Nakameguro is a sophisticated neighborhood that lies around the Meguro River and is within walking distance of the trendy districts Daikanyama, Ebisu, and other areas. There are many cool cafes, restaurants, trendy interiors, and accessory shops found within the town that are beloved by locals and visitors alike. Probably the most well-known attraction, the Nakameguro Koukashita, is located only 700 meters away. It also has bars and stores that are anchored by Nakameguro Tsutaya Books. Nakameguro is always a busy place, and during the Sakura season, the pink-colored tunnel created by the riverside cherry trees makes it a photogenic spot.
Meguro River – Nakameguro Photo by Keisuke Kuribara on Unsplash
How To Get There
Nakameguro Station can be reached via the Tokyu Toyoko Line or Tokyo Metro’s Hibiya Line. From here, you can walk approximately 10 minutes to reach Daikanyama.
From major stations like Shinjuku and Shibuya, it will only take you about 20 minutes and 10 minutes respectively by train. Tokyo station is a bit farther so if you are coming from there, it will take approximately 35 minutes by train
If you are coming directly from major airports, it will take you around 50 minutes by train from Haneda Airport and about one hour and 55 minutes by train from Narita Airport.
Cherry Blossoms in Nakameguro – Photo by Roberto Jr Saldana on Unsplash
Nakameguro’s Main Claim To Fame: The Sakura Trees
The sakura-tree-lined Meguro River, which cuts through Nakameguro, attracts huge crowds buzzing in cherry blossom excitement every year around the end of March and early April. Small stalls selling refreshments and snacks line the tunnel created by the connecting trees along both banks of the river. It can be difficult to find a quiet spot, especially when the trees are lit up at night. You can avoid crowds by taking a “Hanami” (Flower Viewing) Cruise that departs from Tennozu Isle’s Yamatsu Pier. It travels to the area and takes you to quiet spots. Although the cherry blossoms are short-lived, the trees turn a lush, greenery that provides shade from the summer heat, so you should definitely come to visit the trees even when it is not cherry blossom season. Make sure to book a local guided tour of Nakameguro with Arigato Japan here in order to experience the “real hanami”.
Nakameguro Side-Streets at Night Photo by BREAKIFY on Unsplash
Strolling Along Side-Streets
Nakameguro’s vicinity contains many small, hip, vintage shops, and art galleries, not to mention restaurants that offer delicious trendy Japanese cuisine just ten minutes from Shibuya. You can walk down to the area by taking a scenic route from the also very chic Daikanyama area (about a 10-minute walk) and then stop at one of the many open-front cafes, lunch spots or izakayas along the riverside. You’ll find interesting interior shops on the side streets that connect the main road to the riverside.
Afuri Ramen – Photo by Jessica Iragne
Must-Visit Sidestreet Spots:
Afuri Ramen: Come grab a bite in one of Nakameguro’s most popular ramen spots, Afuri Ramen. They have a good selection of ramen to choose from, including tsukemen, which is a type of ramen where the soup is served separately and you dip the noodles into the broth. Even though you can never go wrong with the regular shoyu (soy sauce) broth, I highly recommend giving the yuzu (yuzu citrus fruit) broth for a unique and fresh taste that can only be sampled at Afuri Ramen! You might want to come early or out of peak hours because you definitely will have to wait in line during lunch and dinner rushes. They also have a vegan option!
Marzac 7 – Chic Local Bar/Restaurant – Photo by note thanun on Unsplash
Marzac 7: If you are looking for a more chic and trendy place to visit, you have to come to Marzac 7. More of a tapas (small, shareable dishes) spot than a bar/restaurant, Marzac 7 has tons of food and drink to choose from, all in a very intimate setting where you and your significant other or friends can have a casual lunch or dinner in. For food, I recommend trying the Scallop and Green Onion Peperoncino and their Beef Tendon and Tomato Stew. As for drinks, they have a variety of beverages to choose from but their collection of red and white wine is the winner here.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery – Photo by Hakan Nural on Unsplash
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Starbucks Japan is well-known for its unique designs and crazy seasonal flavors, but Nakameguro has the most famous Starbucks in Japan. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Nakameguro was designed by Kengo Kuma (a world-renowned architect), and serves the finest caramel lattes. It is also an architectural marvel. You can choose from a whiskey barrel-aged cold drink to a caramel popcorn cappuccino on any of the four floors. Onibus is for those who prefer a more distinctive coffee experience. Enjoy a cup of high-quality Americano with freshly baked banana bread in their minimalistic-designed cafe.
A Street leading to Nakameguro Koukashita – Photo by Mylène Larnaud on Unsplash
Nakameguro Koukashita – Energy Under the Train Tracks
The Nakameguro neighborhood continues to grow, and the area below the railway tracks has become a lively playground for cafes, restaurants, and shops known as Nakameguro Koukashita. Nakameguro Tsutaya Books is the jewel in this crown. This bookstore has a wide range of Japanese and international texts and cafes. It also houses stationary and accessory shops. There are reading spaces as well as regular pop-up exhibits.
It comes as no surprise that Nakameguro is home to many young celebrities, artists, fashionistas and other trendy folks. You’ll find stylish interior and design shops, eclectic clothing retailers, independent galleries, and atmospheric eateries as you wander its main and arterial streets. Next time you are out in Tokyo, why not get in touch with your sophisticated side and head down to Nakameguro?
Feature photo credit: Finan Akbar on Unsplash
