Characteristics of a livable Azabu-Juban area
Located in Minato Ward, Azabu-Juban is an area that boasts the convenience of being in the heart of Tokyo while offering a tranquil living environment. While possessing the characteristics of an upscale residential area, it also retains the charm of old-fashioned shopping streets and a warm, local atmosphere, making it a comfortable place to live for many. It is particularly popular among those seeking safety and an international atmosphere, and is a highly sought-after area for single women and expatriates.
Here, we will explain the livability and characteristics of the area.
A townscape where the charm of upscale residential areas and old-fashioned neighborhoods coexist.
Azabu-Juban is a neighborhood in central Tokyo that possesses a unique atmosphere, being both a high-end residential area and approachable. While adjacent to upscale areas like Roppongi and Hiroo,
The area around the station is lined with old-fashioned shopping streets and independently owned restaurants, allowing you to still feel the warmth of a traditional downtown area. Despite being an area that has undergone redevelopment, a culture that values connections with local residents remains strong, and it is characterized by the active hosting of events and local activities.
The city's streetscape, a blend of convenience, sophistication, and warmth, offers a comfortable balance for its residents.
The area is safe and secure, making it a safe place for women to live alone.
Azabu-Juban is known as one of the safest areas in Minato Ward, with a police station nearby and a low crime rate, making it a suitable environment for women living alone. There are many streetlights, the streets are well-lit at night, and there is a steady stream of people around, so you can feel safe even when returning home late at night.
In addition, there are many apartments with automatic locks and high-security shared houses, making it very attractive to those who prioritize safety. The residents are generally calm and composed, and the quiet and refined living environment is another plus. However, the rent is among the highest in Minato Ward, so it is necessary to consider what your priorities are.
An international atmosphere that is popular with foreigners.
Azabu-Juban is an international neighborhood with many foreign embassies located nearby and a large expatriate population. It boasts a wealth of English-speaking medical facilities, international schools, and supermarkets selling international foods, making it a comfortable place to live for people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Furthermore, the abundance of global restaurants and cafes adds to its appeal, offering a taste of international culture. With its diverse population naturally coexisting, Azabu-Juban is an ideal location for those seeking an international lifestyle in Tokyo.
Transportation access to Azabu-Juban
Azabu-Juban is a highly convenient area with excellent transportation links, offering smooth access to major areas in central Tokyo. Multiple train lines are available, making it ideal for commuting, school, and weekend outings. For those who want to travel comfortably within Tokyo, Azabu-Juban's accessibility is a major advantage.
This section provides information about access to Azabu-Juban.
Available routes
At Azabu-Juban Station, you can use two lines: the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and the Toei Oedo Line.
Using the Namboku Line, you can access areas like Iidabashi, Ichigaya, Yotsuya, and Meguro directly, while the Toei Oedo Line provides direct access to major business and commercial areas such as Shinjuku, Roppongi, and Shiodome. In particular, Roppongi Station is just one stop (about 2 minutes) away on the Oedo Line, and Meguro Station can be reached without transfers, making travel to various parts of Tokyo stress-free.
Furthermore, the convenient access to Shibuya and Shinagawa by bus and bicycle, offering flexible transportation options, is a major advantage.
First and last train times and congestion levels *Weekday schedule
The first and last train times are as follows:
Toei Oedo Line
- Towards Daimon and Tsukishima: First train departs at 5:13 AM, last train at 12:42 AM.
- Towards Roppongi and Shinjuku: First train departs at 5:06 AM, last train departs at 12:34 AM.
Tokyo Metro Namboku Line
- Towards Akabane-Iwabuchi: First train departs at 5:09, last train departs at 0:06.
- Towards Meguro: First train departs at 5:07 AM, last train departs at 12:32 AM.
The appeal of this route lies in its ability to accommodate early morning commutes and ample time for returning home after overtime. During rush hour (around 7:30-9:00 AM), congestion is particularly noticeable on the Namboku Line towards Meguro and the Oedo Line towards Shinjuku, but it is still relatively less crowded compared to other congested lines in Tokyo.
The station platforms and ticket gates are well-maintained, making it easy to move around even when it's crowded. The fact that you can combine it with nearby stations by bicycle or on foot is another attractive feature that allows for a flexible commuting style.
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Rent market price
Azabu-Juban is known as an upscale residential area within Minato Ward, and rents are relatively high compared to other parts of Tokyo. However, considering its convenience, safety, and the atmosphere of the neighborhood, it offers good value for money. It is also characterized by a wide range of properties available, from those suitable for single people to those for families.
