Just south of Shibuya and west of Azabu/Hiroo, Ebisu is one of Tokyo's most desirable residential areas with two different sides that contrast.
A laid back side of Ebisu offers green spaces, cozy and small pubs and standing bars, loads of local supermarkets, bakeries, and a little park.
Whereas a refined side of Ebisu boasts world-class restaurants such as Joel Robuchon, Westin Hotel Tokyo, and high-end retail.
The symbolic highlight of Ebisu is the Yebisu Garden Place directly accessible from JR Ebisu Station. The high-rise building that houses offices, and good restaurants on its upper floors with a stunning view, the plaza where the farmers market is held every Sunday, Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography all in one big complex. It is also known for gorgeous Christmas lights in the winter season.
ACCESS
- Ebisu station on “JR Yamanote” line
- Ebisu station on “Hibiya” line
Daikanyama
Daikanyama is a compact but very popular weekend destination amongst locals for its modernity and comfort, and many exclusive boutiques and street wear shops beloved by models and celebrities. Residential and commercial buildings are both mostly low-rise as opposed to nearby Ebisu and Shibuya districts, which adds to the calm and relaxed vibe.
The area's top attraction is the Daikanyama T-Site, a tranquil commercial complex containing a highbrow bookshop, leafy cafes and fancy retail shops. The book and magazine selections at the bookshop extends to foreign publications as well.
Daikanyama used to be nothing more than a residential area. But due to the major redevelopments successfully done in 1980’s, Daikanyama has earned its reputation as a desirable neighbourhood that caters to both Japanese and foreign nationals, and was named Tokyo's coolest neighbourhood in 2021.
The Log Road is the latest redevelopment project built on the former site of Tokyu Toyoko Line which now runs underground. It boasts restaurants and retail shops, but people also go there to have a stroll on the walking path that goes parallel to the shops enjoying the seasonal flowers and relaxing atmosphere.
Some shops may close early but Daikanyama is located just a 15 minute walk from Shibuya, also Ebisu and Nakameguro are all within walking distance so you will have many options to change your destination to, for dinner or drinks.
ACCESS
- Daikanyama station on “Tokyu Toyoko” line
- Ebisu station on “JR Yamanote” line & “Hibiya” line
Nakameguro
Nakameguro is a district with a high density of hipster clothing shops, hidden dining establishments, and pet supplies shops. Often categorised with nearby Ebisu and Daikanyama, but Nakameguro holds its own in a lot of sense.
Underneath the train tracks, there is a narrow alley of vibrant cafes, restaurants, bars and a bookstore. And walking along the alley leads you to the riverside streets lined with a plenty of trendy clothing shops, and legitimate eateries of many cuisines.
Despite being mostly calm and quiet throughout the year, the area around Meguro River draws massive crowds of both younger and older generations from the end of March through early April.
The river is lined with cherry trees on both sides and the blossoming branches connect above the river, creating a photogenic tunnel of soft pink. At night the trees are lit up with lanterns flanked by many stalls selling snacks and drinks, and people enjoy each moment viewing short-lived petals falling onto the river.
ACCESS
--Nakameguro station on “Tokyu Toyoko” line & “Hibiya” line
Yutenji, named after the Yutenji Temple, is a local residential district sometimes seen as part of Nakameguro due to its location being very close to the area about 10 minute walk away. There is not much to see but very easy to live with small shopping streets.
