VIDEO: A walk around Tokyo’s high-end Akasaka district

TBS in Akasaka, Tokyo (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Akasaka, located in the center of Tokyo and a short 20-minute walk from Hardy Barracks, is known for being an upscale district. Here you’ll find Akasaka Palace, the Prime Minister’s official residence, first-class hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, a broadcasting station and numerous foreign embassies and office buildings packed into one area.

Let’s stroll around the stone-paved street near TBS broadcasting station, also known as “Big Hat.” There is a large shopping, restaurant and residential complex called “Akasaka Sacas” where you can find a variety of unique food and souvenirs on the street. During mealtimes, the street becomes very busy with business and traveling folks who form a line in front of popular eateries.

Originally, Akasaka was a residential district for feudal lords during the Edo Period (1603 – 1867). The area was then developed as home to high-ranking government workers, military leaders and businessmen in Tokyo. Geisha houses and premium eateries were also built to entertain these wealthy figures a century ago. Go off the main street and explore the side streets where you’ll find trendy, high-end “ryotei” Japanese restaurants housed in chic, classical buildings.

intersection in Akasaka, Tokyo; TBS in the background

Akasaka (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

TBS (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

TBS Akasaka ACT Theater (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Across the large Akasaka Intersection down the street from TBS, is Hie Jinja, a Shinto shrine and famous Tokyo power spot. Although the picturesque shrine is located high on a hill, there is a large escalator to take you up. The top of the escalator offers a nice view of Akasaka, and the shrine itself has stunning vermillion shrine buildings worthy of a photo or two.

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

stairs and escalator to Hie Jinja Shrine

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Every other year in mid-June, Hie Jinja hosts Sanno Matsuri, one of Japan’s three biggest festivals (along with Kyoto’s Gion and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri). The festival draws thousands to enjoy the processions, performances and festival food. The next one is expected to take place in mid-June in 2026, according to Hie Shrine.

So, when you stay at Hardy Barracks or New Sanno, be sure to walk around Akasaka to feel some high-end atmosphere that Tokyo has to offer!

Akasaka

https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/2226/

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