Nestled in the vibrant heart of Tokyo lies Nakameguro, a neighbourhood celebrated for its unique blend of laid-back charm and sophisticated elegance.
Famous for its picturesque canals, lined with seasonal cherry blossom trees, stylish boutiques, and trendy cafés, Nakameguro offers an ideal setting for a luxurious day of exploration. It also offers a nice alternative to the frantic touristy precincts for those Tokyo regulars.
Review: Royal Mansour Casablanca is an Instant Classic
9 AM
Base yourself at the intimate Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Boasting chic decor with touches of Japanese traditional aesthetics, this chic house of slumber (below) is minutes from major rail stations and cultural attractions (it even has its own art gallery). Combining 1930s glamour (the hotel opened in 1928) with modern amenities, this boutique hotel is immersed in omotenashi hospitality and fascinating artworks, including the original Invitation Gate of Meguro Gajoen, ornately carved wooden panels and Japanese lacquerwork. Opt for one of the Japanese Modern suites for the ultimate cultural indulgence.
11 AM
Embrace the serenity of the neighbourhood by grabbing a snack at I’m Donut (its chocolate stollen donuts are to die for) and taking a morning stroll along the Nakameguro River. The pathway along the waterway offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, especially during cherry blossom season when the trees are smothered in delicate pink blooms. The sight is nothing short of spectacular, providing a picturesque backdrop for your morning walk.
12.30 PM
After your stroll, pop into Café Façon Nakameguro, a minimalist café known for its artisanal coffee and scrumptious cheesecakes. Situated conveniently steps from the canal, it’s the perfect spot to savour a rich matcha latte or a robust Arabica (the cafe roasts its own beans). For something a little more sating, make for Menya Mikan (below), home to the neighbourhood’s best Tokyo-style chuka soba noodles – the signature dish is a chicken broth laced with dried fish including niboshi and katsuobushi.
1.30 PM
Walk off your lunch at the Sato Sakura Museum, an 700-piece-strong collection of works by artists from the Nihonga painting style born beginning in the Showa era (1926-1989). Nihonga artists used mineral pigments, and occasionally ink, together with other organic pigments on silk to create striking Japanese-themed pieces, often with layers of meaning. You can also learn more about this serne neighbourhood at the Meguro History Museum, housed in a former middle school.
READ: Why You Need to Visit Glasgow in 2025
3 PM
For a spot of retail therapy, make for the fascinating Officine Universelle Buly Daikanyama Store, located just a short distance away and easily accessible via a pleasant walk. This captivating boutique is an ode to luxury and beauty, filled with an awe-inspiring collection of natural skincare, perfumes, and lifestyle products inspired by vintage apothecary aesthetics.
As you browse through the elegantly arranged shelves, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the store.
The staff is knowledgeable and passionate, ready to guide you through the philosophy behind each product. Explore a selection of exquisite scented candles, luxurious skincare items, and distinctive home goods—all perfect for taking a piece of Nakameguro’s charm back home with you.
READ: The Rise of Multi-generational Private Jet Travel
4.30 PM
Capture the serenity of Nakameguro with a visit to the Konno Hachimangu Shrine, the guardian shrine of both Shibuya and Aoyama. Established by Shibuya Shigeie, ancestor of the Shibuya clan, in 1092, the shrine features murals of exotic animals, including tigers and tapirs, as well as ete-catching Gonggen-style architecture and is popular during Japanese festivals as locals decend on the holy place to pray for luck in work, traffic and even fertility.
5.30 PM
It’s time to delve into Nakameguro Koukashita, a warren of tiny bookstores, cafes and izakayas located – like so many great Tokyo spots – beneath the railway lines. Grab a great read at the branch of Tsutaya Books and a late afternoon snack at Happy Pudding Mahakala and enjoy a few hours as a local.
7 PM
Head back to the canal for cocktails at Cabin Nakameguro, which offers a serene riverside escape with an Asian-inspired food and drink programme with a focus on local, seasonal products. With contemporary rustic decor reminiscent of a ski lodge, Cabin is helmed by Brazillian-Japanese head bartender Sullivan Gouvea, who has created a selection of cocktails inspired by classics, including a rift on the Americano (Carpano Antica, Gran Classico, Fernet Branca, bitters and soda) and the light and refreshing Aperol Hojicha (Hojicha infused Aperol with soda and lemon).
The bar also offers an extensive list of whiskies from around the world. Pair your drinks with the newly launched Cabin Fried Chicken Plate, available with house-made, umami-rich seasoning blend or spicy with premium Ichimi chili powder and served with pickled coleslaw, homemade ranch and sliced dill pickles.
READ: Park Hyatt Sydney’s Abhi Mallur on Making the Most of the City
8.30 PM
Work up an appetite with the quick walk to Cedros, a hidden gem of a seafood-focused restaurant in celebrity-coveted Ebisunishi. Using only the best local and seasonal ingredients available, Cedros was established in 2014 by two brothers, Lui and Yui Shirako, and takes its inspiration from their childhood growing up in San Diego.
Take a perch at the counter to see the young chefs in action as they prepare the simple yet delicious dishes of the venue’s two omakase-style menus, each of which is laced with market fresh seafood and influenced by the extensive array of culinary influences of the US’ southern west. The chefs will also make great suggestions for pairing dishes with local wines, crisp sake and event Japanese-influenced cocktails.
For more Destination stories click here.
