Discover the allure of Tokyo Azabudai Hills, a vibrant “Modern Urban Village” in the heart of Tokyo. This transformative project, a 35-year regeneration effort in Minato Ward, harmoniously blends lush greenery with the vibrancy of city life. Since opening on November 24, 2023, Azabudai Hills has become a must-see destination, drawing visitors both locally and globally to experience Tokyo’s evolving urban landscape. The Mori JP Tower stands at the heart of this landmark destination, a symbol of the Toranomon Azabudai area’s architectural prowess.
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History of Azabudai:
The Tokyo Azabudai Hills area, originally a long, narrow district with a complex terrain of hills and valleys dotted with old, deteriorating wooden structures, required significant infrastructural enhancements. Established in 1989, the Council of Redeveloping Cities, in collaboration with around 300 landowners, meticulously planned the redevelopment of the Toranomon Azabudai area over 30 years.
Following the approval of the City Plan under the Law of National Strategic Special Zones in 2017, the Toranomon-Azabudai District Urban Redevelopment Association commenced construction on August 5, 2019. The redevelopment project was completed and opened to the public on November 24, 2023.
Who designed it?
Tokyo Azabudai Hills, part of this redevelopment, was designed by multiple firms, with the appearance of its three skyscrapers notably designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners, a renowned architectural firm based in the United States.
Pelli Clarke & Partners is recognized for designing landmark skyscrapers around the world and has previously designed other notable buildings in Tokyo, such as the Atago Green Hills and the ARK Hills Sengokuyama Mori Tower. Their work is characterized by innovative designs that often become significant architectural features in the cities where they are located.
Quick guide to the Tower:
The Mori JP Tower, part of the Azabudai Hills development in Tokyo, stands as Japan’s tallest skyscraper at approximately 330 meters, rivaling the height of Tokyo Tower.
It houses residential units on floors 54 to 64 and office spaces from floors 5 to 52, with the lower levels dedicated to commercial use. While access to the upper residential and office floors is generally limited to occupants, employees, and club members, the 33rd and 34th floors are open to the public.
These floors feature event spaces and restaurants, offering everyone a chance to experience the stunning urban views beneath the grand staircase connecting these two levels.
Let’s look at some important spots in the Azaudai.
1. A Verdant Urban Oasis:
Tokyo Azabudai Hills, a lush retreat in Tokyo’s urban expanse, spans 8.1 hectares of greenery. The central square, a 6,000m² area within Azabudai Hills, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle. This green haven is a social hub for relaxation and interaction, embodying the essence of a Modern Urban Village.
The green spaces of Azabudai Hills provide a unique blend of nature and urban living. The central square is a communal living room for Tokyo, where people from all walks of life gather to unwind and socialize.
2. Architectural Marvels & Living Spaces:
Azabudai Hills is crowned by its architectural jewels, with Mori JP Tower leading as Tokyo’s tallest edifice. This tower, part of the Azabudai Tokyo skyline, offers luxury living spaces and integrates office and retail zones, embodying the concept of a Modern Urban Village.
The design of Azabudai Hills reflects the needs of urban dwellers, offering a vibrant community where living, working, and leisure harmoniously coexist. The Mori JP Tower and its surrounding structures are a reflection of the innovative spirit of Azabudai Tokyo.
3. World-Class Hotels & Wellness Centers:
Tokyo Azabudai Hills is proud to introduce JANU Tokyo, Aman’s sister brand, marking its debut in Tokyo. This luxury hotel, nestled in the heart of Azabudai Tokyo, offers one of the city’s most extensive wellness facilities.
The Aman Residences in Azabudai Hills provide a serene, luxurious living experience. These residences, a part of the Modern Urban Village concept, offer a tranquil escape in the bustling heart of Azabudai Tokyo.
4. Educational and Cultural Hub:
Azabudai Hills, a Modern Urban Village, also serves as an educational and cultural hub. The British School in Tokyo, situated within the complex, offers a diverse learning environment.
