Best Things To Do In Roppongi: Shopping, Nightlife, Art Museums And More

Roppongi is now becoming one of the most popular destinations in Tokyo. Although Tokyo has many appealing and interesting places to visit such as Shibuya, Shinjuku,… but Roppongi is always something very different.

The contradictions of the past and the present, among the intercultural cultures, between the daytime and nightlife here have made Roppongi an extremely complicated spot. But it’s those contrasts that make it such a fascinating place to explore. Whether you are a fan of the vibrant nightlife or a lover of contemplative art spaces, Roppongi is the perfect choice for you.

In this blog, we’ve compiled all the information you need to know about Roppongi, including its location, how to get there, and things to do in Roppongi. Hope they will be useful for your exploration of Roppongi.

About Roppongi

Roppongi, which is the southeastern district of Minato – Tokyo, is well known for its nightlife, luxury buildings, and numerous landmarks. Roppongi has been regarded as one of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods since the 1960s. After years of reconstruction, this area has evolved into a global office area with a large number of hotels, TV stations, and shopping centers.

However, the area was mostly deserted hundreds of years ago and served as an army garrison from the end of the Edo period until the beginning of the Showa period. The neon lights and vibrant atmosphere it has today are a stark contrast.

The streets of Roppongi have a highly modern, international vibe to them during the day. As you walk around the streets, you’ll encounter many colorful shops and multi-ethnic combinations from passersby.

This international commercial district comes alive at night and transforms into something that is hardly recognizable from the way it is during the day. The appealing feature of Roppongi at night is that it serves a wide variety of audiences and has a wide variety of restaurants and clubs all close to the station.

Roppongi Hills is the most famous entertainment complex in the Roppongi area. Monaru Mori, a Japanese architect, designed this construction in 2003. Visitors may enjoy a bustling mix of premium dining, shopping, and cultural events at Roppongi Hills.

This complex is home to the Mori Art Museum, Mori Garden, and Tokyo City View and Sky Deck, all of which are surrounded by beautiful greenery and sophisticated architecture. Roppongi Hills, an excellent center for leisure and entertainment, offers an insight into modern Tokyo and draws visitors and residents alike.

Immerse yourself in this vibrant area where fashion, art, and culture mix. Read this article carefully to learn about what to do in Roppongi Hills. We have offered some really interesting ideas that make you spend all day there without feeling bored.

How To Get To Roppongi

Roppongi Sta.

The major transportation hub in this area is Roppongi Station. The Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and the Toei Subway Oedo Line are two private lines that are served at this station. Your Japan Rail Pass will only be functional for certain parts of your journey because there are no direct JR lines to Roppongi Station.

1. From Tokyo Station

From Tokyo Station, go to Kasumigaseki Station by the Marunouchi Line, then take the Hibiya Subway Line to Roppongi Station. The Narita Express will drop you off at Tokyo Station, thus if you want to get from Narita to Roppongi, this will also be your route.

2. From Shinjuku

From Shinjuku Station, go to Roppongi Station by the Oedo Subway Line.

3. From Shibuya

Take the Yamanote Line from Shibuya Station to Ebisu Station, then choose the Hibiya Line to get to Roppongi Station.

Best Things To Do In Roppongi

1. Immerse Yourself In The Wonderful Art Space

Since there are so many museums there, Roppongi has become one of Tokyo’s top cultural districts. The National Art Center Tokyo, Mori Art Museum, and Suntory Museum of Art are three of the best contemporary art museums in Tokyo, and they are all in Roppongi. You can visit all three of them with the “Triangle Pass” special ticket.

The National Art Center, Tokyo

As one of Japan’s top museums, the National Art Center in Tokyo is a wonderful place for art lovers. The center, which is located in a stunning building, has a large exhibition room where a wide variety of beautiful works of art from Japan and other countries are displayed.

In addition to an art gallery, the center also has a stylish coffee shop, an art library, as well as a museum shop. A trip to The National Art Center, Tokyo is sure to be a remarkable memory for visitors, particularly art enthusiasts.

Time: 10:00 – 18:00 (Mondays – Sundays), closed on Tuesdays

Cost: Free entrance but you may pay a small fee for some exhibitions.

