Tokyo Guide
Tokyo consists of 23 wards, or “Ku,” which are as varied as those who live in them. Some are particularly popular with expats due to their available services and conveniences, such as easy access to international schools or common expat companies.
Apartment Rates in Tokyo
Below are recommended monthly rental rates for unfurnished properties in Tokyo, Japan.
** All denominations in JPY
1BR | 2BR | 3BR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expensive (Akasaka, Azabu, Hiroo, Roppongi) | (60 – 100 sqm)
| (100 – 140 sqm)
| (120 – 200 sqm) |
| Moderate (Ichigaya, Iidabashi, Meguro, Omotesando, Ota, Shinagawa, Setagaya) | (50 – 80 sqm) | (80 – 120 sqm) | (100 – 150 sqm) |
| Less expensive (Japanese-style properties) | (40 – 70 sqm) | (50 – 90 sqm) | (70 – 100 sqm) |
Popular Tokyo Expat Areas
The majority of people living in city areas in Japan use the closest station’s name to refer to their neighborhood. For example, those with an address in Minami-Azabu in Tokyo would say that they lived in Hiroo as this is the closest station to their home.
Having trouble working out, which area is best suited to the type of lifestyle you would like to lead in Japan? See our guide for information on the popular expat areas to live in Tokyo.
Having trouble working out, which area is best suited to the type of lifestyle you would like to lead in Japan? See our guide for information on the popular expat areas to live in Tokyo.
Azabudai
This area is the newest commercial/residential complex in Tokyo produced by Mori building. Two high end and high-rise apartments along with high brand boutiques lining up look like a new town has just been created. Changed the cityscape/scenery dramatically.
Azabu-Juban
Azabu Juuban’s main street is one of the few treasured places in the center of Tokyo that still has a traditional “Japanese” feel to it. A mixture of old shops and New Trendy, and you will often find long lines of people that have come from afar to experience its delicacies. Conveniently located within walking distance of Hiroo and Roppongi Hills which attracts Expats.
Hiroo
The Hiroo station area (Commonly known as Azabu) is otherwise known as “expat family oriented ,” with many foreign residents. This area has a vast number of facilities available to foreigners, including embassies and consulates, international preschools and kindergartens, international supermarkets, and parks. Arisugawa Park is a very popular place to visit for those with small children.
Roppongi
The area around Roppongi station offers plenty of local / international food and entertainment. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown include not only business and residential areas, but the lower floor and basement floors offer a variety of shops. This area is very popular among international families as many types of residences desired by expatriates, are available. Local subway system, international school bus route, kindergarten, English speaking services are also available.
Omotesando（Aoyama, Harajuku）
Omotesando, often called the ‘Champs-Elysees of Tokyo,’ features a tree-lined avenue with upscale boutiques and cafes. Nearby, the Aoyama area offers a refined and tranquil living environment, adjacent to the historic Aoyama Cemetery and famous for its cherry blossoms. With Harajuku close by, it’s ideal for those seeking both serenity and city convenience.
Shoto
Shoto is a small and exclusive residential neighborhood within walking distance of Shibuya Station. While Shibuya is lively day and night, Shoto offers a quiet and refined atmosphere in a calm residential area. With easy access to shopping and multiple train lines, it’s a popular choice for expat family living. Yoyogi Park is also in the neighborhood.
Yoyogi Uehara / Yoyogi Koen
These areas are most popular for those with children attending the American School in Japan (ASIJ) due to the shorter bus ride than from other areas. Larger western-style housing is easier to come by, and most of the areas are quiet and relaxed, giving a suburban feel. The largest Mosque in Japan gives you feeling of East meets West. Yoyogi Park is located nearby, Good Walk with dogs and events often take place here on the weekends.
Hiroo
The Hiroo station area (Commonly known as Azabu) is otherwise known as “expat family oriented ,” with many foreign residents. This area has a vast number of facilities available to foreigners, including embassies and consulates, international preschools and kindergartens, international supermarkets, and parks. Arisugawa Park is a very popular place to visit for those with small children.
Meguro / Gotanda
These areas are popular by local Japanese and foreign residents especially single
/ couple without children as the area offers variety of local / international food and entertainment. Not too far from Tokyo’s hub area by subway or train that established safe and exciting foreign community you can experience Japanese local life. A large variety of housing is available for much less than in other traditional expat areas.
Nakameguro
Nakameguro is a trendy but peaceful downtown area popular with music, fashion, and art lovers. The area has a quiet and traditional feel, making it difficult to believe that you are just a hop away from bustling neighborhoods such as Shibuya and Ebisu. It is very popular among young expatriates and students that makes it very lively yet safe as residential area. Not many stands alone houses, but stylish small apartments are available.
Jiyugaoka (Toritsu-dai)
Jiyugaoka is a fashionable town nested within an affluent residential area and is most noted for its many homeware stores and boutiques. The narrow streets, quaint and unique shops, and village-like atmosphere of Jiyugaoka is popular with those wanting to be in a convenient location to both Shibuya and Yokohama.
Meguro / Gotanda
These areas are popular by local Japanese and foreign residents especially single
/ couple without children as the area offers variety of local / international food and entertainment. Not too far from Tokyo’s hub area by subway or train that established safe and exciting foreign community you can experience Japanese local life. A large variety of housing is available for much less than in other traditional expat areas.
Iidabashi / Kagurazaka / Ichigaya
The Iidabashi–Kagurazaka–Ichigaya area blends history and charm, with the nearby Imperial Palace quietly hidden behind moats and walls. Despite the French school’s relocation to Itabashi, the area remains popular among Western residents—especially the French—thanks to a convenient school bus service.
Housing is limited, but spacious expat-style apartments can be found with good timing.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is the busiest station in Japan, with some 7 million people passing through it each day. The area constantly has a crowded feel with an abundance of office buildings, department stores, and hotels. Housing is generally not available in the heart of the district, but in the west side, we do have sort of landmark high-rise apartment which is overlooking Shinjuku Central Park. Just like NY.
Iidabashi / Kagurazaka / Ichigaya
The Iidabashi–Kagurazaka–Ichigaya area blends history and charm, with the nearby Imperial Palace quietly hidden behind moats and walls. Despite the French school’s relocation to Itabashi, the area remains popular among Western residents—especially the French—thanks to a convenient school bus service.
Housing is limited, but spacious expat-style apartments can be found with good timing.
Ginza
Ginza is a vibrant blend of tradition and modern luxury, constantly evolving with new flagship stores, gourmet experiences, and seasonal events.
While Ginza remains one of Tokyo’s most exclusive areas, housing options tend to be small in scale and limited in availability.
Futako-Tamagawa / Yoga
A popular choice for those families with children attending St. Mary’s (boys’ school) and Seisen (girls’ school), this area is excellent for those wanting to escape the city but still have good commercial/shopping district nearby. The neighborhoods are pleasant and peaceful, abundant with greenery and weekend activity for jogging/cycling along Tama river side.
Denenchofu
Known for one of the richest residential areas in Tokyo, restricted only low-rise resident district by Zoning code which preserve beautiful cityscape. Tama River is a popular place for barbecues and picnics. Since German School moved to the other side of Tama River, Denenchofu became German community due to the short bus ride to the school. Many properties, including detached houses with gardens and luxury apartments, are available.
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