1. In a few words
International, up-scale, and central
2. Fun facts
Tokyo tower, a communications and observation tower built in 1958 is often confused with the Eiffel Tower. No secret where it got its inspiration from!
3. Life in Minato-ku
Centre where internationals congregate as choice destination for international companies and embassies to base. You get all the international nightlife and F&B offerings to go with that
4. Connectivity
Well connected with various subway lines
5. The RE market
The slightly hilly landscape provides the usual offerings with more luxurious new high-rise developments and single-family homes
Roppongi
Roppongi is known to be the de-facto destination for internationals to congregate. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown are trendy, mixed-used developments, hosting some of the most prominent international and Japanese companies while offering an upscale shopping, dining, and cultural experience, and is where the Mori Museum is located. Several international banks have their headquarters located here. The area around Roppongi crossing is popular nightlife destination for internationals. Despite this, residential areas branching off from the main streets still offer a civilised, pleasant atmosphere. Roppongi offers a range of high-specification high rise apartments as well as single-family homes. Roppongi station is well connected via the subways’ Hibiya and Oedo line which links Roppongi to major destinations such as Shinjuku, Ginza and Ueno.
Azabu
Azabu is an upscale neighbourhood with a traditional feel with local shops and restaurants peppered around. Located near to major office locations but away from the hustle and bustle of Roppongi, Azabu has a high concentration of luxurious single-family houses. Numerous embassies are located in Azabu which adds to the perception of safety of the neighbourhood. The prevalence of single-family homes, safety and access to numerous international and private schools close by makes it very popular amongst the elites of Japan and expats with families. Azabujuban station is well connected with the Oedo and Nanboku line.
Akasaka
Akasaka is a hilly, pleasant neighbourhood right next to Nagatacho where the National diet building (home to the government) is situated. Being in close proximity to politics, it is no surprise that many Akasaka is a popular office location for many companies to establish their head offices and embassies. Numerous mixed-used complexes like Ark hills provide a range of amenities and F&B offerings. Depending on the specific location within Akasaka, there are good transport links, but one would expect to do some walking!
Investment View
When one discusses location of real estate, it does not get better than Minato-ku. Central, upscale, convenient, and prestigious. As such, pricing of real estate here tends to be one of the highest in Japan, particular the new luxury high-rise developments. Occupancy in the submarket is excellent driven by continued demand for central Tokyo living. Depending on age, and specific locations, residential properties go for 2 to 4.5% yields. But for the money, you will be buying the best that Tokyo has to offer.
Azabu is an upscale neighbourhood with a traditional feel with local shops and restaurants peppered around. Located near to major office locations but away from the hustle and bustle of Roppongi, Azabu has a high concentration of luxurious single-family houses. Numerous embassies are located in Azabu which adds to the perception of safety of the neighbourhood. The prevalence of single-family homes, safety and access to numerous international and private schools close by makes it very popular amongst the elites of Japan and expats with families. Azabujuban station is well connected with the Oedo and Nanboku line.
