Guide to Living in Akasaka: Where Most CEOs lives in Tokyo

Welcome to Akasaka

Welcome to Akasaka, one of Tokyo's most sophisticated districts where traditional charm meets modern luxury in the heart of Tokyo. Strolling through its streets, you'll sense an upscale yet inviting ambiance – the air perfumed with the aroma of grilling yakitori and the subtle sweetness of nearby patisseries. The Akasaka area is a place of delightful contrasts: by day you'll see polished businesspeople and diplomats amid sleek office towers, and by night the area transforms into a playground of lantern-lit izakayas and Michelin-starred restaurants. The neighborhood exudes a cosmopolitan buzz, boasting a mix of upscale bistros, luxury hotels, and commercial and residential properties in Akasaka. Yet tucked between the high-rises are cobbled lanes and hidden shrines that whisper of old Edo's tranquility.

Despite its central Tokyo energy, Akasaka maintains pockets of calm and tradition. Local shrines like Hie Jinja sit atop leafy hills, their vermillion torii gates and stone lanterns lending a peaceful aura just steps from busy avenues. The area is also known for its international flair – embassy offices and global companies are part of the fabric here, and you'll hear languages from around the world as residents from abroad mingle with lifelong Tokyoites. Safe, clean, and well-kept, Akasaka offers both excitement and ease. In this neighborhood, you can savor haute cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants one moment and join a lively festival dance the next, all while feeling right at home.

Daily Life in Akasaka

You wake to the gentle glow of sunlight filtering through your curtains. Stepping outside, you grab a cappuccino and fluffy chiffon cake at Shirotae, a beloved local café known for its cheesecake, as the neighborhood comes to life around you. The streets are clean and surprisingly quiet in the early hours – salarymen hurry into the subway at Akasaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and shopkeepers along Hitotsugi-dōri roll up their shutters. You might wander through the breezy walkways of Akasaka Sacas, the area's modern complex, where the aroma of freshly baked bread from a bakery mingles with a hint of incense from a small shrine tucked nearby. Passing the sleek glass facade of the TBS Broadcasting Center, you feel the energy of the day picking up.

At midday, the Akasaka area offers endless lunch options. You might stroll down a side street of red paper lanterns and duck into a cozy ramen-ya for a bowl of rich tonkotsu ramen, or enjoy a quick bento in Hinokicho Park behind Tokyo Midtown by a reflecting pond. If you work nearby, perhaps you'll walk over to the Akasaka Biz Tower plaza, where office workers and residents mix, browsing chic boutiques or enjoying matcha lattes under open skies. On a typical day, you find yourself running errands at the local specialty grocer – maybe picking up imported cheese and wine at Seijo Ishii – then exploring a craft gallery like Aoyama Square to admire regional ceramics. The neighborhood's blend of old and new is apparent as you pass both sleek banks and traditional Japanese sweet shops that have been here for generations.

As dusk falls, Akasaka glitters to life with its vibrant nightlife. Lanterns are lit outside tiny izakayas on side streets, and the aromas of soy, grilled fish, and charcoal drift through the air. You might meet friends at an upscale sushi bar, or head to Warayakiya for its famous straw-seared bonito, entering through a doorway draped in noren curtains. After dinner, the night is young – perhaps catch a show at the Akasaka ACT Theater or enjoy live jazz at an intimate bar. Walking home, you take a detour through the Hikawa Shrine grounds; the city's sounds fade beneath the canopy of ancient gingko trees, and for a moment it's just you and the gentle stir of leaves. Back on the main street, neon reflections dance on the pavement. When you live in Tokyo, your daily routine might include both a peaceful shrine visit and a nightcap on a skyscraper's terrace – all in the same day, all within the same remarkable residential area.

Popular Streets

Hitotsugi-dōri (一ツ木通り)

The main shopping and dining street of Akasaka, seen in daytime. This charming shotengai (shopping street) is the heart of the entertainment district in Akasaka. Lined with stylish restaurants, tiny bars, and boutiques, Hitotsugi-dōri bustles day and night. By day you'll find lunchtime crowds outside noodle shops and bakeries; by night the street glows under lantern light as patrons hop between sushi counters and yakitori grills. Despite being in downtown Tokyo, it retains a relaxed, pedestrian-friendly vibe – a perfect place to sample neighborhood eats and feel the Akasaka area's community spirit.

