Welcome to Japan! You have just landed at Narita or Haneda Airport. Maybe for a short business trip or perhaps a vacation with the family. Either way, we are happy to have you here. We would love to take a few minutes of your day to tell you a little about our home and how much it has changed over the last 50 years. We’re sure you heard about it; Roppongi is a place, once known for its six zelkova trees, that became one of Tokyo’s most well-known neighborhoods. Amit Trading was established early on and we have witnessed the many changes Roppongi has gone throughout the years (as did our pearls). We’re more than happy to give you some ideas of things (what to do or where to eat) when you drop by and visit our showroom.
Roppongi had its humble beginnings as a military town starting with the Japanese Army, then the American Army. Pretty soon business and entertainment followed with in the sounds of construction and Jazz filling the air. As decades passed, Jazz would played alongside R&B, and Hip Hop as entertainment evolved. These 50 years also saw distinguished visitors arrive The Philippines, Sweden, and Saudi Arabia all established their respective embassies here. Larger companies such as Mercedes, Ferrari, Google and Apple have also made Roppongi even more international.
It truly was an exciting time for us as we decided to join the action in 1969 only 5 years after the Tokyo Olympics.
From a pearl wholesaler’s point of view, Tokyo was the gateway to Japan. Narita was the only international airport. Other areas specializing in Japanese Akoya pearls were very inconvenient to say the least. It only made sense that exporters of all kinds would be based in the vibrant Tokyo market poised and ready to meet the foreign buyers who would make their way to Tokyo when buying pearls and enjoy the life that bubbly Roppongi had to offer.
This brings us back to you and your trip here and some questions you may have. What is Roppongi famous for? What is there to do in Roppongi? Are there any quiet places to relax and enjoy the seasonal weather? Is there a place where you can get a breathtaking view of the city? How about a bite to eat or a spot to take some great photos? Perhaps you are looking for something off the beaten path. Of course we have some ideas.
This is where business and pleasure come together in a beautiful skyscraper 54 stories high. Many of the international companies such as the aforementioned Google as well as the Pokemon Company have offices inside. The Roppongi Hills Tower combines high class dining, two art museums, clothing stores, and the Grand Hyatt, as well as the Toho Cinema.
Located in Roppongi Hills is the Mori Art Museum. Those with an artistic side can take advantage of its rotating exhibitions in the lastest modern art. Being on the 53rd floor of Roppongi Hills also allows visitors to take advantage of a beautiful view of Tokyo.
How about places with a more traditional touch? Places that can be reached after a few short steps from crowded areas. Hidden Gems like the Nogi Shine offer a delightful quiet view with a chance to find some rare Japanese antiques on the weekend during their antique sales.
Roppongi has some highly rated places to dine. Most visitors cannot resist a bowl of Ippudo ramen as it an extremely popular place to eat. It also remains a local favorite and continues to top the list on websites such as tripadvisor as the best place to dine in the neighborhood.
On a beautiful Japanese Autumn Day, you could enjoy the peace and serenity of Zojoji temple. Catch your breath and take in the memorizing beauty; the sight of “Koyo” (autumn leaves) will definitely leave you amazed and put you at ease.
Of course we always recommend Roppongi Crossing. We know it’s not as popular as it’s sister, Shibuya Crossing, but it is still a well-known and popular area to snap a few photos to show off once you get back. It’s also quite close to our showroom and we would love you to drop in as well.
Azabu Juban, a family friendly neighborhood, harbors shops with a long history of providing traditional Japanese delights. Handmade soba noodles from Sarashina Horii comes with a tradition spanning over 250 years.
Trying one of the 40 plus flavors of handmade crispy rice crackers, or sweet red bean fill cakes is a must. Most of the locals including the Imperial Royal Family of Japan know that Tanuki Zenbei (or Sembei) is a great place to grab these. We don’t think goodies like these should stay hidden forever.
The 2020 Summer Olympics are rapidly approaching. It truly is an exciting time for all of us as we have existed together serving a diverse expat community. Dignitaries from surrounding embassies along with their close friends and families have all trusted and supported Amit Trading while appreciating the value we offer. Visitors from all over the world have also been of great support. Our customers have considered us a hidden gem and treated us as such, and for that, we are very grateful. Roppongi remains a microcosm of the New Japan. A place where the friendly Japanese, curious tourists, and fearless cosmopolitan join each other for fun and sophistication. We hope that you enjoy your trip and all that Roppongi has to offer.