Mori Art Museum

The Mori Art Museum, a renowned contemporary art museum devoted to displaying cutting-edge creations both in Japan and around the world, is located in the center of Roppongi Hills. The museum provides a wide variety of exhibitions, events, and lessons, with a specific focus on modern Asian art.

By exhibiting sophisticated artworks that push beyond the boundaries of artistic expression, the Mori Art Museum promotes intercultural discussion and invites visitors to discover the fascinating world of contemporary art in a vibrant and friendly atmosphere.

Time: 10:00 – 22:00 (Mondays – Sundays); 10:00 – 17:00 (Tuesdays)

Cost:

• 1,600 yen ∼ 11,39 USD for adults
• 1,100 yen ∼ 7,83 USD for high school students
• around 600 yen∼ 4,27 USD for a child (from age 4 to a junior high school student). The Tokyo City View observation deck and SkyDeck all require additional admission fees.

Suntory Museum of Art

The Suntory Museum of Art was established in 1961 by Suntory Holdings Limited, a Japanese beverage maker. Around 3,000 pieces of art are on display in this museum, all of which are related to the idea of beauty in daily life.

Visit the Suntory on a nice day and you can immerse yourself in an appealing and mysterious art space with a massive collection that spans the Heian to Edo periods.

Time: 10:00-18:00 (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sun); 10:00-20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays

Cost: Admission fees for adults and students (high school and university) vary by exhibition. Free for children.

21_21 DESIGN SIGHT

If you are finding a space for cutting-edge design and creative works, 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT, located in Tokyo Midtown, is undoubtedly a fantastic choice for you. This unique museum offers thought-provoking exhibitions and events that look into all facets of artwork, from aesthetics to technology to practicality.

21_21 DESIGN SIGHT encourages visitors to explore the life-changing impact of design and its influence on contemporary society through its outstanding architecture and dedication to promoting creative discussion.

Time: 10:00 – 19:00 (Mondays – Sundays), closed on Tuesdays.

Cost: Around 1100 Yen ∼ 7,83 USD

2. Enjoy Roppongi Hills Nightlife

After dark, Roppongi has been known for having vibrant and exciting nightlife. Come to Roppongi on a Saturday night when this neighborhood changes into an energetic atmosphere that is distinct from how it seems during the day.

Admire dynamic groups of young adults out enjoying the night and hostesses wearing kimonos. Roppongi, a well-known hub for foreigners in Tokyo, has a large number of stores with English-speaking staff members, assuring an enjoyable and delightful experience for visitors. Last but not least, don’t miss the spectacular night view of Tokyo Tower against the starry night sky.

In Roppongi, there are countless bars, clubs, strip joints, karaoke, dive bars, restaurants, and party venues. In reality, depending on your preference, you can choose the type of entertainment from intimate, wild, crazy to elegant, or romantic. To draw in visitors, some bars host weekly events, live performances, unique buffets, exhibitions, beauty contests, and art festivals.

3. Relax In The Fantastic Mori Garden

In contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city, visitors can find the most relaxing and peaceful feelings at Mori Garden, a small garden nestled within the Roppongi complex. This exquisitely designed Japanese garden includes a delightful pond, a variety of seasonal flowers, and winding paths.

The garden’s charming space is enhanced with traditional stone lanterns and wooden bridges, making it the perfect place for reflection and relaxation. As you stroll around this lovely garden, you can discover how nature and urban design work in harmony.

4. Get The Scenic View At Keyakizaka

In Roppongi Hills, Keyakizaka is a 400-meter-long avenue crowded with fancy boutiques, cafes, and eateries. As you pass through Keyakizaka, Tokyo Tower will be directly in the middle of your zone of vision.

Come to Keyakizaka, visitors will not only view the illuminated Tokyo Tower but also enjoy the gorgeous recital competitions, and especially in winter, everyone can admire the stunning Christmas lights and join in happy Christmas events.