Akasaka Sacas

The entrance sign and gently sloping plaza of Akasaka Sacas, with modern buildings and trees around. A modern mini-city within the city, Akasaka Sacas is a gleaming complex centered around the Akasaka Biz Tower and TBS headquarters. Its pedestrian plaza and gentle slope (hence "Sacas," a play on saka meaning slope) host seasonal events – from winter ice-skating to summer festivals. Stroll here to enjoy upscale shopping, international restaurants, and occasional outdoor concerts. In the evenings, the area is lit with elegant illuminations, and you might catch TV personalities coming and going from the studio. It's a popular gathering spot that showcases the Akasaka area's contemporary, polished side.

Akasaka-Mitsuke

The Akasaka-Mitsuke intersection area is where old Tokyo charm meets urban buzz. Centered around Akasaka-Mitsuke Station (served by two major Tokyo Metro lines including the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Marunouchi Line), this zone is alive with activity. Sleek high-rise hotels and office towers overlook a maze of backstreets filled with yakitori-ya and cocktail bars. Under the railway tracks you'll discover intimate izakaya hideaways frequented by off-duty executives. The main crossings here are bright with signage and jumbotrons, but slip down a side alley and you'll find quiet sake bars or an antique shop that's been around for decades. It's an exciting sub-neighborhood that truly never sleeps and offers some of the most vibrant nightlife in central Tokyo.

Akasaka Hikawa

In contrast to the lively commercial streets, the Hikawa district (around Akasaka 6-chome) is a serene residential pocket anchored by the historic Hikawa Shrine. Here, winding lanes are lined with low-rise apartments and traditional houses, some with small manicured gardens. The shrine's lush grounds – filled with old trees, stone fox statues, and soft lantern light at dusk – imbue the area with tranquility. Walking these backstreets, you'll often hear birdsong instead of traffic. It's a favored area for those who seek a quieter, local atmosphere while still being a short walk from everything Akasaka offers.

Living in Akasaka: Housing and Rentals

Living in Akasaka reflects its status as an upscale urban enclave. The neighborhood is home to a mix of luxury high-rise residences and tucked-away low-rise apartments, many of which cater to professionals and expatriates seeking comfort and convenience. It's not uncommon to find doorman-equipped towers with sky lounges and gyms alongside older buildings brimming with vintage charm. The real estate market here is consistently high, and renting in Akasaka comes at a premium – in fact, rental prices in this part of Minato Ward rank among the highest in Tokyo. Many available units are in elegant complexes like Prudential Tower Residence or Akasaka The Residence, offering state-of-the-art amenities for those willing to pay for quality and convenience. Yet, even smaller apartments around Akasaka Station often boast modern finishes, safe surroundings, and excellent access to transport, making it a prime location for those who want both luxury and convenience.

To give you an idea of current rental averages (per month) in Akasaka (Minato Ward):

Apartment Type	Average Rent (¥) per month
Studio (1R)	¥122,000
1LDK (1 Bedroom)	¥215,000
2LDK (2 Bedroom)	¥401,000

(These figures reflect the high-end market of central Tokyo. Akasaka's rents are second only to the neighboring Imperial Palace area in Chiyoda Ward, underscoring its prestige.)

Despite the cost in yen, residents find value in the Akasaka area's livability. The typical resident here might be an international executive, an expat family, or a Japanese professional couple – people who appreciate the neighborhood's blend of excitement and ease. Many services are English-friendly, from clinics to dry cleaners, making overseas newcomers feel welcome. The demographics skew toward 30s and 40s professionals, often with high incomes; you'll also encounter diplomats and creatives drawn to the area's cultural offerings. Weekends see locals jogging up quiet hilly streets or enjoying brunch at a terrace café. It's a neighborhood where you can live the high-end Tokyo lifestyle while still feeling tucked into a close-knit community, considered to be one of the most sought-after residential areas in central Tokyo.

