Top 10 Best Tokyo Neighborhoods to Live In: A Guide for Expats

Tokyo, Japan's capital city, is a metropolis offering a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle. Whether you're a local resident seeking a new place to call home or an expatriate moving to Japan, finding the right neighborhood is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most popular areas among both Japanese residents and expatriates, highlighting what makes each neighborhood unique.

Popular Neighborhoods to Live in Tokyo

1. Hiroo (広尾)

Atmosphere: International and upscale

Highlights:

• International Schools
• Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park
• National Azabu Supermarket

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥275,000
Train line: Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line

Detailed Description:

Hiroo is a prestigious neighborhood located in Tokyo's Minato Ward, highly favored by expatriates for its international ambiance and high-end living. The area is home to several international schools, such as the Hiroo Gakuen and The British School in Tokyo, making it an ideal location for families relocating to Japan. The presence of these institutions fosters a diverse community, easing the transition for expatriate children adapting to a new culture.

At the heart of Hiroo lies Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park, featuring landscaped gardens, ponds, and walking paths. The park offers a paeceful retreat where residents can enjoy nature, exercise, or have picnics, all within the city. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets and low-rise architecture contribute to its relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

National Azabu Supermarket is a cornerstone of the expatriate community in Hiroo. This international grocery store provides a wide range of imported foods and products that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, making it easier for foreigners to find familiar items from home. Additionally, the area has an array of international restaurants and cafes, such as Burger Mania Hiroo and Blue & White, enhancing its cosmopolitan vibe.

2. Akasaka (赤坂)

Atmosphere: Professional and sophisticated

Highlights:

• Akasaka Sacas
• Hie Shrine
• Business Hotels

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥303,400
Train line: Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line

Detailed Description:

Akasaka is a central Tokyo district that seamlessly blends business, entertainment, and traditional culture. Known for its proximity to government offices and corporate headquarters, Akasaka attracts business professionals and diplomats. The area offers a sophisticated atmosphere with high-end hotels like The Capitol Hotel Tokyu and ANA InterContinental Tokyo, providing luxury accommodations and venues for conferences and events.

Akasaka Sacas is a multi-use complex that includes the Biz Tower office building, ACT Theater, and a shopping and dining area. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and seasonal events like the winter illumination. The variety of restaurants and cafes within the complex, such as Bistro L'Assiette and Toraya Akasaka, cater to diverse tastes and occasions.

Amidst the modern architecture, Hie Shrine offers a touch of tradition. This Shinto shrine, with its distinctive red torii gates and lush surroundings, provides a peaceful escape and hosts the annual Sanno Matsuri, one of Tokyo's major festivals. Akasaka's strategic location and blend of modern amenities with cultural sites make it an attractive neighborhood for those seeking convenience and a touch of elegance.

3. Ebisu (恵比寿)

Atmosphere: Stylish and convenient

Highlights:

• Ebisu Garden Place
• Yebisu Beer Museum
• Fine Dining

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥252,000
Train line: JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line

Detailed Description:

Ebisu is a fashionable district that offers a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite among expatriates and affluent locals. The centerpiece of the neighborhood is Ebisu Garden Place, a mixed-use development that includes office spaces, luxury apartments, the Westin Tokyo Hotel, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The complex also houses the Yebisu Beer Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of one of Japan's most famous beer brands and enjoy tastings.

Ebisu is renowned for its culinary scene, having an impressive array of dining options that range from traditional Japanese cuisine to international fare. High-end restaurants like Joel Robuchon, located within Ebisu Garden Place, offer exquisite French dining experiences. The area's streets are lined with cozy cafes and bars, such as Hacienda del Cielo, which provides Mexican cuisine with rooftop views.

Transportation is highly convenient with Ebisu Station serving the Yamanote Line, Hibiya Line, and the Saikyo Line, providing easy access to other parts of Tokyo. The neighborhood's stylish ambiance, coupled with its amenities and connectivity, makes Ebisu an ideal location for those seeking a comfortable and upscale urban lifestyle.

4. Aoyama (青山)

Atmosphere: Fashionable and elegant

Highlights:

• Omotesando Avenue
• Nezu Museum
• Chic Cafes

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥306,800
Train line: Hanzomon Line, Oedo Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line

Detailed Description:

Aoyama is one of Tokyo's most stylish and upscale neighborhoods, known for its high-end fashion boutiques, sophisticated dining, and contemporary architecture. The area is anchored by Omotesando Avenue, often referred to as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, a tree-lined boulevard showcasing flagship stores of international luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Dior. The architecture along Omotesando is a visual feast, featuring works by renowned architects such as Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma, making it a destination for design enthusiasts.

