Situated in Tokyo’s heart, Hiroo is a tranquil yet upscale neighborhood in Shibuya Ward, popular among locals and expats. Its international ambiance, numerous embassies, and English-friendly amenities make it a top residential choice. Hiroo is well-connected via Tokyo Metro’s Hibiya Line, hosts several international schools, and offers a variety of Western-oriented shops and cafes. Despite its luxury, the area is known for sayonara sales, attracting bargain seekers. With its proximity to Azabujuban and Ebisu, Hiroo presents a range of spacious, low-rise apartments and houses, making it a perfect home for those seeking a comfortable international community in Tokyo. Whether one is moving to Japan for work or looking for a comfortable international community within Tokyo, Hiroo is undoubtedly an ideal place to call home.
Getting to Hiroo
Hiroo is a popular area located in Tokyo, Japan, known for its international flavor and vibrant atmosphere. The most convenient way to reach Hiroo is via the Hibiya Line operated by the Tokyo Metro.
Apart from the metro, visitors exploring on foot can find Hiroo on the border of Minato-ku and Shibuya-ku. The area is surrounded by other trendy districts such as Shibuya, Harajuku, and Ebisu, providing countless shopping opportunities. A short walk from Hiroo also takes you to Omotesando and Aoyama, two well-known shopping and entertainment areas.
Neighborhood Highlights
Restaurants and Cafes
Hiroo boasts a diverse range of restaurants and cafes that cater to both local and international palates. The neighborhood has something for everyone, from sushi and ramen to Italian and French cuisines. Sushi enthusiasts can visit Sushi Zai, where former Michelin-starred Sushi Yu chef Takahiro Okada showcases his expertise. Fans of Italian cuisine will appreciate Pellegrino, known for its personalized meals and a focus on dishes from the Parma region.
Eat Play Works
If you’re searching for a variety of dining and drinking options under one roof, Eat Play Works in Hiroo’s Shibuya neighborhood is the place to be. Housing several bars and restaurants, visitors can enjoy a range of beverages and cuisines in a modern, industrial-chic environment. For those in search of a Middle Eastern culinary experience, Salam, located in Eat Play Works dining hall, is the place to be. This restaurant offers a variety of mostly vegan dishes from Israel, Turkey, Greece, Egypt, and Lebanon, offering an enticing twist to Tokyo’s dining scene.
Shops and Supermarkets
Shopping in Hiroo is a pleasurable experience, with popular malls like Hiroo Plaza offering a wide range of retail options. One noteworthy supermarket in the area is National Azabu, which provides a range of international foods and products, making it a convenient option for those seeking familiar items from their home country.
Arisugawa Park
Arisugawa Park is a beautiful green space in Hiroo, once part of the Imperial Families’ land. It was turned into a public park in 1934, offering residents and visitors a lush and serene environment to enjoy. This charming park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, family outings, or a peaceful escape from bustling city life.
Entertainment and Attractions
In addition to its dining and shopping options, Hiroo provides various entertainment and attractions for residents and visitors alike. The area is home to several international schools, making it an ideal location for expat families. Cultural experiences, such as exploring the local art scene or attending organized events at malls like Hiroo Plaza and Hiroo Garden, add to the neighborhood’s charm and make it a well-rounded community to live in or visit.
Housing and Residential Areas
Hiroo is a popular residential area in Tokyo, known for its chic and peaceful atmosphere. It maintains a serene environment despite being close to bustling commercial and business districts, thanks to its abundant greenery. The area is well-suited for expats, with a variety of residential options available, including luxurious low-rise apartments and houses.
Rental Property
Many rental properties in Hiroo cater to expats and foreigners seeking a centrally located area with a comfortable living environment. These properties often provide easy access to public transportation as well as convenience stores, restaurants, and international schools. The nearby Hiroo station, serviced by the Hibiya line, connects residents to popular areas such as Ebisu, Roppongi, Hibiya, and Ginza.
Luxury Apartments
Luxury apartments in Hiroo offer spacious living arrangements and modern amenities for residents. These high-end properties are designed with expats in mind, featuring features such as 24-hour security, gyms, pools, and concierge services. One of the notable luxury apartment complexes in the area includes Hiroo Garden Hills. Hiroo Garden Hills is a prestigious residential complex in Hiroo, which offers residents a unique mix of urban convenience and greenery-infused tranquility.
In summary, Hiroo offers a wide range of residential options suitable for both Japanese and expat residents, with a particular focus on luxury and comfort. The central location and easy access to nearby commercial areas make it a highly desirable place to live for those seeking a balance between work and leisure.
Education and International Schools
Hiroo is a popular residential neighborhood in Tokyo known for its international community. One of the reasons many expatriates choose to reside in this area is the presence of several reputable international schools catering to the diverse educational needs of expat families.
The International School of the Sacred Heart is a prominent institution located just three stops away from Hiroo. It follows an English-speaking curriculum, offering a culturally diverse environment for its students. The school welcomes students from kindergarten to high school level, providing a well-rounded education.
Another renowned institution in the vicinity of Hiroo is the Nishimachi International School. This school caters to students from kindergarten to middle school level. With a strong focus on language development and cultural understanding, Nishimachi International School fosters a comprehensive educational environment.
Some of the key features of these international schools in Hiroo include:
- English-speaking curriculums and instructions to cater to expat students
- Diverse student communities, promoting cultural understanding and global perspectives
- Wide range of extracurricular activities to support students’ personal growth and development
Besides these institutions, the Hiroo neighborhood also boasts numerous English-friendly shops and services, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for expatriate families seeking a vibrant community in Tokyo.
Healthcare and Hospitals
In the Hiroo neighborhood, healthcare facilities cater to the international community with their English-speaking staff and services. Residents and expats can benefit from a variety of medical services, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
One of the prominent healthcare facilities in Hiroo is the Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital. They offer various medical departments and emergency services 24/7. They also accept Japanese insurance, but it is recommended to call in advance to check language service availability.
Another well-known hospital in the area is the Japanese Red Cross Medical Center, which is famous for its English-speaking services in Tokyo. They offer full-service clinics, inpatient and outpatient procedures, catering to the diverse needs of the expat community.
Apart from these major hospitals, Hiroo also houses other English-speaking clinics, such as:
- Medical Clinic Hiroo
- National Medical Clinic
- Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic
The neighborhood’s commitment to providing comprehensive, English-speaking healthcare services makes it an ideal choice for expats living in Tokyo. Together with its international schools, embassies, and English-friendly shops, Hiroo offers a comfortable environment for foreigners adjusting to life in Japan.
Embassies and Consulates
Hiroo is known for its high concentration of embassies and consulates, which gives the area a unique international atmosphere. Located in the Shibuya Ward, the neighborhood attracts expats and diplomats, creating a cosmopolitan vibe. The diplomatic presence also results in numerous international schools and English-friendly shops and services in the vicinity. Notable embassies found in the Hiroo area include the Embassies of France, Norway, Romania, and India.
Conclusion
Situated in central Tokyo, Hiroo offers easy access to notable neighborhoods like Roppongi, Shibuya, Ebisu, and Shinagawa. Its green spaces and proximity to the city center, embassies, and international companies lend a cosmopolitan flair to the area. As a diverse and sophisticated community, Hiroo is an ideal choice for diplomats, expats, and international families seeking a vibrant lifestyle in Tokyo’s heart.
