Roppongi Hills

Lonely Planet review

Opened in 2003 to an incredible amount of fanfare, Roppongi Hills was the dream of real-estate developer Mori Minoru, who long envisioned a transformation of Roppongi. Since then, an incredible amount of lofty praise has been vaulted at the complex, which is arguably the most architecturally arresting sight in Tokyo.

Simply put, Roppongi Hills is a feast for the eyes, enhanced by public art such as Louise Bourgeois's giant, spiny alfresco spider called Maman, and the benches-cum-sculptures on Keyakizaka Street. With expertly drawn lines of steel and glass, expansive tree-lined public spaces and a healthy smattering of the city's top bars, restaurants and shops, Roppongi Hills stands as a testament to a new concept in urban planning. Rather than building larger and taller residential towers, it is argued developers should instead focus on useable space that can better serve the community. And truth be told, although most Tokyoites can't even dream about owning a high-rise apartment at the city's most prestigious address, Roppongi Hills has become a destination in its own right.

The centrepiece of the complex is the 54-storey Mori Tower, which is home to some of the world's leading companies as well as the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View. At the base of the tower are the marvellous Grand Hyatt Tokyo and some 200 shopping, drinking and dining establishments including internationally known brands and chefs (eg Joël Robuchon). On the plaza below, the TV Asashi network headquarters adjoins an ancient samurai garden and the Roppongi Hills Arena, where you can often catch outdoor performances. Just beyond, the brand name shops ascending Keyakizaka are nothing short of marvels of modern design.