Known for its Kuroneko Yamato brand, Yamato Transport Co., Ltd. operates approximately 2,800 offices across Japan, with around 60,000 delivery drivers providing services primarily through their TA-Q-BIN delivery network. Delivery drivers, who crisscross cities transporting packages for both individuals and businesses, might just be the true experts of their local areas. In this edition, we asked delivery drivers covering various areas of Minato City, Tokyo, to share their personal favorite spots. From beautiful tree-lined avenues to inviting parks and iconic Tokyo landmarks, we toured Minato City with recommendations from the pros.

Shirokane, known as an upscale residential area, is also home to traditional shops as well as lush facilities like the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum and the Institute for Nature Study. The area is characterized by its harmonious blend of nature and culture. Akinori Hattori, a delivery driver from the Minato Tennozu Office who oversees the Shirokane area, recommends Platinum Street in Shirokane.

Platinum Street is a ginkgo-lined road of just under 1 km that connects Meguro Street and Gaien Nishi Street and is part of the latter. Mr. Hattori shares, ""I pass through here every time I make deliveries. In summer, the ginkgo trees are a vibrant green, turning yellow in autumn, and even in winter, when the leaves have fallen, the bare trees have their own charm. It’s enjoyable to witness the seasonal changes, and driving through this street is always a pleasant experience.

Along Platinum Street, you’ll find stylish cafes and restaurants that attract many visitors. ""Since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially on weekends, so many people visit that parking spaces are often completely full. Local residents regularly clean the area, so the streets are always spotless,"" says Mr. Hattori.

Mr. Hattori has been covering the Shirokane area for six years and has grown familiar with many of his customers. "Many of the customers are very considerate toward delivery drivers. Despite being an upscale residential area, the neighborhood feels surprisingly down-to-earth, and the people are genuinely kind. Being a delivery driver lets me interact with a variety of customers, and I feel this job is a good fit for me," Mr. Hattori shared with a smile.

Located in the northwest of Minato City, Akasaka is a bustling commercial hub filled with skyscrapers and numerous dining options. Home to TBS headquarters and Tokyo Midtown, the area is lively day and night. Ryota Minamitani, group leader at the Akasaka 3-chome delivery office, oversees the Akasaka area and personally enjoys visiting its many restaurants. "I usually have lunch at one of the local places in Akasaka. There are so many dining options compared to other areas that I never get bored," he shares.

One of his favorite spots is a Miyazaki chicken restaurant called Iccho. "For lunch, I often have the 'Staff Curry,' a delicious curry rice dish, or Chicken Nanban. The food is excellent, and I visit about once a week," says Mr. Minamitani.

Having worked in the Akasaka area for about five years, Mr. Minamitani has noticed changes in the neighborhood. "In Akasaka 3-chome alone, there are 12 hotels, and I’ve been handling more luggage for international tourists. While I also deliver to office buildings and privately owned restaurants, I encounter more overseas customers overall," he explains. When asked about non-dining spots, he offered this recommendation: "Akasaka has many tourist attractions that draw visitors from both Japan and abroad. I suggest visiting Akasaka Hikawa Shrine, where we pray for traffic safety, or Toyokawa Inari Shrine in Moto-Akasaka, just across Route 246. Both are worth a visit."

Azabu-Juban offers a sophisticated, stylish vibe while retaining a traditional downtown charm. The Azabu-Juban Shopping Street, which dates back to the Edo period, extends from Azabu-Juban Station toward Roppongi and features over 300 shops. Hironobu Komatsu, a delivery driver from the Konan Office who has been covering the Azabu-Juban area for 13 years, introduced us to Mamegen, a historic bean snack shop that also happens to be one of his pickup and delivery customers.

Founded in 1865, Mamegen offers a variety of bean snacks that are among Mr. Komatsu’s favorites. “Their salted rice crackers are outstanding,” he shared. “The seasoning is just right, and once I start eating them, I can’t stop (laughs). I often come here privately to buy them.” At the main shop, located in the heart of the Azabu-Juban Shopping Street, they sell freshly fried rice crackers and just-coated Nankin candies. “I visit Mamegen almost daily for work, and they always greet me with a smile. I’m truly grateful for their kindness,” said Mr. Komatsu.

