Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward: A Glimpse into High-End Urban Living

In the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district, a spacious apartment offers a window into the luxury lifestyle available in Japan’s capital. This 5LDK (five rooms plus living-dining-kitchen) residence, located in the Grosvenor Place Jinenchō complex, is currently listed for rent at 3,300,000 yen (approximately $20,886 USD) per month, showcasing the premium end of Tokyo’s rental market.

Check out the listing here

The apartment, situated on the first basement floor of a seven-story building (three underground, four above ground), boasts an impressive 340.67 square meters (3,667 square feet) of living space. This is particularly noteworthy in Tokyo, where living spaces are often compact. The building itself, completed in October 2008, represents modern Japanese architectural design and amenities.

Location is a key feature of this property. It sits within walking distance of three train stations: 8 minutes from Yoyogi-kōen Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, 7 minutes from Sangūbashi Station on the Odakyu Line, and 10 minutes from Yoyogi-hachiman Station, also on the Odakyu Line. This multi-station access is highly valued in Tokyo, where efficient public transportation is essential for navigating the sprawling metropolis.

The apartment’s location in Shibuya Ward places residents in one of Tokyo’s most dynamic areas. Nearby attractions include Yoyogi Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces, perfect for weekend picnics or morning jogs. The serene Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is about a 15-minute walk away, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city streets. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Harajuku, the epicenter of Japan’s youth fashion culture, just a short train ride or a 20-minute walk from the apartment.

Inside, the apartment is well-appointed with modern amenities. It features air conditioning, heated floors, a dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer, and a garbage disposal unit – conveniences that are not always standard in Japanese homes. The south-facing orientation ensures ample natural light, a valued feature in urban dwellings.

Security and service are emphasized in this complex. The building offers 24-hour manned security, an auto-lock entrance, and front desk service. These features provide peace of mind for residents, especially those who might be new to living in Japan.

For those considering bringing pets to Japan, it’s worth noting that this apartment is pet-friendly, albeit with required consultation. This is a significant point, as many Japanese rental properties prohibit pets entirely.

The financial aspects of renting such a property in Japan are also noteworthy. In addition to the monthly rent of 3,300,000 yen ($20,886 USD), prospective tenants would need to provide a security deposit of 13,200,000 yen ($83,544 USD). Interestingly, this listing doesn’t require key money (reikin), a non-refundable gratuity to the landlord that is common in many Japanese rentals.

Transportation from this location to other parts of Tokyo is convenient. Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s major business and entertainment hubs, is just a 5-minute train ride away. The famous Shibuya Crossing is reachable in about 15 minutes by train, and even Tokyo Station, the city’s central railway terminal, is only an 18-minute journey with one transfer.

While this particular apartment represents the higher end of Tokyo’s rental market, it provides insight into the types of amenities and locations valued in Japanese urban living. The emphasis on proximity to public transportation, the inclusion of modern conveniences, and the blend of city access with nearby green spaces are common priorities for many residents of Tokyo, regardless of the price point of their homes.

For those intrigued by life in Japan, this listing offers a glimpse into the possibilities of high-end urban living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. It showcases the premium placed on space, convenience, and location in Tokyo’s competitive real estate market, while also highlighting some of the unique aspects of renting in Japan, from pet policies to security deposits.