Bancho (1-6) – This is one of the densest areas for expat living, and is a famous place for local politicians. Not quite as green as other parts of the ward or some other residential areas, but close to the west side of the Imperial Palace in Bancho-3 is Chidorigafuchi Kōen, which greens up the area a bit. The area is rather pricey with mostly larger homes with gardens or luxury apartments running in excess of ¥1.3 million per month for a four bedroom. Closer to Hanzomon station you can find smaller apartments with options for studios and 1K in the ¥170,000 to ¥200,000 per month range. The British Embassy is located in Bancho-1.

Kioicho – This slightly more urban area, located close to Sophia University and just south of Bancho, is a little pricey, with three bedroom apartments costing ¥800,000 to ¥900,000 per month. In the area is Sotobori Kōen, as well as the facilities of the New Otani (www.newotani.co.jp) and Akasaka Prince (www.princejapan.com) hotels.