Roppongi: Tokyo’s Amazing Neighborhood!

If you’re familiar with the Tokyo nightlife, chances are you’ve heard of Roppongi. This lively and trendy district is home to swanky businesses, buzzworthy celebrities, and the latest in fashion and art. But if you look beneath the surface, you’ll be surprised by how much it offers in terms of history and culture. Join us as we explore Roppongi together!

Where is Roppongi?

Located in northwest Minato City (central Tokyo), the neighborhood is home to many important companies, including TV Asahi and NJPW World. The area also has several schools, university campuses, and foreign embassies. As a result, its buses and metro systems see a lot of traffic, with an average of 105,196 passengers passing through Roppongi Station daily (according to 2023 numbers).

The name “Roppongi” was firmly in use by 1660; it translates to “six trees,” but what does it mean? Well, there are two possible explanations. According to one legend, six large zelkova trees grew in the area, all of which were eventually destroyed. In another story, six daimyos (feudal lords), whose names used the kanji for “tree” or a kind of tree, lived in the vicinity during the Edo period (1603-1868). 

How did it begin?

In the Meiji period (1868-1912), Roppongi looked different from today’s area. It began as a town serving the Imperial Japanese Army’s Third Guard. As its military activity grew, so did its reputation as a night district. Minato City was one of many cities that suffered heavy Allied bombing during World War II, and American troops took over Japan’s army bases. Businesses opened, catering exclusively to Americans, though some Japanese patrons also visited.

Fortunately, this “Tokyo concession” period ended in the early 60s, with both media companies and disco clubs experiencing a boom in the coming decades. The district powered on despite a brief recession due to the 1989 market crash. And with the construction of Roppongi Hills and Izumi Garden Tower in the early 2000s, it received a boost in popularity, which isn’t going away anytime soon.

Everything You Need to Know About Roppongi Hills!

Jujutsu Kaisen fans will recognize this complex from the first opening’s visuals! The district’s most famous development is named after business tycoon Minoru Mori of Mori Building. Mori wanted to create a high-rise neighborhood where people could work, shop, play, and live without commuting. Built between 2000 and 2003, the site covers 27 acres (109,000 meters²) and cost 270 billion JPY ($2 billion USD, $4 billion in 2025 currency).

Roppongi Hills has everything from luxury brands and restaurants to cinemas and an outdoor amphitheatre. However, the 54-story Mori Tower is the main attraction, which houses various companies (including The Pokémon Company’s headquarters and Konami) and tourist attractions (such as the Tokyo City View and Mori Art Museum). Several celebrities like A Bathing Ape designer Shinoyama Nigo and late composer Ryuichi Sakamoto have lived in the development.

What are some other famous sites?

Keyakizaka Dori

This 400-meter (1300-ft) street combines boutiques and cafés with nature and plenty of green spaces. The best time to visit is between November and December, when the trees are illuminated by blue and white LED lights in the evenings. And if you come during the spring, visit the nearby Sakurazaka for gorgeous views of the cherry blossoms!

Are you looking for fun snacks to enjoy this summer? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest Japanese treats directly from Japan!

Art Triangle Roppongi (ATRo)

Fancy visiting three museums in one day? The Mori Art Museum, the National Art Center (NACT), Tokyo, and the Suntory Museum of Art let you do just that! If you visit one of the galleries’ current exhibitions and save your ticket stub, you’ll get a special discount on the other two locations through ATRo Saving. 

SEL OCTAGON TOKYO

This nightclub is an excellent hub for EDM music lovers. Ranked #50 by the DJ MAG CLUB, SEL OCTAGON boasts a state-of-the-art sound system and resident and visiting artists. The space is also available to rent for events like live shows, photoshoots, and weddings. Note that a dress code is enforced, including no visible tattoos. Guests must be at least 20 years old to enter the club.

Why should I visit Roppongi?

This district is the go-to for the latest in fashion, technology, and entertainment. The neighborhood has everything you need within walking distance (if you can afford it!). Besides the latest trends, it’s a music, art, and history hub. For weary shoppers and gallery visitors, there are various green spaces where you can walk or sit in nature.

More importantly, depending on your hearing, this neighborhood might differ from your expectations. We suggest going in with an open mind, plenty of curiosity, good-soled shoes, and a budget. If all else fails, window-shopping is your friend!

Roppongi has come a long way. Starting as a military town and becoming infamous for its nightlife and yakuza associations, it’s gained a reputation for clubs, luxury, and innovative technology. You can tour a museum, eat out, and dance to your heart’s content on the same day. Whatever your interest, we guarantee you’ll enjoy your time here. Have you visited this district before? Share your favorite spots in the comments.

Cited Sources

• Japan National Tourist Organization. “Roppongi“.
• Go Tokyo: The Official Tokyo Travel Guide. “A guide to Roppongi: art, dining, nightlife, and more“.
• Roppongi Official Information Website. “History of Roppongi“.