Akasaka Sacas (Minato Ward, Tokyo) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Akasaka Sacas is a commercial and cultural complex located in Akasaka, Minato Ward, Tokyo. The area is centered around the local television station TBS (Tokyo Broadcasting System Holdings), and is a redeveloped complex that brings together offices, theaters, shops, restaurants, and event plazas. Its current appearance was achieved through large-scale development in the late 2000s.
Its distinctive feature is its blend of the elements of "broadcasting," "entertainment," and "food." It's home to TBS-related facilities, public recording spaces, theaters where plays and concerts are held (such as Akasaka ACT Theater), and many outdoor events such as seasonal illuminations and festivals, attracting both local residents and tourists. The area's appeal lies in its red signs, plaza displays, and lively dining district, and you can also enjoy shops and merchandise related to TV shows and celebrities.
Highlights
- Sacas Square Event Program: The outdoor plaza hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including food festivals, live music, markets, and illuminations. The charm of this place is that the atmosphere changes with the seasons.
- Theaters and entertainment facilities: Musicals, plays, and live performances are held at Akasaka ACT Theater and other venues. Check the performance schedule and visit for a special experience.
- Restaurant district and gourmet: There are a wide variety of restaurants, from casual izakayas to high-end restaurants, where you can enjoy gourmet food at lunchtime or in the evening.
- Tour of TBS-related shops and studios (during events): You can get merchandise for the show at TBS-related shops. You may also see open recordings and events in front of the studio (please check in advance to see if they are happening).
- Illuminations (winter): The winter illuminations and Christmas markets are popular photo spots. A stroll at night is beautiful.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line "Akasaka Station"...approximately 3 minutes walk (varies depending on exit)
- Akasaka-mitsuke Station and Aoyama-itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Marunouchi Line are also within walking distance (travel time may vary depending on transfers and exits)
- Approximately 5-10 minutes on foot from Akasaka-mitsuke Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Marunouchi Line
- Accessible via multiple lines, including Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Namboku Line "Tameike-sanno Station" and "Akasaka-mitsuke Station"
- Buses and taxis: Easily accessible by Toei buses, Toei bus routes, and taxis. If you are coming by car, please use the nearby parking lots (the number of spaces is limited and they tend to fill up during peak hours).
- From the airportFrom Haneda or Narita, take the limousine bus, train, or subway into Tokyo and get off at the station mentioned above.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Shopping and cafe use: 1-2 hours
- Meal-focused, including lunch and dinner: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- If you want to leisurely stroll around the event/market: 2-3 hours (depending on the content)
- Theater or concert: 2-4 hours depending on the show time + travel time
Nearby spots
- Hie Shrine (walking distance) — A quiet shrine in the heart of the city where you can enjoy prayers and seasonal events.
- The National Diet Building and Akasaka Mitsuke area — Convenient for exploring the historical buildings and government offices.
- Roppongi (Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown) — Accessible by foot or short ride, with plenty of museums and observation decks.
- Tameike-sanno area — With many commercial facilities, offices, and restaurants, you can experience the atmosphere of a business district.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: It gets very crowded on weekends and at night, especially during illuminations and major events, the New Year holidays, Golden Week, etc. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on weekdays between morning and early afternoon.
- Restaurant waiting times: Popular restaurants may have long queues or wait times. Please consider making a reservation for dinner or on weekends.
- Etiquette for photography and interviews: Generally, photography is allowed outdoors, but photography may be prohibited around the studio or inside the theater during a performance. Please check the instructions of staff and notices posted.
- weather: Outdoor events may be canceled or changed in the event of rain. Please check the official website or social media for event information in advance.
- Consideration for surrounding residents: Please refrain from shouting late at night, drinking alcohol on the street for long periods of time, and observe good manners by disposing of trash in designated areas.
Before visiting, we recommend checking the official website or social media for the latest information on events, opening hours, closing days, etc. Akasaka Sacas is an area packed with food, culture, and entertainment, so if you plan your visit accordingly, you can have a fulfilling time.
