The Three A’s of Tokyo are some of the most expensive areas in the city, and of those Three A’s – Azabu, Aoyama – Akasaka is perhaps the least known, especially by those outside of Japan. However, this doesn’t mean this local gem isn’t a great spot for expats.
One of the reasons why Akasaka might fly under the radar is its diversity. Not known for one thing, it has shrines, office buildings, it’s both residential and corporate, it is home to the traditional imperial residence, in addition to shopping complexes like Akasaka Sacas, upmarket restaurants and local watering holes alike. Akasaka strikes an interesting balance, lending it much of its unique character. Akasaka has the highest concentration of CEO’s in not only Minato-ku (where 16% of residents are a CEO), but in all of Tokyo, and has held first place for around 10 years – clearly there is something appealing about life in Akasaka.
A perhaps more familiar point of reference is Roppongi. Akasaka might be described as a more authentic and grown-up cousin of Roppongi, with a calmer and more local nightlife scene made up of local bars and izakayas, local coffee roasters and restaurants. Don’t misunderstand, Akasaka is still a bustling business district, however it balances that with a charming local flair. Though it may be tempting to limit your search to purely the biggest names in Tokyo, expanding your search to areas like Akasaka has its merits, which we’ll explore below. Well-connected, central, and full of character, there is no reason not to consider Akasaka in your real-estate search in Tokyo.
History and Future
Akasaka has been a hub for politics and history for almost half a century. The name itself came from the red madder plants (茜草 akanegusa) that grew on the slopes of the area, and Akasaka (赤 aka (red) + 坂 saka (slope)) became the name of the path leading up the hill. It begun with the establishing of the Tokugawa dynasty in Tokyo. The area west of the Edo Castle was parcelled out to noble families and flourished as a hub for international relations and the arts.
In recent years, much of the surrounding area has been redeveloped; Roppongi and Tokyo Midtown have both been rejuvenated, and although nothing is confirmed, many suspect that the new Sacas complex is only the beginning of Akasaka’s development. Mitsubishi Estate and TBS announced in March of this year approval for a urban renewal project, including two new landmark buildings, set to be completed in 2028. Azabudai recently saw real estate prices skyrocket thanks to the completion of the gorgeous Azabudai Hills shopping and residential complex.
What Can You Find in Akasaka?
For those looking for a location in the heart of the city with shrines and other historical sites without being overrun by tourists, Akasaka makes a fantastic choice. For people from countries like Canada or the Kingdom of Bahrain, there are a number of notable embassies in Akasaka too. Akasaka Sacas is a major commercial center based around the TBS television station. It is home to the TBS ACT theater, where popular plays – like “Harry Potter and The Cursed Child” are performed. Sacas is not only a shopping mall but also a center for the surrounding community and holds many events for adults and children alike. In winter, the lights and nearby ice rink make for a memorable and cozy experience.
In the neighborhood, Hie Shrine is over half a century old and is just one of the three shrines that make up the Three Great Edo Festivals. From May to August, three festivals take place at Hie, Kanda Myojin, and Tomioka Hachiman Shrines. The Sanno Festival at Hie Shrine takes place on June 15th and features multiple intricate floats in procession, traditional dancing, and music.
Another notable shrine is Toyokawa Inari Betsuin. Famous for its many fox statues, which make for an imposing welcome. Within the greater shrine there are smaller shrines dedicated to wealth, success, entertainment, and safe childbirth, among other deities, located at the greater shrine. Rumor has it that singers and TV personalities frequent the shrine for good fortune in their careers.
The Imperial Residence in Tokyo is located in Akasaka and is the home of the royal family of Japan. It is a beautiful building. Parts of the sprawling gardens are accessible to the public, though the gardens are predominantly used privately and are famously the location of the Emperor’s garden party, where he hosts diplomats and other important figures twice a year.
The Akasaka Lifestyle
If these shrines and landmarks weren’t enough to convince you then the abundance of eateries, parks, and access to history might.
Akasaka has a fantastic selection of other asian cuisines, especially - and surprisingly - Korean food. There are both low and high end restaurants and cafés, and local coffee roasters too.
For example, Mametora has a huge selection of coffee beans, and a delectable coffee soft-serve ice cream, all set to 20th century jazz. The best part? You can smell the roasting coffee beans at Mametora before you see them. Akasaka is also home to an both low and high end Korean food, Chungsol is open 24 hours and provides authentic, homey eats for incredibly reasonable prices. The other types of restaurants that you often come across in Akasaka are izakaya, Japanese beef, and sushi restaurants. There is no shortage of places to explore.
As mentioned above there are many shrines in Akasaka, lending it much of its more traditional feeling. One lesser known fact however, that has often avoided notice is that Akasaka is a historic Geisha district. It is one of the six last remaining Kagai (花街 entertainment districts) in Tokyo (the others are: Shinbashi, Yoshicho, Kagurazaka, Asakusa, and Mukojima). You can, on rare occasion see them in the streets heading to appointments. The Akasaka branch, in an effort to maintain their art, has made it easier and more accessible to first time visitors and foreigners for those hoping to immerse themselves in the more traditional side of Japan.
For those with dogs and other pets, Hinokicho Park is a fantastic place to walk dogs. Filled with seasonal flowers like sakura, wisteria, and osmanthus, but its namesake tree - cypress. Not only is this park beautiful but it is filled with history. The park originally belonged to a feudal lord and the rest house in the park certainly evokes this sense of history.
At the far end of Hinokicho Park is 21_21 Design Sight a local art gallery founded my Issey Miyake which hosts frequent and exciting exhibitions. Tadao Ando is the architect behind this striking building, known for a plethora of other museums and projects around japan - limited to just Tokyo his exploits include Omotesando Hills, the Tokyo Art Museum, and an atrium in Shibuya station.
Where to Start your Search in for a Home in Akasaka
There a couple of notable properties worth considering in Akasaka where you can start your search if you’re considering living in this exciting part of the city.
Homat Viscount:
A complex with some of the biggest apartments on the market in Tokyo. Five bedroom apartments with areas of 2000~4500 square feet (200~400m2) are not uncommon in this foreigner oriented property.
Park Mansion Hinokicho Koen
Completed in 2017, a luxurious property with views overlooking the park. It's sleek exterior continues inside for modern living in Tokyo.
Aoyama Townhouse Annex:
A beautiful town house with Romeo and Juliette style balconies. With bright interiors and modern fixtures, Aoyama Townhouse Annex provides beautiful family residences.
Park Court Akasaka Hinokicho Park The Tower
A stunning building and always in high demand, if there's an opening here be sure to apply.
Conclusion
With the deep history of areas like Kagurazaka or Kyoto, the modernity of areas like Roppongi or Marunouchi, and the variety of Tokyo and all its extremes condensed on your doorstep, Akasaka makes a great choice for anyone looking to stay in or start a life in Tokyo. If you’re interested in any of the properties above or want to know more about buying or renting in Japan please don’t hesitate to reach out using the contact form below, we would love to hear from you!
