The Top 5 Wealthiest Neighborhoods in Tokyo

Japan is known for its wealth and high standard of living, with Tokyo being one of the most expensive cities in the world. It’s no surprise that the country is home to many Japanese billionaires and wealthy individuals. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 5 neighborhoods in Tokyo where the richest Japanese live, based on statistics.

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Inside Tokyo’s Richest Neighborhoods: Where the Wealthiest Reside

Minato Ward – Home to Japan’s Most Wealthy

Minato Ward is considered to be the most expensive residential area in Tokyo, and for good reason. This ward houses many of Japan’s richest individuals, including Tadashi Yanai, the founder of Fast Retailing, and Masayoshi Son, the CEO of SoftBank. Other notable residents include several high-ranking politicians and foreign ambassadors.

Minato Ward is divided into five major areas

Azabu Juban – Residence of international celebrities. Azabu is home to many embassies and ambassadorial residences, giving it an exclusive and international feel.
Roppongi – Renowned for its vibrant nightlife, Roppongi is a hub for expatriates and tourists, featuring a plethora of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The area also boasts cultural attractions like the Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown complexes.
Akasaka – Known for its upscale dining and entertainment venues, it’s a hotspot for politicians and businesspeople due to its proximity to the National Diet Building.
Shiba – While it houses the iconic Tokyo Tower, Shiba is also recognized for Shiba Park, one of Tokyo’s oldest parks, and Zojoji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple.
Shirokane – One of the most prestigious addresses in Tokyo. It is known for its picturesque tree-lined streets and luxurious properties. Shirokane is home to many of Japan’s wealthiest families, including the Iwasaki family, who founded the Mitsubishi Corporation.

The reputation of Minato-ku is further solidified by data as shown in the latest statistics published by eStat, an online databased by the Statistics Bureau of Japan (website in Japanese), the average taxable income per number of taxpayer in Minato-ku tops at 118,465,617.88 Japanese Yen (around 790,000 USD).

Did You Know? Minato-ku houses Japan’s most expensive restaurants like Azabu Kodawaki.

For travelers and locals alike, Minato is synonymous with luxury accommodations. The ward is home to some of Tokyo’s most luxurious hotels such as Ritz-Carlton Tokyo.

Chiyoda Ward – Tokyo’s Political and Corporate Heartbeat

Chiyoda Ward, often recognized for the Imperial Palace and the National Diet Building, is not just the political center of Japan but also one of its wealthiest neighborhoods in Tokyo. With an average taxable income of 98,517,893.77 Japanese Yen, it stands as the second richest ward in Tokyo.

In fact, in the latest data from Japan Statistics Bureau, Chiyoda Ward stands out as the neighborhood that has the most number of financial and insurance companies at 1,470.

The ward is a blend of modern skyscrapers and historic sites:

Marunouchi – The corporate district of Tokyo. It’s home to the headquarters of many major corporations such as Citigroup, JP Morgan, Bain, and upscale shopping areas.
Kanda – A hub for book lovers, with streets lined with old bookstores and modern cafes.
Otemachi – Known as Tokyo’s financial district, it houses major banks, insurance companies, and media outlets.
Nagatacho – The political heart of Japan, where the National Diet Building and many government offices are located.

Chiyoda’s prominence isn’t just in its political and corporate significance. The ward also boasts luxury hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi and the Hotel New Otani Tokyo, both known for their impeccable service and prime locations.

Shibuya Ward – Home to Japan’s Elite, Youth and Fashion

Shibuya, with its iconic scramble crossing and trendsetting fashion districts, is not just a hub for the youth but also one of Tokyo’s wealthiest wards. The average taxable income here is 91,165,229.28 Japanese Yen, making it the third richest ward in Tokyo.

Key areas in Shibuya include:

Harajuku – The epicenter of youth fashion and culture, known for its trendy boutiques and vibrant street life.
Ebisu – A sophisticated area known for its dining scene, with a mix of traditional izakayas and modern restaurants.
Daikanyama – Often referred to as the “Brooklyn of Tokyo”, it’s a stylish and serene area with boutique shops and cafes.
Omotesando – Tokyo’s luxury shopping street, lined with flagship stores of international designers.

Shibuya’s modern appeal is complemented by luxury accommodations like the Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu and the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, both offering top-tier services and panoramic views of the city.

Chuo Ward – Central Hub of Tokyo’s Wealthy Business Scene and Cultural Landmarks

Chuo Ward, with its bustling market streets and upscale shopping areas, stands as a testament to Tokyo’s commercial vigor. The ward’s residents enjoy an average taxable income of 71,245,597.29 Japanese Yen, placing it among the city’s affluent areas.