Where to Eat in Akasaka

Akasaka Kikunoi (赤坂 菊乃井)

A two-Michelin-star kaiseki restaurant nestled on a quiet backstreet. Dining here feels like entering a refined Kyoto teahouse – in fact, Kikunoi's history dates back to 1912 in Kyoto. Inside, you'll sit in private tatami rooms overlooking a tiny garden, while course after course of exquisite seasonal dishes are presented like works of art. The atmosphere is hushed and elegant, attracting celebrities and diplomats for special occasions. From delicate sashimi to beautifully plated grilled courses, Akasaka Kikunoi offers a transcendent taste of Japanese haute cuisine in serene surroundings. Reservations are essential for this unforgettable culinary experience at one of the top Michelin-starred restaurants in the Akasaka area.

Warayakiya Akasaka (わらやき屋 赤坂)

A lively izakaya that brings the flavors of rural Kochi Prefecture to Tokyo. The specialty here is katsuo tataki (seared bonito) prepared in a dramatic style: over an open flame fueled by straw, which imparts a smoky aroma and tender texture. The restaurant's rustic interior and upbeat energy make it perfect for casual nights out with friends or colleagues. Try local Kochi dishes like lightly charred bonito slices with sea salt, paired with a glass of shōchū. You'll often see groups of office workers laughing and toasting in the warm, lantern-lit ambiance. Friendly staff and reasonable prices (for Akasaka) have made Warayakiya a beloved spot that's gourmet yet unpretentious. Located close to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, it's particularly good when you're in the mood for authentic Japanese flavors.

Kyushu Jangara Ramen (九州じゃんがら 赤坂店)

A cozy ramen shop famed for its tonkotsu (pork broth) ramen, serving soul-comforting bowls that attract lines during lunch hour. Step inside and you're greeted by the steamy warmth and rich aroma of simmering broth. The ramen here is creamy and deeply flavorful, topped with slices of tender chashu pork, marinated eggs, and a dollop of spicy mentaiko if you like. Despite its Michelin-star neighbors, Akasaka's Jangara keeps things simple and hearty – the decor is casual and retro, with anime posters on the wall and pop music playing. Slurping a bowl shoulder-to-shoulder with locals is an authentic Tokyo experience. Don't forget to order extra kaedama (noodle refill) to make the most of that broth! Located right near Akasaka Station on the Tokyo Metro, it's perfect for a quick lunch when planning a trip to Japan.

Tebasaki Bancho (手羽先番長 赤坂店)

A tiny, house-shaped izakaya specializing in one thing: chicken wings! Opened in 2016, this quirky spot has quickly become a local favorite for tebasaki (Nagoya-style deep-fried chicken wings). With just a handful of seats, the atmosphere is intimate and often boisterous – you might end up chatting with strangers at the next table as everyone digs into piles of sweet-and-spicy glazed wings. The menu is simple (various levels of wing spiciness, plus cold beer to wash them down) and affordable. The walls are covered in fun decor and customer scribbles, giving it a down-to-earth vibe. Come here for a late-night snack or casual dinner and experience Japan's legendary chicken wings in the heart of Akasaka, just a short walk from Akasaka Biz Tower.

Umaya

For a taste of the countryside in the city, Umaya (located near Akasaka-Mitsuke) offers traditional Japanese fare in a setting reminiscent of an old farmhouse. The restaurant was produced by a famous kabuki actor, and it shows in the careful design – from the dark wooden beams and rustic lanterns to the seasonal flower arrangements. Specialties include claypot-cooked rice with flavorful toppings and juicy free-range fried chicken. The ambiance is relaxed yet polished, making it great for both family dinners and business lunches. In a district known for upscale dining, Umaya stands out by being unpretentious and rooted in classic flavors, all while maintaining an elegant charm. For those who stay in Akasaka or work near the governmental districts of Nagatacho and Kasumigaseki, this is a perfect dinner spot.

Where to Enjoy Coffee

Shirotae (しろたえ)

A quaint kissaten (old-fashioned café) renowned for its desserts, especially the "Shirotae cheesecake" which some say is the best in Tokyo. Stepping into Shirotae is like going back in time – polished wooden chairs, crisp white tablecloths, and a display case filled with cakes greet you. Many locals stop by for an afternoon break, savoring a slice of fluffy cheesecake or roll cake with a cup of richly brewed coffee. The atmosphere is calm and reflective; soft classical music plays in the background. Service is polite and unhurried, encouraging you to sit and linger. If you have a sweet tooth, this Akasaka institution is a must-visit to experience Japan's coffee-and-cake culture at its finest. Located within walking distance of both Akasaka Station and the Ark Mori Building, it's a perfect place to recharge when you're in the mood for something sweet.