Foot traffic on the Azabu-Juban Shopping Street peaks on weekends. On weekdays, the area is calmer, and Tuesdays, when many shops are closed, tend to be particularly quiet.

Having built many relationships and friendships with customers, Mr. Komatsu reflected, “I remember setting a goal when I was a new employee to always greet people cheerfully." “From now on, I want to ensure that the local residents call me ‘Mr. Komatsu’ rather than just ‘the Yamato guy.’ I’ll keep my initial goals in mind, greet everyone with energy, and maintain strong communication,” he shared with determination.

Located east of JR Shinagawa Station and Takanawa Gateway Station, Konan is a waterside district with canals running through it, surrounded by high-rise buildings and luxury towers. This area is managed by Yu Nagai, group leader at the Konan 2-chome office of the Konan branch. Mr. Nagai’s favorite spot is Shinagawa Central Garden, a pedestrian-friendly open space located between the high-rises of Shinagawa Intercity and Shinagawa Grand Commons. He even struck a playful Kuroneko pose at the garden entrance!

Spanning approximately 45 meters wide and 400 meters long, Shinagawa Central Garden is a relaxing spot for businesspeople. Mr. Nagai, who often passes through during deliveries, explains, “In summer, the shade from the trees keeps it cool, and in winter, the Christmas illuminations light up the area beautifully. Although it’s in an office district and there are people having lunch during the day, it’s never overly crowded, making it a hidden gem.” “Shinagawa Station, being a terminal station, often has travelers with some downtime before their next trip. Occasionally, international visitors ask me for recommendations, and when I direct them to Shinagawa Central Garden, they’re always delighted,” he added.

The Shinagawa Central Garden illuminations will run until February 14, 2025, featuring 100,000 lights that brighten Shinagawa’s nightscape. Having worked at around 13 offices in Minato City, Mr. Nagai has been stationed in the Konan area for four years. When asked about other recommendations, he said, “Konan is home to the Central Wholesale Meat Market, which hosts the annual Tokyo Meat Market Festival. It’s always a lively event. This year, it seemed even more crowded than last year. There are stage performances, meat sampling corners, food trucks, and stalls, so it’s a lot of fun. I highly recommend visiting.

Konan, lined with high-rises housing major corporations, is one of Japan’s premier office districts. Mr. Nagai said, “Wearing the Yamato Transport uniform allows me to meet so many different customers. In particular, Konan has a wide variety of corporate clients, which helps me learn new things and expand the scope of my work. Above all, I strive to remain grateful, carry out my responsibilities as a group leader, and engage with each customer on a personal level,” he shared about his dedication to his work.

Shiba Park originated in 1873 when land that was originally part of Zojoji Temple was opened to the public as a park. Today, the Shiba Park area surrounds Zojoji Temple and includes Shiba Park, hotels, and more. Among its landmarks, Tokyo Tower, a symbol of Tokyo, is an unmissable tourist attraction. Daisuke Konishi, a delivery driver from the Minato Ariake Office who oversees the Shiba Park area, naturally recommends Tokyo Tower.

While making deliveries in the area, Mr. Konishi says Tokyo Tower is always in view and provides a sense of comfort. “It’s not just nostalgic; Tokyo Tower has a charm that reassures you when you see it. I feel genuinely happy to work in such a place. Zojoji Temple, with its deep history, adds to the traditional culture rooted in this area,” he shares.

As a popular tourist spot, the Shiba Park area is seeing a growing number of visitors. Mr. Konishi observes, “From my perspective, the number of tourists has about doubled compared to last year. I often see people moving around with suitcases.” As it happens, Yamato Transport offers a “Luggage Storage and Same-Day Delivery” service at airports, stations, tourist facilities, and select offices.

Yamato Transport “Luggage Storage and Same-Day Delivery” https://www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/ytc/customer/send/services/hands-freetravel/

Having worked in the Shiba Park area for two years, Mr. Konishi says, “I’d like to be someone customers trust enough to approach easily if they’re ever in trouble. To achieve that, I’m focusing on being approachable.”

The spots recommended by the delivery drivers were all places they visit almost daily in their work. As you explore these fascinating favorite spots, think of the delivery drivers with the parent-and-child cat logo who shared these insights.