Best Neighborhoods for Single People in Tokyo

Tokyo, a bustling metropolis with a blend of the traditional and the ultra-modern, offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to the diverse lifestyles of expats and digital nomads. For single people looking to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant culture, connect with like-minded individuals, and enjoy a rich social life, certain areas stand out as particularly appealing. From the trendy streets of Shibuya to the serene surroundings of Meguro, each neighborhood has its unique charm and amenities that make it a great place to live for singles. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Tokyo for single expats and digital nomads.

Shibuya

Shibuya is the epitome of Tokyo's fast-paced lifestyle and is known for its iconic scramble crossing and bustling nightlife. Singles living here enjoy a plethora of entertainment options, from trendy bars and clubs to live music venues. Fitness clubs like Anytime Fitness are readily available for health-conscious residents. The area is also home to cultural spots like the Bunkamura cultural complex, offering theaters, cinemas, and galleries. On weekends, locals can be found relaxing in Yoyogi Park or exploring the latest fashion trends in the boutiques of Shibuya 109.

Location: Central Tokyo, surrounding Shibuya Station

Real Estate: Rental prices for a studio or 1-bedroom apartment can be on the higher side due to the area's popularity.

Where to Eat: Shibuya is filled with dining options ranging from conveyor belt sushi at Genki Sushi to international cuisines at various themed restaurants.

Interesting History: The Hachiko statue near Shibuya Station is a famous historical landmark, commemorating the loyal dog that waited for its owner every day, even after his death.

Celeb sightings: Shibuya is a hotspot for celebrity sightings, especially in the fashionable areas like Daikanyama.

Roppongi

Roppongi is known for its expat-friendly environment and vibrant nightlife. It's a great place for singles who enjoy socializing and networking, with a multitude of bars, clubs, and international restaurants. The area also boasts cultural attractions like the Mori Art Museum and Roppongi Hills, where residents can enjoy art exhibitions and stunning city views. Fitness enthusiasts can join the Roppongi Hills Club or any of the local gyms.

Location: Minato Ward, central Tokyo

Real Estate: Roppongi offers a range of accommodation options, with rental prices varying widely based on proximity to the nightlife district.

Where to Eat: Roppongi is home to many upscale dining establishments, including the Michelin-starred restaurants like Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi.

Interesting History: Roppongi was once home to feudal lords during the Edo period, and its name means "six trees," which were used to delineate the area.

Celeb sightings: With its luxury apartments and high-end venues, Roppongi is a common place to spot celebrities and foreign dignitaries.

Ebisu

Ebisu is a sophisticated neighborhood that offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Shibuya and Roppongi. It's popular among singles for its stylish cafes, boutique shops, and the Ebisu Garden Place complex. The area is also known for its food scene, with a variety of restaurants and the famous Ebisu Yokocho, an alley filled with izakayas and bars. The Tokyo Photographic Art Museum and the annual Yebisu International Festival for Art & Alternative Visions are cultural highlights for art lovers.

Location: Shibuya Ward, situated between Shibuya and Meguro

Real Estate: Ebisu offers a mix of modern and older apartments, with rental prices being relatively high due to its desirability.

Where to Eat: Ebisu's culinary scene includes spots like Afuri for yuzu-flavored ramen and the Michelin-starred Sushi Saito.

Interesting History: Ebisu was named after the Japanese god of fishermen and luck, and the area originally housed a beer brewery, giving rise to the Yebisu Beer brand.

Celeb sightings: Ebisu's upscale nature makes it a likely place to encounter local celebrities, especially in its fine dining establishments.

Nakameguro

Nakameguro attracts singles with its bohemian vibe and scenic cherry blossom-lined canal. It's a neighborhood where creatives and fashionistas gather, offering unique boutiques, artisanal coffee shops, and a relaxed bar scene. The Meguro River provides a picturesque setting for leisurely walks, and during sakura season, the area becomes a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) parties. Fitness clubs and yoga studios are available for those looking to stay active.