A highlight is the MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: EPSON teamLab Borderless, originally popular in Odaiba and set to reopen in Azabudai Hills in February 2024.
This digital art museum teamLab, a collaboration between Mori Building and teamLab, will feature an evolving collection of digital artworks, including several new pieces debuting in Japan.
Located in Garden Plaza B, basement floor B1, and sprawling across approximately 7,000m², the museum has about 560 projectors and 610 computers, promising an immersive cultural experience.
5. Shopping and Dining Paradise:
Tokyo Azabudai Hills, enveloped in greenery, is a shopping and dining paradise with about 150 retail stores. Each store in Azabudai Tokyo offers a unique shopping experience, mirroring the diverse nature of a Modern Urban Village.
The Azabudai Market, a part of Azabudai Hills, is a culinary dream with 34 top Japanese specialty stores. This market in Azabudai Tokyo is a journey through diverse flavors and culinary traditions.
6. Public Art and Central Green:
The Central Green, the heart of Azabudai Hills, is where art meets nature. This vibrant space in Azabudai Tokyo features dynamic public art and seasonal events, making it a cornerstone of the Modern Urban Village concept.
Visitors to Azabudai Hills can immerse themselves in art and nature in the Central Green. This area in Azabudai Tokyo is a symbol of beauty, creativity, and community engagement.
7. Innovative Sustainability:
Tokyo Azabudai Hills stands as a leader in sustainable urban development, operating entirely on renewable energy. This commitment reflects the complex’s dedication to environmental stewardship, a core value of Azabudai Tokyo.
Azabudai Hills’ pursuit of LEED certification underlines its innovative approach to sustainable design and energy efficiency. This commitment to sustainability is integral to the identity of Azabudai Tokyo.
8. Enhanced Accessibility:
Azabudai Hills boasts enhanced accessibility, with integrated roadways and an underground walkway connecting key stations. This seamless connectivity is a hallmark of the Azabudai Tokyo development.
The barrier-free design of Azabudai Hills ensures that all visitors, including tourists, can easily navigate and enjoy the various attractions of Azabudai Tokyo.
9. Unique Cafes & Restaurants:
Azabudai Hills is a culinary adventurer’s dream, offering a diverse range of dining options, especially on the 33rd and 34th floors. From high-end restaurants to cozy cafes, each establishment in Azabudai Tokyo provides a distinct taste of the city.
The culinary scene at Azabudai Hills reflects Tokyo’s rich culinary culture, making it an ideal spot for culinary exploration in Azabudai Tokyo.
10. Panoramic Views:
The Mori JP Tower in Azabudai Hills offers stunning city views. This towering structure is not just an architectural marvel of Azabudai Tokyo but a prime location for breathtaking vistas.
Visitors to Mori JP Tower can experience Tokyo’s skyline in all its glory, making it a key attraction in Azabudai Tokyo.
Tokyo Azabudai Hills, a key part of Azabudai Tokyo, offers a unique blend of modern urban living and natural tranquility. Its diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination, embodying the essence of a Modern Urban Village.
How to access it?
It’s a big area, and it has several access points. So, let’s make our destination point Hill Mori Tower.
However, the easiest way to access Azabudai Hills is straightforward:
Nearest Station:
1 minute walk to Kamiyacho Station (Hibiya Subway Line) 10 minutes walk to Roppongi 1-chome Station (Namboku Subway Line)
From Kamiyacho Station: Directly connected to the northwest corner of the Azabudai Hills complex, Kamiyacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line offers the most direct access. A lift from the station takes you right to the entrance of Garden Plaza.
From Roppongi Station: A slightly longer walk of about 12-15 minutes will bring you to Azabudai Hills from Roppongi Station.
Remember, Azabudai Hills is quite large. So, once you’re there, plan for a 10-15 minute walk to navigate between areas like Garden Plaza and the Mori JP Tower.
Address:
Hill Mori Tower
Postal Code105-0001 5-9-1, Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo