6 Best Areas for Serviced Apartments in Tokyo

The best areas for serviced apartments in Tokyo are central wards with strong rail access and distinct neighborhood character. Cove operates eight properties across five Tokyo wards: Asakusa for traditional Tokyo, Yoyogi for green space and central access, Ebisu for Tokyo's culinary heart, Kiyosumi for calm and creative culture, Kinshichō for vibrant well-connected living, and Komaba and Senzoku for green residential calm.

Choose your Tokyo neighborhood based on three factors: your daily commute, the lifestyle you want around you, and your budget. Below is what each Cove neighborhood offers, plus brief notes on other popular Tokyo areas like Roppongi, Ginza, Shinjuku core, and Shibuya core, and the closest Cove alternatives.

Asakusa and Okachimachi (Taito): Best for traditional character with strong rail access

Asakusa, located in the historic Taito ward, masterfully bridges Japan's rich heritage and modern urban living. The area is celebrated for its unique community spirit, where artisan craft shops and centuries-old eateries sit alongside trendy riverside cafes along the Sumida River, anchored by Senso-ji Temple. Okachimachi, a short walk south, blends historic charm with modern convenience: traditional market streets like Ameya-Yokocho, artisan workshops, and the cultural landmarks of Ueno Park.

The combined area is served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line, and JR Yamanote via Okachimachi. This gives residents seamless access to the commercial pulse of Ginza, the business hubs of Nihonbashi, and the creative energy of nearby Akihabara.

Best for: Foreigners who want traditional Tokyo character with mid-range pricing and direct access to Tokyo's business and cultural hubs.

Cove operates one property in Asakusa and one in Okachimachi.

Yoyogi (Shibuya ward): Best for green space with Harajuku and Shibuya access

Yoyogi offers a rare balance of calm and convenience right in the center of Tokyo. The neighborhood is celebrated for its direct access to the vast greenery of Yoyogi Park and the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, providing a natural sanctuary just moments from the doorstep. A local scene of relaxed cafés and dining spots adds a low-key residential feel.

Despite this tranquility, the location is exceptionally strategic. Sitting on the JR Yamanote Line, Yoyogi is just one station from Harajuku and two stations from Shibuya, placing Tokyo's most vibrant cultural and fashion hubs within a five-minute ride.

Best for: Residents who want immediate access to Harajuku and Shibuya while living in a refined, comfortable environment with abundant green space.

Cove operates one property in Yoyogi.

Ebisu (Shibuya ward): Best for Tokyo's culinary heart with refined urban living

Ebisu is a premier district in the sophisticated Shibuya ward, balancing cosmopolitan luxury with a relaxed, upscale neighborhood feel. Widely celebrated as Tokyo's culinary heart, the area thrives on Michelin-starred dining and hidden gourmet bars alongside the iconic European-style architecture of Ebisu Garden Place. Local galleries and quiet, leafy streets leading toward Daikanyama add to its refined character.

Connectivity is exceptional via the JR Yamanote and Tokyo Metro Hibiya lines, providing effortless access to Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi.

Best for: Professionals and creatives seeking an elegant urban retreat with strong food culture and central connectivity to Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi.

Cove operates one property in Ebisu.

Kiyosumi (Kōtō): Best for calm streets and creative culture

Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is a charming area in Kōtō ward where tranquility and creativity intersect. The neighborhood blends traditional temples and parks with modern cafes and art galleries, creating a vibrant cultural scene unique among central Tokyo neighborhoods. Historical landmarks like Kiyosumi Garden and Fukagawa Fudoson offer peaceful moments, while the area's growing specialty coffee culture, anchored by Blue Bottle Coffee's early Tokyo location, draws creatives from across the city.

Transit access is solid via the Hanzomon Line and Toei Oedo Line, with connections to major Tokyo districts within 15 to 20 minutes.

Best for: Remote workers, creatives, and longer-term residents who prioritize a calm home base with cultural depth.

Cove operates one property in Kiyosumi.

Kinshichō (Sumida): Best for vibrant well-connected living

Kinshichō is a dynamic residential area in Sumida ward that balances tradition and modernity. The neighborhood features shopping streets, local eateries, and stylish cafes catering to diverse lifestyles. Residents enjoy a mix of urban energy and cultural charm, with Tokyo Skytree and the Sumida River both nearby.

The area's transport links are excellent. The JR Sobu Line and Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line connect residents directly to Shinjuku, Shibuya, Otemachi, and Akihabara within 15 minutes.

Best for: Residents who want vibrant, well-connected Tokyo living with a community atmosphere and easy access to commercial hubs.

Cove operates one property in Kinshichō.

Komaba and Senzoku (Meguro): Best for green residential calm with central access

Komaba and Senzoku are peaceful neighborhoods in Meguro ward that combine green space with central Tokyo access. Komaba is just three minutes (two stations) from the excitement of Shibuya, anchored by the University of Tokyo's Komaba Campus and Komaba Park. The area carries a youthful, intellectual energy with a calm residential atmosphere.

Senzoku, further south, centers on the serene Senzokuike Pond, a beloved local landmark known for peaceful walks, seasonal cherry blossoms, and boat rides. The Katsu Kaishu Memorial Museum adds historical depth. Senzoku and Ookayama stations provide easy connections to central Tokyo.

Best for: Couples, longer-stay residents, and anyone wanting central access combined with green space and quiet residential atmosphere.

Cove operates one property in Komaba and one in Senzoku.

Other popular Tokyo areas for serviced apartments

Some Tokyo areas frequently searched for serviced apartments are not where Cove operates. Here are the closest Cove alternatives for each:

• Roppongi: Tokyo's international expat district, known for embassies, English-speaking services, and nightlife. Premium pricing. Closest Cove alternative: Ebisu (which connects directly to Roppongi via the Hibiya Line).
• Ginza or Tokyo Station: Finance and luxury retail district, popular with business travelers needing Shinkansen access. Closest Cove alternative: Asakusa or Okachimachi (direct via the Toei Asakusa Line or JR Yamanote).
• Shinjuku core: Tokyo's largest commercial hub. Cheaper to live just outside the core than inside. Closest Cove alternative: Yoyogi (one station south on the JR Yamanote).
• Shibuya core: Major commercial and youth culture hub. Closest Cove alternative: Ebisu (one station south on the JR Yamanote).

For a broader view of Tokyo neighborhoods beyond serviced-apartment areas, see our guide to the best places to live in Tokyo for foreigners.

Rent a serviced apartment in Tokyo with Cove

Cove operates serviced apartments across Tokyo, designed specifically for foreigners moving to Japan.

• No key money, no guarantor. Skip the standard hurdles of Japanese rentals.
• Fully furnished and move-in ready. Furniture, appliances, and kitchen essentials from day one.
• 7 days a week English support. For booking, move-in, and your entire stay.
• Flexible monthly contracts. Stay from one month upward.