Tokyo Travel Guide: Nakameguro

If you’re into vintage clothing, delicious food, and interior design, you’ll surely have a great time exploring this vibrant neighborhood.

Nakameguro is also home Nakameguro Koukashita, a recently developed complex that has around 700 meters of bars and stores, and home to the famous Nakameguro Tsutaya Books. The bustling neighborhood is also known for its beautiful riverside lined with Cherry Blossom trees. During the Cherry Blossom season, this place is often crowded with tourists who wanted to have a glimpse of the photogenic Meguro River lined with beautiful pink Cherry trees.

What To See and Do

The Meguro River is the most popular spot in Nakameguro, most especially during the Cherry Blossom season. It looks very picturesque and a great spot to wander around even when it’s not the Sakura season. This area is also lined with trendy cafes and stylish shops that are definitely worth checking out.

The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is another popular place to visit in Nakameguro. It’s one of the few Starbucks Reserve Roastery in the world and housed in a Japanese-inspired building designed by famous architect Kengo Kuma. This is a perfect spot to sit down and enjoy the magnificent views in the surrounding areas, while sipping a good cup of coffee.

As you arrive at the Nakameguro Station, it’s hard to miss the Nakameguro Kokashita, a chic shopping area that’s home to a number of trendy stores and eateries. Check out the Tsutaya Book, a modern designed bookstore where you can drop by and browse the latest books, magazines, and more. If you’re feeling hungry, drop by at Toridashioden Samon, a yakitori restaurant that specializes in oden but with a modern twist.

Before leaving Nakameguro, make sure you visit some of the most popular shops in the area. For instance, the Green Scape is a charming shop that specializes in bonsai and sells a wide range of rare Japanese plants. The 1LDK is also worth checking out. It’s a lifestyle concept store that is a cafe, store, and apparel shop in one.

Nakameguro is also home to a popular onsen bath. The Kohmeisen is a public onsen bath that’s only a short walk away from the Nakameguro Station. It’s been around for a long time and has been welcoming patrons for almost five decades.

Getting Around

If you happen to visit Nakameguro during the Cherry Blossom season, which is usually around March to April, the first thing that you’ll probably visit is the Meguro River. The Meguro River Cherry Blossoms Promenade is easy to find and is only about a few minutes away from Nakameguro Station. From the promenade, walk up towards the end of the river and visit the Meguro Sky Garden. It’s a great place to take a scenic walk and admire the views of the metropolis surrounded by nature.

Aside from admiring the gorgeous views near the Meguro River, you should also take time to check out the shops and cafes in the area. There are also art galleries tucked within the alleys and side streets, so make sure you check them out. You’ll also find a Tenday Buddhist Temple in the area known as the Ryusenji. Located close to the Meguro Station, this temple has a small waterfall pond within its grounds with the statue of Meguro Fudo-Myoo.

Before heading back to the station to take your train, head to the south gates of Nakameguro Station and you’ll find the City Bakery. Here, you’ll find a good selection of baked goods and drinks that are truly appetizing.

How to Reach Nakameguro

The best way to reach Nakameguro is by taking the train and getting off at the Nakameguro Station. This station is at the Hibiya Line of Tokyo Metro and at the Tokyu to Toyoko Line.

If you’re coming from Shinjuku Station, take the JR Yamanote Line going to Shibuya. From here, transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and get off at Nakameguro Station.