Key districts in Chuo include:

Ginza – Often referred to as Tokyo’s “Fifth Avenue”, Ginza is a luxury shopping district with flagship stores of renowned international brands, theaters, and upscale dining.
Shimbashi – A bustling business district by day, Shimbashi transforms into a lively area at night with its numerous izakayas and eateries, catering to the after-work crowd. The old Shimbashi Station, a significant historical site, stands as a reminder of Japan’s railway heritage.
Tokyo Station Area – More than just a transportation hub, the Tokyo Station area is a blend of the modern and the historic. With the beautifully restored Marunouchi Building facade, it’s surrounded by business offices, luxury hotels, and shopping complexes like Kitte.
Nihonbashi – A historic area that’s been the commercial center of Tokyo for centuries, it’s home to traditional shops, major banks, and the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Tsukiji – While most famous for its historic fish market, Tsukiji also offers a variety of culinary experiences, from seafood restaurants to traditional tea houses.

Chuo’s commercial appeal is balanced with luxury accommodations such as the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo and the Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo, both known for their refined services and strategic locations.

Meguro Ward – A popular choice among the wealthy

Meguro, with its scenic canals and lush green spaces, is an upscale residential area located in the heart of Tokyo It is a popular choice among the wealthy due to its close proximity to the trendy Omotesando shopping district and its upscale boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The ward’s residents boast an average taxable income of 63,879,331.65 Japanese Yen, reflecting its status as one of Tokyo’s prosperous areas.

Notable areas in Meguro include:

Nakameguro – Famous for its cherry blossom-lined canal, it’s a trendy neighborhood with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Jiyugaoka – Often likened to a European town, it’s a fashionable area with a mix of modern boutiques and traditional Japanese shops.
Meguro River – A popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, the riverbanks come alive with festivals and events during spring.

Meguro’s serene ambiance is complemented by quality accommodations like the Claska Hotel and the Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, both offering a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comforts.

Tokyo is home to some of the wealthiest people in the world, and its high-end residential areas offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the super-rich. From the elegant streets of Azabu Juban to the picturesque neighborhoods of Shirakane, these areas are the epitome of opulence and exclusivity.

In the Lap of Luxury: A One-Day Excursion to Tokyo’s Most Affluent Neighborhoods

Here is our suggested one-day itinerary if you want to explore the Tokyo billionaire neighborhoods. We also suggest you to check the 3 Best and Unique Japan Food Tours in 2023 we have researched.

9:00am – Start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kome to Cha to Manma in Minami-Aoyama. This cozy cafe serves up delicious rice bowls, tea, and seasonal Japanese dishes in a homey atmosphere.

10:00am – Take a walk around Minami-Aoyama and explore the neighborhood’s many galleries and museums. Check out the Tadao Ando-designed 21_21 Design Sight, which showcases contemporary design and architecture, or the Nezu Museum, which houses a stunning collection of Japanese and East Asian art.

12:00pm – Head to Azabu-Juban and try some classic Japanese comfort food at Jangara Ramen. This popular ramen chain is known for its rich, flavorful broth and hearty toppings.

2:00pm – After lunch, visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum in nearby Ryogoku. This museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Tokyo, with exhibits on everything from samurai armor to traditional festivals.

4:00pm – Head to Motoazabu and visit the National Art Center Tokyo, one of Japan’s largest art museums. The museum hosts a rotating selection of exhibitions featuring both traditional and contemporary art from Japan and around the world.

6:00pm – For dinner, try out Ukaitei in Roppongi, a high-end Japanese grill restaurant specializing in wagyu beef and seafood. The restaurant has a cozy, traditional atmosphere, with private rooms and tatami seating available.

8:00pm – End the day with a relaxing soak in an onsen. Oedo Onsen Monogatari in Odaiba is a modern hot spring complex with a variety of indoor and outdoor baths, as well as saunas, massage services, and dining options.

Indulge in Luxury: Top 3 Hotels and Ryokans in Tokyo’s Most Prestigious Areas

If you’re looking to stay in one of these luxurious neighborhoods, here are some top hotel and ryokan options available through Expedia affiliate programs:

The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo (Roppongi, Minato Ward) Located in the heart of Roppongi, The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and Tokyo Tower. The hotel’s elegant interior, world-class dining options, and exceptional service make it a popular choice among affluent travelers looking for a luxurious stay in Tokyo.
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu (Shibuya Ward) Located in Akasaka, this elegant hotel offers a serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo, with lush gardens, Japanese-inspired interiors, and an award-winning spa.
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills (Minato Ward) A luxurious five-star hotel located in the Toranomon area, known for its upscale shopping and dining options. The hotel offers stunning views of the city skyline and is within walking distance of some of Tokyo’s most prestigious neighborhoods, including Minato and Roppongi. The hotel’s rooms are designed with a contemporary Japanese aesthetic, featuring traditional materials such as washi paper and natural wood. Guests can enjoy access to the hotel’s spa, fitness center, and restaurants, which serve both international and local cuisine. Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills is a great choice for those looking to experience the luxurious lifestyle of Tokyo’s elite neighborhoods.