Beyond shopping, Aoyama offers cultural richness with institutions like the Nezu Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art. The museum's tranquil Japanese garden provides a serene escape from the urban environment. The neighborhood is also dotted with chic cafes and restaurants, such as Cafe Kitsuné, blending Parisian and Tokyo influences, and Two Rooms Grill & Bar, offering panoramic city views and modern cuisine.

Living in Aoyama provides expatriates with a luxurious lifestyle amidst art, fashion, and gourmet experiences. The area's residential options include upscale apartments and condominiums equipped with premium amenities. With easy access to public transportation via the Omotesando Station on the Ginza, Chiyoda, and Hanzomon Lines, residents can conveniently navigate the city. Aoyama's blend of elegance and modernity makes it an attractive neighborhood for those seeking a sophisticated urban experience.

5. Daikanyama (代官山)

Atmosphere: Trendy and artistic

Highlights:

• Independent Boutiques
• T-Site Complex
• Stylish Cafes

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥268,200
Train line: Tokyu Toyoko Line

Detailed Description:

Daikanyama is often compared to a quaint European village nestled within Tokyo. Known for its luxurious and trendy atmosphere, the neighborhood hosts creatives, young professionals, and expatriates seeking a modern urban experience. The area is characterized by low-rise buildings, leafy streets, and a relaxed pace that contrasts with the city's more frenetic districts.

A centerpiece of Daikanyama is the T-Site Complex, an architecturally acclaimed space that houses the flagship Tsutaya Books store. The complex offers an extensive selection of books, magazines, music, and films, along with cozy lounges and cafes where visitors can unwind. The site often hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and workshops, fostering a sense of community and creativity.

Daikanyama's streets are lined with independent boutiques offering curated selections of fashion, home goods, and artisanal products. Shops like Okura, specializing in traditional Japanese indigo-dyed clothing, and Hollywood Ranch Market, featuring casual wear, reflect the neighborhood's eclectic style. The area is also famous for its stylish cafes and restaurants, such as Ivy Place, which offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a garden setting, and Spring Valley Brewery, serving craft beers and modern pub fare.

The neighborhood's appeal lies in its balance of urban convenience and intimate charm. Daikanyama Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line provides easy access to Shibuya and Yokohama, while the area's walkability encourages exploration of its hidden gems. For expats seeking a trendy and comfortable place to live, Daikanyama offers an inviting community with a touch of sophistication.

6. Nakameguro (中目黒)

Atmosphere: Chic and laid-back

Highlights:

• Cherry Blossom Canal
• Indie Shops
• Cozy Cafes

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥241,300
Train line: Tokyu Toyoko Line, Metro Hibiya Line

Detailed Description:

Nakameguro is a fashionable neighborhood that combines a relaxed ambiance with a vibrant cultural scene. The area is particularly famous for the Meguro River, which becomes a stunning spectacle during the cherry blossom season when the sakura trees lining the canal burst into bloom. The Nakameguro Sakura Festival attracts both locals and visitors who stroll along the illuminated riverbanks, enjoying food stalls and festive atmospheres.

The neighborhood is known for its indie shops and boutiques that offer a mix of vintage clothing, handcrafted goods, and unique home decor. Stores like 1LDK and Nakameguro Hikari showcase contemporary Japanese fashion and design, appealing to those with an eye for style and originality. The area's artistic flair is further reflected in galleries and studios that host exhibitions and workshops.

Nakameguro boasts an impressive selection of cozy cafes and restaurants nestled along the river and side streets. Onibus Coffee is a local favorite, serving specialty brews in a minimalist setting, while Tyffonium Cafe offers a blend of coffee and augmented reality experiences. For dining, Kan provides a refined take on Japanese cuisine, and The Great Burger Stand satisfies cravings for Western fare.

With its proximity to central Tokyo and a station served by the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Nakameguro offers convenient access while maintaining a neighborhood feel. The area's blend of natural beauty, creative energy, and relaxed pace makes it an appealing choice for expats seeking a hip and a more relaxed community.

7. Kichijoji (吉祥寺)

Atmosphere: Trendy and Relaxed

Highlights:

• Inokashira Park
• Harmonica Yokocho
• Stylish cafes and boutiques

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥173,900
Train Line: JR Chuo Line, Keio Inokashira Line

Detailed Description:

Kichijoji is a local neighborhood located in Musashino City, Tokyo, known for its unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It consistently ranks high in surveys as one of Japan's "Most Desirable Places to Live." The area offers easy access to central Tokyo while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere, attracting a diverse range of residents.

