Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Azabu Juban is an area in Tokyo's Minato Ward that combines traditional downtown areas with trendy restaurants. Developed as a commercial and residential area since the Edo period, the area has taken on an international flair with postwar redevelopment and an influx of foreign residents. The area boasts a unique atmosphere, with its long-standing shopping street (Juban Shopping Street) and a mix of traditional Japanese sweet shops, small izakayas, unique cafes and boutiques, and novel gourmet restaurants.
In the summer, the Azabu Juban Summer Festival is held, and the area is bustling with food stalls and events. The area is also popular for its many alleys and slopes, allowing you to make small discoveries while strolling around.
Highlights
- Juban shopping street: The main street. A wide variety of Japanese sweet shops, prepared foods, and restaurants, from long-established establishments to new ones. Perfect for strolling and eating your way around.
- Japanese confectionery shops such as Naniwaya Sohonten: Long-established shops selling dorayaki and Japanese sweets are especially popular with tourists (please check store hours in advance).
- Azabu Hikawa Shrine: The local guardian deity. You can enjoy worship and festivals in a calm atmosphere.
- Walking along alleyways and slopes: There are many narrow alleys, hilly scenery, unique little shops, and many photogenic spots.
- Gourmet: A collection of international restaurants, including Japanese, French, Italian, and bars. Enjoy both day and night.
- Seasonal Events: The summer festival in particular is extremely crowded with food stalls and Bon Odori dances (the dates change every year so be sure to check).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- subwayThe nearest station is Azabu-Juban Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, Toei Oedo Line). The shopping street is just a few minutes' walk from the station.
- bus: Toei bus and metropolitan bus routes pass through the area. Since convenient routes vary depending on your destination, we recommend searching for routes in advance.
- Car/Taxi: The roads in residential areas and shopping districts are narrow and there are few parking spaces, so it is recommended to use public transportation. Taxis are easy to find by driving around or using a taxi-hailing app, but be aware of traffic restrictions around shopping districts (depending on the schedule).
- Approximate distance from surrounding stations: About 15 minutes walk from Roppongi Station / 20-25 minutes walk or a short bus or taxi ride to Tokyo Tower (towards Shiba Park).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short stroll: 1 to 1.5 hours (just walk around the main street and enjoy some Japanese sweets and snacks)
- Dining + Walking: 2-3 hours (including lunch/dinner and walking around the alleys)
- A leisurely, leisurely trip: half a day (visiting multiple stores and nearby spots)
Nearby spots
- Tokyo Tower / Zojoji Temple / Shiba Park: Accessible on foot or by a short bus/taxi ride. Easy to incorporate into sightseeing routes.
- Roppongi and Roppongi Hills: There are plenty of shopping options and museums (such as the Mori Art Museum). It's just a short walk from Azabu-Juban.
- Gaien Nishi Street area in Azabu and Hiroo: An area with many international restaurants and shops.
- Museums and Galleries: There are also small galleries and exhibition spots scattered around the neighborhood, so you can enjoy an art stroll.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The area is especially crowded during the summer "Azabu Juban Summer Festival" and on weekends and holidays. On busy days, some streets become pedestrian zones, and it takes time to move around with strollers or wheelchairs.
- Characteristics of the shopping district: Many restaurants are small, with limited seating and some may be closed temporarily. Popular restaurants may have long lines, so we recommend making a reservation or going early.
- payment: Small, long-established shops and street stalls may only accept cash, so it's a good idea to bring some cash with you. Acceptance of cards and electronic money varies by store.
- Alley width and stairs: There are some areas that are not barrier-free. If you are using a wheelchair or stroller, please check the route in advance.
- Nighttime Manners: This is an area with many restaurants and bars, so people are out and about until late at night. However, as this is also a residential area, please refrain from making loud noises or littering.
- Seasonal precautions: It gets very hot in the summer, so be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. In the winter, be aware that the slopes can be slippery.
- Traffic restrictions during events: During festivals and summer festivals, road closures and congestion at train stations are expected. Please check official information from public transport operators and organizers.
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Azabu-Juban is an attractive town where "good old shopping streets" and "cosmopolitan and stylish food and drink culture" coexist. You can enjoy it in a short time, but we recommend taking your time to walk around and find your favorite shops. For a safe and comfortable stay, please check the busy days and store opening times in advance.
