As part of the group's portfolio of Somerset residences, Somerset Azabu East is targeted at senior to upper management executives. The property offers stylish studio and one-bedroom suites with facilities such as a wellequipped fitness centre, indoor pool and rooftop barbecue terrace.

Ascott's deputy CEO (Operations), Mr Cameron Ong, said: "Somerset Azabu enables Ascott to tap the growing demand for serviced residences and expatriate housing in Tokyo. As there is limited supply of four and fivestar serviced residences in the city, we have the opportunity to redefine the product and achieve market impact quickly."

Mr Ong added that Somerset Azabu has drawn on the group's international marketing network, leading brands and proven operational systems to build up its occupancy.

"The residence has performed strongly, achieving over 60 per cent occupancy in just three months of operations. Somerset Roppongi, our first serviced residence in Tokyo which opened in July last year, is also performing well," he said.

The Ascott Group has over 13,500 serviced residence units in 37 cities in Asia, Australasia and Europe. With Somerset Azabu East, its presence in Tokyo will increase to 340 serviced apartments and corporate leasing units.

Ascott's entry into Japan is in line with its strategy to become a major serviced residence operator in the gateway cities of North Asia.

The group's presence in Tokyo is part of a joint venture with one of Japan's largest developers, Mitsubishi Estate Co Ltd, to own, develop and manage serviced residences in the country. The venture combines Ascott's expertise in managing serviced apartments with Mitsubishi Estate's local knowledge of the property market.

Purpose-built for expatriate executives and their families, Somerset Azabu East provides broadband Internet access, a fully-equipped kitchen and television with satellite channels. It also offers maid services, 24- hour reception and security, and complimentary daily breakfast.

Guests at the residence will also enjoy Ascott's 'enriched living experience' programme, with support services to help them succeed in the city. These include activities to facilitate their business networking, community integration and family recreation in Tokyo.

Somerset Roppongi

The 64-unit Somerset Roppongi offers studio to two -bedroom apartments. A five-minute walk from Roppongi subway station on the Hibiya and Oedo Line, the serviced residence is also near subways stations such as Akasaka, Tameike-Sanno and Kamiyacho.

Ascott is also assisting with the management of 200 corporate leasing apartments in the Green Park Akasaka, Komazawa Garden House, Nakameguro Residence and Shochiku Square Residence, as part of its joint venture.