Inokashira Park, a major highlight of Kichijoji, provides a lush green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and enjoying cherry blossoms in the spring. Near the station, Harmonica Yokocho is an area filled with retro shops and modern eateries, offering a nostalgic yet contemporary vibe.

The neighborhood's trendy atmosphere is further enhanced by its stylish cafes, boutiques, art galleries, and live music venues. These features make Kichijoji popular among young people and creatives. The area's international flair also attracts expatriates seeking a balance between Japanese culture and global influences.

Kichijoji's residential areas offer a mix of mid to high-rise apartments near the station and quieter low-rise homes further away. This diversity in housing options makes it suitable for various lifestyles. The neighborhood's excellent transportation links via the JR Chuo Line and Keio Inokashira Line provide convenient access to Shinjuku, Shibuya, and other major hubs in Tokyo.

8. Kagurazaka (神楽坂)

Atmosphere: Cultural fusion

Highlights:

• Cobblestone Streets
• French Influence
• Traditional Ryotei

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥182,600
Train Line: Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, Yurakucho Line, Toei Oedo Line

Detailed Description:

Kagurazaka is a charming neighborhood that gracefully blends Japanese tradition with European influences, earning it the nickname "Little Paris" of Tokyo. Situated near the Imperial Palace, the area was historically a geisha district and retains an air of elegance and nostalgia. Cobblestone streets wind through the neighborhood, lined with old-style houses, hidden alleys, and traditional shops that invite exploration.

The French influence in Kagurazaka is evident through the presence of French schools like Lycée Français International de Tokyo, patisseries, and bistros. Restaurants such as Le Bretagne, specializing in Breton galettes and crepes, and Café-Creperie Le Coin Vert offer authentic French dining experiences. This cultural fusion creates a unique atmosphere where expatriates can enjoy a taste of Europe within Tokyo.

At the same time, Kagurazaka preserves its Japanese heritage through traditional ryotei (exclusive Japanese restaurants) and teahouses. Establishments like Kyourakutei serve soba noodles and tempura in settings that reflect the area's historical roots. The annual Kagurazaka Matsuri festival celebrates both the traditional Awa Odori dance and the local culture, attracting visitors from all over the city.

Kagurazaka's appeal lies in its serene environment, rich history, and cultural diversity. The neighborhood is conveniently accessible via Kagurazaka Station on the Tozai Line and Iidabashi Station on multiple lines, including the JR Chuo-Sobu Line and Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line. For expatriates who appreciate a blend of old and new, East and West, Kagurazaka offers a distinctive and welcoming community.

9. Nakano (中野)

Atmosphere: Subcultural and Retro

Highlights:

• Nakano Broadway
• Sun Mall
• Nakano Central Park

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥196,900
Train Line: JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Tozai Line

Detailed Description:

Nakano is a lively neighborhood in Tokyo, renowned for its subculture scene and retro charm. It is a hub for manga, anime, and gaming enthusiasts, attracting a younger demographic, particularly those in their 20s and 30s. The area offers excellent connectivity with easy access to Shibuya, Shinjuku, and other central Tokyo locations via multiple train lines.

At the heart of Nakano is Nakano Broadway, a famous shopping complex that caters to "otaku" culture with numerous stores selling vintage anime and manga merchandise. This destination is popular among collectors and tourists alike. Nearby, Sun Mall provides a variety of shopping options with its array of restaurants, clothing stores, and unique shops.

Nakano Central Park offers a green oasis amidst the urban environment, providing a space for relaxation and leisure activities. The park is surrounded by skyscrapers yet maintains a balance with nature, making it a favorite spot for residents seeking respite from city life.

The neighborhood's retro atmosphere is complemented by its art deco architecture and vibrant color schemes reminiscent of the 1980s. Despite its nostalgic feel, Nakano seamlessly integrates modernity with ongoing redevelopment projects such as the Nakano Sun Plaza transformation.

Nakano's residential areas offer affordable living options compared to central Tokyo wards like Minato and Shibuya. It is particularly appealing to young professionals, students, and families looking for spacious apartments at reasonable prices. The presence of universities like the University of Tokyo and Meiji University further enhances its appeal to students.

Overall, Nakano provides a unique blend of cultural vibrancy, affordability, and convenience, making it an attractive place to live for those who appreciate both modern amenities and traditional Japanese culture.

