Roppongi

Since war times Roppongi has been the centre of international diversity in Tokyo. The heavy US military presence after the war prompted the first western oriented shops and bars and a flourishing red-light district. Today the area is home to many resident expatriates and foreign embassies and by day is a thriving business centre. After dark is when Roppongi comes into its true magnificence, ablaze with flashing neon and bass beats. It is the undisputed nightlife capital in a city that never sleeps. Music of any genre can be found; from ska to punk, hip hop to classic disco there’s a club or bar that’s playing it. Popular with both Japanese and foreign patrons Roppongi streets are fascinating for people watching and partying.

In recent years Roppongi has seen significant redevelopment to become a luxury area. Roppongi Hills is an enormous ‘city within a city’ with wide public squares, shopping centres, a cinema and the 238m Mori Tower offering great city views. Tokyo Midtown is also in the area, Tokyo’s tallest building at 248m. Yet another sky-scraper is present in Roppongi, the Izumi Garden Tower, making it one of the best areas to get a sense of the city.