Connel Coffee

Located inside the iconic Sogetsu Kaikan building (a modernist masterpiece by architect Kenzo Tange) near Akasaka, Connel Coffee is a minimalist haven for coffee aficionados. The interior is bright and sleek, with concrete walls, simple wooden furniture, and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto a peaceful garden. Baristas here brew specialty coffee with precision – try their pour-over made from single-origin beans or a silky latte. It's a popular spot for creative types and professionals from the nearby design offices, so you'll overhear quiet conversations about art and architecture. Connel's blend of excellent coffee and inspiring setting makes it a perfect place to recharge or get some work done in style. It's less than a 10-minute walk from Aoyama, making it convenient for those who travel around different parts of the city.

Mametora Coffee Roasters (豆虎)

A hole-in-the-wall roastery and coffee stand located on a back street of Akasaka, beloved by locals for its artisanal approach. Mametora specializes in pour-over coffee and roasts beans in-house using a small gas-fired roaster . The shop is tiny – just a counter and a couple of stools – but it's packed with character. You'll smell the rich fragrance of freshly roasted beans even before you step inside. The owner is usually behind the counter carefully tending to drip filters, and he's happy to chat about the day's bean selection or recommend a roast that suits your taste. Regulars come here not only for the excellent coffee (try the seasonal single-origin offerings) but also for the warm, neighborhood feel. It's like a little secret café for those in the know, capturing the friendly spirit of the commercial and residential community around Akasaka station.

Where to Grab a Drink

Bar & Cafe Code Name Mixology Akasaka

A stylish and inventive cocktail bar hidden on the 2nd floor of an unassuming building (Akasaka 3-14-3). As the name suggests, the bartenders here approach mixology like science – using foams, infusions, and surprising ingredients to craft one-of-a-kind drinks. The dimly lit interior has a modern speakeasy vibe, with a long counter where you can watch the cocktail magic happen. Try their signature Earl Grey Martini or a seasonal fruit cocktail that smokes and sparkles. Despite the avant-garde menu, the atmosphere is welcoming, not stuffy. It doubles as a cafe by day, but at night Code Name Mixology is all about creative libations. It's the perfect spot to impress a date or simply indulge in Tokyo's cutting-edge cocktail culture if you stay in Akasaka or are visiting from nearby Shinjuku or Ginza. (No sign on the street; look for the wooden door and the "Mixology" plaque.)

Satin Akasaka

Step back into the Roaring Twenties at Satin, an Art Deco-inspired bar tucked away in central Tokyo. From the moment you enter, you're transported to 1920s New York – think plush leather seating, a long polished bar, vintage jazz softly playing, and gleaming brass light fixtures. The cocktail menu leans classic, with perfectly balanced Manhattans and sidecars, but the bartenders (in bow ties and vests, of course) are happy to craft whatever you fancy. Patrons here tend to speak in hushed tones, and the service is impeccable, making it a haven for a quiet, intimate drink. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just winding down, Satin's glamorous yet cozy ambiance invites you to savor your cocktail and the nostalgic mood. Located within the commercial and entertainment hubs of Akasaka, it's a sophisticated nightlife option for visitors staying at the MyStays Premier Akasaka or other nearby accommodations.

Barny's Akasaka

A cozy, hidden jazz bar known for its great cocktails and laid-back charm. Tucked in a basement (Akasaka 6-4-21), Barny's is easy to miss – but once inside, you'll find a warmly lit space with just a few tables and a small bar adorned with old jazz memorabilia. The owner, an affable bartender, mixes up classic and original cocktails (ask about the day's special concoction) and often chats with customers, making everyone feel at home. Live jazz tunes drift from the speakers, occasionally punctuated by live performances on weekends. This bar's intimate size and friendly vibe mean that strangers often end up as friends by the end of the night. It's a local favorite for those "in the know," offering a relaxed alternative to the glitz of larger venues – the kind of place where you can truly unwind with a good drink in good company around Akasaka station.