10. Den-en-chofu (田園調布)

Atmosphere: Affluent suburban living

Highlights:

• Spacious Homes
• Quiet Streets
• Community Facilities

Average Rent for 1LDK: ¥158,600
Train Line: Tokyu Toyoko Line, JR Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Tozai Line

Detailed Description:

Den-en-chofu is often considered Tokyo's premier garden suburb, renowned for its affluent ambiance, spacious residences, and meticulously planned streets. Modeled after the British garden city movement, the neighborhood was developed in the early 20th century to provide a harmonious living environment combining urban convenience with natural beauty making it a popular place to live among both wealthy expats and locals.

The area is characterized by tree-lined avenues, well-maintained parks, and large, Western-style homes with gardens—an uncommon luxury in Tokyo. The architectural styles vary from traditional Japanese to European influences, reflecting the international taste of its residents. Den-en-chofu's quiet streets and low-density housing offer a serene environment, making it highly sought after by wealthy locals and expatriate families.

Community facilities such as Den-en-chofu Seseragi Park and Den-en-chofu Gymnasium provide recreational opportunities for residents. The neighborhood also hosts various community events and festivals that foster a close-knit atmosphere. Local shops and cafes near Den-en-chofu Station cater to daily needs while maintaining the area's refined aesthetic.

Transportation is convenient with Den-en-chofu Station served by the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyu Meguro Line, offering direct access to central Tokyo and Yokohama. Despite its suburban feel, the neighborhood's connectivity ensures that residents can easily commute to business districts or international schools.

Den-en-chofu's combination of luxury, privacy, and community spirit makes it an ideal location for expatriate families seeking a high-quality living environment. The neighborhood embodies a distinct blend of exclusivity and comfort, providing a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Conclusion

Tokyo's vast array of neighborhoods ensures that there's a perfect fit for every expatriate, whether you're a young professional, a family, or someone seeking a luxurious lifestyle. From the international ambiance of Hiroo and Azabu to the artistic vibes of Daikanyama and Nakameguro, each area offers unique experiences and amenities.

When selecting a neighborhood, consider your lifestyle preferences, proximity to work or schools, and the type of community you wish to be part of. Visiting these neighborhoods, exploring their local attractions, and engaging with the community can greatly assist in making an informed decision.

Embrace the adventure of living in one of the world's most dynamic cities, and find the neighborhood that feels like home to you. Tokyo's cosmopolitan nature and rich cultural tapestry await your discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Kichijoji considered one of Tokyo's best areas to live?

A: Kichijoji is highly regarded for its blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It offers a vibrant shopping district, numerous restaurants, and the beautiful Inokashira Park. The area has a relaxed atmosphere while still providing easy access to central Tokyo, making it a desirable neighborhood for many.

Q: Is Shibuya a good neighborhood to live in Tokyo?

A: Shibuya is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. It's known for its famous crossing, trendy shops, and active nightlife. While it can be busy, Shibuya also has quieter residential areas nearby. Its central location and proximity to other popular areas like Harajuku and Yoyogi Park make it an attractive option for many looking to live in the heart of Tokyo.

Q: What are the benefits of living in Meguro?

A: Meguro is known for its upscale residential areas and beautiful cherry blossom spots along the Meguro River. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some of Tokyo's busier districts while still providing excellent amenities and easy access to central Tokyo. The area is popular among families and professionals looking for a balance between city life and a quieter environment.

Q: What should I consider when looking for an apartment in Tokyo?

A: When looking to rent an apartment in Japan, particularly in Tokyo, consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, local amenities like supermarkets and convenience stores, the size of the apartment (which tends to be smaller in Tokyo), and your budget. It's also important to think about the neighborhood's atmosphere and whether it aligns with your lifestyle preferences.

Q: Are there any quieter areas to live within Tokyo that are still convenient?

A: Yes, there are several quieter residential areas in Tokyo that still offer convenience. Neighborhoods like Kichijoji, parts of Meguro, and some areas in Setagaya ward provide a more relaxed atmosphere while still being well-connected to central Tokyo. These areas often feature local shopping streets, parks, and a strong sense of community.

Q: How do Tokyo's western suburbs compare as places to live?

A: Tokyo's western suburbs, including areas like Kichijoji and parts of Suginami and Nerima wards, offer a good balance of urban convenience and suburban calm. These areas tend to have more spacious housing options, abundant green spaces, and strong local communities. While they're further from central Tokyo, they're still well-connected by train, making them popular among families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Q: What are some of the best neighborhoods to live in Tokyo in 2024?

A: Some of the best neighborhoods to live in Tokyo in 2024 include Kichijoji, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Meguro, Ikebukuro, and Harajuku. These areas offer a great balance of convenience, amenities, and lifestyle options, making them popular choices for both locals and expatriates.