What is Azabu Tokyo known for?

Despite being considered an upscale locality of Tokyo with the presence of Foreign Missions, foreign schools and foreigners living in the neighbourhood, Azabu retains its unique low-profile ambience like the ancient Tokyo downtown area. In comparison to other prosperous localities of Tokyo, this charming area has 100-yen shops, budget supermarkets and historical shops that rub shoulders with modern sleek ones that fascinate visitors. Discover many other hidden facets of this charming locality.

Introduction

Cocooned between two famous skyscrapers, Tokyo Tower and Roppongi Tower in the Minato area of the capital city Tokyo, Azabu is centrally located, enabling visitors using furnished apartments in Tokyo to explore this neighbourhood to gain a peek into the rich tapestry of history and culture of Tokyo dating back to Edo Period.

Azabu is situated within a few minutes of brisk walk from Azabu Juban station and properties like Oakwood Apartments Minami Azabu Tokyo. Its iconic shopping street Azabjuban Shotengai is a must-do experience with over 300 shops and as it widens as you walk down take note of the numerous embassy buildings of different nations lining the street.

A rich history and fine architecture

Also known as Azabu Juban, with Juban meaning 10 in Japanese, this was the tenth city ward among the 15 wards set up in 1878. Azabu Juban played a key hub for trading facilitating the transportation of goods and contributing to its prosperity. This prosperity coupled with the tranquillity in the ward with environs like Zojoji Temple and Shiba Daimyo Gardens made Azabu Juban a highly residential area for the nobility and samurais of that time.

The impressive Zojoji Temple complex is home to the tombs of six Tokugawa shoguns (military rulers of Japan). Its main entrance Sangedatsumon is a magnificent portrayal of traditional Buddhist Architecture. This temple complex survived the bomb attacks of WW2.

Preserving tradition alongside modernity

While graciously welcoming modernization, this charming neighbourhood has retained its touches of traditional charm with the shops and restaurants that have been passed down from generation to generation serving the community with a consistent feel of the past.

This innovative approach to creating synergy in Azabu Juban has led to a sense of nostalgia and an appreciation of the past experienced by many visitors who explore these streets. They capture images of these settings while appreciating the diligence of the community to preserve their heritage.

A gastronimical haven

As a foodie paradise, Azabu Juban boasts a wide canvas of dining possibilities for different palates. Commencing from traditional Japanese eateries to trendy fusion restaurants, the neighbourhood doesn’t disappoint anyone.

Azabu’s Izakayas are legendary and must be experienced. Offering a range of food from seafood or meat they come as sashimi platters, edamame, karage, and yakisoba noodles that are coupled with sake or beer.

Pretty bakeries and inviting cafes beckon visitors on the hidden streets of Azabu Juban to indulge in the warm ambience and delightful treats like fresh pastries, snacks and heavenly coffee.

Celebrating Culture

Festivals are synonymous with Azabu with many of them are celebrated throughout the year. Each of the celebrations offers a glimpse into a facet of the culture.

The Noryo Festival of Azabu Juban - Held during the summer month of August, this is a lively and colourful one with music, dance forms and food stalls drawing massive crowds of visitors. This attractive festival helps the local communities to supplement their income through the sale of festival food and souvenirs.

Hanami Parties – These colourful parties are held during the spring season, also called the cherry blossom season

Fall (Autumn) Festival – During autumn or the fall season the fascinating charm of fall foliage is witnessed with dance performances and traditional music.