Things To Do
in Meguro
Meguro is a stylish, residential ward of Tokyo known for its tree-lined streets and the Meguro River, where cherry blossoms frame relaxing spring strolls. The area blends quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods with hip cafés, boutiques, and riverside dining in Nakameguro and Daikanyama. It offers excellent access to central Tokyo via JR and subway lines, while preserving a distinctly local, neighborhood feel.
Expect a polished, modern Tokyo experience with a relaxed, city-meets-suburb vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Meguro, taking in the sight of traditional wooden houses and quaint shops. Stop by the Meguro River, where cherry blossoms bloom beautifully in spring, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Grab a light breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and matcha lattes.
Visit the Meguro Museum of Art, where you can admire both contemporary and traditional Japanese works. Afterward, explore the nearby Josenji Temple, a serene spot perfect for reflection and photography. For lunch, indulge in a meal at a local izakaya, sampling delicious small plates and local sake.
As the sun sets, head to the lively Nakameguro area, known for its trendy shops and vibrant nightlife. Choose from a variety of restaurants for dinner, whether you crave sushi, ramen, or a fusion twist on Japanese cuisine. After your meal, enjoy a walk along the river, illuminated by soft lanterns, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Start your day by visiting the serene Kōenji Temple, where you can participate in a morning meditation session. Absorb the tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional architecture. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby eatery, featuring grilled fish and miso soup.
Next, make your way to the historic Ryusenji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and impressive pagoda. Spend some time wandering through the grounds, taking in the peaceful surroundings and the sounds of nature. For lunch, try a local specialty at a nearby soba noodle shop, where you can watch the chefs at work.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance at a local theater, where you can witness traditional Japanese arts such as kabuki or noh. After the show, explore the nearby streets, filled with cozy bars and eateries, perfect for a casual dinner. End your day with a visit to a local onsen, soaking in the warm waters and rejuvenating your body and mind.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way transit fare (metro/rail) | $2-3.5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, safe, tree-lined neighborhoods
- Excellent access to central Tokyo and easy day trips
- Can be crowded in peak seasons, especially Nakameguro and Daikanyama
- Higher prices in popular districts compared to outer wards
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Can you speak English?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "お願いします" - Please
Places to Visit in Meguro
Visit one of these nice places.
A iconic riverside view with lanterns and blossoms lining the embankment—ideal for romantic daytime and night shots.
Calm water reflections, moored boats, and cafe lights create a moody, cinematic atmosphere after sunset.
Architectural modernity set against leafy streets; great for stylish urban photography and bookstore exteriors.
A rooftop garden with cityscape views and photogenic greenery, ideal for wide-angle city photography.
Food in Meguro
Meguro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soy-based broth, typically featuring chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and green onions. Look for small, specialized ramen shops around Nakameguro and Daikanyama.
Must-Try!
Grilled eel over rice with a sweet tare glaze; a classic Tokyo comfort dish frequently available at traditional eel houses near Meguro.
Buckwheat noodles served with crispy tempura on the side or atop the broth, a seasonal favorite at soba-ya in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets and pop-up food stalls along the Meguro River during spring and autumn, offering fresh snacks and street bites.
A cluster of food stalls and small eateries around Daikanyama with casual bites, sweets, and drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly on trains, avoid loud phone conversations, and queue politely. Removing shoes is customary in homes and some traditional facilities.
In business settings, exchange business cards with both hands and show the card to the person presenting it; accept with respect and store carefully.
Tipping is not expected; slurping noodles is common in Japan and acceptable, but be mindful of local customs at higher-end restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Meguro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. A good service charge is usually included in some high-end restaurants, otherwise you simply pay the bill and say thank you.
Cash is widely accepted, and major credit cards are common in many shops and restaurants. IC cards (Suica, PASMO) work for transit and many stores; mobile payments are increasingly supported in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms along the Meguro River create a vibrant, photogenic scene; pleasant temperatures make outdoor strolling ideal.
Hot and humid; afternoons can be exhausting—plan early morning or evening outings and seek shade near the river.
Beautiful foliage in the Nakameguro and Daikanyama areas; clear air and golden hour lighting make for excellent photography.
Cool but usually dry; city lights and river reflections can produce crisp night photography; carry layers.
Meguro at Night
Hiking in Meguro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of Tokyo's best day-hike options; forested trail to the summit with panoramic views.
Forest trails and river paths near Tokyo’s western edge; accessible by train for half- to full-day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Meguro by plane.
20-40 minutes by train from Meguro (connections vary); convenient for domestic and many international flights.
Approximately 60-90 minutes by express train with transfers; useful for long-haul international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents commute to central Tokyo for work; vibrant café culture around Nakameguro.
Quiet residential streets with parks and schools; safe, family-friendly neighborhoods.
Universities nearby and a cosmopolitan vibe in Daikanyama and Nakameguro attract students and expats.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is deeply popular in Tokyo; you can catch local games or join amateur clubs at city parks.
Public fields and local leagues are common; Tokyo hosts J.League clubs and international matches.
Many public courts and private clubs around Meguro; a popular weekend activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meguro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional Japanese dishes center on fish stock, so look for soy-based or vegetable-forward options. In Meguro, you’ll find vegetarian ramen and tofu-focused dishes at select restaurants; ask for “vegan/vegetarian options” or “yasai” on the menu, and inquire about dashi-free broths when possible.