Minato港区
International hub — embassies, expats, and upscale living.
Overview
Minato is Tokyo's most international ward, home to over 80 embassies and a large expat population. Areas like Roppongi, Azabu-Juban, and Hiroo offer English-friendly services everywhere. Tokyo Tower, teamLab Borderless, and upscale shopping at Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown make this a premier living destination.
Best For
Expat families, diplomats, international business professionals, and anyone seeking the most English-friendly environment in Tokyo.
Living Costs
Rent Prices (Monthly)
- Studio / 1R: ¥95,000–¥160,000
- Family (2LDK+): ¥250,000–¥500,000
- Prices are for average locations; station-front apartments cost 10-20% more
- Key money and deposit typically 1-2 months each
Monthly Budget Estimate
- Utilities: ¥8,000–¥15,000 (electricity, gas, water)
- Internet: ¥4,000–¥5,000
- Groceries: ¥30,000–¥50,000
- Transport: ¥5,000–¥15,000 (commuter pass varies)
Transit Access
Train lines and travel times from Minato.
Available Lines
| Destination | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Shinjuku | 15 min (Oedo Line) |
| Shibuya | 10 min (JR/Ginza) |
| Tokyo Station | 10 min (JR Yamanote) |
Expat Life
Community
- Largest expat concentration in Tokyo. Roppongi, Azabu, and Hiroo have thriving international communities with numerous social clubs, international schools, and English-speaking services.
English Services
- Minato Ward Office has excellent multilingual support. Tokyo Midtown Medical Center, Hiroo International Clinic, and many dental offices operate fully in English.
International Shopping
- National Azabu, Nissin World Delicatessen, multiple international supermarkets. Import shops throughout Azabu and Roppongi areas.
- Full supermarket guide →
Ward Office
- Address: 1-5-25 Shibakoen, Minato-ku
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, and 6 other languages
- Handle resident registration, health insurance, My Number, and more
- ID documents guide →
Neighborhood Highlights
The best spots and areas in Minato.
Roppongi
Art galleries (Mori Art Museum, National Art Center), nightlife, and international dining scene.
Azabu-Juban
Charming residential area with international schools, family-friendly cafes, and a village-like atmosphere.
Odaiba
Futuristic waterfront with teamLab, shopping malls, and rainbow bridge views.
Tokyo Tower & Shiba Park
Iconic landmark surrounded by beautiful green space and temples.
Practical Info
Garbage & Recycling
- Each ward has its own garbage collection schedule
- Sort into: burnable, non-burnable, recyclable, and oversized items
- Collection days vary by neighborhood within the ward
- Complete garbage sorting guide →
Safety & Preparedness
- Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world
- Register for ward disaster alerts (available in English)
- Know your nearest evacuation center (listed at ward office)
- Keep an emergency kit ready (see home centers guide)