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5. Admire Panoramic Views Of Tokyo With Tokyo City View & Sky Deck

If you’re still considering things to see in Roppongi, try the Tokyo City View observation deck. On the rooftop of Roppongi Hills, on the 52nd floor, lies the Tokyo City View observation deck. You can see Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest mountain at 3,776 meters, on a bright sunny day.

Why not free yourself by stopping by this observation deck with its breathtaking views? The cost of adult entrance is around 1,800 yen ~ 12.88 USD, and by showing your ticket stub at certain Roppongi Hills eateries, you may be able to obtain special offers.

6. Take Some Photos With Maman – An Interesting Spider Sculpture

Louise Bourgeois, a French sculptor, created the enormous spider statue Maman. It is a well-liked gathering spot, with benches for everyone to rest and kids excitedly bouncing around its spindly legs.

This stainless steel and bronze spider, which is just over 9m tall and 10m broad, is the ideal background for your photos. You can view its 26 marble eggs if you stand underneath this giant masterpiece.

7. Visit Some Ancient Temples And Shrines

Numerous large and small temples, shrines, and cultural monuments can be found in Roppongi.

Nogi Shrine

Located northwest of Tokyo Midtown, Nogi Shrine was created as a memorial to former general Nogi Maresuke and his wife, who committed suicide after having heard that Emperor Meiji had passed away. Numerous Japanese people were moved to mourn the couple because of their dedication to the emperor, which prompted the construction of the Nogi Shrine in 1923.

The Nogi couple’s enshrined souls are now revered as deities, and it is thought that they could grant wishes for things like academic achievement, good health,harmonious relationships, financial prosperity and the well-being of children.

Time: 6:00 – 17:00

Cost: Entrance is free

Zojoji Temple

Due to its long history and religious significance, Zojo-ji is regarded as one of the major temples in Japan. It serves as the main temple for the Kanto Region’s Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism.

As a result of its representation in the 2013 film “The Wolverine,” Zojoji Temple came to popularity internationally and has since become a favorite destination for movie fans. Additionally, it’s among the best spots to see Tokyo Tower.

Time: 6:00 – 17:30

Cost: No admission fee

8. Spend A Day In Tokyo Midtown

In the center of Roppongi, Tokyo Midtown is a vibrant commercial complex that has been welcoming guests since 2007. A hotel, 130 shops, a hospital, offices, residences, a museum of art, and a verdant park are all part of this contemporary urban destination.

Visitors can browse a wide range of stores that provide clothing, lifestyle items, gourmet foods, and authentic Japanese souvenirs like chopsticks. Tokyo Midtown is undoubtedly the most excellent place to experience the mix of modern culture and the beauty of the natural world.

9. Explore The Exciting TV Production At TV Asahi

Visitors touring this area will find TV Asahi to be a unique tourist spot at the base of Roppongi Hills. The main entrance of this well-liked television station welcomes visitors and offers a glimpse into the studios of cherished shows.

Take advantage of the chance to take an interesting memory while you pretend to be a famous person on the set! The special experience provided by TV Asahi immerses visitors in the fascinating world of television production.

10. Experience Japanese Cuisine At Top Restaurants In Roppongi

Visit Toraya to satisfy your sweet tooth

If you’re considering sampling some traditional Japanese sweets, you might as well do it at the shop with the most renowned reputation in the industry. Toraya, which was founded in Kyoto, has hundreds of years of experience making fresh wagashi for delicious desserts or lovely gifts.

This branch in Roppongi includes a gallery where you may learn about many wagashi-related topics in addition to a store and cafe.

Time: 11:00 – 21:00 (Mondays – Sundays)

Cost: around 800 yen ~ 5.72 USD – 1200 Yen ~ 8.58 USD

Hinokizaka

The Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo Midtown is home to the excellent Japanese restaurant Hinokizaka, which offers a superior dining experience. Enjoy the best Japanese food, expertly prepared by talented chefs using the greatest seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant is divided into four distinct fields, each presenting the highest quality of traditional Japanese culinary arts: kaiseki, tempura, sushi, and teppanyaki. Enjoying these traditional dishes while taking in the stunning nighttime scenery will make for a meal you won’t soon forget.

