Tokyo is a vast city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering something unique to expats. The best areas for renting largely depend on your preferences for lifestyle, budget, proximity to work, and amenities. Here are some of the top neighborhoods for expats:
1. Shibuya (渋谷区)
Best For: Young professionals, nightlife, and entertainment.
Why Expats Like It: Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts, known for its vibrant nightlife, fashion, and entertainment. It's bustling, well-connected to the rest of the city, and home to many foreign-friendly businesses.
Highlights: Shibuya Crossing, shopping at Shibuya 109, Yoyogi Park for green space.
Average Rent: ¥150,000–¥300,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
2. Ebisu (恵比寿)
Best For: Dining, trendy cafes, and upscale living.
Why Expats Like It: A short walk from Shibuya, Ebisu is more laid-back but equally vibrant. It's popular with expats due to its wide variety of international restaurants and stylish cafes. The neighborhood has a mix of modern apartments and older homes, making it an appealing choice for a range of budgets.
Highlights: Ebisu Garden Place, trendy restaurants, close to Meguro and Daikanyama.
Average Rent: ¥180,000–¥350,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
3. Roppongi (六本木)
Best For: Nightlife, expat community, international vibe.
Why Expats Like It: Roppongi is a hub for expats due to its concentration of embassies, international schools, and foreigner-friendly businesses. It's famous for its nightlife and cultural attractions like Roppongi Hills and the Mori Art Museum.
Highlights: Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, international bars and clubs.
Average Rent: ¥200,000–¥400,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
4. Hiroo (広尾)
Best For: Families, quiet residential life, international schools.
Why Expats Like It: Hiroo is a quieter, upscale area with a large expat community. It's home to several international schools, making it ideal for families. The neighborhood has a very residential feel, with many Western-style homes and apartments.
Highlights: International supermarkets (National Azabu), Arisugawa Park, proximity to embassies.
Average Rent: ¥250,000–¥500,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
5. Akasaka (赤坂)
Best For: Professionals, business district living, dining.
Why Expats Like It: Akasaka is a prime business district, ideal for those working in the corporate sector. It’s quieter at night but has an excellent selection of upscale restaurants and bars. The area is centrally located, providing quick access to other parts of Tokyo.
Highlights: Akasaka Sacas, high-end dining, close to government offices.
Average Rent: ¥180,000–¥350,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
6. Meguro (目黒区)
Best For: Young families, quiet living, parks.
Why Expats Like It: Meguro is popular for its residential feel, spacious apartments, and green spaces. It’s a great option for families or professionals looking for a quieter life with easy access to central Tokyo. Meguro River is especially scenic in cherry blossom season.
Highlights: Meguro River, Institute for Nature Study, proximity to Ebisu and Nakameguro.
Average Rent: ¥150,000–¥280,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
7. Nakameguro (中目黒)
Best For: Artistic vibe, cafes, boutiques.
Why Expats Like It: Known for its bohemian vibe, Nakameguro is a trendy neighborhood with a mix of art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops. It's especially popular with creative types and younger expats. The area has a relaxed atmosphere but is still centrally located.
Highlights: Nakameguro River, art galleries, trendy cafes.
Average Rent: ¥160,000–¥300,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
8. Shinjuku (新宿区)
Best For: Nightlife, entertainment, diverse population.
Why Expats Like It: Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most famous and diverse areas, known for its neon lights, bustling nightlife, and shopping districts. It's a popular choice for expats who enjoy a fast-paced, lively environment. The area also has some quieter residential neighborhoods nearby, such as Nishi-Shinjuku.
Highlights: Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Golden Gai, Kabukicho.
Average Rent: ¥120,000–¥280,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
9. Setagaya (世田谷区)
Best For: Families, spacious homes, suburban feel.
Why Expats Like It: Setagaya is a peaceful, green, and residential area, popular with families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle away from central Tokyo’s hustle. It’s home to several parks, excellent schools, and spacious homes, making it one of the most desirable areas for expats with families.
Highlights: Komazawa Olympic Park, Futako-Tamagawa shopping complex, Setagaya Park.
Average Rent: ¥130,000–¥300,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
10. Kichijoji (吉祥寺)
Best For: Bohemian vibe, parks, budget-friendly options.
Why Expats Like It: Kichijoji is a bit further from the city center but is a vibrant neighborhood with a bohemian flair. It’s known for its proximity to Inokashira Park and has a lively local scene with markets, cafes, and shops. This area offers a more relaxed atmosphere with affordable rental options compared to central Tokyo.
Highlights: Inokashira Park, Ghibli Museum, local shopping streets.
Average Rent: ¥100,000–¥250,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. M.D
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