Location: Meguro Ward, along the Meguro River

Real Estate: Nakameguro has seen a rise in popularity, leading to an increase in real estate prices, but it still offers a range of options for singles.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is known for its trendy eateries like Onibus Coffee and the cozy izakayas along the river.

Interesting History: Nakameguro was historically a quiet residential area, but in recent years it has transformed into a fashionable district for dining and shopping.

Celeb sightings: With its stylish ambiance, Nakameguro is a place where you might spot local designers and artists.

Kichijoji

Kichijoji is a favorite among singles for its blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The neighborhood is centered around the expansive Inokashira Park, which offers a serene escape with its pond and swan boats. The area is also known for its vibrant shopping streets, such as Sunroad, and the Ghibli Museum, which is a must-visit for fans of the famed animation studio. Kichijoji's Harmonica Yokocho is a network of narrow alleys filled with tiny bars and eateries, perfect for an evening out.

Location: Musashino City, western Tokyo

Real Estate: Kichijoji has a mix of older and newer apartments, with rental prices being more affordable compared to central Tokyo.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood offers a diverse food scene, from the popular Iseya yakitori shop to the many cafes and bakeries around the station.

Interesting History: Kichijoji was named after a temple that no longer exists, and the area has been consistently ranked as one of the most desirable places to live in Tokyo.

Celeb sightings: Kichijoji's laid-back atmosphere and cultural spots make it a potential location for encountering local celebrities enjoying their day off.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a bustling hub that offers everything a single person could want, from the neon-lit streets of Kabukicho to the tranquil Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. It's a neighborhood that never sleeps, with countless dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building provides panoramic views of the city, and the area's many skyscrapers house offices, hotels, and upscale bars. Gyms and sports clubs are abundant, catering to the active lifestyle of its residents.

Location: Western Tokyo, surrounding Shinjuku Station

Real Estate: Shinjuku has a wide range of real estate options, with rental prices varying greatly depending on the exact location and type of building.

Where to Eat: Shinjuku's culinary offerings are vast, including the famous ramen alley and the Michelin-starred restaurants in the skyscraper district.

Interesting History: Shinjuku was a post town during the Edo period and has evolved into one of Tokyo's most important commercial and administrative centers.

Celeb sightings: With its many entertainment venues and luxury hotels, Shinjuku is a common place for celebrity encounters.

Aoyama

Aoyama is an upscale neighborhood that appeals to singles with its sophisticated charm and high-end shopping along Omotesando Avenue. The area is known for its cutting-edge fashion boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafes. Aoyama is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Nezu Museum with its beautiful Japanese garden. For those looking to stay fit, there are premium fitness clubs like Curves and Gold's Gym.

Location: Between Shibuya and Akasaka

Real Estate: Aoyama is one of Tokyo's most prestigious areas, and real estate prices reflect its status, with some of the highest rents in the city.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood boasts a variety of upscale dining options, from traditional Japanese kaiseki restaurants to trendy international eateries.

Interesting History: Aoyama is named after the Aoyama clan, who were feudal lords during the Edo period.

Celeb sightings: Aoyama's luxury boutiques and exclusive clubs make it a frequent spot for high-profile individuals and celebrities.

Daikanyama

Daikanyama is a chic and tranquil neighborhood that offers a respite from Tokyo's hustle and bustle. It's favored by singles for its fashionable boutiques, cozy cafes, and the serene Saigoyama Park. The area has a European vibe, with cobbled streets and terraces, making it a great place for leisurely strolls. The Tsutaya bookstore complex, known as Daikanyama T-Site, is a cultural hub where locals can browse books, enjoy art, and socialize.

Location: Shibuya Ward, a short walk from Shibuya and Ebisu

Real Estate: Daikanyama offers a range of stylish apartments, with rental prices being high due to the neighborhood's desirability and charm.

Where to Eat: The area is home to a variety of dining options, from the upscale Ivy Place to the quaint cafes tucked away in its side streets.

Interesting History: Daikanyama was once a residential area for Japanese nobility and has retained its refined atmosphere.

Celeb sightings: With its trendy and exclusive atmosphere, Daikanyama is a hotspot for fashion icons and celebrities.