Here, we will introduce the average rent prices for each area.
Average rent for single-person households
If you're looking for a rental property with a 1R, 1K, or 1DK layout suitable for single occupancy around Azabu-Juban Station, the average rent is approximately 110,000 to 140,000 yen.
If you're looking for a newer apartment near a train station with excellent amenities, it's not uncommon to find properties costing over 150,000 yen. On the other hand, if you're looking for an older or more compact property, you can find options starting from around 100,000 yen.
This area is safe and has many women-only and high-security properties, making it very attractive to single people who want to live in peace of mind. Even in this upscale neighborhood, it is possible to live with reduced initial costs by utilizing shared housing or furnished rentals (apartments and condominiums).
Family-friendly rent market
If you're looking for a family-friendly 2LDK to 3LDK apartment around Azabu-Juban, the typical monthly rent is between 250,000 and 400,000 yen.
High-grade properties, such as condominiums or penthouses, can have monthly rents exceeding 500,000 yen. However, depending on the size and age of the building, you can sometimes find bargains in the low 200,000 yen range.
The surrounding area boasts numerous educational institutions, parks, and medical facilities, making it an excellent location for raising children. Furthermore, there are many properties catering to expatriate families, creating a diverse and international living environment. For those with a comfortable budget, Azabu-Juban is an ideal place to live to enhance their quality of life.
Living environment around Azabu-Juban Station
Azabu-Juban is an area highly regarded for its convenience. It boasts numerous supermarkets for easy shopping and a wide variety of restaurants, adding color to daily life. Furthermore, it offers plenty of parks, hot springs, and local events, creating a relaxing living environment despite being in the heart of the city.
This section describes the living environment around Azabu-Juban Station.
Supermarket convenience and opening hours
There are several supermarkets convenient for everyday use around Azabu-Juban Station.
Typical stores include
- Seijo Ishii Azabu Juban Store
- "Daiei Azabu Juban Store"
- "Super Naniwaya," etc.
They offer a wide range of products, from high-end food items to everyday necessities. Seijo Ishii and Naniwaya, in particular, have a great selection of products for foreigners and organic foods, making them popular with health-conscious individuals. Many stores are open until around 10pm or midnight, making them convenient for a stop after work.
Although it's an upscale residential area, there are also shops with affordable prices, so you'll rarely have any trouble with your daily shopping.
From trendy restaurants to long-established eateries, there's something for everyone.
Azabu-Juban is known as a gourmet district with an abundance of restaurants. From Michelin-starred French and Italian restaurants to hidden Japanese eateries, cafes, and sweets shops, the variety in genre and price range is incredible. It's the perfect environment for food lovers.
Furthermore, there are many long-established local shops, such as the renowned taiyaki shop "Naniwaya Sohonten" and the famous motsuni (offal stew) restaurant in Azabu Juban. Because it's a town where old and new blend together, you can enjoy a "never-boring dining experience." It's a town where you can enjoy food on a daily basis, from lunch and dinner to takeout.
Leisure environments such as parks, hot springs, and events
Azabu-Juban is an area in the heart of Tokyo where you can easily find nature, relaxation, and cultural entertainment.
Within walking distance are lush green spots such as Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park and Ajiro Park, perfect for families with children, pet walks, and relaxation.
Furthermore, near the station is the "Azabu Kuromizu Onsen Takenoyu" public bathhouse, which is popular as a place to relax on a daily basis while retaining the atmosphere of old Tokyo. The area also hosts events that blend tradition and modernity, such as the community-oriented "Azabu Juban Noryo Matsuri" (Summer Festival), providing plenty of opportunities for residents to interact with each other and experience local culture. The greatest charm of Azabu Juban is that you can spend peaceful time in an area that is hard to believe is in the heart of the city.
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The history of Azabu Juban
Azabu-Juban is known for its modern streetscape and gourmet spots, yet it is also a district with a long history and culture that dates back to the Edo period. You can still feel that history through the old-fashioned shopping streets and local events. Understanding the origins of the town will allow you to appreciate the charm of Azabu-Juban more deeply.
This section explains the history of Azabu-Juban.
A history dating back to the Edo period, centered around the shopping district.
Azabu Juban developed in the mid-Edo period as a temple town in front of Azabu Zenpuku-ji Temple, becoming a bustling area lined with shops and tea houses.
The current "Azabu Juban Shopping Street" retains traces of its past, having supported people's lives across the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras. During the post-war reconstruction period, it was revitalized as a vibrant shopping street, transforming into a town where a Showa-era retro atmosphere coexists with modern shops.