Bookstores

Futago no Lion-dō (双子のライオン堂)

A tiny independent bookstore hidden in a residential lane (Akasaka 6-5-21) with a big heart and a cult following among Tokyo bibliophiles. The name means "Twin Lions Bookstore," and inside its cozy space you'll find an eclectic selection of new and used books, from literature and art to philosophy. One special feature is the set of curated shelves where notable authors and creators have hand-picked their favorite books for sale – it's like browsing someone's personal library. The owner, Mr. Takeda, is often present and eager to chat about books or give recommendations (he started as an online bookseller in 2003 before opening this shop here in 2015). The atmosphere is warm and nostalgic, complete with the faint scent of old paper. Locals pop in on their way home from work, and on weekends you might catch a small literary event or zine launch. It's a true neighborhood gem that keeps the love of print alive in the Akasaka area, hosting a variety of literary events that go back to the Edo period's literary traditions.

Books and Modern

An art and design-focused bookstore & gallery near Nogizaka (Akasaka 9-5-26). True to its name, Books and Modern specializes in modern art, architecture, and design publications. The space itself is part gallery – minimalist and sunlit – and hosts rotating exhibits from photography to textiles, complementing the books on the shelves. You can browse gorgeous coffee table books on Japanese design, rare art criticism volumes, and even pick up indie magazines. It's the kind of place where you might lose track of time flipping through a monograph of a famous architect or discovering a local artist's self-published photo book. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about art. With Nogizaka's creative crowd frequenting it, Books and Modern feels like both a quiet retreat and an inspiring hub, proving that print and art still thrive in Tokyo's digital age. It's located close to the Nagatacho area, making it convenient for those staying around Akasaka or visiting from other parts of the city.

Art and Craft

Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square

A spacious gallery and shop showcasing exquisite kogei (traditional crafts) from all across Japan, located at Akasaka 8-1-22 (just a short walk from Akasaka and Aoyama-Itchome stations). Operated by a government association, this is the place to see and purchase officially designated traditional crafts – from Kyoto pottery and Arita porcelain to Nambu ironware and Edo kiriko cut glass. The displays are like a museum you can shop in: each item is labeled with its region and history. You can watch artisans at work in occasional live demonstrations or workshops. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or just admiring the craftsmanship of lacquerware, textiles, and woodwork, Aoyama Square is a treasure trove of Japan's artisanal heritage. Despite being in glitzy Minato City, it offers a wonderfully down-to-earth journey through regional culture and skills. If you live in Tokyo or are just visiting the Aoyama area, this is a must-see attraction.

Akasaka Yū Gallery (赤坂遊ギャラリー)

A longstanding gallery (founded 1989) tucked in a quiet street, dedicated to contemporary Japanese arts and crafts. Yū Gallery hosts rotating exhibitions ranging from pottery and glass art to modern lacquerware and textile art. The space is intimate and thoughtfully arranged, allowing each artwork to breathe. One month you might find a solo exhibition of a master ceramicist's avant-garde tea bowls, the next a group show of young artisans reinterpreting kimono fabrics. It's a favorite stop for collectors and art lovers in the neighborhood, as well as embassy staff looking for unique pieces. The staff can often introduce you directly to the artists at opening receptions. If you're curious about how traditional techniques are being transformed by today's generation of artisans, this gallery is a must-visit when you stay in Akasaka. (Located at Akasaka 7-chome; check their schedule for exhibit dates.)

HULS Gallery Tokyo

A contemporary craft gallery in Akasaka (6-4-10) that feels like a chic living room filled with Japan's finest modern crafts. HULS Gallery curates and showcases high-end artisanal products including ceramics, lacquerware, glassware, textiles and more. Each piece on display – be it a sleek porcelain vase or a hand-blown glass sake set – represents a blend of traditional Japanese techniques and modern design. The gallery's interior is elegant and serene, with each item presented like art. They aim to connect Japanese crafts with an international audience, so descriptions are in English and staff are bilingual and happy to share the stories behind the pieces. You might find an ultramodern tea bowl next to a centuries-old style of wooden tray, each with its own heritage. It's a wonderful place to pick up a distinctive houseware for your Akasaka apartment or a special gift, and to appreciate how Japan's craft traditions continue to evolve from the Edo period to the present.