Time: 11:30 – 14:30; 17:30 – 21:00 (Mondays – Sundays)

Cost: around 7,200 yen ~ 51.50 USD to 30,700 yen ~ 219.60 USD

Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi

Excellent sushi is available at Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi, the two Michelin star branch of the popular Sukiyabashi Jiro in Ginza. Jiro Dreams of Sushi, a highly regarded 2011 documentary, made reservations at this restaurant more difficult to come by.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi offers a fantastic culinary experience that honors the Ono family’s tradition even though it is not the original Ginza location.

Time: 11:30 – 14:00; 17:00 – 21:00

Cost: around 7000 yen ~ 50.07 USD per person

TOKIWA

You are invited on an enthralling omakase kaiseki gastronomic adventure by TOKIWA, which is located in Tokyo’s famed Nishi-Azabu area. Believe in the talented chef as they meticulously design a memorable dining experience, using only the highest-quality seasonal ingredients to make a harmonious combination of flavors, textures, and colors.

Enjoy an inviting cozy atmosphere while taking in the amazing spectacle of the skilled chef masterfully cooking your food right in front of you.

Time: 12:00 – 14:30; 17:00 – 23:00

Cost: around 24,000 yen ~ 171.67 USD to 35,000 yen ~ 250.36 USD

Find out more exciting places in Roppongi in this video:

FAQs

1. What does the name ‘Roppongi’ mean?

The name Roppongi, which seems to have been created around 1660, can be translated as “six trees”. There used to be six extremely huge and old zelkova trees marking the location; the first three were removed, and the last was destroyed during World War II.

2. Is Roppongi good for visiting?

The answer is Yes. One of Tokyo’s most luxurious and wealthy areas, Roppongi is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, excellent art museums, and high-end retail centers. On the other side, it is one of Tokyo’s busiest party districts, with a ton of late-night eateries, bars, and clubs. If you are a foreigner, the multi-ethnic, dynamic life of Roppongi will be perfect for you.

3. Is Roppongi a safe area?

In general, Roppongi is a rather safe neighborhood. It is crowded even at night, and there are plenty of available public transportation options. Despite this, we strongly advise you to take all necessary safety precautions if you go out, particularly if you’re alone because this area has a chaotic nightlife.

4. Is it okay to stay in Roppongi?

Despite not being on the Yamanote Line, Roppongi has fantastic dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Roppongi Station and Roppongi-Ichome Station both offer service to it. Roppongi is a good area to stay if you don’t travel much.

5. What is Roppongi famous for?

Referring to Roppongi, people will immediately think of a sophisticated, vibrant nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, events and a large number of foreigners flocking here. However, during the day, this neighborhood is also a terrific spot to shop, visit art museums and historical monuments as well as explore the dynamic life in Tokyo.

6. What is the main street in Roppongi?

About 400 meters from the heart of Roppongi Hills to Roppongi Keyakizaka Street. This street is regarded as one of Tokyo’s top walking course and is renowned for the stunning scenery of the keyscape trees and flowerbeds that recreate the Four Seasons’ atmosphere.

7. Is Roppongi a rich area?

Roppongi, like the nearby districts of Aoyama and Azabu, is a rich area beloved by wealthy Japanese and foreigners.

8. Is Roppongi expensive to visit?

Roppongi is one of the most expensive areas in Tokyo. Land in this district always has a very high price. However, if you intend to travel to Roppongi for a short time, the cost will not be too expensive. For a solo traveler, a 7-day trip to Roppongi typically costs around $1,700.

9. Is Roppongi like Itaewon?

Roppongi (in Japan) and Itaewon (in Korea) are both young and dynamic areas, with a variety of entertainment options and a favorite spot for expats. Here, the streets are always well-lit whether it’s daytime or midnight, the bustling and fancy lifestyles of both places make them similar.

10. Why does Roppongi have a lot of foreigners?

There are many foreigners residing in Roppongi because of the large number of foreign embassies and multinational businesses in the area. As a result, it may be the finest location in Tokyo for finding international food and a variety of stores selling imported items. It’s also a well-liked spot for shopping.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Roppongi is always a great place to visit if you come to Tokyo. Now, save our list of the best things to do in Roppongi and start to plan your wonderful trip to Japan!