Aoyama

Aoyama is a district in central Tokyo, Japan, spanning parts of the Minato and Shibuya wards. It is traditionally divided into Kita-Aoyama (North Aoyama) and Minami-Aoyama (South Aoyama). The area lies immediately north of Omotesando and along the major avenue Aoyama-dori, a street known for shops, restaurants, and offices. Aoyama is part of Tokyo’s upscale, fashion- and design-oriented districts, characterized by a mix of residential streets and contemporary architecture alongside commercial venues.

Historically, Aoyama developed in the early 20th century as an upscale residential enclave for business leaders and officials, featuring broad avenues and landscaped streets. In the postwar era it evolved into a hub for fashion, media, and design while retaining pockets of residential character and institutional sites. Its proximity to Shibuya, Minato’s business centers, and iconic destinations such as Omotesando has helped sustain its distinctive character.

Notable sites in or near Aoyama include the Nezu Museum in Minami-Aoyama, which houses a collection of premodern Japanese and East Asian art and includes a traditional garden. The district also contains the Aoyama Cemetery and several notable modern and contemporary buildings. Today, the area remains a popular destination for high-end shopping, dining, and cultural events, closely associated with the adjacent Omotesando and Gaien areas.

Access is provided by Tokyo Metro stations at Omotesando, Gaienmae, and Nogizaka, offering convenient connections to central government districts and other wards. The character of Aoyama combines commercial activity with leafy streets and distinctive architecture, reflecting Tokyo’s multifaceted urban landscape.