Parks and Green Spaces in Akasaka

Hinokichō Park (檜町公園)

A tranquil green oasis tucked behind Tokyo Midtown on the edge of Akasaka 9-chome. Once the garden of a feudal lord's residence, Hinokichō Park is now a public park where you can escape the city bustle. Winding paths lead you around a central pond populated by turtles and koi fish. In spring, cherry blossoms reflect on the water; in autumn, maple leaves add splashes of red. You'll often see families with children at the playground, workers eating lunch on benches, and couples relaxing on the grass. Despite the sleek skyscrapers rising nearby, the park remains peaceful – a reminder of nature's calm in the heart of Tokyo. A traditional Japanese teahouse within the park sometimes hosts tea ceremonies. Whether you're jogging in the morning or taking an evening stroll, Hinokichō Park offers a breath of fresh air and a touch of old Edo charm when you live in Tokyo or stay in Akasaka for a visit.

Nogi Shrine & Park (乃木神社・乃木公園)

Straddling the Akasaka border near Nogizaka Station, this historic spot combines culture and greenery. Nogi Shrine is dedicated to General Nogi Maresuke and his wife, and it's famed for its classic Meiji-era architecture and serene atmosphere. Adjacent Nogi Park includes the preserved residence of General Nogi – a rare look into a samurai's Western-influenced house (open on occasion) – and a lovely garden area. The park's grassy lawn and trees are perfect for a quiet picnic or reading under the dappled sunlight. It's also a popular place for local residents to walk their dogs or visit during the annual festival commemorating the Nogis. The contrast is striking: one moment you're on a busy avenue by Midtown, the next you're stepping through a tall torii gate into a realm of tranquility and history. Nogi Shrine & Park encapsulates Akasaka's unique mix of modern life and time-honored tradition in one picturesque setting, built in 1909 and standing as a testament to the history of Akasaka.

Specialty Groceries in Akasaka

Toraya Akasaka (とらや 赤坂店)

The flagship shop of Toraya, Japan's legendary confectioner of traditional wagashi sweets, located at Akasaka 4-9-22. Toraya has been making sweets for over five centuries (once serving the Imperial family), and this sleek, modern shop and café honors that legacy with style. Inside, you'll find beautifully packaged yōkan (sweet bean jellies), delicate monaka wafers filled with bean paste, and seasonal confections that look like art. The atmosphere is refined and quiet, with staff providing courteous guidance on the products. Many locals pop in for elegant gift boxes of sweets or to enjoy matcha and wagashi in the adjoining café. Even if you're new to Japanese sweets, Toraya is a must-visit – it's like a living museum of confectionery where you can taste history (try the classic Ogura yōkan) and bring a piece of Akasaka's elegance home in a tiny wrapped box. Located close to the Akasaka Palace (State Guest House), it's a perfect stop when touring the area's historical sites.

Akasaka Aono (赤坂 青野)

A beloved wagashi shop on a side street (7-11-9 Akasaka) that has been part of the neighborhood for over 100 years. Aono is famous for its Akasaka Mochi, a walnut and red bean paste mochi wrapped in a petite bamboo leaf parcel – a recipe said to have originated with the shop's third-generation owner. Inside the small store, you'll see trays of artisanal sweets: soft mame-daifuku filled with coarsely mashed beans, elegant seasonal jelly desserts, and more. The ingredients are carefully selected – high-grade adzuki beans, pure cane sugar, quality glutinous rice – resulting in flavors that are delicate and refined. The shopkeepers greet regulars by name, and there's a friendly, local feel despite Aono's venerable status (they've even appeared in TV dramas as a featured treat!). It's the perfect place to pick up an afternoon snack or omiyage gift and experience a slice of Akasaka's sweet traditions dating back to the Edo period.

Seijo Ishii (成城石井) Akasaka

For more cosmopolitan pantry needs, Seijo Ishii in Akasaka (for example, the branch in Akasaka Biz Tower's basement) is a gourmet supermarket chain that is a haven for foodies. Here you can find imported cheeses and wines, an extensive selection of international snacks, and high-quality Japanese produce all under one roof. In the prepared foods section, they offer everything from fresh deli salads to bento boxes and European pastries. The store is brightly lit and neatly organized; it's busy in the evenings with office workers picking up dinner ingredients or a ready-made meal. Prices are higher than a typical supermarket, but the quality is top-notch. Whether you crave French camembert, organic granola, or a bottle of Napa Valley wine, Seijo Ishii has you covered – making it a go-to for Akasaka residents who cook (or those who just love browsing gourmet aisles for inspiration). Located within the Biz Tower complex, it's directly connected to Akasaka Station and convenient for busy professionals in the area.

Getting Around Akasaka

One of the perks of living in Akasaka is its superb connectivity. The neighborhood is anchored by Akasaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and Akasaka-Mitsuke Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Marunouchi Line, with Tameike-Sannō (Nanboku & Ginza Lines) and Nagatacho (Yurakuchō, Hanzōmon, Nanboku Lines) also in the vicinity. In practical terms, this means you can zip across the city with ease – Akasaka is centrally located, and many major districts are only a few stops away. In fact, via the Tokyo Metro you can reach popular destinations in under 20 minutes. Here are a few key spots and typical transit times:

• Shinjuku: ~12 minutes via the Marunouchi Line (direct from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station to Shinjuku).
• Shibuya: ~10 minutes via the Ginza Line (from Akasaka-Mitsuke, transfer at Omotesando to the Hanzōmon Line for one stop).
• Harajuku: ~7 minutes via the Chiyoda Line (from Akasaka to Meiji-Jingūmae/Harajuku, no transfers).
• Roppongi: ~5 minutes via taxi or ~10 minutes via Metro (from Akasaka Station one stop to Nogizaka on the Chiyoda Line, then a brief walk or transfer to Roppongi on the Ōedo Line).

Commuting is convenient, as Akasaka sits at the intersection of multiple lines converging towards Tokyo Station and other business hubs. Many residents walk or bike to neighboring areas like Roppongi, Aoyama, or the Imperial Palace outer gardens near Kasumigaseki. Buses and taxis are plentiful on main avenues like Sotobori-dōri. If you drive, main roads connect you to Ring Road 3 and the expressway relatively quickly, though many find cars unnecessary here.

The Akasaka area's central location also means late-night transport is less of a worry – you're a short ride from many entertainment districts. And for farther travel, Tokyo Station (for bullet trains) is about 10 minutes by taxi or 15 minutes by Tokyo Metro, while Haneda Airport is roughly 30–40 minutes away by train (with one transfer) or taxi. Simply put, getting around is a breeze. Whether you're commuting to work, meeting friends in Shibuya, or catching the last train home from a night out, Akasaka's transit options have you covered, keeping the vast city of Tokyo easily within your reach.

(Local Tip: Some of Tokyo's key sights are even walkable from Akasaka. You can stroll to the elegant gardens of the Akasaka Goyochi (State Guest House) in about 15 minutes, or wander over to Roppongi's Tokyo Midtown complex on foot on a nice day. The Akasaka Palace is open to visitors on certain days, offering a glimpse into Japan's architectural history dating back to the Edo period.)

Feel at Home in Akasaka?

Akasaka manages to be both an exclusive address and a welcoming community. Its streets tell a story of contrasts – where you can lunch on a simple bowl of ramen at a decades-old shop and dine in luxury at a five-star restaurant the same night. You’ll find that tradition isn’t lost here; it’s woven into daily life between the skyscrapers and stations. Living in Akasaka means having the best of Tokyo at your doorstep: cultural experiences, delectable dining, lush parks, and a cosmopolitan vibe, all wrapped up in a neighborhood that still greets you like a local. It’s the kind of place where the café barista remembers your order and the shrine priest nods to you during your morning jog. Upscale yet unpretentious, international yet deeply Japanese – Akasaka is a study in balance and charm.

Can you imagine grocery shopping under neon lights, sipping tea by a tranquil shrine, and walking home amid city glitter all in one day? In Akasaka, this could be your everyday reality. Warm and dynamic, this neighborhood invites you to join its story. Could you see yourself feeling at home in Akasaka? Come explore its many facets – you might just find that this elegant corner of Tokyo captures your heart, one delightful moment at a time.