By Julian Ryall

Amid the vast expanse of Tokyo, punctuated by skyscrapers, neon and busy energy, Azabu Gardens is truly an oasis of green and peace.

In truth, looking across a Japanese garden that melds traditional stone lanterns with maple trees, ferns and bamboo, it is hard to believe that the property is within a few minutes’ walking distance of the entertainment areas of Roppongi as well as the boutiques and bistros of Azabu-Juban and Hiroo.

It is evident that no expense has been spared in designing these light, airy apartments to the highest standards and fitting them with top-of-the-range equipment. The result is overwhelming: Azabu Gardens feels like a home.

Since its initial inception of 17 units in 2010, an additional 41 units were completed in May 2015 at the property, which is nestled on a quiet back street amid mature plants selected to reflect Japan’s four distinct seasons.

The homes range from 165m2 to 300m2, with residents also welcome to enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, multi-use club lounge and landscaped roof terrace, complete with children’s play area and stunning views.

Alongside these exclusive amenities are the thoughtfully designed small touches that make such a big difference: heated floors in the kitchen and bathroom; a utility area with front-loading, side-by-side washer and dryer; vast amounts of storage space; and environmentally friendly LED lighting and double-glazed windows.

The designers have also incorporated attractive and eye-catching touches that are a feature of Japanese interiors, such as the use of elegant shouji doors.

More than anything though, it’s the sense of space as indoor living areas flow into manicured terraces that draws in the first-time visitor. Residents, particularly those whose homes incorporate the stunning outdoor areas, will no doubt experience that same unique feeling every time they open their front door.

Stepping through the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, the transition from the wooden floor of the apartment to the stone courtyard garden is seamless. And this is stone that is used in the traditional Japanese way: selected and sited with care. Indeed, many stones that have been utilized in the courtyards were found on the site and date from when it was a private residence.

Reminiscent of the gardens of traditional Kyoto townhouses, the green oasis offers a complete sense of peace. Secluded and private, natural light floods in and the nearby maple trees promise of a vision of spectacular reds and oranges in the fall.

It is here that the developer has been smart. While other property firms may invest virtually all their efforts into creating an attractive interior living space, they inevitably relegate the surrounding environment and the greenery to an after-thought. At Azabu Gardens, as the name implies, just as much attention is paid to outdoor areas, which cocoon and insulate the property, as indoor ones, resulting in one of the most attractive residences in Tokyo, both inside and out.