After visiting Tokyo a few times, we’ve stayed at the usual tourist spots: under the neon glow of Shibuya, the polished luxury of Ginza, and the massive transit hub of Shinjuku.

 But last year, when we stayed in Tokyo for a full month, we stumbled into Akasaka by accident. It’s the perfect "Goldilocks" neighborhood: central enough to get to Shibuya or Ginza in 10–15 minutes, not overwhelmingly crowded, but with late-night places and a lively neighborhood feel.

Here is a list of spots that made us fall in love with this neighborhood:

1. Streamer Coffee Company Akasaka

My favorite coffee shop (with Wi-Fi)! This was my "office" away from home. The lattes are great, the vibe is industrial-cool, and unlike many Tokyo cafes, they are digital-nomad friendly with reliable Wi-Fi. I designed so many products here, including our best-selling mini boba bubble tea totes.

View on Google Maps

2. Tokyo Abura Soba (Akasaka Branch)

My favorite oil noodles in the city. In Ginza, I've waited 2+ hours for these noodles. In Akasaka, the wait is a fraction of that. It’s rich, savory, and my ultimate comfort food in Tokyo. View on Google Maps

3. Bic Camera Akasaka-Mitsuke Station

The ultimate preschooler distraction. If you need an hour of peace, head to the toy floor (Floor 8? or 9?). They have many display toys and train sets that kept our preschooler entertained for ages. View on Google Maps

4. Kitchen Origin Akasaka

Cheap, delicious, and fresh bentos. When you're too tired for a restaurant, this is a great spot. It’s a 24-hour kitchen with a massive variety of fresh bento boxes and side dishes that taste (almost) like a home-cooked meal. View on Google Maps

5. Midori Sushi

Our favorite "deal" for sushi in Tokyo. Is it the #1 Michelin-starred sushi you'll eat on your trip? No. But it’s incredibly fresh, the portions are generous, and the happy hour is great. It was our go-to for a high-quality, no-frills sushi night. 

ft our mini sushi & onigiri sticker sheet.

View on Google Maps. The sushi place is attatched to....

6. The "Harry Potter" Themed Station

Fun for fans! Part of the station and the surrounding plaza is themed after the Wizarding World, complete with a themed cafe and shop. View on Google Maps

7. An-An Akasaka

A great hole-in-the-wall Izakaya. This place has such a cool vibe with traditional floor seating. We loved the raw tofu and the grilled meats. View on Google Maps

8. Hinoya Curry

No-nonsense, delicious Japanese curry. Winner of the Kanda Curry Grand Prix, this chain serves a thick, delish curry that is addictive. It’s fast, filling, and very affordable. View on Google Maps

9. Tsujihan (Akasaka Ark Hills)

The viral Kaizen-don (Seafood bowl). Technically in the Ark Hills area but just a short walk from the heart of Akasaka. The way they add sea bream broth to your rice at the end is an experience. View on Google Maps

10. Where to get daipers: Matsumoto Kiyoshi

The "Where to get diapers" spot. For infant parents, this is the most important link! This drugstore is well-stocked with diapers, wipes, and all the Japanese skincare products you’ll want to hoard before flying home. View on Google Maps

Places to stay:

1. MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka (Best for Families)

If you were looking at Akasaka for a family trip, this is prob the best choice in the area with apartment-style hotels.

• Pros: Rooms are huge and include kitchenettes and dining tables; many rooms have bunk beds which kids love; there’s a rooftop terrace; coin laundry on-site.
• Cons: Limited "hotel services" (no daily housekeeping like a standard hotel, though they take out trash/provide fresh towels).
• Avg. Cost: $350 – $500 per night (but fits 4–6 people).

2. OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts (Best Value/Vibe)

This is a newer, trendy hotel by the famous Hoshino brand. It’s designed to help you "discover" the neighborhood.

• Pros: Very modern and stylish; "Go-KINJO" maps in the lobby point out hidden local gems; right in the heart of the Akasaka dining district; very affordable for the quality.
• Cons: Rooms are quite compact (standard for a city hotel); the "eco" focus means minimal amenities in the room itself.
• Avg. Cost: $140 – $200 per night.

3. ANA InterContinental Tokyo (Best Luxury)

If you want that "grand hotel" feel with all the services.

• Pros: Massive selection of high-end restaurants; incredible seasonal outdoor pooll, great views of Tokyo Tower; airport limousine bus stops directly here.
• Cons: Large and can feel a bit "corporate" or impersonal; prices for breakfast and extra services are high.
• Avg. Cost: $300 – $550 per night.

4. Little House Akasaka (Most unique boutique)

A charming, intimate boutique stay that offers a cozy "home away from home" with independent family owners.

• Pros: Personalized service in a quiet residential setting; modern, clean design with kitchenettes in some units; walking distance to multiple subway lines and the Akasaka dining scene.
• Cons: Very limited on-site facilities compared to large hotels (no gym or large pool); steep stairs and small elevators common to boutique buildings; limited staff availability at certain hours.
• Avg. Cost: $180 – $320 per night.

5. Our Family-Friendly VRBO (Best for long stays)

Where we stayed for a month. Finding space for a family in Tokyo is a challenge, but this spot was a GEM.

• Pros: An elevator for your stroller, 2 "rooms," It felt like a real home and was perfectly situated to get anywhere in the city within minutes.
• Cons: it's only for 30+ days stays
• Avg. Cost: $130-$150 per night.