Tokyo Apartment Guide: Akasaka Area Overview & Rent Prices

Akasaka is one of Minato City’s most popular residential areas, located right next to Japan’s political center with the National Diet Building and the Prime Minister’s Office nearby. With many foreign embassies based here, the neighborhood has an international atmosphere and offers a comfortable living environment for expats. This guide covers Akasaka’s appeal as well as its current rental market.

What Is Akasaka Like?

Akasaka developed as a commercial district after the Meiji era, when the Akasaka Palace was built, and has since grown into one of Tokyo’s central hubs. With embassies from all over the world concentrated here, security is tight and the area is regarded as very safe. Akasaka is also part of the prestigious “3A Area”—Azabu, Akasaka, and Aoyama—known as one of Japan’s top luxury residential zones with exclusive high-rise condos. This area has long attracted domestic and international VIPs and is considered a symbol of stability and prestige in the real estate market.

Beyond its reputation as a luxury residential district, Akasaka is also a bustling business hub filled with office towers and fine dining. Many media and advertising companies are headquartered here, including TBS Broadcasting Center. True to its name (“Aka-saka” means “red slope”), the neighborhood is also known for its many steep hills.

Access & Transportation

Being in central Tokyo, Akasaka offers excellent connectivity to major districts by train and bus.

By Train

Akasaka Station is served by the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. From here you can transfer at Omotesando Station to reach Shibuya or Asakusa via the Ginza Line, or at Kokkai-gijidomae Station to reach Shinjuku or Tokyo Station via the Marunouchi Line. Nearby Akasaka-mitsuke Station (Ginza & Marunouchi Lines) and Tameike-sanno Station (Ginza & Namboku Lines) further expand your options, making it a very convenient location.

By Bus

Minato City’s “Chii Bus” runs an Akasaka route, stopping at key spots between Akasaka and Roppongi such as Tokyo Midtown and Sanno Hospital. Toei buses also operate routes toward Nishi-Azabu, Aoyama, and Shibuya, making local travel easy.

Why Akasaka Is Great for Expats: 7 Key Points

Here are seven reasons why Akasaka is considered one of the most livable areas in Tokyo for international residents.

Plenty of Supermarkets & Drugstores

You’ll find several convenient supermarkets within walking distance:

• Yoshiike: Open early morning and late at night
• Niku no Hanamasa: Affordable bulk groceries
• Seijo Ishii: Premium and imported foods
• My Basket: Compact stores near stations for quick shopping

Drugstores like Sugi Pharmacy and Tomod’s provide medicine, cosmetics, and daily goods. Convenience stores are everywhere, and the discount store “Picasso Akasaka” is also popular with locals.

Large Commercial Facilities

Akasaka is home to “Akasaka Sacas,” a major complex connected to the station that includes:

• Akasaka ACT Theater – currently showing “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”
• Akasaka Biz Tower – offices and retail shops
• Akasaka The Residence – luxury high-rise apartments

Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi is also within walking distance, and Bic Camera Akasaka-mitsuke offers everything from electronics to daily goods.

Dining Scene

Akasaka is packed with restaurants, from historic Japanese ryotei (traditional fine dining) to Michelin-starred establishments. Thanks to the nearby Korean Embassy, authentic Korean cuisine is also widely available. Local favorites include the famous ramen shop “Akasaka Mendokoro Tomo” and the long-established Western eatery “Akasaka Tsutsui.”

Excellent Schools

The area offers strong educational options for international families. Nearby you’ll find Eaton House International Preschool and Akasaka International School, which follows an American curriculum. Minato City also runs public schools with bilingual support programs, making it easier for children to adapt.

Calm Residential Streets

While Akasaka is known as a business and nightlife hub, step into the side streets and you’ll discover quiet residential neighborhoods with a mix of traditional houses and apartments. This balance between convenience and tranquility makes it attractive to many families and professionals.

Green Spaces

Despite its central location, Akasaka has several parks such as Takahashi Korekiyo Memorial Park and Hitotsugi Park. These small green spaces provide safe areas for children and peaceful breaks from the city buzz.

History & Culture

Akasaka also offers cultural landmarks like the Akasaka Palace (State Guest House), which is open to the public on select days, and the historic Akasaka Hikawa Shrine, originally built in the Heian era. These sites provide a glimpse of Japan’s heritage amid the modern cityscape.

Rental Market in Akasaka

As a prime central location, Akasaka commands some of Tokyo’s highest rental prices. Options range from compact studios to luxury high-rise apartments with concierge services.

Please note these are reference prices; actual rents vary depending on building age, facilities, and distance from the station. For up-to-date listings, we recommend checking with local agencies.

Akasaka combines an international feel with a safe, comfortable lifestyle. If you need assistance with contracts or guidance on living in Tokyo, our services are here to help expats find the right home.

Why Buyers Also Love Akasaka

In addition to its strong rental demand, Akasaka is highly sought after by foreign investors and affluent buyers. As part of the “3A Area,” the neighborhood carries prestige and long-term value. Luxury condos within walking distance of the station are especially prized for their stability and status.

For those considering long-term stays or secure property ownership in central Tokyo, Minato City—including Akasaka—remains one of the most attractive options, whether for investment or as a second home.