The Best Things to Do and See in Meguro, Tokyo
Experience Meguro: riverside cherry blossoms, museums, hip cafes, tranquil temples, and Tokyo’s most unique sights.
Meguro, set along the scenic Meguro River in southwestern Tokyo, combines lush riverside beauty, quirky museums, sumptuous dining spots, tranquil temples, and a consistently hip local atmosphere. Whether you want to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, discover Japan’s most unusual museums, or enjoy artisanal coffee in Nakameguro’s stylish cafes, Meguro offers a fresh perspective on the Japanese capital. Let’s explore the best things to do and see in Meguro.
Stroll Along the Meguro River
The tree-lined Meguro River flows through the heart of the district, famous for its striking beauty in spring when around 800 sakura (cherry blossom) trees blossom on both banks. The path is a favorite for casual strolls, jogging, and cycling throughout the year, but transforms into one of Tokyo’s top cherry blossom spots each March and April, drawing both locals and visitors for hanami (flower-viewing) parties.
- Cherry Blossom Viewing: Visit in late March to early April for stunning pink tunnels of flowers, with petals often drifting onto the water’s surface creating a breathtaking visual effect.
- Winter Illuminations: From November through early January, the riverbanks are adorned with LED ‘milky way’ lights, making for a romantic seasonal stroll.
- Cafes and Food Stalls: The riverside is dotted with pop-up stalls and permanent cafes, especially during festivals.
Discover Nakameguro: Tokyo’s Center of Cool
Located just east of Meguro Station, Nakameguro is a vibrant neighborhood famed for its relaxed, effortlessly cool vibe. The district is full of hip coffee shops, art galleries, vintage stores, independent boutiques, and intimate restaurants. Nakameguro’s riverside ambiance is best enjoyed on foot, so take the time to wander its winding lanes.
- Nakameguro Koukashita: The inventive revitalization of the spaces under the train tracks has given rise to a buzzing 700-meter stretch of cafes, eateries, specialty stores, craft beer stands, fashion boutiques, and the architectural marvel Nakameguro Tsutaya Books, a highly curated bookstore and community hub.
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery: Designed by Kengo Kuma, this is one of only a handful of Starbucks roasting facilities worldwide, featuring multi-level seating, a bakery, cocktail bars, and a terrace for cherry blossom viewing.
- Independent Boutiques: Side streets reveal local designers, curated shops, and interior design studios, ideal for anyone looking to pick up unique fashion or home goods.
Marvel at Unique Museums
Meguro is home to some of Tokyo’s most idiosyncratic and fascinating museums, offering everything from folk crafts to photographs and even parasites:
- Meguro Parasitological Museum: One of the world’s only museums of its kind, this quirky spot showcases hundreds of specimens of parasites, including a notorious 8.8m-long tapeworm. Both educational and bizarrely captivating, the museum is a must for lovers of all things curious (and free to enter).
- Japan Folk Crafts Museum (Mingeikan): Presenting exquisite handcrafted objects from all over Japan, this museum is an ode to functional beauty and the mingei folk art tradition.
- Tokyo Photographic Art Museum (TOP Museum): Located just outside Meguro’s borders in Ebisu, this renowned museum exhibits contemporary and historical photography from Japan and around the globe, featuring regular special exhibitions.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum: Housed in a stunning Art Deco building that was formerly the residence of a Japanese prince, this museum offers rotating exhibitions alongside beautifully landscaped gardens.
Experience Historic Shrines and Temples
Beyond its modern attractions, Meguro retains pockets of spiritual calm in its historic shrines and temples:
- Meguro Fudōson Ryūsenji Temple: Known for its majestic stone steps and peaceful grounds, this temple has a longstanding history and is revered for the powerful Fudō Myō-ō deity.
- Daienji Temple: A small yet atmospheric Buddhist temple, famed for its connection to the Forty-seven Rōnin and for being adorned with 500 statues of disciples (rakan).
Enjoy Parks and Natural Escapes
Despite its urban setting, Meguro offers ample green spaces for a moment of respite:
- Institute for Nature Study: This large urban nature reserve provides precious green space filled with native flora and fauna. It’s a wonderful place for a tranquil walk, especially for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Parks Along the River: Several small parks and public gardens line the Meguro River, offering picnic spots and playgrounds, perfect for families or a midday break.
