Namboku Line
From the Toei Subway, you can access the:
Oedo Line
Residents can also get to Shibuya, Shirokane, Hiroo, Mita, or Tamachi with the buses that conveniently run through the area.
Things to do in Azabu
Though only held once a year at the end of August, the Juban Matsuri has been a long-standing tradition that has grown in popularity every year since the 1960s. With plenty of food stalls, performances, kid-friendly games, and a haunted house for good measure, it is an experience the whole family can enjoy.
The Take-no-Yu Onsen is a hidden gem in the middle of the city that is over a century old. Hot spring water taken from so deep underground that the peat and volcanic ash make it dark brown in color, it is actually lauded for rejuvenating skin.
Part of one of the largest retail chains in Japan, the Tsutaya in Azabu is a well-designed bookstore complete with lounge, bar, and Starbucks café. Right by Roppongi Hills and on the main street of Azabu-juban, visitors can drop by for a quick pit stop or peruse its selection of music, movies, headphones, stationary, and various luxury items.
One of Japan’s oldest public parks, Shiba Park is a beautiful spot with views of Tokyo Tower, Shiba Toshogu Shrine, and Zojoji Temple. It is a great area for a picnic and particularly popular during cherry blossom season.
Restaurants and Bars
With the concept of “Bringing LA to you!” Blu Jam Café serves a delicious egg, hash, or fish filled brunch menu, and generous plates of burritos, sandwiches, burgers, or French toast. If you are craving Tex-Mex, Blu Jam is highly recommended.
Soul Food House offers authentic homemade American Southern and Cajun cuisine in a comfortable and warm environment, with “classics from mac & cheese to chicken & dumplings to shrimp & grits and so much more.”
Jojoen is a high-end yakiniku (grilled meat cuisine) chain that features an incredible selection of meats, including wagyu beef and other mouth-watering ingredients.
The Public Six is a gastropub with six types of craft beer on tap, its own signature cocktails, and Japanese sake, wine, and whiskey. And its appetizing food menu uses quality domestic ingredients so you can enjoy a great Japanese spin on the bar dining experience.
For those that like to cook at home, there is Nissin World Delicatessen, an expat-friendly supermarket with many international imported products; Daiei Foodium, the local Japanese supermarket; Picard, specializing in frozen food and high-quality, ready-made meals; and Bio c’ Bon, a health-conscious, organic supermarket from France.
Buying or Renting Real Estate in Azabu, Japan
If you are interested in buying real estate or renting an apartment, there are many options in Azabujuban available. With the great amenities, attractions, and international culture, Azabujuban remains a great choice for property in Tokyo.
With our expertise in the Tokyo market, we support and consult with Japanese and international clients in the renting, buying, renovating, and selling processes of real estate. If you are interested in renting real estate, please check out our rental site below:
If you are interested in purchasing real estate, there are many options in the Tokyo area available, and we would be happy to have a conversation with you. If you would like more information on real estate in Azabujuban or in other parts of the Tokyo area, please fill out our contact form or give us a call to get in touch.