Tokyo prefecture is comprised of 23 special wards (ku) and 27 outlying cities (shi). The 23 wards act more like independent cities than districts within a city. Each has its own mayor (kucho) and assembly (kugikai). The wards vary in size from 10 to 60 sq.km and in population from 40 thousand to 830 thousand. Located in central Tokyo, these wards make up the inner-city area of Tokyo. They total approximately 8.28 million in population.

Founded in March of 1947, Minato-ku is one of these 23 wards. It is one of the largest business districts and has a concentrated international population due to the numerous foreign embassies and corporations centered in the area. Its population is around 167 thousand, its area 20.34 sq.km.

It is a commonly known fact that Aoyama is recognized for its abundance of shops,
but here truly seeing is believing. The number of famous designer boutiques and beauty salons is overwhelming; it is a trendy shopper's heaven.

As if to complement the extravagance and stylishness of the fashion sense of the area, most of the cars passing through here consist of Mercedes, Porsches, and other posh, foreign import cars.

Never falling behind the times, simply declaring that Aoyama=fashion would not be an overstatement. Whatever names and styles are currently being raved about, they are bound to have stores in Aoyama.

In the 1997 census, the populations of the following "cho" were as such:

In the past 15 years, the population of Aoyama has gradually been decreasing. This may be because Aoyama is increasingly being seen as a district to work in or to visit, rather than to live in. On the other hand it may be a result of the economic recession.

Aoyama is advertised in magazines and on TV as "the trendy, fashionable district of Tokyo." The numerous chic apparel shops and charming outdoor cafes lining the streets make this a popular location for shooting TV show and movie scenes. Running into world-famous models and celebrities is not an uncommon experience here.

A different side of Aoyama claims a reputation as a leading business district. Many large, multinational corporations including computer software companies and investment banks have branches here.

From casual attire to business suit with a briefcase in hand, from parading the streets with shopping bags galore to chatting on the cell at a cafe, any style blends in well here in this Manhattan of Tokyo.

Beyond the metropolitan bustle, along the back roads lies a hidden side of Aoyama. Greenery, ponds, and streams create a scenic and serene residential area. Traditional temples and shrines, some of historical significance, are also noteworthy.
Although its primary reputation is that of a hip, trendy spot, this distinguished
district of Tokyo has much more to offer to anyone and everyone.