Jiyugaoka is a popular area frequently ranked high on surveys for the “most livable towns” of Tokyo. Not only that, Jiyugaoka Station is easily accessible from Shibuya, located just 10 minutes away on the Tokyu Toyoko Line. You won’t see high-rise buildings there. Instead, you’ll find a posh townscape with a European vibe, where the side alleys will tempt you with cake shops, variety stores, and much more. The area also has plenty of greenery, making it a perfect place to enjoy a walk or spend a leisurely afternoon along the greenways and cafes.
Tokyo Walk: Recommended sightseeing spots in Jiyugaoka! Ways to tour the trendy town
La Vita
A romantic, Venetian-inspired townscape suddenly manifests itself as you walk through the residential area.
Western-style buildings and cobblestone paths lead the way, making you feel like a traveler in a foreign land.
A popular photo spot, you can expect a long line of people waiting to snap a picture on sunny weekends.
Address | 2-8-3 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | 5-min walk from Jiyugaoka Station |
Business hours | 11:00〜20:00 |
URL | https://www.jiyugaoka-abc.com/shopguide/fashion/030901.html |
Kumano Shrine
This sacred spot enshrines the spirit of the patron deity of Kumano Hongu Taisha, which is in Wakayama Prefecture and a World Heritage site, upon its reception through a pilgrimage.
The abundantly green premises also serve as a place for rest and relaxation for the locals.
The shrine is believed to bestow visitors with good luck in love and relationships. If you find the heart motif hidden in the main hall, you just might soon be blessed with a special encounter.
Address | 1-24-12 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | 5-min walk from the Front Exit of Jiyugaoka Station |
URL | http://www.tokyo-jinjacho.or.jp/meguro/5208/ |
Kosoan
This Japanese-style cafe is so cozy you’ll forget you’re in the middle of a metropolis.
The most popular “Matcha Shiratama Zenzai” (sweet red bean soup with mochi) is a luxurious treat that lets you taste high-quality matcha, adzuki red beans, and shiratama mochi together.
The seats inside are zashiki-style (low tables on tatami floors). It’s the ideal place to enjoy your matcha drink while stretching out your tired legs.
Address | 1-24-23 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | 5-min walk from Jiyugaoka Station |
Business hours | 11:00-18:30 |
Regular holiday | Wednesday |
URL | http://kosoan.co.jp/ |
MONT-BLANC
Established in 1933, this store is said to be the origin of the Japanese version of the Mont Blanc cake.
The Mont Blanc cake is named after the highest peak of the European Alps. The mountain face is recreated with chestnut cream, while the perennial snow at the summit is made with white meringue. It’s more filling than it looks, with one whole chestnut tucked inside the cake.
Address | 1-29-3 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | Short walk from Jiyugaoka Station |
Business hours | 11:00-18:00 |
Regular holiday | No fixed holiday |
Misogen
A miso soup specialty store.
From fun miso in monaka rice wafers to the more high-end miso soup wrapped in yuba (tofu skin), you’ll find numerous types of miso soup here.
The “Shijimi (freshwater clams) Espresso” is a popular drink that many people sip before or after enjoying alcohol, or even as a replacement for coffee. It also makes a great souvenir gift.。
Address | Cube Jiyugaoka, 1-26-13 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | 3-min walk from Jiyugaoka Station |
Business hours | 11:00-19:00 |
Regular holiday | New Year holidays |
URL | http://misogen.com/ |
MILK LAND HOKKAIDO→TOKYO
This is a shop run by Hokkaido dairy farmers for researching the market, and specializes in milk and dairy products. Its only permanent location in Tokyo is in Jiyugaoka. You’re sure to notice the enormous cow sculpture penetrating the ceiling.
Recommendations include the monthly soft-serve ice cream flavors and the tasting set with three types of milk. On the second floor, you can try original dishes made with Hokkaido milk and dairy products.
Address | 1F/2F Yamakawa Bldg., 1-26-16 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | 3-min walk from Jiyugaoka Station |
Business hours | 11:00-19:00 |
Regular holiday | Wednesday *Thursday when Wednesday falls on a holiday *Closed during Obon and New Year holidays |
URL | https://milklandtokyo.com/ |
Waterfront
An umbrella shop located right outside Jiyugaoka Station.
Floors one to three are packed with roughly 10 thousand umbrellas including rain umbrellas for men, women, and children, parasols, etc.
Popular year-round items are the super light portable umbrellas that weigh the same as a smartphone. Find your favorite among the many different available designs.
Address | 1-9-1 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo |
Access | 2-min walk from Jiyugaoka Station |
Business hours | 11:00-20:00 |
URL | https://www.water-front.co.jp/flagshipshop/ |