This area stands apart from the surrounding areas like Azabudai and Roppongi, which are undergoing redevelopment, and retains a strong sense of old-world Tokyo charm. The strong community ties and local culture that have been nurtured alongside history give Azabu-Juban its own unique tranquility and elegance.
Azabu Juban Summer Festival: A traditional event deeply rooted in the local community.
The Azabu Juban Summer Festival is the largest event in Azabu Juban, held every August, and is deeply rooted as a local tradition. Hundreds of food stalls line the shopping streets, and it is a summer tradition bustling with visitors dressed in yukata (summer kimonos).
The multinational food stalls, offering everything from local long-established shops to cuisine from around the world, are popular and sometimes attract more than 100,000 visitors every year.
This festival is not just a tourist event; it's an event born from the strong ties between local residents and the shopping district, with many volunteers involved in its preparation and operation. Participants range from children to adults, and its charm lies in the warm, international atmosphere unique to Azabu-Juban.
The coexistence of tradition and diversity in this culture is one of the reasons why people choose to live in this city.
Recommended properties around Azabu-Juban Station
The area around Azabu-Juban Station offers numerous share houses and furnished rental properties that combine a sense of luxury and security. These properties are ideal for those living alone for the first time or for women, providing a lifestyle that balances convenience and comfort.
Here, we'll introduce recommended properties, mainly focusing on Cross House properties located along the Toei Oedo Line.
Cross Harajuku 4 (Women Only)
" Cross Harajuku 4 " is a women-only share house, and its appeal lies in its design that prioritizes safety and security.
The property is located a 9-minute walk from Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station on the Toei Oedo Line, and is just three stops (approximately 10 minutes by train) from Azabu-Juban Station, offering excellent access to the Omotesando, Shibuya, and Roppongi areas.
The interior is decorated in a natural style with a white base, and the shared spaces are equipped with a kitchen, washing machine, and Wi-Fi. Security is also excellent, with an automatic lock and security cameras. Furthermore, it comes furnished with furniture and appliances, making it ideal for those who want to keep initial costs down.
Women can enjoy interacting with each other while maintaining their privacy, allowing them to live a safe and comfortable life.
Cross Nakano-Sakaue 1
" Cross Nakano-Sakaue 1 " is a share house property with excellent access to two train lines: the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and the Toei Oedo Line.
Azabu-Juban is also accessible in about 20 minutes via a single Oedo Line train. The Nakano-Sakaue area, a mix of business and residential areas, offers a tranquil living environment combined with the convenience of being in the city center.
This property is a fully furnished share house ready for immediate occupancy, boasting clean and well-equipped common areas and excellent value for money. The shared lounge provides opportunities for residents to socialize, making it ideal for those looking to smoothly start their new life in Tokyo.
Maison de Versan (Nakano-Sakaue)
" Maison de Versan " is a furnished rental apartment located within walking distance of Nakano-Sakaue Station, and its simple and calming atmosphere is its main appeal.
Although it's a studio apartment, it has ample storage and amenities, making it easy to use even for those new to living alone. The kitchen and bathroom are also convenient, and there are supermarkets and cafes nearby.
With easy access to Azabu-Juban via the Oedo Line, this property is recommended for those who desire a quiet and peaceful lifestyle while still prioritizing easy access to the city center. It's a high-quality rental property that strikes a good balance between affordable rent and a comfortable living environment.
Maison de Sakagami 308
" Maison de Sakagami 308 " is an affordable studio apartment located in the Nakano-Sakagami area, appealing for its combination of low costs and excellent amenities. Although the building is somewhat older, the interior has been beautifully renovated, offering both practicality and cleanliness.
This apartment comes furnished with basic furniture and appliances such as a refrigerator and washing machine, allowing you to start a comfortable life from day one. The surrounding area is a quiet residential neighborhood, providing a peaceful environment even at night. This property is perfect for those who want to start living in the city center without financial strain, and for working professionals and students who want to keep initial costs down.
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summary
Azabu-Juban is an extremely livable neighborhood, offering both excellent access to the city center and a tranquil living environment. Despite being a high-end residential area, it retains a charming, old-town atmosphere, making it popular with many.
Its excellent safety record and popularity among women living alone and foreigners are major attractions. With its good balance of transportation access, convenience, gourmet food, history, and culture, it's an area well-suited for long-term living.
If you're planning to start a new life in Azabu-Juban, please use this article as a guide to find your ideal home by choosing a property that suits your lifestyle, such as a share house or furnished rental.
