a strange and beautiful contradiction

Tokyo Tower Area

The areas of Azabudai, Shibakoen, Kamiyacho, Toranomon are tightly clustered business and embassy districts in central Tokyo, sitting between Roppongi, Akasaka, and Shinbashi, forming a pocket known for international offices, luxury developments, and old government ties.

Landmarks & Views

Tokyo Tower. A retro-futuristic symbol of Tokyo’s postwar boom, Tokyo Tower still draws visitors for its panoramic views and nostalgic charm. At night, it glows like a beacon over the city.

Atago Jinja. Tucked on a steep hill, Atago Jinja rewards the climb with a commanding city view, and according to legend may bring success.

Shiba Koen. One of Tokyo’s oldest public parks, Shiba Koen wraps around Zojoji Temple with broad lawns and glimpses of Tokyo Tower overhead.

Cultural & Art Spaces

Team Labs. Immersive art space where light, sound, and movement blend into living installations, a sensory playground.

Kikuchi Kanjitsu Memorial Tomo Museum. Dedicated to modern ceramic art, focuses on artists who push traditional Japanese clay work into new forms, often subtle and minimalist.

Okura Museum. A well-curated, dazzling collection of East Asian art. Situated next to the hotel.

Dining & Bars

Tofu Ukai. Set in a quiet garden at the foot of Tokyo Tower, Tofu Ukai serves refined tofu kaiseki in traditional tatami rooms.

Azabudai Hills. A gleaming vertical village of luxury residences, restaurants, and art.

  • Hakata Tempura Takao UMU – Casual tempura spot specializing in crisp Hakata-style fry-ups, best enjoyed with mentaiko on the side.

  • Hisaya – Kyoto-style teahouse known for its towering Mont Blanc chestnut desserts, piped fresh to order in delicate strands. If they have the warabi mochi, highly recommended.

  • Alchemy – A stylish vegan café and juice bar known for its superfood bowls and cold-pressed drinks.

  • Balcony by 6th - a stylish all-day dining spot known for its signature "6th Pancakes"—fluffy, buttery stacks served with maple syrup.

  • Saboe – A serene Japanese tea and sweets café with a focus on seasonal wagashi and elegant presentation.

Kumagai Sushi. Discreet, reservation-only counter known for its refined Edomae-style omakase. The atmosphere is calm and focused, with seasonal fish served in elegant, minimalist progression.

SUSHI GARYU. A small, reservation-only sushi restaurant known for its Edomae-style omakase. Fish is seasonal, preparation is precise, and seating is limited to maintain intimacy. Has loyal following and regulars who value quality and consistency.

Toranomon Yokocho, A “neo-yokocho” in Toranomon Hills Business Tower, boasts 26 distinguished eateries, many are branches of popular restaurants in other parts of Tokyo.

  • Bird Land – Michelin-starred yakitori spot grilling premium chicken over binchotan with precision and polish.

  • Tama – Okinawan comfort food served in a relaxed setting, with standout dishes like goya champuru and rafute.

  • Shushokudo Toranomon Distillery – A sleek, modern izakaya built around craft shochu and inventive small plates.

Memento Mori. Adjacent to Toranomon Yokocho. A dark, cocktail bar where the air smells faintly of chocolate and wood smoke. The cocktails lean deep and bitter, built around cacao, coffee, and spirits. It’s not really a place for sugar highs though.

Hotels & Clubs

The Okura Tokyo. A modern classic—elegant, quiet, and deeply Japanese. Design buffs and diplomats both feel at home.

Andaz Tokyo. Sleek rooms up in the clouds, rooftop drinks, and big views. Global vibe with a Tokyo accent.

Tokyo American Club. Private club with a gym, pool, dining, and a built-in expat safety net—if you’ve got access, it’s a solid base.

Azabu Juban

Akasaka