- Meguro Sky Garden: An elevated park built atop a highway junction, the Sky Garden treats visitors to panoramic views and lush landscaping—perfect for a stroll or some urban gardening inspiration.
Indulge in Local Food and Drink
Meguro’s culinary scene is both diverse and inviting, from refined dining to casual takeout:
- Ramen Shops and Izakayas: Sample steaming bowls of ramen, gyoza, yakitori, and more in the countless eateries lining both the river and buzzing backstreets.
- Artisanal Cafes: Enjoy specialty pour-over coffees, seasonal pastries, and the district’s signature relaxed café culture.
- International Cuisine: In addition to Japanese staples, you’ll find French bakeries, American-style burger joints, Italian pizzerias, and fusion cuisine throughout Nakameguro and beyond.
- Pop-up Food Markets: During festivals or weekends, local food markets and riverside vendors highlight everything from fresh sushi to handmade desserts.
Shop for Unique Goods and Artisanal Finds
The Meguro area excels at boutique and independent shopping. Here’s where to hunt for one-of-a-kind items:
- Handcrafted Wares: Small stores stock Japanese ceramics, textiles, wooden crafts and lifestyle goods, many made by local artisans.
- Art Galleries and Vintage Stores: From contemporary art exhibitions to vintage furniture and secondhand clothing, each shop has its own story and style.
- Bookstores: Don’t miss Nakameguro Tsutaya Books, a destination for rare volumes, art books, and design pieces.
Local Festivals and Events
Time your visit with one of Meguro’s popular festivals to fully experience the local culture:
- Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival: Celebrate the full bloom of sakura in the spring with food stalls, illuminations, music, and lively riverside gatherings.
- Meguro Citizens’ Festival: A community celebration in the fall with local food, performances, and family-friendly activities.
- Seasonal Illuminations: From autumn leaves to winter light-ups, the district hosts several photogenic seasonal events every year.
How to Get to Meguro
Meguro and Nakameguro are easily accessible from central Tokyo:
- From Shinjuku: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ebisu, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Nakameguro (about 20 minutes in total).
- From Shibuya: Only 10 minutes via the Tokyu Toyoko Line.
- From Haneda or Narita Airports: Approximately 50 minutes to two hours by train.
Table: Top Attractions in Meguro
| Attraction | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Meguro River | Natural Landmark | Cherry blossoms, winter illuminations, riverside strolls |
| Nakameguro Koukashita | Shopping & Dining Street | Cafes, boutiques, Tsutaya Books, art spaces |
| Meguro Parasitological Museum | Specialty Museum | Parasite specimens, 8.8m tapeworm, free admission |
| Japan Folk Crafts Museum | Museum | Japanese folk art and crafts, mingei movement |
| Meguro Fudōson Ryūsenji Temple | Temple | Historic temple, Fudō Myō-ō deity, peaceful grounds |
| Starbucks Reserve Roastery | Cafe | Specialty coffee, bakery, cherry blossom terrace |
| Institute for Nature Study | Park | Birdwatching, native plants, quiet walking trails |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When is the best time to visit Meguro for cherry blossoms?
A: The best time is late March to early April, when the 800 cherry trees along Meguro River burst into bloom, creating an unforgettable riverside view.
Q: Are the museums in Meguro suitable for children?
A: Many museums, such as the Meguro Parasitological Museum, can be fascinating for kids interested in science, though some exhibits may be too graphic for very young children. Other spots like art museums and folk craft museums are family-friendly and educational.
Q: Is Meguro expensive to visit?
A: While some cafes and shops are on the upscale side, there are plenty of free activities—like river walks, temple visits, and even some museums—making Meguro accessible for budget travelers.
Q: How do I get to Nakameguro from central Tokyo?
A: Take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or the Tokyu Toyoko Line; it’s just ten minutes from Shibuya and about twenty from Shinjuku via a quick transfer.
Q: What is unique about Meguro compared to other Tokyo neighbourhoods?
A: Meguro stands out for its relaxed riverside charm, blend of trendsetting and traditional culture, famous cherry blossoms, and one-of-a-kind museums you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
