Iichigaya, Iidabashi & Yotsuya in Tokyo
European Community in Historic Tokyo
Yotsuya, Ichigaya, Bancho, and Iidabashi are located between both Shinjuku and Chiyoda wards, geographically in the center of Tokyo in what was the historical command post for the nation a few hundred years ago. Although this area is Tokyo central, you can find distinctively charming neighborhoods, and surprisingly quiet residential areas. These areas have consistently been the favorites of European residents, especially French expats because of the nearby Lycee Franco-Japonais School (located between Iidabashi and Kudanshita). This is the place for those who are looking for traditional Japan with a slice of European charm.

A Brief History
You won’t get much closer to historical Japan then the Imperial Palace. Around the turn of the 16th century, (the Edo period) the district that is now the Imperial grounds became the center of national affairs. Under the rule of Ieyasu Tokugawa the city of Tokyo (called Edo at the time), grew at breakneck speeds out from the center. Even today, at the center of the capital of modern Japan, Chiyoda ward is visually dominated by the Imperial palace and its expansive grounds. For residents and new comers alike the grand gates, the moat of the palace, and the Marunouchi office quarter to the east of Tokyo station offer a glimpse of the past and can be quite fascinating.

The Residential Neighborhoods
These residential areas are located in the heart of Tokyo, on the border between Shinjuku and Chiyoda Wards, and also where you will find the Imperial Palace, Diet Building, many Government Offices, and Tokyo station. Looking at a map it is easy to see the networks of trains and streets which circle out from the Imperial Palace. There is also a vast network of trains throughout Tokyo stretching out from Tokyo Station to all parts of Japan. This has made Tokyo station more of a transfer point than a destination.
Within minutes of Tokyo and Shinjuku Stations these areas offer convenient access to all business districts and just about anywhere. The area is serviced by four train and subway lines (Yurakucho, Marunouchi, Namboku, and the JR Sobu line), with 12 stations and easy access to Lycee Franco-Japonais.
There are some distinctively attractive neighborhoods in this area. Ichigaya and Bancho are the most popular residential neighborhoods for expats. Located to the north and south of Ichigaya station, this area is home to many of Tokyo’s prominent politicians and very close to Lycee Franco-Japonais. You will find pricy upscale apartments and homes in this area despite the lack of greenery and mix of commercial buildings. Yotsuya offers mostly apartments in quiet communities with narrow streets and is perhaps the most well-known of these areas for fine dining and having one of the best-connected train stations in the city. It has 4 train lines (Marunouchi, Namboku, JR Sobu, Chuo lines), and is just minutes from both Shinjuku and Tokyo stations.