Aoyama: Fashion Capital of Tokyo

Located in the northwestern part of Minato Ward, Aoyama is a well-known, rich neighborhood in Tokyo. It is considered to be the fashion capital of the prefecture with high-end boutiques, restaurants, cafes, bars, art galleries, architecture, and museums.

The name of the area is derived from a Samurai named Aoyama Tadanari of the Aoyama clan, who owned a local mansion. The neighborhood can be divided into Minami Aoyama (South) and Kita Aoyama (North). The south is known to have a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. It has a famous cemetery, museums, temples, and street fashion stores. The north, on the other hand, is famous for being more vibrant and bustling, with cafes, sports stadiums, restaurants, shopping stores, and theaters that attract large crowds. 

Exploring Aoyama

Aoyama should be on your to-visit list if you are ever around Tokyo. There are many places to explore and activities to do there. Check out the top places you must visit listed below!

ICONIC PRADA BUILDING:

The Prada building in Aoyama is a fine piece of art and a breathtaking building.  It is a six-story building located in the Aoyama district of Tokyo. This iconic building was designed by the Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron. The building is described as having diamond-like shaped glass panels that form protruding and convex bubbles and is compared to an eye contact lens. It is one of Tokyo’s most prominent landmarks and provides a great shopping experience. The iconic building attracts a large number of people for its beautiful architecture and shopping. Don’t forget to visit this amazing building when you are around Aoyama!

Address: Prada Tokyo Aoyama, 5 Chome-2-6 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062

Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium:

If you are enthusiastic about sports, you must witness live Rugby matches with a great atmosphere at the Rugby Stadium in Aoyama! The Rugby stadium hosts international games as well as domestic games. Ignite the passion by supporting your home country! Fans are permitted to bring their own alcohol and food to get the full experience. Sports can’t get any better than this, so don’t miss out on the opportunity when you are in Aoyama!

Address: Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground, 2 Chome-8-35 Kita-Aoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0061

Nomu Cafe:

Nomu Cafe is a beautiful flower cafe situated in Minami Aoyama. Decorated with fresh flowers, this beautiful spot offers a comfortable space filled with natural light, designed with Scandinavian and Japanese elements. The cafe also has delicious food, which includes freshly baked sweets and pastries, which can be enjoyed with coffee and tea selections. It also offers a wine selection with options from all around the world. If you are looking for a cozy and relaxed environment, don’t forget to stop by Nomu Cafe in Aoyama. It is a must-visit place for cafe and design lovers!

Address: Nicolai Bergmann NOMU, 5 Chome-7-2 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062

Hours: 10 am-7 pm (Tuesday-Sunday)

Okamoto Memorial Museum:

Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum is a hidden gem located in Minami Aoyama. The museum is named after Taro Okamoto, who was a well-known artist in Japan. He was famous for his avant-garde paintings and sculptures, such as the Tower of the Sun in Osaka Prefecture or “The Myth of Tomorrow” mural at Shibuya Station. This memorial museum opened in 1998 and includes all of Taro Okamoto’s paintings from 1954. The paintings will take you back in time and give you a feel of the era. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful museum and witness Okamoto’s unique artistry! 

Address: Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum, 6 Chome-1-19 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062

Hours: 10 am-6 pm (Monday/Wednesday-Sunday)

Tokyo Whisky Bar:

If you are a whisky lover, Tokyo Whisky Library is a top-notch place to go to. It has Japan’s top-class selection of 1.300 types of whisky from all around the world! The bar also serves top-quality food during lunch and dinner. If you are looking for a high-end bar, you must visit Tokyo Whisky Library in Aoyama! 

Address: TOKYO Whisky Library, 南青山サンタキアラ教会 2階 5 Chome-5-24 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062

Hours: 12-3 pm, 5:30-11 pm (Monday-Sunday)

If you are visiting Tokyo, make sure to spend some time in Aoyama! It is a nice walk from Shibuya, and there are so many things to see and do there. From fancy restaurants, bars, and cafes to museums, theaters, and street fashion stores, Aoyama has it all! Make sure you get the full experience when you come to Aoyama!

Feature photo credit: Ubahnverleih

Inspired by the fashionable Aoyama? Make sure to check out our Fashion, Beauty, and Wellness Tours to treat yourself right!