Roppongi Hills (六本木ヒルズ). A sophisticated open space and high-rise buildings complex, blended with parks and humble residences. A crowd puller for locals and tourists alike, some sit and watch the variety of life passing by, while others shop or take the ascent to the Observation Deck. But there’s another attraction to Roppongi Hills, one that feels much more satisfying than just sitting around, yet at the same time, it’s free.
When the sunlight fades and the outdoor lamps take on a warm glow, the other side of Roppongi Hills appears—this is that ‘thing’. Strolling beneath the purple skies whilst the lights start to illuminate gives an entirely new sensation. It’s calm yet alive. People who seem to be losing their energy at the day’s end are given a lift to welcome the night.
Try strolling under Mori Tower at sunset. The hustle and bustle during the day starts to mellow as office workers step out, with faces expressing “What a day! It’s time for a beer!” Navigate past the stream of salary men flooding the streets, and you’ll arrive at Roppongi Residences where wooden floors and a marble fountain are illuminated beautifully by warm lights. Cross the bridge and take in the scenery, with striking colors projected by the apartment building and its surroundings.
From afar, you can hear kids laughing and squealing joyously in the distance, making the most of their play time before their mothers call them home. Sakurazaka Park has always been a haven for children to play and for mothers to chat. Just observing them gave me an extra touch to Roppongi’s calm evening.
But wait, the best is yet to come. Just a short walk from the park, Myokeiji stands gracefully. Now run by the 24th generation priest, it is a blessing in disguise with its down-to-earth atmosphere permeating the neighbourhood. The temple, also known as Myokoji, is so tiny that it looks like as if it is shrinking beneath its surrounding skyscrapers. Yet its charm, exemplified by the monk’s prayers echoing in the twilight, feels more enchanting than the tallest building.
Lastly, when nightfall is almost complete, your return to the esplanade will be magical as Tokyo has prepared for you as a sweet surprise: Tokyo Tower full of lights, set against the dramatic background of the dark cerulean skies. People would, without a doubt, crowd the outermost parts of Roppongi Hills to get the best angle of this version of Tokyo Tower. But don’t feel bad. You will eventually find your Hillside, and get to enjoy the landmark of this city to mark the end of your sunset stroll.
